Košice, Slovakia Travel Guide

Discover Košice, Slovakia's hidden gem, rich in medieval architecture, cultural events, and surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for all types of travelers.

Košice, the second-largest city in Slovakia, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Nestled in the eastern part of the country, this charming city boasts a well-preserved medieval center, which is home to the largest Gothic cathedral in Slovakia, St. Elisabeth's Cathedral. Walking through the cobbled streets of Košice, you will be transported back in time as you admire the stunning array of historical buildings, including the St. Michael Chapel, the Urban Tower, and the State Theatre. Košice is not just about its rich past; it is also a vibrant and modern city. The city is known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions held throughout the year. The East Slovak Museum and the Košice City Gallery are must-visit spots for art and history enthusiasts. The city’s bustling main street, Hlavná, is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary flavors. Beyond its cultural and historical attractions, Košice is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The nearby Slovak Paradise National Park offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves, providing excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Košice has something to offer for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Košice.

Visit St. Elisabeth's Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Try local dishes at traditional Slovak restaurants; Bryndzové halušky is a must-try.
Use public transport or rent a bike to explore the city efficiently.
Check the events calendar before your visit to catch local festivals and cultural events.
Take a day trip to the Slovak Paradise National Park for a taste of Slovakia's natural beauty.

Explore Košice: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Košice

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Košice Zoo

Explore Košice Zoo: A family-friendly destination filled with diverse wildlife and engaging educational experiences in the heart of Kavečany.

4.5

St. Elisabeth's Cathedral

Discover the beauty of St. Elisabeth's Cathedral, a stunning Gothic architectural wonder in the heart of Košice, Slovakia, rich in history and cultural significance.

4.8

Tarn of Megyer-hegy

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Tarn of Megyer-hegy, a serene nature preserve in Sárospatak, perfect for hiking, relaxation, and wildlife observation.

4.7

Botanical Garden UPJŠ

Explore the serene beauty of the Botanical Garden UPJŠ in Košice, a lush paradise filled with diverse plant life and tranquil pathways.

4.6

Best landmarks in Košice

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Košice Zoo

Explore the enchanting Košice Zoo, a top destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of animals and engaging educational experiences.

4.5

St. Elisabeth's Cathedral

Discover the breathtaking St. Elisabeth's Cathedral in Košice, a stunning Gothic masterpiece steeped in history and artistry.

4.8

The Singing Fountain

Experience the magic of The Singing Fountain in Košice, where water and music unite in a captivating display that enchants all visitors.

4.6

Kasárne/Kulturpark

Discover the creative spirit of Košice at Kasárne/Kulturpark, a cultural center brimming with art, performances, and community events.

4.6

Best restaurants in Košice

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Dobré Časy

Experience the best of Slovak craft brewing at Dobré Časy in Košice – where great beers meet delicious food in a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Pizzeria Zvon

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Pizzeria Zvon in Košice – where every pizza is crafted with passion and tradition.

4.6

Central Pub&Restaurant

Experience authentic Slovak cuisine with a modern twist at Central Pub & Restaurant in Košice - where every meal feels like home.

4.4

Camelot - Pilsner pub & Medieval restaurant

Discover Camelot - A unique gastropub experience in Old Town Košice with medieval flair and exceptional local beers.

4.4

Best bars in Košice

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Dobré Časy

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dobré Časy, a top brewpub in Košice, offering craft beers and delicious pub fare in a cozy setting.

4.5

Camelot - Pilsner pub & Medieval restaurant

Experience the medieval charm at Camelot - Pilsner pub & Medieval restaurant, where hearty Slovak cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

U Seburgiho

Discover U Seburgiho, a cozy gastropub in Košice, where traditional Slovak flavors meet modern dining in a charming setting.

4.3

JAZZ Košice

Discover the vibrant bar and restaurant scene at JAZZ Košice, where delightful food meets an energetic atmosphere for all occasions.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Košice

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Collosseum

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Collosseum Nightclub in Old Town, Košice, where electrifying music and great vibes await.

4.5

JAZZ Košice

Discover the lively ambiance of JAZZ Košice, where delicious cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of Slovakia's second-largest city.

4.2

Karaoke Club Guinness

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Karaoke Club Guinness in Košice, where unforgettable performances and great drinks await you.

4.0

Boba Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Boba Bar in Košice, a top dance club where music and energy unite for an unforgettable experience.

3.9

Best shops in Košice

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Aupark Košice

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Aupark Košice, where fashion meets flavor in the heart of Slovakia.

4.3

OC Optima

Explore OC Optima, Košice's vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores, delicious dining options, and entertainment for the whole family.

4.5

Gallery Shopping Center

Explore the Gallery Shopping Center in Košice for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience amidst a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Obchodné centrum Cassovia

Explore Obchodné centrum Cassovia, a bustling shopping mall in Košice, featuring diverse stores, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.2

Explore Košice on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Košice, mapped for you.

Košice Essentials

Košice is accessible via several modes of transportation. The city has its own international airport, Košice International Airport (KSC), which is approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from major European cities. Alternatively, you can reach Košice by train, as it is a significant rail hub with connections to Bratislava, Prague, Budapest, and other cities. Buses are another option, with routes connecting Košice to various Slovak and European destinations. For those driving, Košice is accessible via major highways.
Košice offers a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, via mobile apps, or directly from drivers (cash only). Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, but it is advisable to use reputable companies or ride-hailing apps. Car rentals are also an option for those wishing to explore beyond the city. Košice is a pedestrian-friendly city, especially in the historic center, making walking a pleasant means of getting around.
The official currency in Slovakia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Košice, and currency exchange services are available at the airport, in banks, and in exchange offices in the city center.
Košice is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid dark and deserted areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas around the train and bus stations can sometimes attract pickpockets, so stay vigilant. It is always best to stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in Slovakia. There are several hospitals and clinics in Košice, with the University Hospital of L. Pasteur being the largest. Pharmacies are widely available for minor medical needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, be quiet and respectful. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket upon entering buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Don’t forget to give up your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Dobrý deň' (Good day) goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like halušky and goulash. Don’t leave a tip on the table; instead, hand it directly to the waiter.
To experience Košice like a local, visit the Hlavná Ulica (Main Street) with its many cafes, restaurants, and shops. Attend a performance at the State Theatre or explore the local art scene at the East Slovak Gallery. Don’t miss the historic sites like St. Elisabeth Cathedral and the Košice Peace Marathon, the oldest marathon in Europe. For a unique local experience, consider visiting the markets, such as the Dominikánske námestie, where you can buy fresh produce and local products.

When is the best time to visit Košice?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Košice

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Košice. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
- GoodbyeDovidenia
  [dovee-denyah]
- YesÁno
  [ah-no]
- NoNie
  [nee-eh]
- Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [pro-seem]
- Thank youĎakujem
  [dyah-koo-yem]
- Excuse me/SorryPrepáčte
  [preh-pahch-teh]
- How are you?Ako sa máte?
  [ah-ko sa mah-teh]
- Fine. And you?Dobre. A vy?
  [doh-breh. ah vee]
- Do you speak English?Hovoríte po anglicky?
  [hoh-voh-ree-teh poh ahng-leets-kee]
- I don't understandNerozumiem
  [neh-roh-zoo-myem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChcel by som vidieť jedálny lístok, prosím
  [kh-tsel bee sohm vee-dyet yeh-dahl-nee lees-tohk, pro-seem]
- I don't eat meatJa nejem mäso
  [yah neh-yem mah-soh]
- Cheers!Na zdravie!
  [nah zdrah-vee-eh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChcel by som zaplatiť, prosím
  [kh-tsel bee sohm zah-pla-teet, pro-seem]
- Help!Pomoc!
  [poh-mohts]
- Go away!Choď preč!
  [khohd prech]
- Call the Police!Volaj políciu!
  [voh-la y po-leets-yoo]
- Call a doctor!Volajte lekára!
  [voh-la-yteh leh-kah-rah]
- I'm lostStratil som sa
  [strah-teel sohm sah]
- I'm illSom chorý
  [sohm khoh-ree]
- I'd like to buy...Chcel by som kúpiť...
  [kh-tsel bee sohm koo-peeht]
- I'm just lookingLen sa pozerám
  [len sah poh-ze-rahm]
- How much is it?Koľko to stojí?
  [kohl-koh toh stoh-yee]
- That's too expensiveTo je príliš drahé
  [toh yeh pree-lish dra-heh]
- Can you lower the price?Viete znížiť cenu?
  [vye-teh znee-zheet tseh-noo]
- What time is it?Koľko je hodín?
  [kohl-koh yeh hoh-deen]
- It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [yeh yehd-nah hoh-dee-nah]
- Half past (10)Pol dvanástej
  [pohl dvah-nahs-teh]
- MorningRáno
  [rah-noh]
- AfternoonPopoludní
  [poh-poh-loo-dnee]
- EveningVečer
  [veh-cher]
- YesterdayVčera
  [vche-rah]
- TodayDnes
  [dnes]
- TomorrowZajtra
  [zai-tra]
- 1Jedna
  [yehd-nah]
- 2Dve
  [dveh]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Štyri
  [shtee-ree]
- 5Päť
  [paht]
- 6Šesť
  [shest]
- 7Sedem
  [seh-dem]
- 8Osem
  [oh-sem]
- 9Deväť
  [deh-vat]
- 10Desať
  [deh-saht]
- Where's a/the...?Kde je...
  [kdeh yeh]
- What's the address?Aká je adresa?
  [ah-kah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Môžete mi ukázať (na mape)?
  [moh-zheh-teh mee oo-kah-zat nah mah-peh]
- When's the next (bus)?Kedy je ďalší (autobus)?
  [keh-dee yeh dyahl-shee ow-toh-boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Lístok (do ...)
  [lees-tohk doh]

History of Košice

Košice, known historically as Kassa, was first mentioned in 1230. It quickly grew into a significant medieval town due to its strategic location on the trade routes connecting Central Europe with the Balkans and the Black Sea. The town received its first town privileges in 1290, establishing it as an important urban center in the Kingdom of Hungary.
The 14th and 15th centuries marked a flourishing period for Košice, exemplified by the construction of the Gothic St. Elisabeth Cathedral. Completed in 1508, it remains the largest church in Slovakia and a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Košice also became the first town in Europe to be granted a coat of arms, awarded by King Louis I in 1369.
In the early 15th century, Košice was involved in the Hussite Wars, which brought turmoil but also fortification improvements. The Renaissance period saw further cultural and architectural advancements, with the influx of Italian and German artisans contributing to the city's cultural fabric.
The 16th and 17th centuries were tumultuous, as Košice faced repeated Turkish invasions and became a battleground for Habsburg and Ottoman forces. Despite these challenges, the city maintained its economic and cultural significance, eventually becoming a key administrative center under Habsburg rule.
The 18th and 19th centuries brought enlightenment ideals and industrialization to Košice. The city's infrastructure expanded with the construction of railways and factories, transforming it into an industrial hub. Education and the arts also flourished, with the establishment of various institutions and cultural societies.
Košice experienced significant upheaval during the World Wars. After World War I, it became part of the newly formed Czechoslovakia. The interwar period saw a mix of economic growth and political tension. During World War II, the city was occupied by Hungary, and its Jewish population faced persecution and deportation.
Following World War II, Košice was restored to Czechoslovakia and underwent significant reconstruction. The communist period brought industrial growth but also political repression. The city became a center for heavy industry, with the establishment of the East Slovak Ironworks in the 1950s.
The Velvet Revolution of 1989 marked the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia, leading to democratic reforms and the eventual split into Slovakia and the Czech Republic in 1993. Košice has since embraced its historical heritage while modernizing its infrastructure and economy. The city was named the European Capital of Culture in 2013, highlighting its rich cultural and historical tapestry.