Discover history, culture and breathtaking mountain landscapes in the Banska Bystrica Region. Whether you base yourself in the lively capital city or a remote alpine village, you’ll love this unique pocket of Slovakia. Visit world-class museums, explore national parks and cycle the countryside.
Things to do in Banská Bystrica Region
The walkable city of Banska Bystrica is a natural base for most travellers. Walk around the historic centre and admire a treasure trove of Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Climb the 16th-century Clock Tower for sweeping views over the city. The Baroque tower overlooks SNP Square, which is framed by beautiful historic buildings and colourful street cafes.
Admire hundreds of traditional instruments on show at the Folk Music Museum & Puppet Theatre. Time your visit to coincide with a puppet theatre show to watch the colourful puppets spring to life and re-enact classic European fairy tales. The SNP Museum spotlights the city’s role in World War II. It’s housed in a striking concrete building and features exhibits on the fight against fascism.
Scenic roads wind through Banska Bystrica and make the region a cyclist’s paradise. Enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside or work up a sweat on a steep mountain trail. There are plenty of towns and villages where you can stop for lunch or a coffee break.
Discover pristine forests, tumbling waterfalls and sun-drenched valleys in Low Tatras National Park. At more than 2,000 metres above sea level, Dumbier is the tallest peak in the park. Hike up the mountain or ride the chairlift to the summit. The panoramas are stunning and stretch to the Hungarian border on clear days.
Muranska Planina National Park protects more than 20,000 hectares of mountains, canyons and karstic springs. Hike through dense spruce forests and explore the medieval ruins of Muran Castle. There’s a chance to spot local wildlife, including brown bears and Eurasian lynx.
Getting around Banská Bystrica Region
Trains run between cities and towns across Banska Bystrica Region. The city of Banska Bystrica is compact and easy to get around on foot, while buses, trolleys and taxis are a good option for longer distances. Trains connect Banska Bystrica with major cities in Slovakia, as well as in Austria, Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic.