If you’re looking for a city that beautifully blends history with modern charm, Košice in Slovakia should be on your radar. This enchanting destination is the country’s second-largest city and boasts a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the 13th century. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, where you’ll find the stunning St. Elisabeth Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dominates the skyline. Košice is also home to the iconic Hlavná ulica, a lively street lined with cafes, shops, and colorful buildings that invite you to linger. Don’t miss the unique Singing Fountain, which offers a delightful show of water and music, especially enchanting at night. Food lovers will appreciate the local cuisine, with specialties like “lokše” (potato pancakes) and hearty “kapustnica” (cabbage soup) that reflect the region's culinary traditions. The city is a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Košice Peace Marathon, the oldest marathon in Europe. With its blend of history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights, Košice is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Fun fact: Košice was designated a European Capital of Culture in
Kosice, Slovakia
Top things to do in Kosice
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
St Michael Chapel
A 14th-century Gothic chapel near the cathedral, known for its well-preserved frescoes and peaceful atmosphere.
St. Urban Tower
A 14th-century bell tower standing alone near the cathedral, offering panoramic views of Košice from its top.
Hlavná ulica
Košice's main pedestrian boulevard, lined with colorful historic buildings, lively cafes, and shops.
Old Town, Košice
Medieval core of Košice with narrow streets, historic squares, and the towering St. Elisabeth Cathedral.
National Theatre Košice
Grand historic theater in Košice's main square, hosting opera, ballet, and drama in an ornate setting.
East Slovak Gallery
An art museum in Košice housing Slovak and European works, with a focus on 20th-century and contemporary pieces in a historic building.
East Slovak Museum
A comprehensive museum in Košice with exhibits on natural history, archaeology, and regional culture, housed in a historic building.
Slovak Technical Museum
A museum in Košice dedicated to the history of technology and industry in Slovakia, with interactive exhibits and historic machinery.
Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God, Košice
A Greek Catholic cathedral featuring a striking onion dome, blending Eastern and Western architectural traditions in central Košice.
Archbishop's Palace (Košice)
A historic palace serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Košice, with elegant Baroque architecture and a peaceful courtyard.
Plague Column, Košice
A Baroque Marian column erected in gratitude for the end of a plague, featuring intricate sculptures and a golden Virgin Mary statue.
Executioner's Bastion
A medieval fortification that once housed the city executioner, now a museum with torture devices and panoramic views.
Košice Zoo
One of Europe's largest zoos, set in a forested area with spacious enclosures and a focus on conservation.
Museum of Aviation (Košice)
An aviation museum at Košice Airport displaying historic aircraft, from early biplanes to Soviet-era jets.
Cathedral of St. Elizabeth
Slovakia's largest cathedral, this Gothic masterpiece dominates Košice's skyline with its soaring spire and intricate medieval architecture.
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