3-Day Adventure Guide to Košice, Slovakia

Discover the hidden gem of Eastern Europe in Košice, Slovakia.

22 April 2023

Košice is a vibrant and picturesque city in Eastern Slovakia that offers visitors a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. From exploring the old town's medieval streets and charming squares to seeing the Gothic-style St. Elizabeth Cathedral, visitors will find plenty to see and do. The city is also known for its lively restaurant scene, which features traditional Slovak cuisine as well as international options.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Start with breakfast at ART CAFÉ Kaleidoscope, boasting a unique atmosphere and homemade pastries.
  • Take a stroll around the historical Old Town, admiring medieval architecture and artistic splendor.
  • Visit the Gothic St. Elizabeth Cathedral, the largest in Slovakia, and take in the beauty of its interiors.
  • Stop at the Executioner's Bastion, famous for its brutal past and spectacular views of the city.
  • Re-fuel at Bistro La Mužika, where traditional Slovakian dishes are served with a modern twist.
  • Top off the day with a beer at the quirky Tabacka Kulturfabrik, where you can watch live music and art exhibits.
Day 2

Nature and Culture

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Red Cat Bistro, a cozy spot with an extensive menu.
  • Head to the East Slovak Museum, which showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage, from folk costumes to contemporary art.
  • Afterward, take a nature walk through the peaceful and scenic city park, or rent a bike to explore the green outskirts.
  • Grab lunch at Život, a vegetarian restaurant with a cozy ambiance and delicious food.
  • Visit the Singing Fountain, a spectacular display of water, lights, and sound that puts on a dazzling show every evening.
  • Finish the night with a dinner at Lemon Tree, where the fusion of Slovakian and international cuisine creates a unique dining experience.
Day 3

Day Tripping to Spiš Castle

  • Start the day with a scenic drive to Spiš Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the largest castle in Central Europe.
  • Wander through the castle’s courtyards, castle walls, and towers and marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the Slovak countryside.
  • Stop at the nearby town of Levoca, home to St. Jacob’s Church, housing the tallest wooden altar in the world.
  • Visit the charming town square, surrounded by Renaissance houses and palaces, perfect for souvenir shopping.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Goulash U Lenča, an authentic Slovakian restaurant famous for its hearty portions and homemade baklava.
  • End the night with a nightcap at Pastor Brewpub, a quirky spot to try different craft beers in a convivial 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.

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