Things To Do
in Sabinov

Sabinov is a small historic town in eastern Slovakia, nestled in the Prešov Region near the Čergov and Hornád river valleys. It blends well-preserved medieval and Baroque architecture with a friendly, village-like atmosphere. The town center is compact and walkable, lined with cafés, shops and a lively weekly market.

Surrounded by rolling hills, Sabinov serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider Šariš and Spiš areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Sabinov
morning
:

Arrive in Sabinov and check into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Slovak pastries. Take a moment to orient yourself by wandering through the picturesque streets.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sabinov Town Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Stroll through the nearby park, taking in the serene environment and beautiful gardens. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby bistro, trying out some local Slovak dishes.

evening
:

Relax at a traditional Slovak restaurant, savoring a hearty dinner with locally sourced ingredients. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals as you chat with fellow travelers. End your day with a peaceful walk through the charming town, soaking in the ambiance.

day 2
Exploring the Local Architecture
morning
:

Start your morning with a guided walking tour focused on the unique architecture of Sabinov. Discover the stunning St. Nicholas Church and its intricate details. Capture photos of the historical buildings that tell the story of the town's past.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at a café that offers views of the town square. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Sabinov Karpatská gallery, showcasing local artists' work. Take your time appreciating the creativity and talent that shapes the cultural landscape.

evening
:

Dine in a restaurant that features a menu inspired by Slovak folklore and traditions. Attend a local cultural event or performance if available, immersing yourself in the rich heritage. Walk back to your accommodation, reminiscing about the day's highlights.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🛏️Hotel room per night$40-80
🧀Local dish at a restaurant$8-15
🚆Public transport ticket$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Central location in eastern Slovakia with easy access to nature and nearby towns
  • Friendly locals and a walkable town center
  • Rich regional culture and a less-touristy atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
  • Language barriers for non-Slovak speakers
  • "Dobrý deň" - Good day / Hello
  • "Prosím" - Please
  • "Ďakujem" - Thank you
  • "Koľko to stojí?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Hovoríte po anglicky?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Sabinov

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic Town Center

Colorful 18th–19th-century façades around the main square with arcades and lively street life.

Town Hall and surrounding arcades

Architectural details and a sense of Sabinov’s history, especially striking at golden hour.

Riverside views along the Hornád

Scenic perspectives of the river with hills in the distance, ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sabinov

Sabinov’s cuisine reflects traditional Slovak country cooking, with hearty dishes based on pork, dairy, potatoes and fresh produce from nearby farms. You’ll find comforting, family-friendly meals in town-center restaurants and cafés, with local specialties that showcase regional flavors.

Sabinov Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bryndzové halušky

Potato dumplings with sheep cheese (bryndza) and often topped with bacon; a classic Slovak comfort dish.

Must-Try!

Kapustnica

A savory sauerkraut soup with smoked sausage, served hot especially in colder months.

Lokše with bryndza

Potato flatbreads filled or topped with bryndza cheese; a simple, tasty option to try.

Bryndzové pirohy

Dumplings stuffed with bryndza cheese, commonly found on traditional menus.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local town market

Seasonal market near the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads and prepared snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sabinov experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, winters cold with potential snowfall, and spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures and variable weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting such as 'Dobrý deň' (good day) is appreciated; a handshake is common in formal settings.

Tact and conversation

Polite conversation about family and local topics is typical; avoid sensitive topics in first meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe for visitors. Standard travel precautions apply: watch belongings in crowded areas, use reliable transport at night, and be prepared for occasional weather-related hazards in the surrounding hills.

Tipping in Sabinov

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common; not obligatory but appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; ATMs are available in town; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with fresh greenery and occasional showers; bring a light jacket and an umbrella.

Summer

Warm to hot days with long daylight; stay hydrated and use sun protection; occasional summer storms occur.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; perfect for strolls and photography of autumnal landscapes.

Winter

Cold with possible snowfall; daylight is shorter; indoor activities and nearby winter sports are good options.

Nightlife Guide

Sabinov at Night

Sabinov’s nightlife centers on cozy pubs, wine bars, and occasional live music venues. Expect relaxed atmospheres, straightforward drinks menus, and friendly conversations rather than a big-city club scene.

Hiking in Sabinov

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Čergov Mountains trails

Seasonal hiking with forested slopes, viewpoints and well-marked routes suitable for day trips.

Hornád River Gorge trails

Scenic riverside paths and gentle gorge landscapes ideal for easy hikes.

Local nature reserves around Sabinov

Short, rewarding hikes with wildlife and tranquil scenery just outside town.

Airports

How to reach Sabinov by plane.

Poprad–Tatry Airport

Closest regional airport (approx. 60–70 km from Sabinov); connections to major Slovak and Czech cities.

Košice International Airport

Larger international hub about 110–120 km east; good for broader international connections and onward transport by train or bus.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sabinov has a compact historic center that is easy to explore on foot, with most attractions, eateries and shops within a short stroll of the main square.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Slovaks

Predominant group, with strong local traditions and regional customs.

Roma Community

Present in some areas; diverse subcultures within the broader region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport at local clubs and schools; matches are common on weekends.

Cycling

Flat to rolling terrain near the Hornád River makes for enjoyable rides.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter sports options are available in nearby hills and cross-country routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Town traffic is generally light to moderate; the area has good road connections to Prešov and Košice. Bus networks provide regional connectivity; winter driving can be slower due to weather conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sabinov.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted or prepared without meat; look for mushroom, cheese or potato fillings and ask for vegetable-based sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Sabinov with a local general practitioner and regional health facilities in nearby towns; emergency services operate 24/7. Registration and language support vary by facility, so carrying essential documents helps.

Discover Slovakia

Read more in our Slovakia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovakia Travel Guide