Lykkers, are you ready to step back in time at one of Europe’s most captivating ancient sites? Spiski Castle, perched high on a hilltop in Slovakia, is a medieval wonder and one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe.

Once a stronghold for royalty, this sprawling fortress now lies in ruins, offering a hauntingly beautiful journey into Slovakia’s history. Get ready to explore, imagine, and uncover the mysteries hidden within these ancient walls.

Getting There

Spiski Castle is located near the town of Spišské Podhradie in eastern Slovakia. The easiest way to get there is by car, roughly a 1.5-hour drive from the city of Košice, or about 4 hours from Bratislava. Public transportation options include a train from Poprad or Levoča to Spišské Podhradie, followed by a short hike up to the castle. Entrance to the castle costs around €8, and guided tours are available for those wanting a deeper historical dive into the castle’s fascinating past.

What to See and Do

Begin your tour of Spiski Castle at the main entrance, where stone walls and towering fortifications welcome you into Slovakia’s medieval past. Stroll through the ruins of the lower castle, discovering stone gates, crumbling towers, and remnants of grand halls. The upper castle houses the oldest preserved structures, including a Gothic chapel and the castle museum, which displays artifacts such as weaponry, ancient manuscripts, and medieval armor. Climb the watchtower for a breathtaking view of the Slovak countryside—an unforgettable panorama of rolling hills, forests, and distant villages.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal for visiting Spiski Castle, offering cooler weather and fewer crowds. Summer months (June-August) are also popular, but weekends and holidays can be quite busy, especially during castle events and festivals that bring the ruins to life with medieval reenactments. If you visit in winter, be prepared for limited access due to snowy conditions. Early morning or late afternoon visits give you the best light for photos and a quieter, more atmospheric experience of the castle grounds.

Where to Stay and Eat

For those who want to stay nearby, Spišské Podhradie offers charming guesthouses and inns starting around €30 per night. The town has several traditional Slovak restaurants where you can savor hearty dishes like bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) or kapustnica (cabbage soup). For a more unique stay, consider Levoča, a UNESCO World Heritage town, just a 15-minute drive away, where historical accommodations and more dining options await.

Exploring with Respect for Slovakia’s History

Spiski Castle is more than just a site; it’s a preserved piece of Slovak heritage, steeped in legends of knights and ancient kings. While exploring, respect the ruins by sticking to marked paths and refraining from climbing on fragile walls. These remnants are a window into Slovakia’s medieval legacy, carefully preserved for future generations to experience. Embrace the history, breathe in the spirit of the past, and let the stories of Spiski Castle captivate your imagination.

The beauty of Spiski Castle awaits, Lykkers! Prepare for a journey through time at Slovakia’s most iconic medieval fortress.