Hrad Devín Bratislava
The mythical ruin
If you are staying in Bratislava for more than one day (which you obviously should), hrad Devín or Devín Castle is the ideal trip from the city centre. This ruin atop a massive rock has always been an important place in Slovak history. Strategically located at the confluence of the river Morava and the Danube, it overlooks the Austrian chequered fields of the Marchfeld plain. Before 1989, the Iron Curtain ran just below the castle, and those fields, although very close, were unattainable.
Every part of the castle's vast grounds offers a different view of the surroundings. The central area gives you an almost 360° view - with the rivers Morava and Danube on one side and the Devínska Kobyla hill with Devín village tucked below it. Don't miss the opportunity to climb up the highest terrace.
Devín also has a little promenade right below the ominous-looking castle rock and there are plenty of pubs around. I recommend you try the local speciality - red currant wine or ríbezľové víno.
You can reach the castle by bus no 29 from the SNP Bridge in Bratislava's Old Town. A great way to reach Devín during the high season (starting towards the end of April) is by boat. Check their timetable here. I can't recommend enough the forest walk from Devín to Sandberg (check the Sandberg article) located above the neighboring Devínska Nová Ves.
During the winter season, the castle grounds are open but not the exhibition areas. Last entry in the castle 30 minutes before closing.
About this spot
Find your way with 64 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Bratislava
Next Apache
Books, drinks and more books
Next Apache might easily be the place in Bratislava with the most books to have a beer in! Once you discover it, you'll wish you'd known it sooner...
by
Pavel
Šoral
Park Svoradova
A peaceful haven in the city
"Park Svoradova" in Bratislava is pure serenity. Narrow trails, benches, greenery... but it also has an underground artistic side, as well!
by
Pavel
Šoral
The Old Bridge
What an industrial construction
"The Old Bridge" in Bratislava (which isn't so old anymore, as it was renovated recently) is impressive & industrial looking... And it's now car-free!
by
Pavel
Šoral
Cafe Eden
Your Sunday getaway
"Cafe Eden" in the centre of Devín, Bratislava, bears its name with pride. Walls covered in ivy, flowers in every corner, homemade ice cream & pints!
by
Lenka
Encingerová
Franciscan Garden
Relaxed and beautiful
The "Franciscan Garden" in the shadow of the Franciscan church & monastery creates a complex of splendid architecture in Bratislava's Old Town...
by
Pavel
Šoral
St. Nicolaus Church
This place breathes history
"St. Nicolaus Church" in Bratislava, built in 1661, is a historical sight in the center that's usually devoid of people! Lucky you!
by
Pavel
Šoral
Dungeon Pub
Geeks' best hideout
"Dungeon Pub" in Bratislava is a genuine city pub for all rockers, metalheads, larpers, cosplayers or simply board game fans out there!
by
Pavel
Šoral
House of the Good Shepherd
This one stands out
"The House of the Good Shepherd" in Bratislava is one of the only surviving buildings from the 18th century from the Podhradie area. Almost one of a kind.
by
Pavel
Šoral
Rusovce Mansion
Secluded and fascinating
"Rusovce Mansion" in Bratislava is a neo-Gothic-style building that's neglected & still hasn't reached its full potential. It's still worth seeing though!
by
Pavel
Šoral
Čierny Pes
Beer time in the center
Despite its location in the center of Bratislava, "Čierny Pes" (Black Dog) is an excellent place to have a good draft beer for a reasonable price.
by
Pavel
Šoral
Church of the Clarisses
The shrine of art
The "Church of the Clarisses" is a church of historical significance and cathedral-like magnificence in the most historical part of Bratislava...
by
Pavel
Šoral
Zámocká Street
From the town to the castle
There are many ways to get to Bratislava's Castle, but Zámocká street is one of my favorites and is criminally overlooked...
by
Pavel
Šoral
Heading to Bratislava?
64 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Bratislava?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 64 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Bratislava
Get to know our other Spotters from Bratislava
As featured on:
