Spiš Travel Guide (Eastern Slovakia/Slovakia/Central Europe/Europe)

Introduction to Spiš

Spiš is a scenic region located in Eastern Slovakia, in the heart of Central Europe. Comprised of a beautiful countryside that includes the High Tatras mountains, lush valleys, and stunning rivers, the region is a perfect destination for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors.

List of Places to Visit in Spiš

Here’s a list of some of the top places to visit in Spiš:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Spiš Castle
The Church of the Holy Spirit in Žehra
The Church of St. George in Spišská Sobota
The Slovak National Museum in Betliar

Natural Attractions of Spiš: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The High Tatras Mountains
The Slovak Paradise National Park
The Pieniny National Park
The Hornád River Valley

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spiš

Spiš is home to some of the most picturesque hiking and biking routes in Europe, and visitors will quickly discover that the region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Here are five great hiking/biking routes to explore in Spiš:

The Tatranska Magistrala Trail
The Slovensky Raj Trail
The Pieniny National Park Trail
The Prielom Hornádu Trail
The Spišska Nova Ves City Trail

Best Things to Do in Spiš: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is no shortage of fun things to see and do in Spiš. Here are some top activities and tours to consider:

Take a guided tour of Spiš Castle
Go hiking or mountain biking in the High Tatras Mountains
Enjoy a guided kayak or rafting tour down the Hornád River
Visit one of the many museums in the region, such as the Slovak National Museum in Betliar

Week-Long Itinerary for Spiš

If you’re planning a visit to Spiš and want to see as much of the region as possible, here is a seven-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day	Activity
1	Explore Spiš Castle and the surrounding area
2	Take a guided tour of Žehra and the Church of the Holy Spirit
3	Hike or bike the Tatranska Magistrala Trail in the High Tatras Mountains
4	Visit the Slovak Paradise National Park and hike the Slovensky Raj Trail
5	Go rafting down the Hornád River
6	Walk through Spišská Sobota and visit the Church of St. George
7	Explore Betliar and visit the Slovak National Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Spiš

Spiš is known for its hearty Slovak cuisine, and visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes throughout the region.

Must-Try Dishes

Bryndzové Halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese and bacon)
Kapustnica (a thick soup with sauerkraut, ham, and sausage)
Trdelník (a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon)

Local Beverages

Borovička (a strong, herbal brandy made from juniper berries)
Tatratea (a traditional Slovak tea-based liqueur)

Where to Stay in Spiš: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Spiš, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

Grand Hotel Spiš in Spišská Nová Ves
Hotel Kráľová in Kráľová
Penzión Katka in Helča

What to Buy in Spiš: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Spiš, be sure to pick up some locally made products to bring home with you, such as:

Handmade wooden crafts
Local honey
Sheep cheese

Local Culture and Customs of Spiš

Slovakia has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors to Spiš can experience a variety of local customs and traditions. Be sure to respect the cultural customs and traditions of the region during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Spiš

The best time to visit Spiš is during the summer months (June through August) when the weather is warm and sunny. The High Tatras Mountains can be particularly beautiful during this time of year, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Spiš

Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Spiš:

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions
Try the local cuisine
Enjoy the beautiful scenery

Don’t:

Travel alone in isolated areas
Disrespect religious sites and symbols
Disrupt the peaceful environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Spiš

Spiš is a safe region to visit. However, visitors should still take the usual precautions when traveling, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Spiš

There are no specific health risks associated with traveling to Spiš. However, visitors should make sure to bring any necessary medications and consult with their healthcare provider before traveling if they have any health concerns.

Getting to Spiš: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Spiš

The closest international airport to Spiš is in Kosice, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. From there, visitors can arrange for transportation to Spiš via bus or rental car.

Bus Stations Near Spiš

There are several bus stations located throughout Spiš, including the main bus station in Spišská Nová Ves.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Spiš by car or by train. The nearest train station is in Poprad, which is approximately 30 kilometers away.

How to Get Around in Spiš

The best way to get around Spiš is by car, but visitors can also use public transportation, such as buses and trains, to get around the region.

Where to Go Next from Spiš: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Spiš is located in Eastern Slovakia, which is home to several other popular destinations and attractions. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Poprad (30 km away)
Košice (60 km away)
The Slovenský Raj National Park (40 km away)

Conclusion

Spiš is a beautiful region located in Eastern Slovakia that offers visitors a range of activities, attractions, and experiences. From hiking and biking the scenic routes to tasting the delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Spiš. Plan your trip today and experience all that this incredible region has to offer.

Spiš Image Gallery

Spiš in Slovakia

Suspension bridge in Slovak Paradise National Park