Slovakia travel facts: the essentials at a glance

Slovakia facts table

Money and payments

Slovakia uses the euro, so visitors from other eurozone countries need no exchange. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in cities, while small mountain huts, market stalls and some village restaurants may prefer cash. ATMs are easy to find in towns. When a card machine asks whether to pay in euros or your home currency, choosing euros usually avoids a poor conversion rate. More detail is in money in Slovakia and is Slovakia expensive.

Entry rules

Slovakia applies the Schengen rules. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can enter with a valid passport or national ID card. Many other nationalities can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the whole Schengen Area, while others need a Schengen visa. The EU Entry/Exit System registers non-EU visitors at the external Schengen border. Always check the official EU travel site before you go, and read our Slovakia entry requirements guide.

Getting around

Trains run by ZSSK and private operators link Bratislava with Žilina, Poprad and Košice, and the Tatra Electric Railway connects the main High Tatras resorts. Buses fill the gaps between smaller towns. Bratislava has trams, trolleybuses and buses with tickets bought by app, machine or contactless card. Most international visitors arrive through Bratislava Airport or Vienna Airport, about 60 km away. See trains in Slovakia, Bratislava public transport and Vienna Airport to Bratislava.

Driving rules worth knowing

Cars drive on the right. Motorways and expressways need an electronic vignette, bought at eznamka.sk or from official sellers and linked to the licence plate. Slovakia has a zero tolerance policy for alcohol when driving. Dipped headlights are required at all times. In winter, follow the winter tyre rules for snowy and icy roads, especially in the mountains. Read driving in Slovakia and the Slovakia vignette guide.

Everyday practicalities

Tap water is safe to drink. Shops in cities usually open daily, but many close or shorten hours on public holidays, so check Slovak public holidays before you plan. Tipping around 10 percent for good service in restaurants is common practice, and rounding up is normal elsewhere: see tipping in Slovakia. English is widely understood by younger people and in tourist areas; a few Slovak phrases are appreciated.

Mountains and safety

Slovakia is generally a safe country for visitors. In the High Tatras, trails above the mountain huts close seasonally from 1 November to 15 June to protect nature, so check the Tatra National Park (TANAP) rules for your dates. Mountain rescue in Slovakia can charge for rescue operations, which is why insurance that covers hiking matters. Save 112 and 18 300 in your phone. More in is Slovakia safe and hiking insurance for the High Tatras.