Trnava

Trnava is one of Slovakia's most historically significant cities, known as "Little Rome" (Malý Rím) due to its 12 churches and numerous religious institutions. Located 50 km northeast of Bratislava, Trnava has a population of about 65,000 and serves as the administrative centre of Trnavský kraj. The city boasts one of the best-preserved medieval town centres in Slovakia, encircled by substantial remnants of its original fortifications. Trnava was the first town in present-day Slovakia to be granted a royal free town charter (1238), and it was an important centre of the Kingdom of Hungary. In the 17th century, the University of Trnava was founded here — the only university in the Kingdom of Hungary at the time. Today, Trnava is a lively university city with a vibrant cultural scene, excellent dining, and a beautifully restored historic core. Its cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture, and serene church interiors make it a rewarding stop for any visitor to western Slovakia.

By Plane

Bratislava Airport (BTS, 50 km, 40 min by car). Vienna Airport (VIE, 90 km, 1 hour 15 min). Direct buses from both airports connect to Trnava's bus station.

By Train

Trnava is on the main Bratislava–Žilina–Košice rail line. Direct IC/EC trains from Bratislava (30 min, €4–8), Trenčín (1 hour, €6–10), Žilina (1.5 hours, €10–15), and Košice (4.5 hours). Commuter trains from Bratislava run every 30 minutes.

By Car / Road

On the D1 motorway between Bratislava and Trenčín. From Bratislava: 50 km, 35 min. From Piešťany: 25 km, 20 min. From Trenčín: 80 km, 50 min. Follow signs for "Trnava centrum" for the historic old town.

The historic centre is compact and car-free in parts — walking is the best way to explore. The main square (Trojičné námestie) and all major churches are within a 15-minute walk. City buses serve the outskirts and the train/bus stations (single ticket €0.80). Taxis are available. Bicycle rental is possible for exploring the surrounding countryside.

• Trnava Fortifications — Impressive 16th-century city walls with bastions, among the best-preserved in Slovakia. The wall walk offers views of the old town.

• Trojičné námestie (Holy Trinity Square) — The main square, a long rectangular space lined with colourful Baroque and Renaissance townhouses, centred on a striking Marian plague column from 1693.

• St. John the Baptist Cathedral — A 17th-century Baroque cathedral with a magnificent interior, the former church of Trnava University.

• St. Nicholas Basilica — A Gothic basilica from the 14th century with beautiful later additions, Trnava's oldest church.

• Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary — Also known as the Jesuit Church, a Baroque masterpiece with stunning frescoes.

• Trnava Synagogue — A beautifully restored Moorish-style synagogue from 1891, now used as a cultural centre and gallery.

• West Slovak Museum (Západoslovenské múzeum) — Housed in a historic building on the square, covering regional history, archaeology, and folk culture (€4, open Tue–Sun).

• Trnava University Buildings — The historic university complex, including the Aula (ceremonial hall) and the library.

• Museum of Books — A unique museum dedicated to the history of printing and bookbinding, located in the former town prison.

• Take a self-guided or guided walking tour of the churches (the "Trnava Churches Trail" map is available at the tourist office).

• Walk or cycle the city walls — the best-preserved sections are behind the bus station.

• Attend a concert at the St. John the Baptist Cathedral (excellent acoustics, regular classical music performances).

• Visit the Trnava Christmas Market (December) on the main square.

• Relax in the city park (Ján Kollár Park) with its pond and walking paths.

• Take a day trip to the nearby Small Carpathian wine region or the spa town of Piešťany.

• Explore the archaeological exhibition at the West Slovak Museum.

• Reštaurácia Sinatra — A popular restaurant on the square serving high-quality Slovak and international cuisine (mains €9–15).
• Študentský mlyn — A cosy pub-style restaurant with craft beer and Slovak classics (€6–11).
• Pizzeria La Trattoria — Excellent Italian food, wood-fired pizza (€6–12).
• Pohostinstvo u Dávida — A traditional pub with daily lunch menus (€4–7).
• Cukráreň Múr — A historic cafe and pastry shop for coffee and traditional Slovak cakes.

Trnava has a lively cafe culture thanks to its large student population. Kaviareň Film is a stylish cinema-cafe. For beer, try Hostinec u Janíka with a wide selection of Slovak brews. Wine bars serve wines from the nearby Small Carpathian wine region. For a unique experience, visit Čajovňa Nádej (a traditional tea house).

• Budget: Hostel Trnava (€12–20 dorm, private rooms €25–35)
• Mid-range: Hotel Trnava (€50–75 double with breakfast), Hotel Arkada (€45–65), Penzión Slovakia (€40–60)
• Upscale: Hotel Mercure Trnava (€70–110, modern 4-star)

• Trojičné námestie — The main square has several souvenir shops selling Slovak crafts, ceramics, and embroidery.
• City Gallery (Mestská galéria) — Sells art prints and local crafts.
• Weekend farmer's market — Located near the bus station, offering seasonal produce, cheese, honey, and wine.
• OC Trnava — A modern shopping centre on the outskirts for everyday retail needs.

• Piešťany — 25 km, famous spa town with thermal springs
• Bratislava — 50 km, the capital city
• Smolenice Castle — 20 km, a beautiful Neo-Gothic castle
• Modra — 30 km, a charming wine town in the Small Carpathians
• Trenčín — 80 km, one of Slovakia's most beautiful castle towns