The administrative division of Slovakia is organized into regions known as "kraje," and each "kraj" is further subdivided into "okresy" or districts. Slovakia consists of a total of 8 regions, including Bratislava, Trnava, Trenčín, Nitra, Žilina, Banská Bystrica, Prešov, and Košice. To help tourists navigate and better understand this unfamiliar country, we recommend dividing Slovakia into several main regions.
The central regions of Slovakia are not only home to beautiful castles and medieval churches but also charming villages nestled amidst dense forests. When you visit this region, you'll have the opportunity to explore the rich history of these places, some of which have earned a spot on the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List.
If you prefer a sightseeing vacation in this part of the country, consider visiting the ancient town of Banska Bystrica, which dates back to the 13th century. For active sports enthusiasts, there are ski resorts like Šahtický or Banská Štiavnica to enjoy. Those seeking relaxation can indulge in thermal springs resorts such as Sklenie Teplice or Sliač.
The southern regions of Slovakia cater to both city enthusiasts and those interested in exploring the country's folk traditions. Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is the most popular and visited city in this region and the entire country. Despite being one of Europe's youngest capitals, Bratislava offers a wealth of attractions that allow you to immerse yourself in the country's unique culture.
In the same region, you can find Devin, the oldest Slovak town, situated at the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers. Since ancient times, Devin has served as a vital guard post. Additionally, the town of Komárno is rich in history and boasts the largest historical fortifications in all of Europe.
Exploring the northern regions of Slovakia offers a chance to immerse yourself in the country's natural beauty. In this region, you can seamlessly combine sightseeing and skiing vacations while enjoying the comfort of mineral springs. The northeastern part of Slovakia is characterized by the majestic High Tatras, a prominent symbol of the region.
In this region, you'll find some of the largest cities, including Bojnice, Bardejov, as well as the resorts of Piešťany, Slnava, and Trenčianske Teplice. When you encounter the names of cities in any of the presented regions of Slovakia, don't hesitate to explore them all. Despite the country's modest size, each city holds a wealth of interesting features and secrets waiting to be discovered.
