Spiš Castle travel guide

Spiš Castle, an iconic Slovak landmark, started its journey in the first half of the 12th century. Initially, it served as a political, administrative, economic, and cultural center of Szepes County of the Kingdom of Hungary.

In the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt into a stone castle with its size significantly extended to its current state. The transformation was primarily to protect the region and its inhabitants from Tatar invasions.

In the 15th century, King Sigismund gifted the castle to the Zápolya family, turning it into a luxurious, aristocratic residence. However, in 1780, a massive fire caused extensive damage, leaving the castle in ruins.

Despite its downfall, Spiš Castle rose like a phoenix from the ashes. It was partially reconstructed in the second half of the 20th century and is now one of the largest castle sites in Central Europe. In 1993, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, marking it as a site of exceptional cultural and historical significance.

The iconic Spiš Castle, situated at 053 61 Žehra, Slovakia, stands as a must-visit landmark in Žehra. Its location within the vibrant Žehra offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of Slovakia.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Žehra, as a region, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Spiš Castle shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this region.

Getting to Spiš Castle is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Žehra, Slovakia.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at Košice International Airport, which is approximately 31.7 miles (51 km) from the region center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Spiš Castle.

If you're already in Žehra, the journey to Spiš Castle is an adventure in itself. Located 1.7 miles (2.7 km) from central Žehra, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Spiš Castle is situated at 053 61 Žehra, Slovakia, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in Slovakia. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Spiš Castle.

When planning a trip to Spiš Castle, booking perfectly planned travel packages to Žehra is an excellent way to make your journey stress-free and enjoyable. As Spiš Castle is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Spiš Castle in Slovakia.

The best time to explore Spiš Castle, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site in Žehra, Slovakia, is between late spring and early autumn, specifically from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor exploration and climbing to the top of the castle for panoramic views. The castle also hosts special events such as medieval festivals and historical reenactments during the summer, providing an enhanced experience for visitors. Tourists may prefer to visit in late spring or early autumn to avoid the peak tourist season in summer and enjoy a somewhat quieter visit. The castle is open for longer hours during these seasons, allowing more time for a detailed exploration. However, it's important to check the opening times before planning your visit as they can vary. Despite the potential for slightly cooler weather, the dramatic backdrop of changing foliage colors in early autumn can add a unique charm to your castle visit.

When preparing for your visit to Spiš Castle, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Spiš Castle in this section, with options for all travel types.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Spiš Castle. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

Church of Holy Spirit is located in #87, 053 61 Žehra, Slovakia.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Žehra below to discover even more incredible places to visit.