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Nature Is Calling – Dive Into Water Adventures in Košice!

Author: Visit Košice | Photo: Visit Košice
The best way to enjoy hot summer days in Košice? Feet in the water and wind in your hair. Discover paddleboarding on Lake Bukovec, city pools with architectural charm, and wild river rafting on the Hornád – summer in Košice wears a thousand faces. Let yourself be tempted by water adventures and plan your refreshing escape right in the heart of the city!

Get swept away by a whirl of water adventures that will cool you down during the city’s summer heat. In Košice, the warm months are a true feast for the senses – bustling terraces and water sports on pools, lakes, and rivers invite you to unwind. Treat yourself and your family to a well-deserved waterside break with favorites like paddleboarding, river rafting, or pedaling a water bike with a tasty ice cream in hand. So, where to next?

1

Peaceful Paddleboarding on Bukovec

If you’re someone who enjoys the calm surface of natural lakes, make your way to Bukovec Reservoir – just 5 kilometers from the city. It’s the perfect place to relax while soaking in the scenic views of lush trees and peaceful surroundings.

Swim across the reservoir to boost your fitness or rent a paddleboard that suits your style. Hop on board, pack a snack, and take your kids or partner out to the middle of the lake for a tranquil ride. And don’t forget to treat yourself afterward – classic summer delights like draft Kofola, fried dough, crispy fries, or a rich chocolate ice cream await!

2

Wild Waters of the Hornád River

One day it’s calm waters, the next it’s thrilling canoe rides! Join a community of river enthusiasts and discover the hidden corners of the Hornád River. For sporty adventurers and adrenaline seekers, the area offers kayaking and rafting courses, guided river trips, archery, geocaching, and full equipment rentals. Learn all about water gear, raft with a guide, or test the currents solo in a plastic kayak.

With help from the local paddling community, you can set off on scenic journeys and explore both well-known and lesser-visited stretches of the Košice region. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned paddler, you'll find everything from short floats to multi-day adventures. Grab a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard—and make sure you’re up to speed on water safety before you dive in!

3

Košice’s City Pools

If you're looking to cool off without straying too far from the heart of the city or its beloved ice cream spots, don’t miss the chance to visit Košice’s city pools. Head from St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral toward Staničné Square and enjoy a swim at a striking pool complex designed by architect Ľudovít Oelschläger. Known locally as “ČH-čko,” this architectural gem is a visual treat—take a moment to admire its design features, including a unique solar collector used to heat shower water.

Just steps from Košice’s City Park, you’ll find another popular pool, perfect for family fun or a solo training session. With slides, playgrounds, and kiddie rides, there’s something for all ages. We also recommend the Anička recreation area, where you can spend a memorable summer day—perhaps even paddling a rented boat across the water!

4

Pedal Boating on Lake Ružín

Pedal your heart out and get a fun workout on the calm waters of Lake Ružín, just a few kilometers from Košice.Park your car, grab some fried cheese, tuck an ice cream in your pocket, and head off to explore the lake’s hidden coves and shifting currents on a rented pedal boat.

This cozy boathouse is a perfect place to unwind, complete with a small sunbathing area and a snack bar full of irresistible summer treats. Spend a weekend getaway or a laid-back afternoon here—it’s a slice of summer you won’t want to miss!


You’ll find all our specific tips for summer activities in Košice on our website, under the Trips and Nature section.