To the east for all-round culture - what does Košice have to offer?
But we're not just talking about the drama and a stroll along the Košice Corset - discover centuries-old Gothic churches, the iconic swimming pool transformed into the Hall of Art, a picturesque alley with Košice craftsmen and other romantic Košice spots. What should you definitely not miss when visiting the city?
Spiritual monuments
When visiting Košice, it's almost impossible to bypass the magnificent queen that enthrones the Old Town in the lens-shaped Main Street. Spend a few hours exploring on your own or with an experienced guide about the highlights and tidbits of stories about St. Elizabeth's Cathedral. Inside, you'll additionally discover the famous Sigismund Tower, the tomb of Francis II. Rákoczi, the royal staircase and balcony and dozens of other interesting things. Next to the Cathedral, stop by the recently renovated Urban Tower dedicated to the patron saint of winegrowers, St. Urban, where you will find, among other things, great exhibitions. In front of the entrance, notice the imposing Urban bell with its Latin spiritual inscriptions.
Plaques that mean the world
Book your autumn evenings in Košice also for unforgettable performances in the New Baroque Historical Building National Theatre Košice with a varied selection of plays, opera, operetta and ballet as well as popular talk shows and more intimate performances in the Small Stage. For more commercial performances by well-known Slovak and local actors, see the programme Košice Municipal Theatre in the hall of the Historical Town Hall at 59 Main Street. If you are more attracted by original works by independent artists, visit Theatre Na Peróne on Zvonárská Street, where you will get a glimpse into the world of burning themes and authentic acting performances.
Architectural monuments
Are you one of those who walk with your head in the clouds in new cities, gazing at eye-catching facades and facades? Admire the architectural gems in the streets of Košice - you'll find many of them not only in the largest urban conservation area in Slovakia, but also on the outskirts of the city. Pay attention to the first five-star Villa Sandy resort in the City Park, housed in a former skating pavilion, or the nearby Kunsthalle/Art Hall, a once-dilapidated swimming pool that now serves as a venue for modern art shows and popular events. Or take a tour of the The Mathé Studio Villa and discover an artistic gem of Košice, the family home of sculptor Ján Mathé and his wife Eva. The only Bauhaus in Slovakia became a national cultural monument in 2019 and is a preserved informal museum of the former Košice sculptor.
A dose of independent culture
Go to the places that are daily meeting spots of Košice's local patriots and become part of the Košice community. Get to know the magical atmosphere of the legendary Cinema Úsmev and its popular terrace, where you will experience endless debates between locals and tastings of local street food. A short walk from the cinema takes you to the centre of independent culture Tabačka Kulturfabrik with space for exhibitions, film screenings, dance performances, open-air concerts and great festivals. For more cultural experiences during the day and night, we recommend visiting the complex Barracks/Kulturpark with its varied programme and unique atmosphere.
Romantic places in Košice
Stroll through a city you will fall in love with at every turn. Discover the picturesque corners of Košice and romantic places such as the pleasant City Park between the Old Town and the Košice Railway Station, where dozens of generations have
Košice residents have been wandering around during every season of the year. Undoubtedly the most beautiful street in the city - Hrnčiarska Street, otherwise known as the Alleyof crafts, is also worth a visit, with local artisans, the legendary Calvin Church and a cosy breakfast place.
Gastronomic rewards for city tours
Reward yourself for your persistent exploration of local and regional art and culture in the city with delicious gastronomic treats from renowned Kosice establishments. Visit the country's oldest pub, Brewery Inn, with a wide selection of craft beers and juicy burgers. For a dose of spicy Mexican specialties, stop by the Royal Court and Restaurant La Hacienda for great fajitas and quesadillas.
City Park is home to the first five-star resort in Košice, Villa Sandy, where the SEVEN Restaurant Café serves professionally prepared dishes that even the most demanding customers will appreciate. To relax with a chilled glass of Slovak and foreign wine, head to the wine bar Šum with an impressive interior and a wide range of homemade spreads, breads and fermented specialities. Are you hungry too?
Enjoy a cultural experience in Košice with your family or friends - for all the other tried-and-true and secret tips and the current Calendar of Events, visit our website.