When you plan a road trip to Prešov, you are choosing a place full of history, culture, and local character. Prešov is in eastern Slovakia, north of Košice and close to the Polish border. It is the third-largest city in Slovakia, but it feels calm and intimate, especially in the historical center. Once a royal free town, Prešov has been important since 1247, with a strong past in salt, opal, and lace trade.
Today, the city welcomes travelers who want to walk old streets, visit beautiful churches, and explore hidden corners. Since much of the city center is pedestrian-only, it’s easy to enjoy on foot. But to fully enjoy this area and the mountains, castles, and villages nearby, it’s best to rent a car in Slovakia. Our Prešov road trip guide will help you explore not only Prešov but also the surrounding countryside.
You can book a car online and select your pick-up point before you travel. If you arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, the drive to Prešov will take about 4 hours and 20 minutes. The route covers around 415 kilometers, mostly along major highways like the E571, E58, and E50. This road trip offers a smooth drive through central Slovakia, passing scenic towns and rolling hills.
From the center of Bratislava, head out toward the D1 motorway, which connects you to the eastern part of the country. You’ll follow the D1 to Trnava, then transfer onto R1 toward Nitra and Banská Bystrica. These toll roads are well-maintained and signposted. After passing Ružomberok, continue along Route 18 and merge onto E50, which leads you straight into Prešov. Watch for signs to Levočská Road as you approach the city. The journey is straightforward if you follow GPS directions or a navigation app. Make sure to purchase a Slovak highway vignette before driving on toll roads. This can be bought online or at gas stations near the border or airport.
Most of the sights are found on Hlavná Ulica, the main street that runs through the old town. This street splits into two arms, forming a wide pedestrian zone filled with churches, palaces, and historical landmarks. The atmosphere here is calm and friendly, with locals enjoying drinks under shady trees and cafés during the warmer months.
As you walk, you’ll notice Renaissance and Baroque buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries. These structures reflect the wealth and importance Prešov had during its salt and opal trading peak. Don’t miss the Neptune Fountain, built in 1789. It’s the oldest fountain in the city and was a gift from a Jewish merchant who was allowed to settle and trade in Prešov. The fountain features Neptune with his trident, surrounded by animals like a tortoise, crocodile, and snake, all spouting water. This spot adds elegance to the nearby park and is a good place to rest.
Close by, you’ll find Immaculata, a richly carved Marian column from 1751, built to remember plague victims. Just a short walk from there, the Prešovská 49. Rovnobežka is marked on the pavement, showing that the 49th parallel runs straight through the heart of the city. It’s a small detail, but it connects Prešov to other cities along the same line, including parts of France and Canada.
You can also visit Florian’s Gate, a preserved entrance from the old fortifications, and peek into alleys filled with religious monuments, quiet gardens, and unexpected sculptures. The historic center is a network of corners and passageways that invite you to slow down and explore more.
Prešov has a rich mix of religions, which is clear in its many churches and cathedrals. In the middle of Hlavná Ulica stands the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, a Gothic structure built in the 1300s. You’ll notice both Gothic and Baroque elements, as it was partly rebuilt after fires in the 1700s. The altars, carvings, and ceiling vaults show how skilled the builders were. Inside, there are sculptures from Master Paul of Levoča, one of the top carvers in Slovakia.
For Greek Catholics, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is another important site. It was rebuilt in Baroque stle in the 1700s and holds the tombs of bishops Pavel Gojdič and Basil Hopko, both jailed under the communist regime. The cathedral also houses a full-size copy of the Turin Shroud.
Not far away is the Orthodox Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, which shows the city's religious diversity. Built after World War II, it follows the Russian Orthodox stle with onion domes and rich icon paintings. You can also visit the Kalvária, a hilltop site with chapels, catacombs, and the Church of the Holy Cross, which offers peaceful views over the whole city.
Prešov has a long and layered past, and its museums and galleries help you understand how the city has changed over time. Each stop offers something different, from religious heritage and fine arts to space shows and political history. If you're planning a visit, these are some of the best places to visit in Prešov for cultural insight and quiet exploration.
The Krajské Múzeum, or County Museum, is the best place to learn about Prešov’s history. It is located in the Rákocziho Palace, across from St. Nicholas Cathedral. The palace combines two old townhouses and dates back to the time of Žigmund Rákoci, a knight who owned the building in the 1600s. Inside, the museum shows what life was like in Prešov from the 9th century to the 19th, with displays of historic weapons, Solivar lacework, clocks, and old furniture.
The Orthodox Synagogue in Prešov stands quietly in a side street of the old town. Built in 1898, it has a Neoclassical design with subtle Moorish touches on its exterior. The space is full of rich decoration, with painted walls, intricate patterns, and religious symbols. A sculptor made the ark holding the Torah from Graz and it remains a highlight of the visit. Upstairs, in the women’s gallery, a small museum shares the story of Prešov’s once-thriving Jewish community. Guided tours explain how the synagogue survived the war and how it is one of the best-preserved Jewish sites in Slovakia.
If you enjoy contemporary art and historical works, visit the Regional Gallery in Prešov. This is one of the oldest regional galleries in the country, with a collection of more than 4,200 artworks. You’ll see paintings, drawings, and sculptures from the 15th to the 20th century. The exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new. A special part of the gallery is the underground exhibition space, which creates a dramatic setting for modern pieces. It’s a quiet spot that gives you a deeper look into Slovak and Eastern European art.
Families and curious travelers should not miss the Observatory and Planetarium in Prešov. It offers audio-visual shows, star programs, and astronomical fairy tales for younger visitors. The planetarium is also used for telescope-based sky viewing. During special events, it becomes a community space where locals gather for themed nights. Whether traveling with kids or just enjoying space, it’s a good place to rest and enjoy a different kind of educational experience.
Near Hlavná Ulica, you’ll find the Caraffa Prison. This building dates back to the 1400s and became infamous in 1687, when General Caraffa ordered the arrest and execution of 24 noblemen. The prison is now used as a gallery space, with exhibitions covering the prison's history, local art, and Solivar lace. The building’s story adds a deeper layer to the city's complex political past, especially during the Habsburg era.
One lesser-known spot is the Art Garden, a creative space with modern sculptures and artwork outside. It reflects the local effort to make art more visible and part of daily life. Near Outdoorpark and other parts of the city, you can find public art installations that showcase the talent of Eastern Slovak artists. These works are often near cafés and quiet corners.
The Prešov Region is home to castles that once guarded trade routes, housed nobles, and watched over the valleys below. These stone ruins are now peaceful places to walk, take photos, and enjoy nature. If you're planning a road trip to Prešov, these are key stops to include.
Just 5 kilometers from the city, Šariš Castle sits on a volcanic hill that’s easy to hike. Built in the 900s, it controlled an important trade route along the Torysa River. The castle was never rebuilt after a gunpowder explosion in 1687, but much of the walls, towers, and entrance still stand. You’ll be walking through what once was a powerful fortress, with views stretching across the entire Prešov area. Locals visit for short hikes and quiet moments at this well-loved historic landmark.
Not far from Šariš is Kapušany Castle, another peaceful ruin surrounded by trees and hills. Like many castles in the region, it was built in the 13th century and abandoned after fires and wars. The site is quieter than others, making it ideal to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings. The walk to the top is not too hard, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views and stone walls.
One hour west of Prešov stands the mighty Spiš Castle, one of the largest in Europe. The castle was the seat of the Zápolya family, and its massive size shows how important it once was. A fire in 1780 left parts damaged, but the kitchen, dungeon, and Renaissance arcade were restored. Walking through its open courtyards and stone halls, you’ll feel the power this fortress once had over the land. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it deserves a full day if you're exploring Slovakia by car.
In the Sabinov district, Hanigovce Castle, first built in the 13th century, sits high above a forested area. Though mostly in ruins today, its location gives you a great view over the rolling hills. The crumbling walls still show signs of towers and defensive structures. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy a less-visited part of the region’s medieval history.
The castles of Brekov and Jasenov are both in the Humenné district, surrounded by green hills and forest paths. These were once essential strongholds, guarding the surrounding trade roads. Their location in quiet countryside adds to their charm, especially if you’re looking for short road trip detours.
Near the town of Vranov nad Topľou, Čičava Castle rises above the trees on a small rocky hill. Built in the 1200s, it was once part of a larger system of fortresses that protected this part of Slovakia. The ruins are accessible by foot, so you can see history in a natural, undeveloped setting. Few tourists come here, so it's a perfect place to connect with the region’s early architecture.
For travelers who love nature, there are many quiet areas near Prešov. One special place is the Slovak Opal Mines in Dubník, once famous across Europe. The biggest opal ever found, known as the Harlequin, came from here. The mines operated until the 1800s and now offer guided tours along 1.5 kilometers of underground tunnels. If you come in winter, expect to see hibernating bats, as the tunnels are home to many species.
You can also visit Outdoorpark Prešov, a place for families or active visitors. It has a rope park, climbing wall, and even bouldering courses for all levels. There’s also a café serving fresh drinks and pastries with views of local sculpture work. For mountain bikers, Prešov Singletracks offer several trails, like Papuľak and EnduRob, with slopes, jumps, and wooden bridges. If you enjoy views, don’t miss Kalvária again—not just for its churches but also for the wide view of the city and the peaceful walking paths around it.
Trying the local food is one of the best things to do in Prešov. Start with bryndzové halušky, a dish made of potato dumplings and sheep cheese, often topped with bacon. You can also try pirohy, steamed buns, and savory onion pies. Local taverns serve these in warm, rustic settings.
For something special, go to Poetika, a restaurant where the chefs cook behind glass and use seasonal local ingredients. You can even stay overnight in one of their attic apartments. If you’re looking for sweets, Delizie is an Italian pastry shop known for Babbá and Paticciotto.
For casual meals, Mgr. Burger serves what many call the best burgers in town. Nearby, Gottwaldka offers global dishes with a local twist. If you want drinks in a unique setting, try Christiania, hidden in a back alley. It’s filled with books and smoke and has a great atmosphere. Other good spots include Dublin Café for cocktails and Wave, a bar and concert venue popular with students.
Shopping in Prešov offers a good mix of modern brands and local traditions. The city has two large malls, Eperia Shopping Mall and OC Novum, popular with visitors from around eastern Slovakia. You’ll find international fashion labels like Mango, Sinsay, Mohito, and Springfield, plus restaurants, cafes, and even cinemas. Some brands are unavailable in Košice, so locals visit here just to browse or shop. These centers also have services like car washes and wide food courts, so you can relax while you wait.
But what makes Prešov special is its handmade craftsmanship. The region has a strong history of folk art, and you can see it in the details of pottery, embroidery, basket weaving, and wood-carving traditions that go back centuries. One of the rarest local crafts is saltmine lace, a delicate and historic textile you’ll often find in museums or gift shops. These crafts reflect the cultural identity of the Šariš region and make excellent souvenirs. You may also come across seasonal markets, where artists sell their work directly in the city center, especially during holiday events or festivals.
When you rent a car in Slovakia, it opens the door to places outside Prešov that are just as impressive. The town of Bardejov, 30 km away, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with medieval buildings and a quiet charm. Another option is Levoča, home to well-preserved Gothic architecture and churches. From there, it’s easy to reach Spiš Castle and the town of Spišská Belá, where you’ll find the Strážky Palace.
If you like mountains, head north to the High Tatras, where you can enjoy skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Štrbské Pleso and Popradské Pleso are popular for scenic lakes and trails. The Dukla Pass, about 74 km away, offers historic views of World War II battlefields and quiet roads through mountain valleys. Each destination is within an hour or two by car, which makes Prešov a great base for road trips across eastern Slovakia.
Prešov is a city where old churches, castle ruins, and folk traditions bring the past to life. As you stroll down Hlavná Ulica, visit Šariš Castle, or try bryndzové halušky at a local tavern, you’ll feel the deep roots of eastern Slovakia. With a car, you can easily reach hidden villages, natural parks, and UNESCO sites just outside the city.
Rent a car with Final Rentals for a smooth and flexible travel experience. It’s the best way to explore Prešov and nearby areas at your own pace. You can book online, choose your car size, and pick it up at your selected location. Final Rentals gives you affordable rates, easy booking steps, and support when you need help during your trip.
