Bratislava with Kids

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a wonderful destination for families. It offers a perfect blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. During our two-day visit to Bratislava, we found it to be a welcoming and engaging city for families. Here, I will provide you with a detailed account of our experiences and recommendations.

Accommodations

We chose to stay at the centrally located Aplend City Hotel Perugia, which is situated in the pedestrianized area of the old town. The hotel met all our needs with its modern and spacious rooms, perfect for accommodating a travel cot. It also had a small outdoor patio. The only downside was the €20 per night charge for parking at a nearby garage.

Highlights of Our Visit

Exploring the Old Town

Bratislava’s old town is a maze of cobbled streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. It is completely pedestrianized, making it safe and enjoyable for kids to explore. Here are some must-see highlights:

• Chocolate Café: A delightful spot in the main square to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Street Performers: Talented buskers who entertained us as we wandered around.
• Historic Towers: Climbing these towers provided both fun and exercise for our family.

Bratislava Castle

Just a short, uphill walk from the old town, you’ll find Bratislava Castle. The castle grounds are free to enter and offer the following attractions:

• Playground: A well-equipped playground that is perfect for kids.
• Gardens: Beautifully maintained gardens with stunning views of the city.
• Restaurant: A lovely spot to relax and enjoy a meal. We spent an entire afternoon here, and it was definitely a highlight of our trip.

UFO Observation Deck

For just €7.90, you can take an elevator ride to the UFO restaurant located above the Danube River. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking. The observation deck also features unique facilities, including baby changing rooms with views of the city!

Additional Activities

Bratislava City Park

Situated across the Danube, this expansive green space is perfect for a leisurely walk or for kids to run around. While some areas may appear worn, the park is generally clean and pleasant.

Devin Castle

Although it is accessible via a scenic boat trip down the Danube, we found Devin Castle to be somewhat unremarkable, despite its picturesque location.

Bratislava Zoo

We were disappointed by Bratislava Zoo, which includes a DinoPark. The conditions for the animals were poor, despite the affordable entry fee of just €7 per person.

Getting Around

Bratislava’s old town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with everything within walking distance. For families with young kids who may struggle with long walks, it is recommended to use an off-road pram or carrier due to the cobblestone streets. Taxis or cars are not necessary within the city center, but if you do choose to drive, be aware that parking can be quite expensive at around €20 per day.

Shopping for Supplies

There are two large supermarkets, Tesco and Lidl, within walking distance of the old town. They offer a wide range of baby care products and essentials at reasonable prices. It is advisable to avoid shopping at pharmacies, as they are usually more expensive.

Fun Activities for Kids

• Escape Room Questum: Embark on an exciting adventure puzzle game that the whole family can enjoy.
• Aurelium: Delve into the world of science at this interactive center, with exhibits on physics, chemistry, and biology. Perfect for older kids and adults.
• ZOO: While the DinoPark is interesting, the overall condition of the zoo leaves much to be desired.
• Castles and Palaces: Explore various historical sites in Bratislava that offer events and programs specifically tailored to children.
• Sports and Entertainment Centers: Engage in physical activities for kids at places like the bobsled run in Koliba or the rope center in Devinska Nova Ves.
• Nature Excursions: Unwind in nearby green spaces such as the forest park in Vrakuna or the popular Zelezna studnicka, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun.
• Theaters: Engaging plays for younger audiences await at puppet and children’s theaters in Bratislava.
• Aquapark Senec: Dive into the fun at this popular swimming spot in Senec, with additional baths available in nearby cities like Samorin, Dunajska Streda, and Trnava.

Bratislava is a fantastic family-friendly destination that can be thoroughly enjoyed over a couple of days. With its mix of historic charm, modern amenities, and diverse activities, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the old town or marveling at panoramic views from the UFO restaurant, our family had a truly memorable and enjoyable visit.