Things To Do
in Poprad
Poprad is a compact Slovak town at the foothills of the High Tatras, serving as a popular base for mountain adventures and cultural discoveries. It blends a charming historic center with Art Nouveau touches, a riverside promenade, and convenient access to alpine scenery. The town feels welcoming and easygoing, with cafés, markets, and museums that invite relaxed days.
In winter, the Tatras beckon for snow sports, while summer brings hiking and scenic viewpoints just a short trip away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Poprad's historic center, where you can savor traditional Slovak pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets, admiring the beautiful architecture, including the St. Egidius Church, which dates back to the 13th century. Don’t forget to capture memorable photos of the lively market square bustling with locals.
Visit the Tatra Gallery, showcasing contemporary Slovak art and culture, to gain insight into the region's artistic heritage. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes such as bryndzové halušky, a traditional Slovak dumpling. Spend the afternoon exploring the fascinating history of the region at the Podtatranske Museum, where you can learn about the area’s past.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for dinner, where you can indulge in hearty Slovak cuisine paired with locally brewed beer. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the twinkling lights of the town. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy bar, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy some live music.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a journey to the High Tatras, just a short drive from Poprad. Arrive at the Tatranská Lomnica and take the funicular railway to the peak of Lomnický štít for breathtaking panoramic views. Spend some time soaking in the majestic scenery and snapping photos of the stunning mountain landscapes.
After descending, choose one of the numerous hiking trails suitable for your fitness level, like the trail to the picturesque Štrbské Pleso lake. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the pristine nature, surrounded by the majestic peaks and lush forests. Continue your hike, taking in the fresh mountain air and possibly spotting some local wildlife along the way.
Return to Poprad and unwind with a refreshing drink at a local café, reflecting on the day's adventures. Treat yourself to dinner at a traditional Slovak restaurant, sampling dishes like kapustnica, a delicious cabbage soup. End your evening with a relaxing stroll through the illuminated streets of Poprad, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee / cappuccino | $2-3 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the High Tatras
- Friendly, walkable town center
- Good value for money
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining
- Weather can be variable in shoulder seasons
- "Dobrý deň" - Hello / Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ďakujem" - Thank you
- "Koľko to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hovoríte po anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pomôžte mi, prosím" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Poprad
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively square framed by colorful Art Nouveau facades, ideal for street photography and people-watching.
Scenic riverside paths with reflections of the Tatras and bridges that create compelling composition at golden hour.
Historic building with a nearby terrace offering city views and sunset shots.
A preserved quarter with traditional houses and narrow lanes perfect for architectural photography.
Food in Poprad
Poprad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato dumplings with sheep cheese and bacon, Slovakia's national dish; best tried at traditional eateries near the town center.
Must-Try!
Dumplings filled with bryndza cheese or potato fillings; common in pubs and family-run restaurants.
Sauerkraut soup often served with sausage or smoked meat.
Potato flatbreads served with roasted meat or bryndza.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, pastries, and street snacks; great for trying local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use titles until invited to use first names; modest dress when visiting churches.
Respect queues and maintain calm, respectful behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Poprad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. Consider rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service; some places may include a service charge.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Euros are not the local currency but are widely tolerated in tourist areas; the local currency is the euro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with occasional showers; great for city walks and early hikes. Pack a light jacket and a small umbrella.
Warm and generally pleasant; ideal for outdoor activities, longer hikes, and riverfront strolls. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Cooling temperatures with colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and shorter hikes. Layers recommended.
Snowy in the Tatras with cold temperatures; plan for winter sports and cozy indoor venues. Check road and trail conditions.
Poprad at Night
Hiking in Poprad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular starting point for scenic hikes with waterfall viewpoints and easy-to-moderate trails.
Gentle to moderate hikes through forested terrain with valley views.
Famous for ladders, gorges, and wooden walkways; gives adventurous hikers a day-trip option.
Airports
How to reach Poprad by plane.
Small regional airport just outside Poprad; quick connections to domestic and some European destinations; taxi or bus into town.
Main eastern Slovakia gateway with broader international flights; about 140 km from Poprad; train or bus connections available.
Major international hub in Austria; options for long-haul connections; about 350 km from Poprad; best reached by rail or road via Bratislava.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Slovak with a small mix of Roma communities; steady influx of domestic and international visitors.
A blend of families, students, and retirees; tourism supports hospitality and local services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular in winter in the nearby Tatras resorts; suitable for all levels.
Favored year-round, with well-marked trails around the Tatras and surrounding valleys.
Road and mountain routes around Poprad and into the Tatras provide varied terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poprad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Slovak dishes can be adapted; look for bryndza without meat, mushroom dishes, salads, soups, pastas, and veggie options at cafés.