Our guide, Alexandra was awesome and we couldn't have been happier with this tour! Being from Slovakia she enthusiastically gave us so much insight about the country that we wouldn't have gotten otherwise. What would have been a boring and stressful travel day for us ended up being one of our favorite adventures while in Europe. Highly recommend experiencing this drive to Bratislava.
This tour offers hotel pick-up. You will be picked up from your hotel, apartment, or any other pick-up point accessible by car.
Stop 1: Orava Castle
We’ll visit one of Slovakia's most iconic castles, learn about its rich history and admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Orava region.
Visiting Orava Castle offers us a captivating journey back in time amidst the stunning landscapes of Slovakia. Perched majestically atop a rocky hill, this medieval fortress boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Orava region. As we explore its ancient corridors, we can immerse ourselves in the castle's rich history, marveling at its well-preserved architecture and learning about the lives of past inhabitants. From the imposing fortifications to the picturesque courtyard, every corner of Orava Castle tells a story, making it a must-see destination.
Please note that tickets are not included in the cost of the tour. The entrance fee to visit the castle is €9.
About Orava Castle
Orava Castle, steeped in centuries of history, stands as a testament to Slovakia's medieval heritage. Built in the 13th century, the castle has witnessed numerous historical events and undergone several architectural transformations over the years. Originally constructed as a strategic defense fortress, Orava Castle evolved into a noble residence during the Renaissance period, boasting luxurious living quarters and impressive fortifications. Throughout its long history, the castle has survived wars, fires, and sieges, yet it stands proudly today as one of Slovakia's most iconic landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a deeper appreciation for the country's cultural heritage.
Stop 2: Čičmany
We will explore the distinctive painted wooden houses of Cicmany, marveling at how unique this village truly is.
In Čičmany, we'll immerse ourselves in the unique charm of this picturesque village known for its iconic painted wooden houses. As we stroll through the narrow streets, we'll admire the intricate folk motifs adorning the facades, a testament to the village's rich cultural heritage. Whether we wander the cobblestone pathways or simply enjoy the ambiance of this historic settlement, Čičmany promises a delightful experience steeped in tradition and architectural beauty.
About Čičmany
Nestled in Slovakia's scenic mountains, Čičmany is a picturesque village with a rich cultural legacy. Its distinctive wooden houses, adorned with vibrant folk motifs, symbolize traditions passed down through generations. With a history dating back to ancient times, Čičmany flourished as a trading post and cultural center in the Middle Ages. Recognized as a folk architecture reserve, the village preserves its heritage while allowing for carefully regulated development. These efforts safeguard Čičmany's authenticity and invite visitors to explore its timeless charm.
Stop 3: Trencin Castle
Arriving in Trencin, we will wander through the town's picturesque streets toward the imposing castle on the hill.
As we explore the captivating town of Trencin towards its impressive castle, we'll pass by quaint cafes and colorful boutiques that adorn the cobblestone streets. Upon arrival at the castle, we'll find that admission to the lower courtyard is complimentary, while the charming gardens invite us with a nominal fee of 3 euros. Fascinated by the castle's intriguing history, we'll opt for an 8 euro short circle interior tour to uncover its hidden secrets. Additionally, we'll have the pleasure of enjoying a delicious lunch in Trencin.
About Trencin
Trencin, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Slovakia, boasts a rich and storied history dating back over a thousand years. From its Celtic origins to its role as a Roman outpost, the town flourished in the Middle Ages as a trade hub. Central to its story is Trencin Castle, perched atop a limestone cliff since the 11th century. Its imposing presence serves as a reminder of the town's rich heritage and resilience.Today, visitors can explore its walls, marvel at its architecture, and immerse themselves in its rich history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Arrive at Bratislava
This tour offers hotel drop-off. Please provide your preferred drop-off location when making the booking.
Want to personalize this trip?
When booking a private transfer, tell us your itinerary and start time preferences and we'll do everything we can to accomodate your request. Note: open group tours cannot be customized.
We offer the chance to see popular tourist sights, as well as lesser-known places of cultural and historic significance, while you travel between two cities.
Most of our tours are limited to a maximum of 8 people which means you get the personal care and attention of your tour leader during your trip, as well as the chance to get to know your fellow passengers.
Our tour leaders are selected due to their thorough knowledge of local history and culture, as well as their enthusiasm for travel. The stories they share will inspire you!
Our tours run regularly so anyone can afford to join the open group tour making it a great travel option for solo and independent travellers.
Reviews
5.0/5
Overall rating based on 2 reviews
Wonderful trip.
Martina our tour guide/driver was very welcoming, friendly & knowledgeable of our trip stops. Nice & kind person. She did not leave us until we were settled on our place of final destination. We enjoyed the scenic views & short stops in small villages where she brought us including the vampire castle. She knows a lot of history & the trip was not boring because of her stories. She is highly recommended as driver/tour guide.
No better way to travel!
Our guide, Alexandra was awesome and we couldn't have been happier with this tour! Being from Slovakia she enthusiastically gave us so much insight about the country that we wouldn't have gotten otherwise. What would have been a boring and stressful travel day for us ended up being one of our favorite adventures while in Europe. Highly recommend experiencing this drive to Bratislava.
One-way transfer from Kraków to Bratislava with 3 sightseeing stops
Knowledgeable local tour leader
Transport in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan or car
Room for a reasonable amount of luggage
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Lunch (a break is scheduled for this)
Gratuities (optional)
Good to know
Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of booking.
All tours are subject to availability.
Minimum numbers for group size apply. There is a possibility of cancellation even after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative tour or a refund. The Sidetrip team will also be happy to help you arrange alternative transport to your destination city.
Paper free confirmation: just bring your confirmation code or a valid ID.
A moderate amount of walking is involved, please wear flat shoes suitable for walking.
Infant seats are available on request during the booking.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress according to the weather and wear proper shoes for walking (waterproof would be great in winter).
The planned duration of this tour is 10 hours. Our priority is to deliver you safely and on time to your destination. In the event of delays due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to abbreviate or omit certain stops to ensure your prompt arrival.
All our public group tours are in English. Private tours in different languages are subject to availability.
This tour offers hotel pick-up only for private bookings. For private bookings, you will be picked up from your hotel, apartment, or any other pick-up point accessible by car. Please provide your preferred pick-up location when making the booking.
The planned duration of this tour is 10 hours. For the safety of our passengers and drivers, we are unable to accommodate requests to extend this duration.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off are only available when booking this tour as a private tour for a single group. Open group tours have a fixed meeting point and drop-off location.
Lunch is not included in the tour price but a lunch break is scheduled. Kindly let our tour leader know if you have any special dietary needs that we should take in account.
Yes! With a maximum of 8 people in each group, our guide can make sure that the pace of the tour is suitable for everyone. Just note that the tour does include some walking at the stops.
If you cancel more than 48 hours before the tour, your booking is fully refunded*. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the tour or in the case of a no-show, no refund is issued.
*Please note, that the credit card processing fee (1.5-3%, up to 5.9% if you paid by Paypal) charged by the third-party payment provider will not be refunded.