Things To Do
in Bardejov
Bardejov is a small, well-preserved medieval town in northeastern Slovakia known for its UNESCO-listed town centre and Gothic basilica. The main square is ringed by colourful burgher houses, a 14th-century town hall, and a wooden belfry that give the town a strong historical atmosphere. Nearby Bardejovské Kúpele is a historic spa set among forested hills, making the area a pleasant blend of culture and nature.
The town makes a relaxed base for exploring the Čergov foothills, regional folk traditions, and eastern Slovak gastronomy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Bardejov's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the stunning St. Egidius Church, which dates back to the 14th century. Stop by a local café for a traditional Slovak breakfast of bryndzové halušky, a delicious sheep cheese and potato dumpling dish.
After breakfast, visit the Bardejov Town Hall, where you can learn about the rich history of this medieval town through its informative exhibits. Take some time to explore the adjacent square, lined with picturesque houses and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling more Slovak cuisine and perhaps trying a local beer.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in one of the town's charming squares to relax and soak in the ambiance. Consider dining at a local eatery that specializes in traditional Slovak dishes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture. End the evening with a leisurely walk, taking in the illuminated buildings and the peaceful atmosphere of Bardejov.
Start your day with a rejuvenating visit to the Bardejov Spa, known for its healing mineral waters. Take part in a morning wellness program, including a relaxing soak in the thermal baths or a refreshing walk around the serene spa grounds. Enjoy a healthy breakfast at the spa’s café, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
After your spa experience, explore the nearby Bardejov Spa Museum to learn about the history of health tourism in the region. The museum showcases fascinating artifacts and exhibits related to the therapeutic benefits of the local waters. For lunch, enjoy a light meal at the spa's restaurant, offering a variety of health-conscious options.
Return to Bardejov and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant known for its regional specialties. Savor dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients while enjoying the warm hospitality of the local staff. As the evening winds down, take a peaceful walk through the park near the spa, reflecting on the day's relaxation and rejuvenation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee (regular café) | $2-3 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $2-3 |
| 🚌Local bus or short regional ticket | $0.80-2.00 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $45-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful and well-preserved UNESCO medieval town centre with authentic atmosphere
- Close to a historic spa and scenic hiking opportunities in the surrounding hills
- Quieter, more affordable and less touristy than major Slovak destinations
- Rich local culture and traditional regional food
- Limited late-night entertainment and few modern club-style venues
- Fewer direct transport links; often requires transfers from major hubs
- Smaller selection of international cuisine and specialty dietary options
- Cobblestones and historic streets can be slippery in winter or uneven for some visitors
- "Dobrý deň" - Good day / Hello
- "Ďakujem" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
- "Koľko to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Na zdravie!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Bardejov
Visit one of these nice places.
The UNESCO-listed medieval square with colourful burgher houses, the town hall and market arcades — excellent for wide-angle shots and architectural detail.
Gothic church interior and the adjacent historic wooden bell tower offer dramatic religious architecture and close-up ornamentation.
Preserved defensive walls and reconstructed towers provide vantage points for panoramic views and atmospheric late-afternoon light.
Elegant spa buildings, tree-lined promenades and vintage architecture set in a green valley — great for portrait and landscape photography.
Traditional wooden houses and rural scenes in surrounding villages make for authentic cultural and detail shots.
Food in Bardejov
Bardejov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings with sheep cheese (bryndza) and often topped with fried bacon bits; a national Slovak staple found in traditional restaurants and guesthouses.
Must-Try!
A tangy cabbage and smoked-meat soup often served with sausages and mushrooms; popular in colder months and at local eateries.
Filled dumplings (sweet or savory) common in eastern Slovakia — try versions stuffed with potato, cheese, or fruit at family-run restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
In summer and at festivals vendors set up on the square selling local cheeses, smoked meats, honey, traditional pastries and occasional street snacks; a good spot to sample regional produce.
Small cafés and kiosks around the spa serve light snacks, cakes and drinks — pleasant for a casual bite after a walk in the spa gardens.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a polite greeting such as 'Dobrý deň' (Good day) when entering shops or meeting people; a firm handshake is common in formal situations.
Dress modestly and speak quietly in churches; remove hats indoors in some traditional settings.
Slovaks value punctuality for appointments and tours — arrive on time for reservations or guided activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bardejov
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory; for small bills many locals simply round up. Tipping café staff is less common but small change is fine.
Slovakia uses the euro. Cards are accepted in many restaurants, hotels and shops in Bardejov, but small vendors and markets may prefer cash — keep some euros on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Late spring brings blooming trees and milder weather; some attractions reopen after winter. Trails become muddy early on, so wear suitable footwear.
Warmest and most popular time to visit with outdoor concerts, market stalls and long daylight hours — expect busy weekends and pack sunscreen.
Autumn offers colourful foliage in surrounding hills and fewer tourists; ideal for hiking and atmospheric photography but temperatures cool quickly.
Cold and snowy, with a fairytale look in the old town and spa; some attractions and smaller businesses may have reduced hours — dress warmly and be cautious on icy cobblestones.
Bardejov at Night
Hiking in Bardejov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, well-marked walking routes through the spa park and surrounding gentle slopes — ideal for a relaxed day hike and nature photography.
A network of trails suitable for half-day to full-day hikes with forest scenery, ridgelines and occasional lookout points; options for different fitness levels.
Shorter countryside walks connecting nearby villages, offering views of traditional architecture, farmland and opportunities to visit local producers.
Airports
How to reach Bardejov by plane.
The nearest major international airport, approximately 1–1.5 hours by car; offers connections to European hubs and is the most convenient gateway for Bardejov.
Smaller airport serving the High Tatras region, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car; useful in winter for mountain visitors and some seasonal flights.
International airport in southern Poland, around 3 hours by car; an option for cross-border visitors combining Poland and Slovakia travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population; Slovak language and culture dominate local life and traditions.
Present in the region, as in many parts of eastern Slovakia, with distinct cultural contributions and social dynamics.
Bardejov had a significant Jewish community historically; remnants of this heritage are reflected in museums and memorials rather than a large contemporary Jewish population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and amateur football are popular, with community matches and youth programs drawing local interest.
A popular winter sport across Slovakia; regional teams and amateur rinks attract fans and local participation.
Outdoor activities are widely enjoyed due to nearby hills — hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter are common pastimes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bardejov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in big cities; request cheese-based dishes, vegetable soups, potato-based meals and salads. Communicate dietary needs clearly — many places will adapt dishes if asked.
Strict vegan or gluten-free options are less common; cafés may offer simple salads or fruit, and some restaurants can accommodate requests if notified in advance. Carry snacks if you have severe restrictions.