20 Unusual things to do in Bratislava

Bratislava the capital city of Slovakia attracts many visitors every year. Its city center is mostly the main point of interest. But there are also some less known places not only in the historical old town.

This article will guide you and give you tips for unusual things to do in Bratislava.

Narrowest street 

People consider Baštova Street as the narrowest in the city. It lies near Michaels Gate. Formerly Jewish people lived there but after the Turkish invasion, many of them left the city. City hangman also used to live there in house number 7. Nowadays the street hosts some galleries like Flat Gallery, Umrian Gallery, non-profit organizations, hotels, bars, or even a strip club (they tend to have attractive posters upon access).

Oldest street

Na vŕšku Street lies just a couple of meters from Baštová Street. It is one of the oldest streets in the city that people built in 1232. You can access old city walls in its corner. 

Ghost street

Or you can continue to Kapitulská Street. It is the only street in the old city center without having any pub, or restaurant. Many houses serve as homes for religious institutions. Though some time ago it had little controversial allure and you could spot their local porn stars. Gay porn production companies used to have their offices there.

After sunset, some refer to it as Ghost Alley, as purportedly ghosts of past homeowners or patients from former hospitals in the area roam the street at night.

In one of its corners, you will find a sculpture of two lizards which were installed in the 1980s.

Additionally, numerous street art tags, local wall poetry, or messages addressing the “waiting for Godot” issue adorn the area.

Sandberg & labyrinth

If you want to experience a desert-like environment you should visit Sandberg. It lies in Devínska Nová Ves which you can easily reach by local public transport (bus 21, 29). It is part of the natural reserve Devínska Kobyla. The site has a rich paleontological history – many fossils have been found there, as well as shark teeth and turtle remains among others.

If you do not mind a little hike and follow signs you can come to Waitov lom. There you will find a copy of the more famous French labyrinth in Chartres. It was built of stones in 2007 by Martin Kaľavský. He originally made it as a gift for his girlfriend – now wife. He perceived the inclusion of local religious church prayers as a promising indicator for the inception of his avant-garde sculptural endeavor.

Urbex

Whether you want to explore only the city center or you are willing to go further you can find some Urbex spots too. Hospital Zochova is one such place. Located near the bus stop Zochova right next to the old city walls. It was built in 1882 and currently (beginning of 2024) there are plants to turn it into a modern luxury residence.

Some other structures for urbex include Istrochem, an old chemical factory, or the unfinished metro station in Petržalka. Once upon a time, local artist Andrej Dubravský decided to turn the place into a gallery.

Bunkers

In case you decide to visit Petržalka do not miss the opportunity to explore war bunkers. Bunker BS-1 has the easiest access – you can come on a bicycle just head west from the bridge Lafranconi. The southern part includes bunkers BS-4, BS-6, and BS-8. These structures were made by the Czechoslovakian army as a reaction against the nazi regime of Adolf Hitler.

Brutalist Soviet architecture

The majority of travel guides and photography reports about Bratislava usually recommend the famous upside-down pyramid building of Slovak Radio located on Mýtna Street. Other notorious structures in the old center include the Slovak National Gallery, Hotel Kyjev, and the Old Prior shopping center. But nearby Kamenné square when you go down Štúrová street and turn into Medená you will find one concrete hidden gem (personally one of my favorites) with a retro cafe on the ground floor. Štefan Svetko constructed an experimental residential building, distinguished by its vibrant yellow-colored walls.

If you do not mind traveling out of the center you can check the Slovak National Archive on Drotárska Street, or visit the Ružinov district and explore the Kerametal complex. In case you would prefer to get totally out of busy parts of Bratislava, then visit the Crematorium and Urn Grove designed by Ferdinand Milučký. The location in Lamač is near one of the largest shopping malls in the vicinity.

Festivals & Protests

When you stroll the old streets you may sometimes end up at some local public performance, festival, or even protest. The main square near the town hall, Primate’s Square, SNP Square, or Hodžovo Square are common meeting points for protesters or they host public events like concerts or open markets. 

Rusovce

Rusovce is a borough in southern Bratislava where you can find beautiful old manor house. It is a gothic-style mansion built in the 16th century. Unfortunately, it is now closed to the public you can only walk around – there is a big park with some statues and a minaret. The site borders with local forest which is rich in several lakes – Rusovské jazero, Malé Rusovské jazero. In the summertime, you can freely swim in some of them.

Slovnaft

Photography enthusiasts may enjoy visiting the southern district Vlčie Hrdlo where the Slovnaft refinery can be a great subject theme for day or nightime street photography.

Ufos

Bratislava is home to the infamous SNP bridge with the UFO tower at the beginning of the Petržalka district. The tower offers an observation desk that you can access with an admission fee of approximately 10 -12 EUR for one adult ticket.

The second UFO is in the Vrakuňa district. But this one is just one flying saucer in the park among blocks of flats. 

Statue Posmievačik

Posmievačík is a little statue of a naked man on Panská Street number 29. The statue decorates the wall probably from medieval times. Some claim that a local homeowner built it to shame his neighbor, who was spying on people passing by.

Graffiti

Bratislava boasts a vibrant graffiti scene, with numerous artworks adorning its streets. Many of these vibrant expressions of creativity can be found in the city center, particularly near OD Prior on Kamenné Square. Additionally, graffiti can be spotted throughout various districts, each contributing to the city’s colorful tapestry.

Some walls feature short, often humorous messages in Slovak that resemble poetry, adding a whimsical touch to the urban landscape. However, certain pieces have sparked controversy, especially those addressing sensitive themes such as LGBT rights.

Weird fountains and monuments

Numerous interesting or weird sculptures and monuments dot Bratislava. One of the more notable fountains sits on Freedom Square. Renowned, it operates and splashes water around during the summer. Park near Račianske mýto hosts a statue named Hiroshima. As the name suggests the monument is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. 

Near the castle when entering one of the local pub’s Drink in Gallery Andy (Beblavého Street) you will find a small naked man made by contemporary artist Viktor Frešo.

For a more detailed guide to local sculptures, monuments, and fountains, check this site.

Hotel Galeria Spirit

Near the train station when you head towards Koliba you will find one colorful hotel that is hard to miss. The architecture is weird and funny. The place can be a great stay for those who need accommodation near the station or enjoy walking down to the old town (well if you do not mind a couple of negative reviews).

Attend a show on a tram

T3 cultural center stands proudly along the picturesque banks of the Danube River, beckoning visitors with its cultural allure. Accessible by a stroll across the historic bridge or a convenient tram ride with a stop at Sad Janka Kráľa. This venue serves as a beacon for new and innovative artistry. From avant-garde approaches to experimental works, T3 showcases the talents of emerging artists and creative visionaries. Moreover, it serves as a platform for thought-provoking reflections on contemporary societal issues, enriching the cultural landscape with meaningful dialogue and exploration.

Miletičova open-air market

An open-air market near Central shopping mall in Ružino district. The market is open daily from 6 am until 8 pm during weeks and until 4 pm on Saturdays. Closed on Sundays. You can buy fresh fruits or vegetables from locals. Besides food and meals, you can also buy flowers, clothes, and some accessories.

Bungee jumping from Lafranconi Bridge

Near the botanical garden is Lafranconi Bridge – an ideal place for bungee jumping. Due to new city regulations, the activity is on hold now, but you can check the official site of the organizer or message them for more info. The jump is made from 25 meters over the Danube River.

Parks with crosses and catacombs

Bratislava has many interesting cemeteries that are like parks for some locals. Besides the already mentioned crematorium, visiting local churchyards in the historical center can make it on the list of unusual things to do in Bratislava. Ondrejský Cintorin is near the new Nivy bus station and shopping mall. From inside you can observe the new skyline of taller modern buildings mixed with old stoned crosses. 

Another one worth visiting is the cemetery Kozia Brána in Palisády district. It is a 13-minute long walk from Hodžovo Square. The place is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm (probably longer in summer). Constructed in the 18th century, this enchanting locale exudes a serene and poetic ambiance, where the graves themselves resemble exquisite works of art. Despite its location in the bustling heart of Bratislava, it remains a tranquil oasis, inviting visitors to savor moments of peace and serenity amidst its mystical embrace.

Blue Church

Art Nouveau church was built in the early 1900s in a candy baby-blue color. Admission is free of charge. But accessible only during prayers early morning or late afternoon. It was consecrated to Elisabeth of Hungary who grew up in the Pressburg Castle. Besides the blue facade, it dominates with mosaics, majolicas, and a blue-glazed roof.

After a day of exploration in Bratislava, the city truly comes alive at night, offering a plethora of exciting options for nighttime entertainment. From vibrant clubs to enriching cultural centers, cozy bars, captivating cinemas, and enchanting theaters, there’s something to suit every taste and mood, ensuring an unforgettable evening experience. You can have a loot at my article about Bratislava nightlife for some tips.