The Most Beautiful Castles of Central Slovakia

Itinerary

This tour will lead us into the history of central Slovakia. Starting in the north, we will pay a visit to medieval Orava castle. We will examine rich inventory of Bojnice castle and Topolcianky manor house. Slovak National Gallery will exhibit the unique arts in the premises of Zvolen castle. We also will take a walk in the ancient mining town of Banska Stiavnica, which bloomed during the times of Austria-Hungaria.

Based on your request, the tour can be arranged for 3 days or more.

1. Day 1 Arrival in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia.

   - Arrival in Banska Bystrica
   - Accommodation

2. Day 2 Visit Orava castle and Monument Reserve of Folk Arcitecture in Vlkolinec.

   - Breakfast
   - Orava castle visit
   - Vlkolinec village visit
   
   Orava castle is the most attractive tourist locality in northern parts of Central Slovakia lying on the river Orava near the village of Oravsky Podzamok below impressive cliffs. In 1370, it became a county castle and the seat of the Orava Castle estate, which included almost the whole region of Orava.
   
   Vlkolinec village - Monument Reserve of Folk Architecture is the extraordinary and remarkable oasis of folk architecture and was included in UNESCO list in 1993. The community was first referred to in 1376. Its unique compound of original folk buildings remained untouched by modern construction. Based in comparative study of ICOMOS (International Council for Monuments and Settlements it was classified as the best-reserved settlement of this time within the Carpathian Arch. Originally it was the settlement of loggers, shepherds and farmers.

3. Day 3 Visit Bojnice castle and Topolcianky manor house.

   - Breakfast
   - Bojnice castle visit
   - Topolcianky mansion visit
   
   Bojnice castle originates from the 12th century. The castle had been reconstructed many times in Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its current appearance, however, was achieved during a complete reconstruction in 1889 that was encouraged by Jan Palffy, the owner of the castle.
   
   The oldest history of Topolcianky manor house is connected with the history of the Topolciansky family who gave their name to the estate and village. The oldest construction details date back to the 15th century. In the course of times, the house had fused into a regular four-wing Renaissance manor house with an arcade courtyard from the 17th century.

4. Day 4 Visit Zvolen castle and Banska Stiavnica castles and monuments. Afternoon farewell.

   - Breakfast
   - Zvolen castle visit
   - Banska Stiavnica town visit
   - End of the tour
   
   Zvolen castle was built in 1370 - 1380. The Late Gothic modification of the castle was completed in 1505. The interior of the castle is currently used for displaying collections of the Slovak National Gallery.
   
   Banska Stiavnica has a unique historical center inscribed in the UNESCO list of World Natural and Cultural Heritage. The Old castle is among the most significant monuments of the town. It is an impressive fortification located at the foot of the Paradise Hill. The castle was built in the first half of the 16th century.

Overview