Officially known as the Slovak Republic, Slovakia is a landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic. The nation is known for its mountainous landscapes (like the Carpathian Mountains in the north), medieval castles, folk traditions, and rich cultural heritage. Its capital, Bratislava, is the largest city in the country, located on the Danube River, near the borders with Austria and Hungary (the only national capital that borders two other countries). It is the political, cultural, and economic centre of Slovakia, having a blend of historic charm with modern life, offering a unique feel that reflects both Western and Eastern European influences, and home to landmarks such as Bratislava Castle, Old Town (with cobbled streets, baroque architecture, and a lively atmosphere), St. Martin's Cathedral, and the UFO Tower (a futuristic observation deck and restaurant on the SNP Bridge), along with Comenius University; Slovakia’s largest and oldest university.
UTC+1 daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October.
Floods and landslides.
For driving and traffic-related offences;
In addition; taking photos of military or security-related sites (including some government buildings, power plants, and similar installations) is illegal, which can result in fines, confiscation of equipment, or even deportation. Being noisy or unruly during quiet hours (10pm to 6am) may incur fines or other legal actions, and drinking alcohol on the street in places like Bratislava's Old Town is prohibited (except for outdoor café areas or events).
Slovak police may issue on-the-spot fines, payable typically in cash (sometimes by card).
The official language of Slovakia is Slovak, but Hungarian, Ukrainian and Chakavian are also spoken.
Driving is on the right in Slovakia, with overtaking on the left. Headlights must be on at all times, even in the daytime, drivers must give way to trams, trolleybuses, and buses since they have priority, and for roundabouts, entering vehicles may have priority unless signs say otherwise (always look for 'Give Way' signs).
The minimum age to drive is 18, but it is 21 to rent a car, with the minimum holding period for the driver's licence being 1 - 3 years depending on the rental company. In addition, some companies may charge drivers under 25 a 'young driver surcharge'. UK drivers don't typically need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in the Czech Republic, as long as they have a valid, modern UK photocard driving licence and are only visiting for short periods. However, if drivers have an older paper licence, or one issued from in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, then an IDP may be required.
Slovakia uses e‑vignettes (electronic toll stickers), which are required for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes. They can be purchase online, at petrol stations, post offices, or border crossings. And winter tyres (M+S marked) with at least 3 mm tread are mandatory when roads are snowy or icy, with snow chains being required in some mountainous areas during winter driving.
Unleaded (95 octane), diesel and LPG are common. Most fuel stations are self-service, and pay-at-the-pump is common, but not universal. Major petrol stations (OMV, Slovnaft, Shell) are open 24/7, especially on highways and in cities, but smaller/local stations are typically open from 6am to 10pm. Electric charging stations are usually accessible 24/7, especially at shopping centres and motorways.
Petrol stations on motorways are well-marked and regular (~every 30–50 km), where most major rest stops offer restaurants, Wi-Fi, ATMs, and car washes. Where as urban areas have many stations with competitive prices. But fill up in advance for rural or mountainous areas as stations may be scarce.
Zero blood-alcohol limit for all drivers.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, front and rear.
Children under 150cm or 12 years old must use certified child seats or boosters, and are not allowed in the front seat.