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Weather in Slovakia
Slovakia
8°
Moderate rain
Fri
3
8
Sat
3
10
Sun
5
9
Mon
4
11
Tue
3
9
SPF level in Slovakia
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Slovakia
Tipping in Slovakia
Tipping in Slovakia is appreciated for good service but not mandatory. A small tip shows your appreciation.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill for good service. It's common to round up.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (e.g., €0.50-€1) is appreciated.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is common.
Hotel Porter
€1-€2 per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
€1-€2 per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price, depending on the quality of the tour.
Safety in Slovakia
Tips for British travellers
Slovakia is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
There is a risk of petty crime, especially in Bratislava, with pickpockets operating in main tourist areas, markets, and bars.
There is a risk of drink spiking and theft in clubs around Bratislava Old Town, and people have been charged extortionate prices for drinks.
You must always carry your passport with you as ID as you can get a fine of up to 1,600 euros for not showing it if the police ask.
In Bratislava Old Town, it is illegal to drink alcohol in the street and you could get a fine of 33 euros.
Unruly or rowdy behaviour is illegal and could attract police attention, particularly between 10pm and 6am, potentially resulting in a fine or imprisonment.
Bonus tips:
Criminals sometimes target foreign-registered vehicles by pretending to help after puncturing your tyres or faking a breakdown.
If you need help from the Slovak Mountain Rescue Service you will have to meet costs of up to 1,000 euros, so ensure your insurance includes rescue costs.
Driving in Slovakia
A UK driving license is accepted in Slovakia. You must be at least 17 years old to drive, depending on vehicle type.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
130 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Slovakia drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
158
Ambulance
155
Fire
150
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Slovakia
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type E
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The standard voltage in Slovakia is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. Plugs are Type E. British travelers will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, particularly for smaller establishments or in rural areas.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Slovakia
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. You'll find them at banks, shopping centers, and tourist areas.
Local name
Bankomat
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are the most convenient way to get cash. Ensure your card is chip-and-PIN enabled. Check for fees from your bank and the local ATM.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU 'Roam Like At Home' regulation no longer automatically applies to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider about roaming charges in Slovakia. Some providers may still offer similar packages, but it's not guaranteed. You may also want to consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 300 CZK (~£10)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Orange, Slovak Telekom, O2 Slovakia
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas, especially in cities.
Average speed
50 Mbps
Most accommodations offer free wifi, but speed and reliability can vary. Look for WiFi hotspots in cafes and public spaces. Mobile data is a good alternative.
Health & vaccinations in Slovakia
As a UK resident, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) will be accepted in Slovakia, giving you access to state-provided healthcare at a reduced cost or, in many cases, free of charge. However, it is still recommended to obtain comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical expenses that the EHIC/GHIC might not, including repatriation.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Consider Hepatitis A and B vaccinations.
Generally, Slovakia has good standards of healthcare. Make sure you have adequate travel and medical insurance, and that your GHIC/EHIC card is valid. Check with your doctor regarding necessary vaccinations and health precautions before you travel.
Calling Slovakia
Country code
+421
To call Slovakia from the UK, dial 00 421 followed by the Slovak number (without the initial zero).
To call a Slovak number 09XX XXX XXX from the UK, you would dial 00 421 9XX XXX XXX.
To call Slovakia from the UK, you need to dial the UK exit code, then the Slovak country code, and finally the phone number.
UK Embassy in Slovakia
British Embassy Bratislava
Panska 16, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia
Airport in Slovakia
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.