Bratislava Castle (Bratislavsky Hrad)

The Basics

A Bratislava Castle tour is at the top of many visitor’s itineraries, and even if you don’t explore the interior, it’s worth climbing the castle hill for a stunning panoramic view over the city. If you don’t want to climb the steps up to the castle, opt for a scenic city tour aboard a Presporacik—a traditional open-top trolley bus—instead.

It’s also possible to take in the highlights of Bratislava, including the castle, on a day trip from Budapest, Hungary, or Vienna, Austria.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Plan to spend up to two hours to tour the castle and grounds.

• Entrance to the castle museum is free on the first Sunday of the month.

• Some parts of the castle are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The castle is located on a hilltop at the western end of Bratislava Old Town. It’s possible to walk to the castle from the city center; it takes around 15 minutes from St. Martin's Cathedral, passing beneath the New Bridge, and then climbing up the steps to the Sigismund Gate. The closest bus stops to the castle are Hrad and Zamocka.

When to Get There

Bratislava Castle is open daily, except Mondays, throughout the year. The busiest time to visit is in peak season (July–August), when it’s best to arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

History of Bratislava Castle

The castle has been at the center of Bratislava history for centuries and was one of the many palatial residences of Europe’s Habsburg dynasty. In the 1750s, Empress Marie Therese gave the castle’s interior a rococo makeover, but after her death in 1780, it became a garrison, before tragically destroyed by fire in 1811. It was reconstructed in the 1950s, and in 1992 the constitution for the newly independent Slovakia was signed here.

Can visitors explore the interior of Bratislava Castle?

Visitors can see the interior of Bratislava Castle by visiting the SNM - Museum of History and Treasury, which is hosted inside the castle. While you can walk around the castle grounds without a ticket, you will need a ticket to the museum to see inside the castle.

Is there a guided tour available for Bratislava Castle?

Yes and no. There are guided tours of the SNM – Museum of History and Treasury, which occupies the interior of Bratislava Castle. These are museum tours rather than castle tours, focusing on the museum exhibits rather than the castle and its history.

Can I take photos inside Bratislava Castle?

The grounds of Bratislava Castle are a popular place to take photos with its city views, but you can also take pictures inside the castle at the SNM – Museum of History and Treasury. It is even possible to take wedding photos inside Bratislava Castle for a special fee.

Is Bratislava Castle wheelchair accessible?

The grounds of Bratislava Castle are wheelchair accessible, although you will need to approach the castle through the Vienna Gate. Other ways up require climbing staircases, and there are several steep inclines where a companion is recommended. Inside Bratislava Castle, there is also wheelchair access, with elevator access to the different floors.

What are some nearby attractions I can visit after seeing Bratislava Castle?

After visiting Bratislava Castle, you can visit nearby attractions or return to the Old Town to continue exploring the many sites there. Attractions near Bratislava Castle include the SNM - Archaeological Museum near the riverfront and the Gallery Multium, an optical illusion museum on the castle's north side.

Are there any restaurants or cafes near Bratislava Castle?

Yes, several restaurants are near Bratislava Castle, which is up on a hill overlooking the city. Restaurant Parlament is the most famous restaurant close to the castle because of its views of the Danube River, but you’ll also find restaurants, cafes, and bars along Zámocká, the road running downhill away from the castle’s main gate.