Welcome to the Trnava region, often called the “Little Rome” of Slovakia due to its abundance of churches and historical significance. This guide will take you through the must-see attractions, cultural experiences, and culinary delights this captivating part of Slovakia offers.
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HOW TO GET TO TRNAVA
Situated in the heart of Europe, Slovakia is the perfect destination for a short getaway. I usually fly to Vienna and take the bus from the airport. Trnava is also an excellent day trip option from Bratislava, being only a 1-hour train ride away. Alternatively, you can rent a car for more flexibility, or opt for a ride-sharing service.
WHERE TO STAY IN TRNAVA
I had an incredible experience at Hotel Park in Piešťany, located not far from the city centre. The hotel is situated in a beautiful green area, close to the Biskupický canal. Although my days were packed with activities and I couldn’t go, I suggest taking advantage of their indoor pool. The sky bar is also very nice and quite affordable; cocktails cost between 5-7 euros.
WHERE TO EAT IN TRNAVA
It’s hard to fully capture the culinary experience in Slovakia, but I’ll try.
Slovakia’s culinary scene reflects its rich cultural heritage, featuring a blend of flavours influenced by neighbouring countries such as Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic. The Trnava region offers a unique gastronomic experience that combines traditional Slovak dishes with local specialities.
I recommend two exceptional restaurants in the Trnava region: La Musica in Piešťany and Esterházy Restaurant in Galanta.
La Musica
Conveniently located in the centre of Piešťany, La Musica boasts a unique modern design and incredible food. I loved the local farm cheese and duck pâté. For the main course, I had tagliatelle with truffle oil, pecans, spinach, and parmesan cheese—a true delight!
Esterházy Restaurant
Situated in the historic Neo-Gothic Esterházy mansion in Galanta, this restaurant offers more than just great food. The walls themselves tell the intriguing history of the place and the Esterházy family. We started with a delicious tomato soup and continued with a grilled toothfish fillet with beluga lentils, which was wonderful. We also had a wine-tasting session with wines from the oldest wine cellar in Slovakia, perfectly paired with our meal. To finish, we indulged in an exquisite lava cake with raspberry sorbet.
TOP ATTRACTIONS IN TRNAVA REGION
Matthew’s Land – Matúšova zem (Mátyusföld)
In the serene village of Tomášikovo, we visited the Water Mill, dating back to 1895. This picturesque spot offers a glimpse into traditional milling processes and the rural charm of the area. While some indulged in local food tasting at Malom Csárda, others explored the surroundings uniquely: on a horse-drawn carriage ride!
Neo-gothic Castle Esterházy
In Galanta, the stunning Neo-Gothic Esterházy Mansion is a must-visit. This historical gem now hosts various exhibitions, blending architectural beauty and cultural enrichment. The mansion is open for visits from March to September (Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM). After exploring the castle, enjoy a delicious lunch at Restaurant Esterházy, complemented with a wine tasting session of the best local wines, as I described above.
Old Town Trnava
Stroll through Trnava’s Old Town, a delightful maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. Key highlights include the Town Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the many churches that dot the landscape, earning Trnava its nickname.
Synagóga Café
Synagóga Café is located very close to the City Tower. What makes it so interesting is that the building is a desacralized Orthodox synagogue from the late 19th century (1891).
St. John the Baptist Cathedral
This Baroque masterpiece, consecrated in 1637, is renowned for its distinctive oval shape and stunning interior. It’s a vital part of the University of Trnava complex, offering both historical and architectural insights.
Basilica of St. Nicholas
This Gothic cathedral is the oldest and largest church in Trnava. Its impressive architecture and well-preserved interior make it a top attraction. Take your time exploring its historical and architectural details.
Trnava City Walls
Walk along the remnants of the city walls to get a sense of Trnava’s medieval past. The views at sunset are particularly beautiful, offering a glimpse into the city’s historical defences.
Alternatively, I recommend you take a guided walking tour in Trnava. You can choose from a churches walking tour, a tour of Trnava with wine tasting, a bike tour and more.
The Trnava region, with its rich history, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine, offers a comprehensive and immersive travel experience. Whether you’re exploring medieval architecture, enjoying local dishes, or attending cultural events, Trnava promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Slovakia.
This article was created in cooperation with Slovakia Travel, FIJET World and FIJET Slovakia.
