The Ultimate 4-Day Weekend Guide to Košice

Discover the charm of Eastern Europe in Košice, Slovakia.

22 April 2023

Košice is a charming city located in eastern Slovakia, known for its rich history and culture. As a tourist, you can explore its Gothic architecture, visit the iconic St. Elisabeth Cathedral, and attend the annual Košice International Film Festival. You can also indulge in traditional Slovak cuisine and sample the local wine, making your trip a memorable experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check-in to Hotel Yasmin, featuring sleek, modern rooms in the heart of Košice
  • Head to St. Elisabeth's Cathedral, a stunning gothic masterpiece with towering spires
  • Stop by the Urban Tower for panoramic views of the city, then make your way to the Old Town Hall
  • Delight in traditional Slovakian cuisine at Výčap u Ernöho, complete with live music and hearty portions
  • Stroll along Hlavná Street, admiring the mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and Secessionist architecture
Day 2

Cultural Highlights

  • Begin at the East Slovak Museum, showcasing the region's fascinating history and culture
  • Take in a show at the State Theater, a stunning neoclassical building featuring ballet, opera, and drama
  • Visit the Sándor Márai Memorial Room, set in the home of the famous Hungarian writer, now a museum
  • Stroll through the tranquil Botanical Garden, marveling at the array of flowers, plants, and trees
  • Indulge in some delicious Slovakian wine and cheeses at Boutique Winery Artforum
Day 3

Exploring Beyond the City

  • Take a day trip to Spiš Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 12th century
  • Visit the picturesque town of Levoca, home to an impressive gothic church and stunning town square
  • Stroll through the Spisšké Podhradie neighborhood, admiring the historic buildings and panoramic views
  • Make a pit-stop for traditional goulash and dumplings at Zlatý Bažant Gastropub
  • Return to Košice for a relaxing evening at the AquaCity Poprad, featuring indoor and outdoor thermal pools and wellness facilities
Day 4

Art and Shopping

  • Start the day at the Andy Warhol Museum of Modern Art, dedicated to the region's most famous artist
  • Visit the Immaculata statue, an impressive work of Baroque art overlooking the city
  • Shop for unique souvenirs and gifts at the City Market, a bustling hub of local vendors and artisans
  • Enjoy a modern twist on traditional Slovakian cuisine at Gourmet Bistro, featuring seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques
  • End the trip with a nightcap at Tabacka, a trendy cultural center housed in a former tobacco factory, featuring live music and a relaxed atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Košice, Slovakia by plane is to fly to Košice International Airport. Major airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Czech Airlines offer direct flights to Košice from several major cities across Europe.

Car

If you're traveling by car, the best way to get to Košice would be to take the E58 highway from Budapest, Hungary. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and offers beautiful views of the Carpathian Mountains.

Train

There are several train stations in Košice, but the best way to get there by train would be to take a train from Budapest Keleti Railway Station in Hungary. From there, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and offers scenic views of the countryside.

Boat

Unfortunately, there is no way to get to Košice by boat as it is located inland and does not have a direct connection to any major waterways.

Bus

The most convenient way to get to Košice by bus is by taking an express bus from Prague, Czech Republic. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and is operated by Flixbus, one of the largest bus operators in Europe.

More travel plans

Košice in 48: Fun, History, and Adventure

Košice, Slovakia offers a family-friendly trip filled with history, culture, and fun activities suitable for all ages. Explore the city's charming Old Town, visit stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, and make sure to stop by the impressive St. Elisabeth Cathedral. Enjoy a day of adventure at the nearby Treetop Walk Bachledka or take a relaxing stroll in the beautiful Kosice City Park, making it a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

Košice: Explore Slovakia's Charismatic Gem

Košice, Slovakia is a gem in central Europe, known for its stunning Gothic architecture, charming cafes, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore the streets of the historic Old Town, admire the intricate St. Elisabeth Cathedral, and shop for souvenirs at the local markets. With a rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Košice is a must-see destination for any traveler.

Košice, Slovakia: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

Košice, Slovakia is an affordable destination that offers a wealth of charm and history. Tourists can enjoy exploring the city's Gothic and Baroque architecture, tasting the local cuisine, and experiencing the culture through festivals and events. Despite being on a limited budget, travelers can find budget-friendly accommodations, including hostels and Airbnb options, and can also save money by using public transportation and enjoying the free attractions such as St. Elisabeth Cathedral and the botanical gardens.

Košice: Where History, Fun, and Adventure Collide!

Košice, Slovakia offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. The city is filled with fascinating historical sites such as St. Elisabeth Cathedral and the Medieval Spiš Castle, allowing kids to learn about the country's rich past. Additionally, Košice offers numerous parks and outdoor activities, providing an opportunity for the whole family to make unforgettable memories while exploring the city's natural beauty.