Slovakia is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is surrounded by Austria to the west, Czech Republic to the north west, Hungary to the south, Poland to the north and Ukraine to the east.

With numerous medieval towns, high mountains, caves and a lively capital city, there's probably something for every traveller to enjoy in Slovakia. Slovakia is said to be the country with the highest number of fortified castles per capita in the whole world.

Since Slovakia is a EU member, citizens of EU countries do not require a visa for stays in Slovakia. Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, Mexican, Venezuelan and US citizens are all permitted to stay for up to 90 days without a visa. South African citizens require a visa for entry into Slovakia, unless they have indefinite leave to remain as a resident in another EU country. If you need a visa, always apply at an embassy beforehand. There are zero chances you get a visa at a Slovak border, no matter how you enter and what your nationality.

Train is by far the best option to travel across Slovakia, provided you don't have a private vehicle. Rail network is extensive, the only exception is central southern Slovakia, where buses are more efficient. Trains are fairly priced, reliable and clean. Opt for an InterCity service if you want Western-style comfort; IC trains link Bratislava, Žilina, The High Tatras and Košice. These are somewhat more expensive, but can save you from the crowds: ordinary trains do get crowded, usually on Fridays and Sundays. Watch out for pickpockets at major stations and steer clear of money scams. Also, sporadic robberies occur to sleeping passengers travelling the overnight longliners.