Banská Štiavnica: Slovakia's UNESCO Mining Town

Getting there from Bratislava and beyond

By car, the route from Bratislava runs through Nitra or along the expressway towards Zvolen, and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on the road. From the High Tatras it is roughly 3 hours. If you are driving, read driving in Slovakia for the vignette, speed limits and parking rules.

Public transport works, but it needs a change. Check the timetable in advance and allow extra time for the final leg.

What to see in the town

The historic centre is spread across steep slopes, so the best approach is to walk the main loop and then add the extras.

• Old Castle, a fortified Renaissance building that now houses a museum.
• New Castle, a white tower on a hill that was built as a lookout against the Ottoman Empire.
• Holy Trinity Square with the plague column and the town hall.
• The Calvary, a hillside complex of churches and chapels with views over the roofs.
• The Slovak Mining Museum, which includes underground tours.

Allow a full day to see most of this, or two half days with a night in between.

Mining lakes and the surrounding hills

Around the town there are dozens of tajchy, artificial lakes built to power the mines. Some are used for swimming in summer, and others are good for walks and photos. Paths link them through forest, so a few hours on foot is easy to arrange.

The nearby town of Kremnica, known for its mint and gold history, makes a good add-on. Bojnice Castle is also in range, see Bojnice Castle for the details.

When to go

Late spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons, with mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings festivals and warm days for the lakes. Winter is cold and the steep streets can be icy, but the town looks atmospheric under snow and it is quiet. See best time to visit Slovakia for the wider picture.

Where to stay and practical tips

The old town has small guesthouses and pensions, and many are in historic buildings. Book early for summer weekends. Cars are best parked at the edge of the centre, since the streets are narrow.

• Wear shoes with grip, since the cobbles are steep and uneven.
• Check opening times for museums, as they change by season.
• Cards work in most places, but carry some cash for small cafes.

Planning a two day stay

If you have two days, use the first for the old town and the second for the surroundings. Start with the Old Castle and the town square in the morning, then take the climb to the Calvary for views in the late afternoon. Leave the second day for a mining museum tour, a walk to one of the lakes and a drive to Kremnica or Sitno hill, which has a broad view over the region.

Restaurants in the centre often close early on weekdays outside summer, so check the hours and book ahead for dinner. The local cuisine is hearty, with game, soups and potato dishes, and several pensions serve breakfast with local products. If you drive, ask your guesthouse where to park, as some streets are closed to cars or very narrow.