Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia and the country’s largest railway junction. Numerous regional and long-distance trains begin and end their routes here. Bratislava hlavná stanica (Main Station) is also served by international trains from Budapest heading to the Czech Republic, Germany, and Poland. If you book accommodation in the Slovak capital, you can plan convenient day trips from Bratislava by train to many interesting destinations. As in other parts of Slovakia, accommodation in Bratislava tends to be relatively expensive compared to the quality offered.
This guide includes destinations that can be reached by regional or fast trains within two hours from Bratislava, and in some cases, by international trains. The list is not complete. I recommend to explore additional places of interest of your own. With express trains, you can even reach Žilina within two hours.
Day trips from Bratislava by train – direction Trenčín
Pezinok (optional) – This town features a Renaissance castle with a park. Although the castle currently functions as a hotel, guided tours are available on designated days (check the official website: www.palacearthotel.sk). Other sights include a Marian column from 1749, the town hall, a synagogue from 1869, the Palugyay Manor, and the old station building of Slovakia’s first railway line (Bratislava–Pezinok).
Trnava – A charming town just 40 minutes from Bratislava by train, often nicknamed the “Little Rome” (perhaps exaggerated). Worth a few hours’ visit, the historical center is about 10–15 minutes’ walk from the newly renovated train station. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Nicholas, several other churches, preserved city walls, the Town Tower with panoramic views, and the Museum of Western Slovakia.
Smolenice – Reachable by transferring in Trnava to a train toward Myjava. About 3.5 km from Smolenice station lies Smolenice Castle, one of Slovakia’s most iconic castles. Originally a 14th-century fortress, it was rebuilt in the 19th century in Romanesque style inspired by French Loire castles. It houses the Slovak Academy of Sciences and a hotel, and it’s open for tours year-round.
Nitra – One of Slovakia’s largest cities. Trains to Nitra typically require a transfer in Trnava or Leopoldov, though direct trains from Bratislava may be available. Nitra is Slovakia’s oldest urban-type settlement and was once the capital of the Principality of Nitra. The city is overlooked by Nitra Castle and St. Emmeram’s Cathedral. Other attractions include historical churches, a Calvary with Stations of the Cross, and the Slovak Agricultural Museum.
Trenčín – A peaceful town known for its majestic castle perched above the city. Its small but pleasant center makes it perfect for a day trip. Key sights include the cathedral, synagogue, and numerous affordable accommodations.
Trencin
Piešťany (optional) – A spa town on the Váh River. From the train, it might not look appealing, but it features notable spa buildings, the elegant Thermia Palace hotel, churches, a chapel from 1897, and museums of military technology and balneology. It also has a beautiful municipal park.
Nové Mesto nad Váhom (optional) – Architecturally average with a typical town square and several churches, including the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. 10 kilometers from the town are located well-preserved ruins of Beckov Castle sit atop a tall rock. However, bus connections to the castle are infrequent.
Direction Brno (Czech Republic)
A day trip from Bratislava to Brno and South Moravia is easy by train. Transfer at Břeclav for regional trains to Mikulov and Znojmo.
Brno – The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, perfect for a day trip. The train station is centrally located. Notable landmarks include Špilberk Castle, which offers free access to its grounds and views, and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Great views of the cathedral can be enjoyed from the Old Town Hall tower.
Mikulov – Known for its vineyards and one of the most beautiful historic town centers in the Czech Republic. Key sights: Mikulov Castle, synagogue, Jewish cemetery, Church of St. John the Baptist, and the ruins of Goat Castle.
Moravský Krumlov (optional) – Smaller and less touristy than Český Krumlov. Notable for its somewhat neglected castle/palace, historic churches, Jewish cemetery, and the Chapel of St. Florian overlooking the town.
Valtice – located near Lednice, this charming town is famous for its chateau, wine cellar known as the Czech National Wine Salon, and surrounding architectural gems like the Temple of Diana, St. Hubert’s Chapel, and the Reistna Colonnade. Reachable by train on the Břeclav–Znojmo line.
Znojmo – A picturesque town near the Austrian border with 33,000 inhabitants. Key landmarks include the Romanesque rotunda, the Church of St. Nicholas, Town Hall with a viewing tower, and dramatic views from the city walls. A recommended trip is to Vranov nad Dyjí, with its baroque castle on a cliff, or to Retz in Austria. For rail enthusiasts, the route from Brno to Znojmo via Hrušovany nad Jevišovkou offers a charming ride through rural Czech lines. Buses are faster, but the train ride offers scenic value—especially in spring and fall.
Direction Komárno
Dunajská Streda (optional) – Known for its popular thermal baths. In summer, visitors can explore the Žitný ostrov Museum in the Yellow Palace, showcasing the region’s history and notable writers.
Komárno (optional) – A town of around 35,000 residents, split between Slovakia and Hungary. The Slovak side features a charming town center and several attractions including a 16th-century fortress, the reconstructed Town Hall, Zichy Palace (now the Danube Museum), and Europe Square with buildings representing various European architectural styles. Two synagogues and a Jewish cemetery remain preserved.
Direction Vienna
Vienna – Getting from Bratislava to Austria’s capital by train is quick and affordable. Vienna is home to many world-class landmarks, including Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Hofburg Palace, once the residence of the Habsburgs. The city is renowned for its classical music heritage (Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss), art (Kunsthistorisches Museum, Albertina), and traditional coffeehouses. Most central attractions are within a 20 to 30-minute walk from Wien Hauptbahnhof, or easily accessible with a day pass for public transport, making sightseeing convenient and enjoyable.
Related articles:
Train travel in Slovakia – a comprehensive guide
Bratislava region by bus and train
Bratislava Hlavná stanica train station
Bratislava-Petržalka train station
Bratislava – Vienna train
Narrow-gauge railways in Slovakia
