Getting around Slovakia: Transportation Tips

By train

Train journeys are slow but scenic. Slovak Railways (Železnice Slovenskej Republiky or ŽSR; 18188, slovakrail.sk) runs fast rýchlik trains that stop at major towns; osobný (local) trains stop everywhere. You can buy tickets (lístok) for domestic journeys at the station (stanica) before or on the day of departure. Supplements are payable on all EuroCity (EC) trains, and occasionally for InterCity (IC) and Express (Ex) trains of Slovak Railway trains. ŽSR runs reasonably priced sleepers and couchettes. Book in advance no later than six hours before departure. InterRail is valid; Eurail requires supplements. Find train timetables online at cp.atlas.sk.

By bus

Buses (autobus) cover a more extensive network. The state bus company is Slovenská Autobusová Doprava or SAD. Buy your ticket from the driver or book in advance from the station if you’re travelling at the weekend or early in the morning on one of the main routes. Bus timetables are available online at cp.atlas.sk.

By bicycle

Although much of Slovakia is mountainous and not ideal for cyclists, the countryside around Bratislava has well-maintained bike paths that stretch into Austria and Hungary. More demanding rides can take you into the Little Carpathians. Most trains allow bikes.