Cultural discovery
Walking and Trekking

Bratislava and the High Tatras Walking & Culture

Explore the lakes and peaks of the High Tatra Mountains and the charming capital of Bratislava.
Holiday code: TBT
Countries: Slovakia
More info
2
Activity level
Self-Guided
Min. age: 16
8days
From 989 € excl. flights
Dates & Prices
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

On this walking and culture holiday you’ll explore two top destinations in Slovakia: Bratislava, Slovakia´s capital, and the unspoiled High Tatras. The latter is Slovakia’s oldest national Park with the biggest mountains in Central-Eastern Europe. With monuments of world importance this is the perfect holiday for travellers wanting to experience Slovakia´s biggest cultural and natural sights.

Why we think this trip is fantastic, and you’ll love it!

  • Bratislava, Slovakia´s capital and the coronation city during the Austro-Hungarian monarchy.
  • A scenic train journey across Slovakia to the stunning High Tatras.
  • Easy walking in the heart of the Tatras.
  • Natural attractions including mountain lakes and waterfalls.
  • A cable car to Skalnate Pleso in the shadow of Lomnicky Peak (2,634m), Slovakia’s second highest peak.
  • Mountain huts serving delicious local specialities.
  • UNESCO sites including Levoca, Spissky castle and Spissky Jerusalem.

Map & itinerary

After landing at Bratislava Airport, enjoy a quick 20-minute transfer to your hotel in Bratislava´s old town. Upon arrival, check in, relax, and take a moment to review the exciting itinerary for the days ahead.

Meals included: No meals included on this day.

Overnight: Bratislava

Today is free for you to explore Bratislava. Have a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town and a wander along the Danube with its many cafes and restaurants.

There are numerous fascinating historical buildings in Slovakia’s capital. Some of our favourites are Bratislava Castle, which houses the Museum of History and a 47-metre high tower with commanding city views, the old town hall and the 18th century Primate’s Palace, which has a beautiful pink and white façade and an amazing Hall of Mirrors (entrance fees for your own account).

We’ll provide you with a recommended walking route to follow so you can take-in all of Bratislava’s main sights – we wouldn’t want you to miss anything!

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight: Bratislava

Today, you leave the city behind and journey into the breathtaking High Tatras. Travelling by train in Slovakia is a comfortable and scenic experience, and in just over three and a half hours, you'll arrive in Poprad-Tatry, the gateway to the mountains.

The High Tatras are a region of phenomenal natural beauty, home to crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers, deep valleys, rugged peaks, and dramatic ridges. This pristine landscape is also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Upon arrival in Poprad, our driver will wait to transfer you to your hotel in Smokovec, the heart of the High Tatras.

After check-in, take a leisurely stroll through Smokovec to soak in the alpine atmosphere and familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Your adventure in the Tatras has officially begun!

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight: Smokovec

This morning you take a cable car to Skalnate Pleso lake (1 751 m), one of the most popular destinations in the Tatras. Following one of the most popular walking trails in the Tatras, from here you´ll walk to two of the Tatras’ mountain huts and waterfalls. Mountain huts have been a part of the Tatras’ tapestry for years; they’re traditional, welcoming and often have a historic story to tell. They also offer tasty lunches!

Your hike will take you to Rainerova, the oldest hut in the mountains, dating back to 1863. Today, it is a small stone building serving drinks and snacks, and Zamkovskeho is a pretty wooden chalet offering a sheltered resting spot.

Cold Creek Waterfalls is also on you route today, and you can pause here and soak up the fresh mountain air. The waterfalls begin where the Great Cold Creek meets the Small Cold Creek and spill over rocks and boulders, and through pine forests. Walking trails run alongside the cascades, so you can admire the views.

From Hrebienok, you descend to Smokovec by funicular cable car and return back to your hotel.

Walking: 4 hours, 6km/3,7mi, 0m up, 493m down

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight: Smokovec

Today’s trek starts with a tram journey to Strbske Pleso, Slovakia´s highest village with a beautiful lake of the same name. From here, follow a trail to the crystal-clear mountain lake of Popradske Pleso, one of the biggest in the Tatra range. Enjoy lunch on the terrace of the mountain hotel, and visit the Tatra´s symbolic cemetery which is dedicated to the victims of the Tatra mountains. In the afternoon, descend back to Strbske Pleso and return to Smokovec.

Walking: 5 hours, 11km/6,8mi, 336m up, 336m down

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight: Smokovec


This morning you’ll transfer to the charming region of Spiš, which is home to a number of remarkable UNESCO sites. The first one on the list will be the medieval town of Levoca. This authentic town with beautifully preserved city walls is the jewel of the Spiš region. In the heart of the town you´ll find the ancient square of Master Paul, the creator of the highest wooden altar in the world, whose beauty you can admire during your visit in the basilica of St James. You´ll also visit the town’s hall.

The next highlight on the list will be Spissky castle, the biggest castle site in Central-Eastern Europe. Your tour then continues with a hike to Spisske Podhradie, a little town beautifully nestled below the castle.

After lunch in Spisske Podhradie you’ll continue hiking to Spisska Kapitula, the main seat of the church administration in the region in the 12th century. Today’s hike ends with a walk across Spissky Jerusalem, which recalls ancient Jerusalem in on-to-one scale. It’s a magical end to this walking adventure with stunning views over the Spisska Capitula, Spissky castle and the Tatra mountains. You’ll then return to Smokovec.

Walking: 1 hours, 1,7km/1mi, 53m up, 50m down

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight: Smokovec

After breakfast, take a short 20-minute transfer to Poprad, where you'll board a scenic train journey back to Bratislava. Upon arrival, a quick transfer will take you to your hotel. Check in, relax, and explore more of Bratislava’s highlights at your own pace.

Meals included: Breakfast

Overnight: Bratislava

After an early breakfast, enjoy a short 20-minutes transfer back to Bratislava international airport to take your flight back home.

Meals included: breakfast

Dates & Prices

Self-Guided Adventure: Explore at Your Own Pace!

This trip is available year-round, with the most popular season running from May to October. Departures typically begin and end on Saturdays.

Holiday Status:

Available

Spots are open, and we'd be happy to have you join us! You can reserve your place now, but please wait to book flights and other travel plans until your departure is Guaranteed to Run."

Need different dates? We can usually arrange this trip on other days as well—just let us know when you'd like to travel.

Available

Saturday 3rd May 2025

to Saturday 10th May 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 10th May 2025

to Saturday 17th May 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 17th May 2025

to Saturday 24th May 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 24th May 2025

to Saturday 31st May 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 31st May 2025

to Saturday 7th June 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 7th June 2025

to Saturday 14th June 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 14th June 2025

to Saturday 21st June 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 21st June 2025

to Saturday 28th June 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 28th June 2025

to Saturday 5th July 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 5th July 2025

to Saturday 12th July 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 12th July 2025

to Saturday 19th July 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 19th July 2025

to Saturday 26th July 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 26th July 2025

to Saturday 2nd August 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 2nd August 2025

to Saturday 9th August 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 9th August 2025

to Saturday 16th August 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 16th August 2025

to Saturday 23rd August 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 23rd August 2025

to Saturday 30th August 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 30th August 2025

to Saturday 6th September 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 6th September 2025

to Saturday 13th September 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 13th September 2025

to Saturday 20th September 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 20th September 2025

to Saturday 27th September 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 27th September 2025

to Saturday 4th October 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 4th October 2025

to Saturday 11th October 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 11th October 2025

to Saturday 18th October 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 18th October 2025

to Saturday 25th October 2025

Adult price 989 €

Available

Saturday 25th October 2025

to Saturday 1st November 2025

Adult price 989 €

Holiday information

Bratislava Airport – Letisko M. R. Štefánika, Slovakia

Bratislava Airport – Letisko M. R. Štefánika, Slovakia

Flights & Airport Options

Flights to Bratislava (Recommended)

For the most convenient journey, we recommend flying to Bratislava Airport with just a 15-minute transfer to your hotel.

Included Transfers

Upon arrival at Bratislava Airport, we’ll be there to welcome you and take you to your hotel in Bratislava.

On your final day, after breakfast, we’ll drop you off at Bratislava Airport for your flight home.

Alternative Airports & Private Transfers

If flying to Bratislava Airport doesn’t suit you, you can also fly to nearby Vienna.

For an extra fee, you can book a private transfer from Vienna to Bratislava:

Vienna Airport → Bratislava City (approx.. 40 min)

1-3 passengers: 85 Eur
4-7 passengers: 95 Eur

Need help with transfers? Contact us to book!

*Prices of private transfers are informative. The exact price will be confirmed at the time of booking.

What´s Included

  • Accommodation: 7 nights in 3-star and 4-star hotels
  • Meals: 7 breakfasts
  • Transfers: From and to the airport and everything in-between
  • Permits: All permits and entry fees
  • Others: Maps and detailed routing description
  • 24/7 local support

What´s not Included

  • Flights
  • Cable cars (approx.30 Eur per person)
  • Travel insurance

Single Room Supplement: Enjoy Extra Privacy

For a bit more privacy, opt for a single room supplement 239 EUR and enjoy your own space on the journey!

Solo Traveller: 469 EUR (including single room supplement)

Our Selected Hotels

During this trip you will stay in comfortable 3-star and 4-star hotels with private facilities.

Bratislava: Hotel Falkensteiner (or similar)
Smokovec: Hotel Villa Siesta (or similar)

What is the accommodation like?

Hotel Falkensteiner****
Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava is a modern establishment located in the heart of the Old Town, within walking distance of notable landmarks such as Bratislava Castle, Saint Martin's Cathedral, and the Danube River. The hotel offers 162 bright rooms and suites featuring contemporary design, spacious bathrooms, and complimentary Nespresso machines. Guests can enjoy the exclusive Rooftop Lounge with panoramic city views, the Acquapura City SPA with sauna and fitness facilities, and the on-site restaurant serving modern Alpine-Adriatic cuisine alongside traditional Slovak specialties. For business travelers, the hotel provides modern conference areas and convenient access to public transport and highways.

Hotel Villa Siesta***
Hotel Villa Siesta is a charming retreat located in Nový Smokovec, within the High Tatras region of Slovakia. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, including double rooms and spacious apartments, catering to both couples and families. Guests can indulge in the on-site wellness center, which features saunas and massage services, perfect for relaxation after a day of mountain activities. The hotel's restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Its prime location provides easy access to numerous hiking trails and ski areas, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Meals included

Day 1: none
Day 2: Breakfast
Day 3: Breakfast
Day 4: Breakfast
Day 5: Breakfast
Day 6: Breakfast
Day 7: Breakfast
Day 8: Breakfast

What is the food like?

Both Hotel Falkensteiner in Bratislava and Hotel Villa Siesta in Nový Smokovec offer delightful breakfast experiences to start your day.

Hotel Falkensteiner Bratislava

At the hotel's Restaurant Seasons, guests can indulge in a rich breakfast buffet featuring high-quality, organic delicacies. The buffet includes a variety of fresh and nutritious options, with a highlight being the freshly prepared signature omelettes. Breakfast is served on weekdays from 6:30 am to 10:00 am, and on weekends from 7:00 am to 11:00 am.

Hotel Villa Siesta Nový Smokovec

Guests at Hotel Villa Siesta can enjoy breakfast in the lower restaurant, which has a capacity of 50 guests. Breakfast is served buffet-style from 7:30 am to 10:00 am, offering a selection of local dishes and seasonal specialties. The restaurant also features a children's corner, making it a family-friendly environment.

Both hotels are committed to providing a satisfying and hearty breakfast to ensure a great start to your day.

If you need to arrive or leave on a different date, please contact us and we’d be more than happy to arrange extra pre or post tour accommodation for you.

On this walking and discovery holiday, you'll follow a carefully planned route, designed to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. In fact, did you know that the trail marking system in Slovakia is one of the best in the world?

Essentials for a Safe Journey

We recommend you pack as light as possible. Below you will find a recommended packing list. There is no specialist walking or climbing equipment, such as harnesses etc., needed for this trip.

  • Walking boots
  • Trainers
  • Shorts and t-shirts
  • Walking trousers and tops
  • Fleece or warm jumper
  • Waterproofs
  • Water bottle
  • Small first-aid kit
  • Sun cream, sunglasses and sunhat

Email us at sales@slovakia-explorer.com or click the ENQUIRE OR BOOK button in the Dates and Prices section to let us know you’re interested.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions at all.

Our knowledgeable and helpful team is here to help, and we look forward to welcoming you to our spectacular country soon!

Customers reviews

Trip notes & FAQs

Download the detailed trip notes for everything you could possibly want to know about this trip, including detailed itinerary and full kit list

To download trip notes, please submit your email address down below.

why book with slovakia explorer?

Experience Slovakia like a local with Slovakia Explorer.

Our expert, in-country Slovak team is dedicated to crafting a unique, tailored holiday just for you. With 24/7 support and deep local knowledge, we ensure an unforgettable experience. Book with us and enjoy exceptional value while fully discovering the authentic charm of Slovakia.

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Bratislava and the High Tatras Walking & Culture