Poprad is a city in northern Slovakia that many travelers pass through on the way to the mountains. But this city offers much more. For British families, Poprad is a great starting poit with history, cozy spots, and views of the High Tatras mountains. When you plan a family road trip here, you can cut costs, see more places, and enjoy modern comforts. Renting a car in Slovakia is the best way to travel on your own time and reach places beyond the usual routes.
If you’re starting your road trip to Poprad from the capital, the best place to rent a car in Bratislava is near the city center or at the Bratislava Airport. The drive to Poprad takes about 3 hours and 38 minutes (roughly 327 km) along the E571/E58 highway.
To rent a car in Slovakia, you must show a valid driving license, passport, and a credit card. You won't need an International Driving Permit if your license is from an EU country or is written in Roman characters. It’s best to book online in advance to compare prices, choose your vehicle type, and avoid high last-minute rates at the counter.
For a long trip like this, you’ll want a fuel-efficient and comfortable car. A compact SUV is a wise choice, especially if carrying luggage or traveling with family. If you prefer better fuel economy and a smaller size for easier parking, go for a mid-size hatchback or sedan. Make sure your rental comes with winter tires and chains in winter, as mountain areas near Poprad can get snowy.
Poprad may be modern in parts, but it holds deep history. Here are older parts of the city that show a side of Slovakia that is filled with tradition:
The Church of St. Egidius is at the center of Poprad. This church dates back to the late 1200s and features old stonework, a tall tower, and stained-glass windows. The area around the church is also historic. You’ll see Baroque and Classicist buildings, small local shops, and paved pedestrian streets. The church still holds services, but many visit it for its peaceful setting and detailed wood carvings.
Just beside the square is the Podtatranské Museum, which shows the area's life, customs, and natural history. The museum is small but packed with items like old maps, folk costumes, and exhibits about the High Tatras. It’s a nice stop for families with kids curious about local stories and traditions. The exhibits are clear and visual, so even if you don’t speak Slovak, you’ll understand much of them.
Spišská Sobota is area that once stood as a separate medieval town. It's full of houses from the Renaissance and Baroque times. The Church of St. George here has exquisite details inside, from painted walls to carved altars. Walking in this part of town feels like going back in time, and it's perfect for slow mornings.
Velká is another historic district that became part of Poprad after World War II. It has a peaceful layout with wide streets, and many of its buildings were once owned by wealthy merchants. You’ll notice elegant homes and courtyards with small gardens. Velká feels more residential, but it still carries the charm of an old Slovak town. It’s worth driving through if you enjoy architecture and calm streets.
Matejovce is one of the original five towns that later merged into modern Poprad. It has a long history and was once its municipality before becoming part of the city after World War II. The area keeps its traditional layout and local character, reflecting old village life within the modern city. Matejovce is part of the larger Poprad area alongside Spišská Sobota, Velká, Stráže pod Tatrami, and Kvetnica.
Beyond churches and old squares, Poprad has a small but strong cultural scene. You don’t need to stay in a capital city to see good art or learn from exhibitions. Many travelers miss this part of the city, but it’s worth your time.
The Tatra Gallery is in a former power station near the main train station. Its narrow brick chimney, which once served industrial use, makes the building easy to recognize. Today, it hosts exhibitions by Slovak and regional artists, featuring modern art, photography, and sculpture. It also holds cultural events that include local communities.
Close to the city center, Kino Tatran is a local cinema that shows Slovak and international films. It’s a good indoor option if the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor trips. The building sits beside the Tourist Information Center, where staff speak English and can give you brochures or tips for exploring Poprad and the nearby High Tatras. They can also guide you to lesser-known exhibits and events.
The Podtatranské Museum, located near the Church of St. Egidius, offers exhibits on regional culture, natural history, and traditional life in the Poprad area. Visitors can see folk costumes, tools, and old documents that help tell the story of the local people. The museum is especially good for families with children because of its clear displays and focus on real artifacts from the region.
The area of Spišská Sobota is not just a historic site but also a space where visitors can admire preserved architecture. The buildings here, especially the burgher houses and churches, display stles from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
One of the reasons Poprad is so popular is its location near the High Tatras. These are the highest mountains in Slovakia and a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors. From Poprad, you can easily reach hiking paths, ski slopes, and mountain lakes by car or train.
The High Tatras National Park is the main natural attraction near Poprad. It features sharp peaks, alpine lakes, and forested valleys. You’ll find well-marked trails that range from short walks to full-day climbs. UK tourists can enjoy this park because it’s easy to reach and has routes that fit all skill levels.
A 15 km drive from Poprad, Štrbské Pleso is a quiet lake set high in the mountains. You can walk the trail that circles the lake or rent small boats during summer. In winter, the area becomes a cross-country skiing spot. The lake is accessible by car or by taking the Tatras Electric Railway, which is also part of the fun.
If you're looking for great views without a long hike, Tatranská Lomnica is the place to go. This resort town offers cable car rides up the mountains, including one that reaches Lomnický štít, one of the highest peaks in the Tatras. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, rest at cafés, or visit the botanical garden nearby.
During the winter months, the Tatras turn into a ski destination. Resorts like Tatranská Lomnica and Štrbské Pleso have slopes for beginners and advanced skiers. The costs are lower than in other parts of Europe, which makes this area attractive to UK tourists. If you're not skiing, you can still walk through snowy trails and enjoy warm drinks at mountain huts while looking at the white peaks.
Cycling becomes a fun activity for families staying in Poprad in the warmer months. Bike paths run near the city and into the nearby valleys. The fresh air and open views make it a relaxing ride. One recommended spot is Kvetnica, where you’ll find marked walking paths. Signs along the trail explain the types of trees and plants in the area.
Poprad is not just for couples or hikers. It has plenty to keep children happy and engaged. Families can enjoy time together from swimming pools to open spaces while staying active and relaxed.
AquaCity Poprad is one of the most popular attractions in town for families. This large thermal water park is open yearly and has indoor and outdoor pools. Kids can enjoy slides and play areas, while adults can access spa services and warm baths. In the winter, swimming outdoors with views of snowy mountains is a unique and fun experience. The center also offers wellness treatments like cryotherapy and massage, which are more suited for adults.
The Poprad Ice Stadium is home to the HK Poprad hockey team. During the hockey season, you can attend games and experience the local sports culture from September to March. On non-game days, the stadium offers public ice skating. If your children like to move or have never seen a hockey match, this activity adds variety to your trip. It’s also a good indoor choice during colder months.
The Tatras Electric Railway is a small train that travels through forests and climbs slowly into the mountains. You can take it for short rides to towns like Štrbské Pleso or plan longer day trips. The ride is smooth and quiet, and kids enjoy the change in scenery and pace.
British families visiting Poprad will find meals that suit all tastes, from traditional stews to vegan-friendly bowls. Fabrika is a popular restaurant known for its modern design and creative food. Chefs use cooking techniques like steaming and sous-vide to make meals tasty and healthy. In the evenings, the place often has live music or pub quizzes.
Doma u nás and Koliba - Penzion U Stefana is better for traditional Slovak food. You’ll find dumplings, grilled meats, and goulash here. For something more creative, Hodovňa serves Slovak dishes alongside a small selection of Asian meals. They also support Slovak craft breweries, so you can try a local beer with your food. If you're craving sushi, Fajna Rybka is the place. It may not be local cuisine, but their sushi and curry are presented with care and taste excellent. For burgers and beers, check out Restart Burger or Dobré Časy.
The best time to visit Poprad depends on the type of trip you want. From June to August, the weather is warm, and this is the busiest season for hiking, cycling, and day drives. Mountain towns hold summer events, and families enjoy long days outdoors. British tourists often plan Poprad road trip holidays during this time to explore nearby lakes and forest trails under clear skies.
September to October is cooler and quieter. The trees turn bright with autumn colors, making it perfect for scenic drives and photography. Hiking trails are still open, and hotel prices begin to drop. For those who want fewer crowds and cool mountain air, this is a good time to visit. Spring, from April to May, also offers peace and blooming landscapes. Trails near Poprad reopen as the snow melts, and flowers appear along walking paths and in town parks.
December to March is ski season. Snow is consistent in the High Tatras, and resorts welcome new and experienced skiers. Even if you're not skiing, you can enjoy snowy trails, sledding, or warm up at AquaCity Poprad after being outside. Winter brings a magical feel to the area, and prices are reasonable compared to larger European ski regions.
Poprad hosts various events throughout the year. If you plan your trip to match one of these events, you’ll experience a more lively and festive side of the town. These gatherings often happen in central squares and open-air venues.
The city celebrates the Poprad Summer Festival in July and August, including live music, markets, and evening performances. Families can walk through the old town square, try food from different stalls, and enjoy live shows after sunset. Around the same time, Poprad Culture Summer takes place, bringing theater, art exhibits, and traditional music into public spaces. These events offer a way to see Slovak customs without visiting a museum.
In December, Poprad’s center transforms with its annual Christmas Market. The streets fill with wooden stalls selling crafts, snacks, and hot drinks. Children can enjoy games and seasonal treats while adults listen to local evening music. If you're in town in September, the Wine Festival is another highlight, with food stalls and live music accompanying a wide range of Slovak wines.
Poprad is one of the best places in Slovakia to have a relaxed family holiday. Whether you're planning the best Poprad drives, hiking trips, or time at the spa, the city makes everything easy and affordable. Booking activities ahead of time is a good idea during summer and holidays. And if your plans change, Poprad has enough to fill a rainy day or give you a calm afternoon off the road.
Final Rentals is a trusted car rental platform in Slovakia. We offer easy booking, airport pick-up, and a wide selection of vehicles from small city cars to family-friendly SUVs. If you’re planning a road trip to Poprad, renting a car with us is a smart way to travel freely and comfortably.
