Things To Do
in Prešov

Prešov is a charming city located in eastern Slovakia, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. The city boasts a well-preserved medieval center with beautiful Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Prešov is also the gateway to the picturesque Carpathian Mountains, offering both urban and natural attractions.

Its lively atmosphere is enhanced by local festivals and traditional Slovak hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the iconic Prešov Cathedral of St. Nicholas, where you can admire its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical Old Town, including the Prešov Town Hall and the famous Orthodox Church of St. Prince A. Nevsky. Don’t forget to check out the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Slovak restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk around the vibrant city center, where you can enjoy live music and street performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Slanské Hills, taking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Prešov Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture. Then, head to the local market to taste some traditional Slovak pastries.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a night out at a local pub, where you can sample Slovak beer and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Pint of local beer$3
🏨Hotel room (per night)$50
🚍Public transport ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited English proficiency in some areas.
  • Public transport can be infrequent.
  • Fewer international dining options compared to larger cities.
  • "Dobrý deň" - Good day
  • "Ďakujem" - Thank you
  • "Prosím" - Please
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Pomôžte mi, prosím" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Prešov

Visit one of these nice places.

Prešov Cathedral of St. Nicholas

A stunning Gothic cathedral that stands out with its intricate facade and beautiful stained glass.

Old Town Square

A picturesque square featuring colorful buildings and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Slanské Hills

An ideal backdrop for nature photography, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Prešov

Prešov offers a delightful culinary scene that combines traditional Slovak flavors with modern twists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, street food, and vibrant markets.

Prešov Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bryndzové Halušky

A traditional Slovak dish made from potato dumplings and sheep cheese, often served with bacon.

Must-Try!

Kapustnica

A hearty sauerkraut soup with smoked meat and sausages, often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Prešov Farmer's Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, homemade preserves, and traditional Slovak snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the city center offering quick bites like sausages, pastries, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Prešov experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) while winters can drop to -5°C (23°F). The spring and autumn seasons are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal.

Respecting Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious events or festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Prešov is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached at 112, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance for peace of mind.

Tipping in Prešov

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in most establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Warm weather brings tourists; expect lively festivals and outdoor dining options.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors create a picturesque setting for hikes and photography.

Winter

Cold weather with snow can create a magical atmosphere, especially around Christmas with festive markets.

Nightlife Guide

Prešov at Night

Prešov's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a range of pubs, bars, and clubs. Many venues host live music, and the atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends. From cozy pubs serving local beers to nightclubs with dancing, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The city attracts both locals and visitors, creating a friendly and inviting nightlife scene.

Hiking in Prešov

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail to the Slanské Hills

A popular trail offering stunning views and diverse wildlife, suitable for all skill levels.

Hiking in the High Tatras

A bit further from Prešov, the High Tatras offer challenging trails and breathtaking landscapes for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Prešov by plane.

Košice International Airport

Located approximately 40 kilometers from Prešov, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Prešov is highly walkable, especially in the Old Town area where most attractions are located within a short distance. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of cafes and shops to explore along the way. Well-marked paths make it easy to navigate, and the city’s compact size means you can easily explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Slovak Ethnic Group

The majority of Prešov's population identifies as Slovak, contributing to the city's rich cultural identity.

Hungarian Minority

A significant minority group, particularly in eastern Slovakia, contributing to the diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is extremely popular in Slovakia, with local teams and passionate fans supporting the sport.

Football

Football (soccer) is also widely followed, with local clubs playing in national leagues and a strong presence in the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Prešov is manageable, with peak hours usually occurring in the mornings and late afternoons. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect various parts of the city. Biking is also a popular way to get around, and many locals prefer walking for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Prešov.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff for specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available, but they may be limited; asking in advance can help.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Prešov is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics providing services to locals and visitors. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most healthcare facilities are adequately equipped. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers health services, as some treatments may require upfront payment.

Discover Slovakia

Read more in our Slovakia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovakia Travel Guide