5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Slovakia and Poland With Itinerary from Bratislava to Banská Bystrica and Zakopane

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Slovakia and Poland, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Old Town in Slovakia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Banská Bystrica, where you will stay for 1 night.

Upon reaching Old Town, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Michael's Gate, a popular historical landmark in Old Town. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, St. Martin's Cathedral, Bratislava. This worthwhile church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Slovak National Gallery is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most standout art gallery in the region.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Banská Bystrica may take around 1 hour 57 min. Upon your arrival in Banská Bystrica, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Museum Of The Slovak National Uprising, an increasingly popular museum in Banská Bystrica. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Banská Bystrica Castle. This frequently visited castle is a top recommendation in the area.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Banská Bystrica. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Banská Bystrica. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Slovakia in a new light.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bašta restaurant, a popular restaurant in Banská Bystrica. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Banská Bystrica at Koliba, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Limone Bistro & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Banská Bystrica tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Jazz Art Café Mefisto after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wine Bar "u Kemov" for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Inn Club & Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Štrba in Slovakia and Zakopane in Poland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zakopane, your home for 1 night.

Štrba’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Banská Bystrica behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min. Štrba welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Štrba is Štrbské Pleso, an intriguing lake that draws attention for its serene features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Štrba and set your GPS to Zakopane, Poland. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Upon reaching Zakopane, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Myszogród Zakopane, a frequently visited point of interest that everyone visiting Zakopane should see. Next, head to Mostek Na Krupówkach. This photogenic street is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Krupówki, a visually striking street popular among locals as well as travelers. Świecący Napis Zakopane is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this intriguing art installation before you continue your journey.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Zakopane’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Zakopane’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Slovakia and Poland.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Karczma Zapiecek, a top-rated dining destination in Zakopane. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Burger i piwo Zakopane, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pub Cafe Seagram's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zakopane this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Legenda Nietoperza, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafe Piano Zakopane offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Slovakia and Poland. Today's main destinations are Zakopane in Poland and Žehra in Slovakia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bratislava. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Sanktuarium Najświętszej Rodziny. This instagrammable church will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Žehra, Slovakia. This car ride takes around 1 hour 39 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Spiš Castle, an interesting castle known for its awe-inspiring features.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Bratislava of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Slovakia and Poland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Bratislava.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Apollo Hotel Bratislava? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bratislava Flagship as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bratislava.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!