Budget-friendly adventure in colorful Košice

Explore Eastern Europe's hidden gem without breaking the bank - Košice, Slovakia.

21 June 2023

Experience the beauty of Košice on a limited budget, with plenty of affordable options for food, accommodations, and activities. Savor traditional Slovakian cuisine at local restaurants and cafes, and explore the city's rich history and architecture through free walking tours. Don't miss out on the opportunity to visit nearby attractions such as the Slovak Paradise National Park or the Betliar Castle, both accessible by public transportation.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Start your day with a visit to St. Elisabeth's Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Slovakia
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic Old Town
  • Visit the Immaculata statue, a symbol of the city's resilience
  • Have lunch at Urban Bistro for delicious local cuisine that won't break the bank
  • Check out the interactive exhibits at the East Slovak Museum
  • End the day with a beer at Goral Brewery, a local institution with a great atmosphere
  • Stay at: Hotel Ambassador, a cozy and affordable option in the heart of the Old Town.
Day 2

Nature and Art

  • Hike up to the Košice Zoo at the base of the beautiful Zadielska Valley
  • Enjoy the art and sculptures at the Andy Warhol Museum of Modern Art
  • Have lunch at Café Slávia, a trendy spot with delicious coffee and pastries
  • Take a stroll through the peaceful Botanical Garden of Pavol Jozef Šafárik University
  • Have dinner at Hostinec Brewery, a traditional Slovak brewpub with hearty food
  • Stay at: Pension Beryl, a budget-friendly option just a short walk from the city center.
Day 3

A Day of Adventure

  • Start your day with a coffee at Kava.Bar.Parlament, a quirky café with a unique atmosphere
  • Drive to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Spiš Castle for stunning views
  • Have lunch at U Holicov, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Slovak cuisine
  • Take a dip in the thermal pools at AquaCity Poprad for some relaxation
  • Have dinner at Pizzeria Mamma Rosa for some delicious and affordable Italian food
  • Stay at: Penzion Slovakia, a centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms and a great price point.

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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Košice offers budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore its rich history and culture. Walk around the city center and discover beautiful Gothic and Baroque architecture for free, or take a guided tour for a small fee. Indulge in delicious Slovakian cuisine at local restaurants without breaking the bank, and stay at affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels.

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Košice, Slovakia offers a wonderful family friendly trip with its rich history, charming attractions, and outdoor activities. Take a stroll in the city's well-preserved historic center, where you can explore iconic landmarks like St. Elisabeth Cathedral and visit interactive museums like the East Slovak Museum. Additionally, families can enjoy spending time in the city's green spaces and parks, such as the lovely Children's Railway Park, ensuring a delightful getaway for all ages.