Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Slovakia depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for SlovakiaEmergency Numbers
- General
- 112
- Police
- 158
- Ambulance
- 155
- Fire
- 150
Currency
- Name
- Euro
- Code
- EUR
- Symbol
- €
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type E
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) — CEST (UTC+2) in summer
Best Time to Visit
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
May–September is ideal for hiking in the Tatras and castle-hopping. Bratislava is pleasant year-round. December brings excellent skiing in Jasná and a charming Christmas market.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | Round up the bill and tell the waiter the total you want to pay (don't leave it on the table) |
| Taxis | Round up | — |
| Hotels | €1–2 for porters | — |
| Tour guides | €5–10 per tour | — |
Dress Code
- Casual throughout
- Modest dress in churches — cover shoulders and knees
- Hiking gear for the Tatras
- Smart casual for Bratislava's better restaurants
Social Etiquette
- Greet with a firm handshake and make eye contact
- Toasting: Na zdravie! (to health!) — maintain eye contact throughout
- Remove shoes when entering a home
- Bring a small gift when invited to a home
- Older generations may prefer formal address — 'vy' (you, formal) rather than 'ty' (you, informal)
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.0% — zero tolerance, one of the strictest in Europe
- Speed cameras are common on motorways
- Motorway vignette (toll sticker) required — available at border crossings and petrol stations
- Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Ahoj (casual) / Dobrý deň (formal) | AH-hoy / DOH-bree dehn |
| Thank you | Ďakujem | DYAH-koo-yem |
| Please | Prosím | PROH-seem |
| Cheers! | Na zdravie! | nah ZDRAH-vyeh |
| Yes / No | Áno / Nie | AH-noh / nyeh |
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