Resources & References: Bratislava

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

Google Maps
For navigation, real-time public transport routes, and points of interest.
Bolt / Uber
For reliable ride-sharing services.
IDS BK (Bratislava Public Transport)
The official app for purchasing public transport tickets and checking schedules.
Google Translate
For language assistance (download the Slovak offline pack).
TripAdvisor/Yelp/HappyCow
For restaurant reviews, attraction information, and dietary options.

Useful Websites

Visitbratislava.com
The official tourism portal for Bratislava.
Slovakia.com
General tourism information for Slovakia.
Zssk.sk
The official website for Slovak Railways.
Bus Operators
Flixbus.com / regiojet.com / slovaklines.sk for bus travel.
Sng.sk
The website for the Slovak National Gallery.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

A good quality map of Bratislava assists offline navigation. General Central Europe guidebooks often feature a section on Bratislava.

Books About Bratislava

"Bratislava: The History of the City" by Peter Salner provides valuable historical context. Explore works by Slovak authors for contemporary literature.

Local Publications

The Slovak Spectator, an English-language newspaper, provides local news and event listings. Local tourism brochures feature maps and highlights.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
Police: 158
Ambulance: 155
Fire Department: 150

Medical Facilities

University Hospital Bratislava (Univerzitná nemocnica Bratislava) has several locations, including Ružinov and Kramáre.
Many private clinics are available. Check with your travel insurance for direct billing options.

Information

Essential Emergency Information

Emergency Numbers

General Emergency: 112
Police: 158
Ambulance: 155
Fire Department: 150

Lost Document Steps

Report lost or stolen passports to local police immediately.
Obtain a police report.
Contact your embassy or consulate for replacement travel documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Follow local authority instructions (via media, hotel staff).
Be aware of safe evacuation points if needed.

Further Exploration Ideas

Documentaries and Films

Search for travel documentaries focusing on Central Europe or Slovak history.
These visuals deepen your understanding of the destination.

Music and Art

Explore traditional Slovak folk music, known for its distinct melodies.
Listen to works by Slovak classical composers, like Ján Levoslav Bella.

Planning Your Next Steps

Online Communities

TripAdvisor forums, Reddit's r/Slovakia or r/Bratislava.
These platforms enable asking specific questions and local advice.

Language Learning

Apps like Duolingo or Memrise feature introductory Slovak language lessons.
Local language schools in Bratislava also provide short courses for basic phrases.

Consulate & Embassy Information

Embassy Locations

U.S. Embassy in Slovakia: Hviezdoslavovo námestie 4, 811 02 Bratislava.
Canadian Embassy in Slovakia: Carlton Office Centre, Hviezdoslavovo námestie 3, 811 02 Bratislava.
U.K. Embassy in Slovakia: Panská 16, 811 01 Bratislava.
Citizens of other countries should check their respective government websites for embassy or consulate locations in Bratislava.

Lost Document Protocol

Report lost or stolen passports to the local police immediately.
Obtain a police report.
Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance with replacement travel documents.

Important Reminders

Apps

Google Maps for navigation, Bolt/Uber for rides, IDS BK for public transport, Google Translate.

Travel Planning Sites

Visitbratislava.com, slovakia.com, zssk.sk, flixbus.com, dpb.sk, sng.sk.

Support Contacts

General Emergency 112, Police 158, Ambulance 155, Fire Department 150.

Critical Medical Information

In a medical emergency, dial 155 for ambulance. For hospital details, University Hospital Bratislava is a major public option. Private clinics are also available.

Language & Etiquette

Language Learning Resources

Online Tools

Duolingo or Memrise
These apps present introductory Slovak language lessons.
Babbel
For more structured language learning, consider using Babbel.

Local Opportunities

Local Language Schools
These establishments in Bratislava also provide short courses for basic phrases.
Phrasebook
A small phrasebook can be a simple companion for everyday interactions.

Cultural niceties

Greetings

A firm handshake is common. "Dobrý deň" (good day) suits most situations. A simple "Ďakujem" (thank you) is always welcome.

Dining Etiquette

Wait to be seated in restaurants. Tipping 5-10% is customary for good service. Saying "Dobrú chuť" (enjoy your meal) is polite.

Personal Space

Slovaks generally keep a respectful distance. Avoid overly boisterous behavior in public spaces.

Essential Phrases

Common Expressions

"Ahoj" (ahoy) – Hi (informal)
"Dobrý deň" (dob-ree dyen) – Good day
"Dobrú noc" (dob-roo nots) – Good night
"Dovidenia" (doh-vee-deh-nya) – Goodbye

Helpful Phrases

"Prosím" (pro-seem) – Please / You're welcome
"Áno" (aa-noh) – Yes
"Nie" (nee-eh) – No
"Na zdravie!" (nah zdrah-vyeh) – Cheers!

Navigating with Respect

Cultural Consideration

Respect personal space. Avoid overly loud conversations in quiet areas.
Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
Ask permission before taking photos of individuals.

Environmental Awareness

Dispose of rubbish in designated bins. Keep public spaces clean.
Recycle whenever facilities are available.
Show consideration for natural environments and urban green spaces.

Local Appreciation

Learning a few basic Slovak phrases is always a way to show appreciation and often earns a smile from locals.

Resources & References