Levoča is one of the most charming towns in eastern Slovakia, known for its medieval city walls, well-preserved Gothic buildings, and UNESCO-listed St. James Church. As you walk through the Main Square, you'll see colorful Renaissance houses with arcades and courtyards that reflect the town’s rich merchant history. If you love exploring the past, Levoča offers a deep look into Slovak history, religion, and art through its churches, old town hall, and museums.
Renting a car in Slovakia is the best way to get here. You can drive through green hills, stop in small villages, and enjoy the freedom to explore. Our Levoča travel guide will help you plan a fun road trip.
If you’re starting your road trip to Levoča from Bratislava, the best place to rent a car is at Bratislava Airport or the city center. It’s best to book your vehicle early, especially in summer or during holidays, when rentals run out fast.
To rent a car in Slovakia, you must be at least 21 years old. You need a valid passport, a driver’s license held for at least one year, and sometimes an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in Latin script. A credit card is also needed to pay for the deposit.
A trip from Bratislava to Levoča is around 354 kilometers and takes 3 hours and 40 minutes on toll highways like the D1 and R1. For this drive, a compact or midsize car is usually enough. But if you’re traveling in winter or plan to explore areas near the High Tatras, a 4x4 or SUV with good traction is safer and more comfortable. Make sure your car rental includes winter tires from November to March. Choose a vehicle that fits your group and the luggage, and always check insurance coverage, especially for cross-region driving. Once you're ready, follow the route via E571/E58 to reach the historic town of Levoča.
There are many things to see in Levoča, but a few landmarks stand out. Since the town is small and walkable, you can explore these on foot. Here are some must-see places when visiting Levoca.
This is one of the town's most iconic buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 14th century, the Basilica of St. James is famous for having the tallest wooden Gothic altar in the world. It was created by Master Paul of Levoča, a famous artist of that time. Inside, you'll find eighteen altars, beautiful wall paintings, and scenes like the Last Supper carved in wood.
Just outside the town, there is a hill called Mariánska Hora. It stands 781 meters above sea level and is home to the Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary. This place is very important for religious visitors. Thousands of pilgrims walk up the hill every year on the first Sunday of July.
The heart of Levoča is its old town, surrounded by well-kept medieval walls. Once you walk through the city gates, you’ll step into streets lined with patrician houses, each built by wealthy families long ago. These homes still keep their Renaissance look, with arcades, carved doorways, and painted facades. Many buildings were rebuilt after two major fires, but the town has retained its old charm.
Right in the middle, you’ll find the Town Hall, a large white building with arched walkways and a tower. It now houses a museum that tells the story of Levoča’s rich past. You’ll see stone coats of arms on walls, wooden signs hanging from iron hooks, and quiet courtyards behind gates. The old town square is one of the best-preserved in Slovakia.
You’ll find the Church of St. Ladislaus in the quiet village of Spišský Štvrtok, not far from Levoča. It’s a simple yet striking Roman Catholic church. The building has a single-nave design, which means the inside is open and uncluttered. This church is more than just a place of worship. It reflects the deep religious roots of the Spiš region, where faith has shaped daily life for centuries. Even from the outside, the building shows that history. You’ll see traditional stonework, old windows, and a small bell tower that rises above the rooftops. Step inside, and you’ll feel the quiet atmosphere right away. The wooden altar, soft lighting, and old religious paintings echo the town’s history. Locals still come here to light candles and attend services.
The Cage of Shame is a small but interesting monument in the town square. Built in the 16th century, it was once used for public punishment. People were locked inside to be shamed by others. Today, it serves as a historical reminder and is one of the most photographed spots in Levoča. It’s near the Town Hall, so it’s easy to visit.
The Spiš Museum is located inside Levoča’s old Town Hall, right in the heart of the historic center. It’s one of the best places to learn about the town’s rich past. Once inside, you’ll walk through rooms filled with medieval tools, religious art, and objects from daily life. A part of the museum focuses on Master Paul of Levoča, the famous woodcarver behind the altar in St. James Church. His work shows the town’s deep connection to Gothic art and faith. You can see sketches, tools, and displays that tell his story and show how he shaped Levoča’s legacy.
This main square is home to many of Levoča’s most important buildings. Námestie Majstra Pavla is named after Master Paul, the artist behind the famous altar. The square is lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings. During the summer, many festivals and local events take place.
Levoča is not just about architecture and churches. Many other places nearby make your road trip to Levoca even more exciting. Here are a few spots you can easily reach by car.
Spiš Castle is one of the largest castle ruins in Central Europe and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 11th or 12th century, it sits where the Spiš and Šariš regions meet. The castle has a rich history, with many battles and uses over time. It is a favorite place for tourists who love history and old architecture.
Close to Spiš Castle, you'll find a small church town called Spišská Kapitula. It was the center of church life in the 12th century and has a strong religious history. The Cathedral of St. Martin here holds the remains of Bishop Ján Vojtaššák. The whole area is peaceful and worth a visit.
If you're traveling with family, stop by these natural swimming pools. Located just outside Levoča, they are the first of their kind in the Spiš region. You can swim, go fishing, or just enjoy a picnic. There are three pools, but only one is for swimming. The area is clean and family-friendly, with a snack bar and toilets nearby.
Levoča is excellent for family trips. It’s calm, safe, and full of places that kids will enjoy. Even on a rainy day, you won’t run out of things to do.
Head to the Levoca Forest Park for short walks and a picnic. You can also visit AquaCity Poprad, a water park near town. The wildlife park in Veľká Lomnica is another good stop for animal lovers. And of course, Spiš Castle and Stara Ľubovna Castle both offer fun history tours with open areas where kids can play.
Rainy days in Levoča don’t have to be boring. Go inside St. James Church to admire the art and quiet space. The Town Hall and Spiš Museum also offer good indoor options. You can enjoy local pastries at a cafe on the main square, or take a short drive to Poprad for shopping or a movie.
Nightlife in Levoča is easygoing and no-frills. This isn’t the place for rooftop DJs or overpriced cocktails. But it is the place to unwind with local wine, cold beer, and a laid-back crowd. Start your evening with a quiet walk through the Main Square, then grab a seat at one of the cozy bars tucked into the historic streets. On weekends, you’ll often hear live music drifting from doorways.
One of the most popular spots in town is Time Out Cafe & Bar. It’s got a large indoor space with raised seating, two TVs, and even a projector screen for sports nights. The whole place is smoker-friendly but stays well-ventilated. Prices are fair, security is solid, and the team welcomes large groups with advance reservations. They’re open every day till midnight, and even later on weekends closing at 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
If you want something more creative, head to Eternity Bar, located just outside the medieval square. This place is all about atmosphere. Designers have covered the ceiling with light umbrellas, turning the vaulted space into a glowing starlit dome. It’s a simple idea that works beautifully. In the summer, you can drink cheap beer on the open terrace. In the colder months, they’ll serve you hot mulled wine to warm your hands and your mood.
The weather in Levoča changes with the seasons, so the best time to go depends on what you want to do. Here’s what to expect all year.
Levoča introduced new features in 2025 to improve the visitor experience, including daily tours, a fresh info point, and an art installation.
Food in Levoča is another reason to visit. You can try Slovak dishes or just relax with coffee and cake. The town has many places to eat, from simple cafes to local favorites.
Levoča is a great place to visit if you love history and old buildings. The town has beautiful sights like the Basilica of St. James and the old town square. You can also visit Mariánska Hora for peaceful views. Whether you’re exploring the streets or learning about the past at the Spiš Museum, Levoča has a lot to offer.
Final Rentals is a trusted car rental company in Slovakia. We offer a range of vehicles for your trip, from compact cars to larger SUVs. You can pick up your vehicle in Bratislava and book in advance to make your journey smoother. This way, you can enjoy Levoča and other destinations without any hassle.
