Things To Do
in Spišská Nová Ves

Spišská Nová Ves is a charming town located in northeastern Slovakia, known for its rich history and spectacular surroundings. It serves as a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Slovak Paradise National Park, offering stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. The town features well-preserved historical architecture, including the iconic Gothic St. Nicholas Cathedral.

With a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Spišská Nová Ves is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town and Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the St. Nicholas Cathedral, admiring its impressive Gothic architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then explore the Spiš Museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the historical town square, followed by dinner at a traditional Slovak restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in the Slovak Paradise
morning
:

Embark on a guided hike in the Slovak Paradise National Park, experiencing its breathtaking gorges and waterfalls.

afternoon
:

After a packed lunch in nature, continue hiking to the iconic Suchá Belá gorge.

evening
:

Return to Spišská Nová Ves and unwind with a drink at a local pub while enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Public transportation ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited options for international cuisine.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Slovak speakers.
  • "Dobrý deň" - Good day
  • "Ďakujem" - Thank you
  • "Prosím" - Please
  • "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Koľko to stojí?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Spišská Nová Ves

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Nicholas Cathedral

Capture the stunning Gothic spires and intricate details of this historic cathedral.

Slovak Paradise National Park

A breathtaking backdrop filled with waterfalls, gorges, and lush green landscapes perfect for nature photography.

Main Square

The vibrant heart of the town, surrounded by beautiful architecture and lively street life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Spišská Nová Ves

Spišská Nová Ves boasts a delightful culinary scene influenced by traditional Slovak cuisine and local ingredients.

Spišská Nová Ves Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bryndzové Halušky

A signature Slovak dish made from potato dumplings topped with sheep cheese and served with bacon.

Must-Try!

Kapustnica

A hearty sauerkraut soup typically made with smoked meats and spices, perfect for cold weather.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Spišská Nová Ves Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Spišská Nová Ves experiences a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 25°C (77°F), while winters can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with late spring and early autumn being the wettest. Snow is common in winter, making it suitable for winter sports enthusiasts.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, along with a polite greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating, and it's polite to keep both hands on the table while eating.

Respect for Traditions

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during cultural events and festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Spišská Nová Ves is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas and avoiding poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached via 112, and local hospitals provide adequate medical care.

Tipping in Spišská Nová Ves

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in Slovakia; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is customary in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for smaller establishments is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flora, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many tourists; it's perfect for hiking and exploring the national park.

Autumn

Enjoy stunning fall colors in the Slovak Paradise, along with harvest festivals and local markets.

Winter

Cold temperatures can lead to snow in the region, perfect for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Spišská Nová Ves at Night

Spišská Nová Ves has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs. Local establishments offer a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy Slovak beers and wines. Live music is frequently featured, especially in the summer months, attracting both locals and tourists. The town's nightlife tends to be relaxed, making it perfect for socializing and unwinding after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Spišská Nová Ves

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Suchá Belá

This trail in the Slovak Paradise National Park features stunning gorges and waterfalls, suitable for moderate hikers.

Prielom Hornádu

A scenic hike along the Hornád River that offers beautiful landscapes and unique rock formations, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Spišská Nová Ves by plane.

Košice International Airport

Located about 50 km away, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the most convenient gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Spišská Nová Ves is quite walkable, with a compact town center that allows visitors to explore most attractions on foot. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and clear signage. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Slovak Nationals

The majority of the population are Slovak nationals, who take pride in their cultural heritage and traditions.

Tourists

Spišská Nová Ves attracts tourists from various countries, especially during the summer months, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Football (Soccer)

Football enjoys a significant following, with local clubs and community leagues actively promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Spišská Nová Ves is generally light, with most residents using personal vehicles or bicycles. Public transportation includes buses that connect the town with nearby areas. Roads are well-maintained, but caution is advised as some routes may have steep gradients.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Spišská Nová Ves.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it’s advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, so it's recommended to request alternatives when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Spišská Nová Ves is accessible, with several clinics and a general hospital providing medical services. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical treatment, while travelers from outside the EU should consider travel insurance.

Discover Slovakia

Read more in our Slovakia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovakia Travel Guide