What travel insurance do I need when visiting Slovakia?

Slovakia: A beautiful gem to discover in Central Europe

Part of the Schengen Area, Slovakia is a prime destination in Central Europe. There is plenty to see in the nation, from the lively capital of Bratislava, to its stunning castles, ski resorts, or the picturesque architecture of places like Kosice and Levoca.

Depending on your country of origin, and whether it is within the Schengen Area or has a visa-free travel arrangement with the countries within it, you may require a Schengen Visa. With travel insurance for Slovakia, you will be able to provide all of the required documents and set off in search of a rich and astonishing culture.

The Schengen Visa is your gateway to Slovakia. All of the information on the procedures required to obtain your visa can be found by visiting the embassy website : mzv.sk/en/home

You will need both a valid passport and travel insurance for Slovakia. Proof of these documents will be requested upon the issuance of your visa.

Which countries can I visit with Schengen travel insurance?

Choose travel insurance for Slovakia that suits your needs

There are important conditions to be taken into account when purchasing travel insurance for Slovakia. The policy has to cover emergency medical costs and a minimum of €30,000 for costs of repatriation. Apart from these compulsory aspects, you can also enquire about how to find the most effective travel insurance policy for Slovakia for protecting you. Indeed, some non-compulsory coverage options are more suited to specific people, for example, families or amateur mountain hikers.

How do I get to Slovakia?

By plane: Bratislava Airport offers regular connections to more than 30 European destinations. You will also find low-cost flights departing from London, Brussels, and Frankfurt. Vienna has emerged as the ideal city to pass through for international flights.

By bus: Eurolines, in particular, offers regular journeys from a number of European capitals. It’s a longer trip, but also more economical.

By car: Travelling by car around Slovakia is the best option if you want to be free to go where you please. There are almost 700 kilometers of highways and express roads in Slovakia where you have to pay the toll. A journey from Bratislava to the major city of Kosice takes about five hours.

By train: If planned correctly, taking a train can be the most comfortable and fastest way to get around Slovakia’s cities. The main rail route is from Bratislava through Zilina and Poprad to Kosice (five - six hours, depending on a type of the train). You can, however, take a train to most towns or interesting destinations.

Advice on health and vaccinations

There are no compulsory vaccinations. Yet, it is recommended to be vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and polio, as well as tick-borne encephalitis if you are visiting rural areas during the spring or summer. If you are in any doubt, consult your doctor.

Weather

Slovakia enjoys a continental climate, meaning that its winters are relatively pronounced. Even if it is not particularly cold, this season is long and snow can cover the entire country for several months. The best season for visiting Slovakia is from May to September, when it’s known for its beautiful, sunny days.

Discover Slovakia

If you’re looking for a destination known for wonderful architectural riches and a good helping of nature, Slovakia is the place for you.

-Bratislava: the capital of Slovakia invites you to stay in the heart of a close-knit community. Take a walk through the streets, sample local dishes on restaurant terraces, and admire the stunning facades. Among the landmarks that cannot be missed include the Old Town Hall, Michael’s Gate, Grassalkovich Palace, and St Martin’s Cathedral.

-Go off to discover the country’s other traditional towns and villages: Kosice, Slovakia’s second-largest city; Banska Stiavnica, and Trnava, with its exquisite churches.

-Nature lovers tend to head for the High Tatras. Considered to be the smallest mountains in the world, they offer kilometers of hiking trails, with 10 summits in total. This is your chance to try out some via ferrata and admire a magnificent panorama.

Levoca is a must-see for fans of Renaissance architecture. Be sure to stop by the Basilica of St James, which has the highest carved wooden altar in Europe. The Old Town is still encircled by the original town walls, an area that has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Safety

Slovakia is generally a safe country for foreign visitors. Nevertheless, it is recommended that tourists leave their identity documents in the safety-deposit box in their hotel and keep photocopies of them, as well as avoid carrying large sums of money. Pickpocketing is especially common on public transport and in tourist attractions. Take advantage of supervised car parks when parking your vehicle.

Practical information

The currency in Slovakia is the Euro. It is easy to change your money at the airport or at banks and bureaux de change, especially in the capital. You will also find ATMs in the larger cities.

Restaurant prices are relatively cheap, particularly in traditional establishments and towns and villages other than the capital.

Shops are generally open from 9am until 6pm, although they often close at 1pm on Saturdays. Supermarkets remain open until 8pm or 9pm in the evening.

Consider carrying a phrasebook with you for everyday expressions. Many Slovaks also speak German.

In order for a foreign national to enter Slovakia, you will need to show you have at least €56 per day of your trip.

How can AXA help?

AXA can help by providing you with Low Cost Schengen Area travel insurance that meets your visa requirements when traveling to Schengen states, including Slovakia, from as little as €0.99 per day - a fee that will cover you for medical expenses up to €30,000. A certificate proving you are insured will be immediately available online, meaning you can get on with your application.

AXA is the top brand for Schengen Visa insurance, and offers assistance 24/7, as well as other options and tailor-made products. Other coverage available includes the Europe Travel insurance, costing €1.50 per day, or the Schengen Multi Trip insurance, which is perfect for regular travelers and is available from €298 for a year’s coverage. Excellent value all round!

The other countries of the Schengen area

Frequently asked questions about travel insurance to Slovakia