Home › Destinations › High Tatras
High Tatras, Slovensko - Things to Do in High Tatras

Things to Do in High Tatras

High Tatras, Slovensko - Complete Travel Guide

The High Tatras (Vysoké Tatry) represent Slovakia's crown jewel, forming the country's most dramatic mountain range and its premier alpine destination. This stunning region offers a perfect blend of rugged wilderness, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and charming resort towns nestled at the foot of towering peaks that reach over 2,600 meters. The area serves as Slovakia's oldest national park and provides year-round outdoor adventures, from challenging hiking trails and pristine skiing slopes to relaxing spa treatments in traditional mountain wellness centers. Whether you're an adrenaline-seeking mountaineer or a nature lover seeking tranquil alpine scenery, the High Tatras deliver unforgettable experiences across all seasons. The region's well-developed infrastructure includes cable cars, mountain huts, and marked trails that make the mountains accessible to visitors of all skill levels, while still preserving the wild character that makes this destination so special.

Top Things to Do in High Tatras

Cable Car to Lomnický štít Peak

Take the iconic cable car journey to one of the highest accessible peaks in the High Tatras at 2,634 meters. The ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire mountain range and surrounding valleys. On clear days, you can see for hundreds of kilometers across Slovakia, Poland, and beyond.

Booking Tip: Book tickets in advance online, especially during summer and winter peak seasons. Tickets cost around €25-30 for adults. Weather conditions can cause closures, so check forecasts and have flexible plans. Early morning rides offer the clearest views.

Hiking to Skalnaté Pleso Lake

Embark on one of the most popular hiking routes in the High Tatras, leading to the stunning glacial lake of Skalnaté Pleso. The trail offers moderate difficulty with spectacular alpine scenery, including waterfalls, rocky terrain, and mountain flora. The crystal-clear lake provides perfect photo opportunities surrounded by dramatic peaks.

Booking Tip: No booking required for hiking, but consider hiring a local guide for €40-60 per day for safety and local knowledge. Best hiked May through October. Bring proper mountain gear and check weather conditions. Trail maps cost €5-10 at visitor centers.

Skiing at Jasná or Tatranská Lomnica

Experience world-class skiing on the slopes of Slovakia's premier ski resorts, offering runs for all skill levels from beginner to expert. Both resorts feature modern lift systems, well-groomed pistes, and stunning mountain views. The ski season typically runs from December through March with reliable snow conditions.

Booking Tip: Book ski passes online for discounts - day passes cost €35-45. Equipment rental runs €20-25 per day. Consider multi-day packages for better value. Book accommodations early for peak winter season. Ski schools offer lessons from €30 per hour.

Spiš Castle Day Trip

Visit one of Europe's largest castle complexes, a UNESCO World Heritage site located near the High Tatras. This magnificent medieval fortress offers insight into Slovak history and provides spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. The castle features well-preserved architecture, museums, and cultural exhibitions.

Booking Tip: Entry costs €8-12 for adults with audio guides available for €3. Open daily except Mondays. Allow 2-3 hours for full visit. Combine with nearby Spišská Kapitula for a full day trip. Tour operators offer packages from €45-60 including transportation.

Thermal Spa Experience in Poprad

Relax and rejuvenate at AquaCity Poprad, a modern thermal spa complex featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and wellness treatments. The facility uses natural thermal waters and offers perfect relaxation after active mountain days. Various pools cater to families, adults, and those seeking therapeutic treatments.

Booking Tip: Day passes cost €20-35 depending on areas accessed. Book spa treatments in advance, especially weekends. Consider evening visits for lower prices. Multi-day passes offer savings for longer stays. Family packages available with significant discounts for children.

Getting There

The High Tatras are easily accessible by train, bus, or car from major Slovak cities. The closest airport is Poprad-Tatry Airport (45 minutes), though most international visitors fly into Bratislava (4 hours by car) or Kraków, Poland (2.5 hours). Regular train services connect Poprad with Bratislava, Košice, and Prague. The electric railway (TEŽ) runs along the base of the mountains, connecting all major resorts including Štrbské Pleso, Starý Smokovec, and Tatranská Lomnica. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring the region.

Getting Around

The efficient electric railway system (Tatranské elektrické železnice) is the primary transportation method within the High Tatras, connecting all major resorts and attractions. Trains run regularly throughout the day with affordable day passes available. Local buses supplement the railway system, reaching hiking trailheads and smaller villages. Cable cars and funiculars provide access to higher elevations and ski slopes. Walking is pleasant within individual resort towns, and many accommodations offer shuttle services to major attractions.

Where to Stay

Starý Smokovec
Tatranská Lomnica
Štrbské Pleso
Poprad
Vysoké Tatry
Nový Smokovec

Food & Dining

High Tatras dining combines traditional Slovak mountain cuisine with international options catering to tourists. Mountain huts (chaty) serve hearty local dishes like bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and goulash, perfect after hiking. Resort towns offer everything from cozy pubs serving local beer and comfort food to upscale restaurants featuring game meat and regional specialties. Many hotels provide excellent buffet dining, while smaller family-run establishments offer authentic Slovak hospitality and home-cooked meals at reasonable prices.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Slovakia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Reštaurácia ITALIANA

4.6 /5
(1807 reviews)

Le Due Sicilie

4.7 /5
(1617 reviews) 2

Le Torri Pizza Pasta

4.5 /5
(1427 reviews) 2
bar

Certo Zuckermandel

4.6 /5
(1335 reviews) 2

Restaurant Kazumi

4.8 /5
(662 reviews) 2

Don Saro Cucina Siciliana

4.6 /5
(613 reviews) 2
all dining options →

When to Visit

The High Tatras offer distinct seasonal experiences, making timing crucial for your visit. Summer (June-September) provides the best hiking conditions with warm weather, accessible trails, and operating mountain lifts, though this is also the busiest period. Winter (December-March) transforms the region into a skiing paradise with reliable snow and festive atmosphere. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, but weather can be unpredictable and some facilities may be closed. July-August see peak crowds and prices, while January-February offer the best skiing conditions.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Tatry Card for discounts on cable cars, attractions, and accommodations - it can save 20-30% on major expenses
Weather in the mountains changes rapidly, so always pack layers and rain gear even on sunny days
Book mountain hut accommodations well in advance during summer hiking season, as popular routes fill up quickly

Explore Activities in High Tatras