Things To Do
in Prešov
Prešov is a lively regional city in eastern Slovakia with a compact medieval core, colorful facades and a mix of Gothic, Baroque and folk architecture. It serves as a cultural hub for the Šariš region, with active festivals, churches of multiple denominations and museums that highlight local history. The city is a practical base for exploring nearby castles, wooden villages and the High Tatras while offering affordable cafés and a growing craft beer scene.
Prešov blends small-city calm with student energy and straightforward access to natural areas for day trips and hikes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of St. Nicholas, where you can marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and local shops. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Slovak breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies like bryndzové halušky.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Prešov's history by visiting the Prešov Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s past. After exploring the museum, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Orthodox Church of St. Alexander Nevsky, admiring its unique architectural style. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy some hearty Slovak cuisine, such as kapustnica, a delicious cabbage soup.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a traditional Slovak pub where you can enjoy a pint of local beer and some live folk music. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully lit streets of the city, appreciating the blend of history and modernity. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a restaurant serving regional dishes, savoring the flavors of Slovakia.
Begin your day at the Slovak National Museum in Prešov, where you can explore various exhibits related to the cultural heritage of Slovakia. Engage with knowledgeable staff to gain deeper insights into the region's traditions and history. After your museum visit, enjoy a refreshing coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the local ambiance.
In the afternoon, head to the Franciscan Church, a beautiful Gothic structure, to appreciate its stunning interior and peaceful atmosphere. Following your visit, stroll through the lush gardens of the surrounding park, taking in the natural beauty of the area. For lunch, try some local pastries at a bakery known for its delectable Slovak treats.
As the sun sets, attend a performance at the Prešov Theatre, where you can experience Slovak culture through drama or dance. After the show, gather with friends or fellow travelers at a nearby bar to share stories and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Finish your evening with a late-night snack of traditional Slovak street food, such as klobása (sausage).
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $1.50-3 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L pub) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local public transport ticket | $0.70-1.20 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $2-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, picturesque historic centre with affordable prices
- Good base for day trips to castles, wooden villages and the High Tatras
- Rich regional culture, festivals and traditional cuisine
- Friendly locals and a lively student scene
- Smaller selection of international flights and longer connections than Bratislava or Košice
- Nightlife and late-night options are more limited than in larger cities
- English may be less commonly spoken among older residents outside tourist spots
- Public transport to more remote natural areas can be infrequent on weekends
- "Dobrý deň" - Good day / Hello
- "Prosím" - Please / You're welcome
- "Ďakujem" - Thank you
- "Koľko to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kde je ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Pomoc!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Prešov
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful facades, historic details, and street life make for classic urban photos, especially in soft morning or golden-hour light.
Ruined castle on a hill above the city with panoramic views over the Šariš region—excellent for wide landscapes and sunset shots.
Historic industrial architecture and wooden elements provide atmospheric, textured images; interesting both interior and exterior.
Photograph the mix of Roman Catholic, Greek Catholic and Orthodox churches for striking domes, icons and ornate interiors.
Local parks and the Torysa riverbanks are good for candid street-life photography, seasonal foliage and quieter nature scenes within the city.
Food in Prešov
Prešov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slovakia’s national dish—potato dumplings with sheep's cheese and bacon or smoked pork; available in traditional restaurants and local eateries in the city center.
Must-Try!
Sour cabbage (sauerkraut) soup often with smoked meat and sausage, especially common in winter and at festive tables in eastern Slovakia.
Dumplings (pierogi-like) stuffed with potato, cheese or fruit; served in family-run restaurants and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets around the city sell fresh produce, cheeses, sausages and baked goods—perfect for trying local syr (cheese), smoked meats and fresh bread; look for weekend markets on the edges of the old town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use formal greetings on first meeting—Dobrý deň (Good day) is polite. A handshake is common; maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and follow any photography rules. Many local communities are devout and value respectful behavior.
In some private homes Slovaks may ask guests to remove outdoor shoes—observe hosts and follow their lead.
Punctuality is appreciated for appointments and tours; social gatherings may be a bit more relaxed.
Safety
Tipping in Prešov
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is common. For taxi drivers, round up or add a small tip for help with luggage; tips for guides and hairdressers are discretionary.
Cash (euros) is widely used—carry small bills for markets and smaller cafés. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops in the city center, but smaller vendors may be cash-only. ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blossoming parks and fewer tourists make it a pleasant time for city walks and early hikes. Weather can be changeable—pack a light rain jacket and layers.
Warm to hot days with lively outdoor cafés, festivals and easy access to nearby mountains for hikes; carry sunscreen and stay hydrated. Peak season for day trips to the Tatras and regional attractions.
Crisp air and colorful foliage ideal for photography and hiking; many local harvest and folk events take place. Nights get chilly—bring warmer layers.
Cold and often snowy—good for winter sports in nearby mountain resorts; city life is quieter but festive around holidays. Roads can be icy; pack warm clothing and sturdy footwear.
Prešov at Night
Hiking in Prešov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested ridges and gentle peaks east of Prešov with marked trails, lookout points and opportunities for half-day hikes.
Trails around Levoča and the Spiš area combine cultural stops (wooden churches, small villages) with varied hiking routes.
Iconic alpine hikes, cable cars and mountain lakes; reachable by longer day trip or overnight stay—excellent for more demanding treks and winter sports.
Smaller local hills and forest walks perfect for short escapes from the city and family-friendly outings.
Airports
How to reach Prešov by plane.
About 30–40 km southeast of Prešov with regular domestic and some international flights; reachable by car, taxi or regional bus/train in roughly 30–60 minutes depending on transport.
Around 100–130 km west/northwest of Prešov and convenient for access to the High Tatras; seasonal and charter flights are common, and transfer by car or bus takes about 1.5–2 hours.
Bratislava and Vienna airports are long-distance options with extensive international connections; travel to Prešov from these hubs is several hours by train or bus or a short internal transfer to Košice flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents identify as ethnic Slovaks; Slovak language and culture predominate in daily life.
There are Roma communities in the region; interactions vary by neighborhood—respectful behavior and awareness are important.
Small communities of Rusyns, Ukrainians and Czechs live in the area; a student population contributes to a younger, dynamic urban atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely followed with local clubs and amateur matches—catch a regional game for a community sports experience.
Hockey has a strong following in eastern Slovakia; nearby arenas host matches and tournaments in winter.
Hiking, trail running and skiing in the High Tatras and surrounding hills are extremely popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Prešov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available in cafés and modern bistros (cheese dumplings, salads, soups). Traditional restaurants may have limited choices—ask for modifications and look for international spots in the center.
Purely vegan options are fewer but growing—search for vegan-friendly cafés, vegetarian restaurants or order salads and side dishes; communicate restrictions clearly in Slovak or English.
Gluten-free choices can be limited in traditional Slovak cuisine (dumplings, breads). Some cafés and hotels can accommodate requests—ask staff and check packaged goods at supermarkets for labeled products.