Slovakia is a hospitable, incredibly beautiful landlocked country in Central Europe. It is famous for the majestic Tatra Mountains, magnificent ancient cities, mysterious, romantic knightly castles and excellent ski resorts.
Slovakia has a very long history, and at different times its territory was part of different medieval kingdoms – the Czech, Hungarian, Polish. All the historical conflicts that have touched Europe over the centuries have not passed over these lands. Slovakia has lived through the horrors of Mongol invasion, civil wars of the Middle Ages, survived two World Wars, in which she fought on the side of Germany and its allies.
Thanks to this, there are a lot of attractions, which will be of interest to all travelers interested in European history. There is something to see in Slovakia for fans of pristine natural beauty: the country has many national parks and protected areas.
Despite the small size, the country has a variety of landscapes – here you can see both high mountain ranges and blooming plains and verdant vast forests and groves. Below we take a closer look at the most interesting places of this beautiful country, worthy of the first visit.
Geography
The Slovak Republic is located in the eastern part of Central Europe. Its neighbors are: Czech Republic, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary and Austria. The country is landlocked, but has a developed river connection. The largest rivers in Slovakia are the Tisza, the Danube, the Morava, and the Váh. The country’s territory is predominantly hilly. In the north and north-east it is surrounded by the Western Carpathians. The highest and most popular mountains are the High Tatras, where the highest point reaches 2655 meters (Gerlachovsky Peak). The country is divided into 8 regions, each of which has the same name as its main center. In turn, the regions are divided into districts (there are 79 of them in Slovakia), and they are divided into communities.
National features of Slovaks
- Slovaks are among the most hospitable people in Europe. They are always ready to help a tourist and do not leave him in trouble.
- They are a quiet and reserved people. More than 80% of the population are believers, who belong to the Roman Catholic Church. Family and family values are in the first place for the Slovaks.
- When meeting with strangers here is customary to shake hands, regardless of the gender of your interlocutor. Eye contact is also very important.
- Many tourists have commented on the Slovaks as cold and closed people, this is due to the peculiarities of upbringing: here it is not in honor of a storm display of emotions, but if a local resident gets to know you better, then you will be hard to find a more loyal friend.
- Slovaks are very superstitious, so when bringing flowers or gifts, avoid an even number and, of course, the number 13.
Best time to visit Slovakia
Slovakia has a continental climate: it’s cold and snowy in winter and very hot in summer. If you plan to wander the streets of Bratislava or any other Slovak city, be sure to visit in late spring or early autumn. For visiting ski resorts choose the period from December to March. You will be surprised how cheap and affordable ski resorts here, which are as beautiful as the Swiss Alps.