Slovakia is a mountainous landlocked Central European country. As small as its land area, it has a wide variety of special places you can visit and appreciate. Once part of Czechoslovakia but gained independence in 1993 to become now the Slovak Republic. An alluring fusion of the medieval and the new world, there’s just so much good places to visit in Slovakia and we’ve listed down the best of the best that should always be on your Slovak travel bucket list.

SPIS CASTLE

This can be very over rated but it is over rated for a good reason. Aside from the fact that it is already a 900-year old castle, it is also fortified in a 600-meter travertine hill and can be visible from several kilometers away. The landscapes around are also breathtaking and adds up to the magnificence of the whole castle. Come during weekends to see locals dress up in medieval times and will complete the experience of traveling back in time.

STARA BYSTRICA ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK

If you’re an avid fan of astronomy, you would be delighted to know that the most accurate astronomical clock in the world is found in Slovakia. A bizarre looking building with astonishing wooden work made by a local sculptor houses the youngest but also the most accurate astronomical clock today. It tells not only the true solar time but also zodiac signs, days and months, and the moon and sun’s positions.

MOST SNP

Another bizarre but fascinating structure in Slovakia is Most SNP or more popularly known as the “UFO” Bridge. The first thing you will notice is the UFO structure on top that was supposed to be an observation deck but later became a restaurant with the most stunning view of the city. But aside from the UFO Restaurant, the bride itself is quite fascinating because it is the only suspension bridge in the world that is supported by a single pylon. It was also made to honor the Slovak National Uprising thus the name Most SNP.

PAINTED VILLAGE OF CICMANY

This quaint little village of Cicmany has houses with lace-like paints. Streets and streets of black timber houses are decorated with white lime paint in elaborate geometric patterns uniformly painted to produce a lace-like effect. The tradition began 200 years ago since lime paint was discovered to be a helpful agent for wood preservation. The high contrast of the white paint on the dark wood is a lovely sight especially all houses are painted.