Michael's Gate (Michalska Brana)

The basics

As a Bratislava landmark, Michael’s Gate is a popular stop on guided walking tours of the city's Old Town, and some self-guided audio tours feature commentary about the gate's history. The seven-floor, 167-foot (51-meter) tower offers fantastic views over the city; head up to the sixth-floor viewing terrace, accessible via the Museum of Arms, to enjoy the unique perspective of Old Town and Bratislava Castle. On the ground floor, keep your eyes peeled for the replica of a cannon.

Things to know before you go

• The gate is a must-see for anyone interested in architectural history.

• Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to explore Bratislava’s Old Town—it's largely paved with stones.

• The tower is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers and can only be reached by stairs.

How to get there

Michael's Gate is located on the northern end of Bratislava's Old Town, about a 20-minute walk from Bratislava Hlavna Stanica railway station and a 15-minute walk from the Danube river. The nearest tram stops are at Kapucínska and Centrum. Note that the Old Town is a pedestrianized zone, so you won’t be able to get all the way to the gate by car or taxi.

When to get there

You can visit the gate day or night, but expect crowds in the area in the evening time. If you want to take photos, arriving early in the morning is ideal. Ongoing renovations have been taking place in the tower of Michael’s Gate; if you’re hoping to go inside, it’s wise to check ahead to see if it's open.

The Bratislava City Museum

Founded in the 1860s, the Bratislava City Museum is the oldest continuously operating museum in Slovakia. While the museum’s arms collection is displayed in the tower of Michael's Gate, the main museum is situated nearby, in the Old Town Hall. The museum’s ornately painted ceiling is reason enough to visit, while a permanent exhibit covering Bratislava’s history provides insight into how the city has evolved over the centuries.