Even though the shops on Obchodná tend to come and go, ÚĽUV has been there for years. Avoid the tacky Slovakia Drinking Team T-shirts shops in the Old Town and come here for the quality Slovak design and crafts products. I usually visit it when I'm about to go for a trip abroad and want to bring something typical from my country or to buy decorations for home.
You can find beautiful traditional dresses here which are actually wearable, incredibly coulourful wedding bonnets with meticulous embroideries, warm wool socks or gloves and various household decorations such as wooden and wire bowls tailored into modern shapes. You can even buy fabrics to make your own clothes, including the ever more popular blueprint (modrotlač). I can recommend the corn husk dolls which are very typical for Slovakia and quite cute.
ÚĽUV is an acronym for Centre for Folk Art Production. It's not just a shop facing the street. Walk into the courtyard and you can visit their gallery just next door. Right now they have an exhibition of artworks of talented kids from all around Slovakia. There is also a small library and a crafts school open to the public where you can join a course for leather crafts, weaving, pottery, wood carving or even such obscure specialities as bobbin lace weaving. The courtyard is usually decorated with some installations. I like how they don't try to overdo it with decoration, but keep it minimalistic.
Find your way with 64 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Čitáreň U červeného Raka" is a garden dedicated to reading & the literary arts below Michael's Bridge, was once part of Bratislava's fortifications!
By
"Holy Trinity Church" in Bratislava was built in the18th century. It has an atypical style & is kept in spotless condition, But wait till you go inside...
By
"Blumenthal Church" in Bratislava is a marvel to look at - but it's also surrounded by an array of my favourite places to hang out in the city...
By
"Danubiana" in Bratislava is an island on the Danube dedicated to all visual art. Best of all, it's surrounded by nature, making it even more special.
By
The "Museum of Jewish Culture" in Bratislava offers a sneak peek into our city's multicultural past and once-strong Jewish community...
By
"Biela Street" in Bratislava is a nice narrow street lined with white houses that connects two busy spots. However, most tourists completely miss it!
By
"La Donuteria" in Bratislava offers proper homemade donuts! They are insanely delicious and there are so many flavors to choose from. I like the raspberry.
By
The "Slovak Radio" building in Bratislava is total nonsense and an architectural masterpiece - depends on who you ask. Their radio productions are quality.
By
"Tržnica Trnavské Mýto" in Bratislava is a market reserved for seniors or connoisseurs, people who want a real, personal experience from their shopping...
By
"Travel Cafe Dobrodruh" is a secret gem in Bratislava. This place seeps with holiday mood from faraway lands; it's dedicated to adventurers and good mates!
By
"Penny Coffea" Bratislava is one of my favorite cafes. I recommend their excellent raw cakes and specialty Indonesian coffee, and love their terrace!
By
64 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 64 Insider Tips