Back to Basics: Must-See Sights

in Bratislava

Whether you’re popping for a quick day trip from Vienna, or doing a Euro trip with your friends, Bratislava is a destination you must check off your list. Combining old-world charm with modern flair from medieval architecture to baroque palaces and the socialist  UFO Tower on the SNP Bridge Bratislava will captivate you instantly. 

Most of the city’s landmarks are free, and some that aren’t are included in the price of €24 you pay (we recommend) for a Bratislava card – it includes free entrance to 23 museums & galleries, Unlimited use of public transport and other discounts of up to 50%. 

However, you may not even need to use public transport, since the city is very walkable. Especially if you stay at Safestay Bratislava Presidential Palace – housed in a  4-story building, complete with a spacious common area, a fully equipped guest kitchen, laundry facilities, a luggage room, and modern rooms with picturesque views of the Old Town.

Enough chitchat, read along to discover Bratislava! 

Must see in Bratislava #1 – RAČA – Wine District

There’s a saying in Bratislava- ”If you haven’t been under viecha, you haven’t been in Bratislava.” Viecha is what they refer to as a local winery, it checks out – Bratislava has a long viticultural history. 

Rača, a northern suburb of Bratislava, produces a wonderful red wine known as Frankovka named after the Empress Maria Theresa, who was so impressed with its medicinal qualities that she gave Rača royal privileges to reward the region for producing this rich, full-bodied, red wine.

Photo credits: Visit Bratislava

We recommend you take part in wine-tasting tours to the cellars in Rača during Summer and visit during Autumn for vinobranie (winepicking).

Grösslingová Street & Blue Church

The Church of St. Elizabeth, commonly known as Blue Church is a Hungarian-Secessionist Catholic church located near a grammar school on Grösslingová Street. Take a walk through the Grösslingová street and admire the centuries-old beauty.

The Blue Church is of course a famous destination for tourists due to its attractive sapphire and powder-blue exterior and interior, as well as a marvel of art nouveau design. 

Photo credits: Flickr/Billy Wilson & Pinterest/Pan Medvedik

Go down Grösslingová Street you’ll find a beautiful old building overgrown with ivy along with some of the best eateries in Bratislava like Otto!

Michael’s Tower

Originally part of four gates of the city walls, only the northern Michalská gate has been preserved. After an extensive renovation in 2023, the tower is back open to the public so they can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city.

Photo credits: Flickr/Fred Romero

Buy tickets at the Pharmacy at the Red Crab at Michalská 28 (20m from Michalská veža) or carry your Bratislava card for free entrance. 

Extra note: Next to Michalská gate, on the right side, check out house number 15 – the narrowest house in Bratislava &  Europe with a width of only 1.30 meters.

Nedbalka Gallery

Located near Michael’s Tower and the Prematial Palace (the pink palace) Nedbalka Gallery showcases a diverse collection of Slovak modern and contemporary art from paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations by renowned Slovak artists such as Ľudovít Fulla, Mikuláš Galanda, and Martin Benka.

Photo credits: Nedbalka Gallery

Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or simply appreciate creativity in all its forms, Nedbalka Gallery offers a unique opportunity to explore the depth and diversity of Slovak artistry. 

Hrad Devín (Devín Castle)

If it’s sunny out, you cannot say no to taking a day trip to the stunning Hrad Devín – one of the oldest castles in Slovakia. Even though the first written sources were quite possibly in 864, archaeological works at the site have revealed the remains of a Roman tower dating from the 1st century AD and evidence of a prehistoric settlement.

Photo credits: Visit Bratislava

Bus tickets are roughly €3 and the entry is €8, but it’s totally worth it to see the castle, museum and the incredible views of Danube river connecting two countries – you can see Vienna from the castle. 

Presidential Palace (The Grassalkovich Palace)

Situated in the heart of the city, this elegant rococo summer palace serves as the official residence of the President of Slovakia and is steeped in both grandeur and significance. Built in 1760 for the chairman of the Hungarian Rayl Chamber the palace was a sought-after venue for aristocratic society events.

Photo credits: Visit Bratislava/Matej Kovac

You can explore its majestic interiors, adorned with exquisite architecture, intricate detailing, and opulent furnishings. Hot tip – make sure to see the palace from the outside at night – it’s a fantasy dream palace come to life. 

As you plan your itinerary, keep in mind that Bratislava is a pretty walkable city, safe and calm adding a sprinkle of romance to the city while wandering at night. 

We strongly recommend staying at a convenient location to access everything with your fingertips like at Safestay Bratislava Presidential Palace right in the heart of Bratislava’s Old Town. While you’re here create a FREE membership with Safestay and get a 15% discount on your first booking!