Is It Safe To Travel To Slovakia? Everything You Need To Know
Is it safe to travel to Slovakia? Naturally, this question pops up when you’re considering a trip to this awesome country.
Slovakia is truly an amazing adventure travel destination - and there’s no reason why travellers should be put off by safety concerns. On the whole, the country is safe to visit, with a well-established tourism industry.
To make sure you’re prepared for a safe trip, here’s everything you need to know about Slovakia travel safety.
Is it Safe to Travel to Slovakia?
Slovakia is considered a safe travel destination. In fact, it’s sometimes considered one of the safest countries to travel through in Europe. However, you still need to exercise basic safety precautions when visiting.
Here are some of the main safety considerations for tourists in this country.
Pickpockets and Petty Crimes
As is the case in basically any destination, you always need to be aware of your belongings while travelling.
Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can happen in crowded areas in Slovakia - especially around Bratislava. This happens mostly around popular tourist sites or in crowded public places (like on public transport or at stations).
Crimes usually take place where one person will distract you, while an accomplice fishes your pockets. So, be aware of any obvious diversions and keep a close eye (or hand) on your belongings.
We advise never leaving any valuables unattended, and being aware of where you are carrying your valuables. Keep handbags zipped up, consider wearing a waist bag, and never carry your phone or wallet in your back pocket. Rather keep these items in chest pockets or in pockets located on the inside of your jacket.
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Taxi Scams
If you’re going to be travelling around Slovakia by taxi, always be cautious of mild taxi scams.
Some drivers add a surcharge to the taxi meter value and call it 'tourist tax'. Other drivers might not run the meter at all so they can overcharge you.
If you get a ride in a metered taxi, then make sure you check the meter and only pay what it says.
Road Safety
Driving around Slovakia is generally safe and easy. Just make sure you’re aware of local road regulations, and keep alert - especially when driving on smaller rural roads.
Car break-ins can happen in some areas of the country. Just make sure you don't leave any valuables in your car. It's also good practice to not leave bags visible in the car, even if they do not hold anything valuable.
Safety in Bratislava
If you’re asking the question “Is it safe to travel to Slovakia?”, then your biggest concern should be Bratislava. Not that the capital city is dangerous, but this is where petty crime, taxi scams, and car break-ins are more common.
Be extra cautious when experiencing the city - especially on a night out. As long as you use common sense and are wary of your surroundings, then you should be safe.
Is it Safe to Travel to Slovakia Right Now With Ukraine?
Another big safety question being asked about Slovakia is whether the country is safe to visit during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Governments simply say that travellers should exercise normal precautions when travelling to Slovakia. But make sure that you have looked up recent news to see if there have been updates on the matter before you travel.
Why Travel to Slovakia?
Now that you know Slovakia is a safe destination to travel to, let’s explore some of the main reasons why you’d want to visit this awesome country.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventure
Slovakia country is home to beautiful mountain ranges. There are breathtaking valleys, forests, and national parks to explore, Slovak Paradise National Park being one of the most popular destinations.
Hiking in Slovakia is one of the best things any traveller can do, as there is a wide range of trails and summits to attempt. We regard the High Tatra hiking trails to be some of the best in Europe, and in winter, the mountains turn into a snowy wonderland - perfect for skiing adventures.
Historic Castles and Towns
Slovakia is home to many medieval castles, such as Spiš Castle and Orava Castle. These old castles offer a great look into the country's fascinating history.
Don’t forget about the many charming towns and cities like Košice, Trnava, Bardejov, Bojnice, and Banská Štiavnica. These places have some impressive old architecture on display, as well as vibrant cultural scenes.
We’re confident that the vibe and history of the towns of Slovakia could rival any more popular destination in Europe. And if you’re after a slower-paced trip, be sure to check out the pretty rural villages for a true glimpse into Slovakia’s unique culture.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Slovakia has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by its history of various ethnic groups, including Slovaks, Hungarians, and Roma.
When visiting, be sure to explore traditional folk music, dance, and food, as well as museums and galleries showcasing Slovak art and history. It’s an interesting place.
Spa Towns
Slovakia has a long tradition of spa tourism, with thermal springs and wellness resorts scattered throughout the country. Places like Piešťany and Bardejov offer rejuvenating spa experiences amid picturesque surroundings.
This is one of the best ways to relax in Slovakia, and it can make the ultimate ending to an exhausting hiking trip.
Affordability
Compared to many Western European destinations, Slovakia offers excellent value for travellers.
Accommodation, dining, and transport are generally quite affordable across the country, allowing visitors to stretch their budget further.
Advice for a Safe Trip
While Slovakia is generally safe to visit, it's important that you’re well prepared. Here are some top tips to keep in mind for a safe experience in the country.
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Stay Up to Date
While there are no major issues in Slovakia right now, stay informed about the current situation in the country through official government updates.
Keep up to date with local news and be aware of any potential risks before you travel.
Health, Safety, and Emergency Numbers
Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies before travelling to Slovakia.
Familiarize yourself with where to find hospitals and pharmacies in the areas you plan to visit in case of any emergencies. This is especially important if you plan to do any potentially risky activities.
Before you set off hiking in the mountains, make sure you save any emergency contacts into your phone. The main emergency number for Slovakia is 112.
Be Prepared for the Weather
If you plan on hiking the High Tatra mountain peaks, you might need to prepare for snowy alpine conditions. If you’re doing outdoor activities during summer, you might be surprised at how strong the sun can get.
Make sure you prepare for this by bringing the right gear for the season and checking the weather forecast before your trip.
Consider a Guided Tour
If you’re still unsure about your safety in Slovakia, then the best way to experience the country is through a guided tour.
This lets you enjoy safe and reputable transport, well-planned activities, and expert local knowledge. If you go on a guided hiking tour in Slovakia, your expert guides will be fully trained in local mountain safety.
This means you can enjoy the best travel experiences the country has to offer while having complete peace of mind.
Conclusion
So, is it safe to travel to Slovakia? Absolutely. Just make sure you follow common sense travel safety guidelines, and you’ll be fine.
Plan your trip carefully, know what to expect, and if you really want to ensure your safety - go with a guide. As soon as you experience the adventures that Slovakia has to offer, you’ll probably start planning your next trip.