Top 10 Winter Experiences
1. Christmas market
Aroma of mulled wine and mead, lit streets and Christmas carols. These are clear signs that Christmas markets are taking place in Bratislava. You can experience the magic atmosphere this year at several places:
- Main Christmas Market – Main Square, Franciscan Square, Old Town Hall
- Old Town Christmas Market – Hviezdoslavovo Square
- Christmas Market at Eurovea – Eurovea Shopping Centre
- Christmas Market at Dulák – Dulovo Square
- Christmas Market Advent at the Castle – Bratislava Castle
- Vegan Christmas Market – Umelka Pub
2. Ice rinks
In winter, you can enjoy ice skating at the squares in the city center (Hviezdoslav’s Square, Eurovea). There is also an ice skates rental where you can get skating aids for your children as well.
3. Views from UFO and Kamzík
If you are a fan of great views, do not miss the UFO observation tower and the Kamzík TV Tower. Both offer spectacular views of winter Bratislava. Feeling cold? The interiors of both towers hide restaurants where you can taste various delicacies.
4. Galleries, museums and the Nutcracker in the Slovak National Theater
The winter season is perfect for visiting museums and galleries that will surely please even the most demanding art lovers. If you like modern art, Danubiana, Kunstahalle or the Nedbalka Gallery are the right spots for you. Traditions await you in the City Gallery of Bratislava and the City Museum of Bratislava. The world of childhood purity and endless imagination combine in the ballet the Nutcracker now in the Slovak National Theater. You can look forward to beautiful costumes and an epic scene.
5. Walks in parks
Take a break in our parks and gardens, which in winter breathe magic regardless of whether they are covered in snow or not. Visit Bratislava Forest Park, where you can take the cable car between Železná studnička and Kamzík or enjoy a great sledding with a view of the beautiful snowy landscape. The Horsky Park, which is only a few minutes away from the city center, is a place for peaceful winter relaxation.
6. Christmas tours
Discover Slovak Christmas traditions, local gastronomy and folk products at special Christmas tours. The guide will take you through the Christmas markets as well as the most famous tourist attractions. At the end of the tour you can warm yourself up by a glass of mulled wine. You can also enjoy Christmas decorations in the streets of Bratislava and at the Bratislava Castle in the comfort of a heated train Prešporáčik.
7. Local shopping
Shopping for family and friends is a must during the Christmas season. The best gifts await you in small local shops that offer original products and individual approach to the customer. Design shops like Slávica, Kompót and Slowatch can be found in the very center of the city.
8. Escape rooms, city game and virtual reality
Get to know Bratislava and its corners in a fun way. Enjoy the new perspectives and learn about the city with the interactive tasks of the City Game Brainteaslava. If you like puzzles and solving mysterious tasks, visit one of the popular escape rooms. Different topics will always bring a unique experience and entertain you throughout the whole game. If you are interested in virtual reality, visit the VRBA bar, where you can enjoy a wide selection of alcoholic and soft drinks while playing VR games.
9. Traditional gastro-experience
Winter in Bratislava brings along tasty specialties. Right now, it is the perfect time to taste typical specialties such as goose, veal cutlet or thick stew that will not only feed you but also warm up you in the cold weather. Pop in the restaurants such as Savoy, Zylinder or Leberfinger to treat your taste buds.
10. Hockey match
Much like in the previous year, Bratislava invites you to experience the true hockey atmosphere again. Come and watch the HC Slovan matches and enjoy the great feeling of winning along with other fans. Enjoy a sports experience that simply belongs to winter.