Spis Castle in Slovakia is one of the largest and most significant medieval castles in Central Europe. Although it is mostly in ruins today, it still remains an impressive landmark.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Spis Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Slovakia. We highly recommend adding it to your itinerary because it's easily accessible, even by public transport.

Where is Spis Castle?

Spis Castle is located in the northeastern part of Slovakia, at the edge of the town of Spisske Podhradie, close to the Polish border. The castle is approximately 370 km from Bratislava, Slovakia's capital, 70 km from Kosice, and 200 km from Krakow in Poland. It is also just 60 km from the famous Tatra Mountains, one of Slovakia's top attractions. Thanks to its proximity to the D1 highway, reaching the castle is simple, even if you're driving from different parts of the country.

History of Spis Castle

The first mention of Spis Castle dates back to 1120, when it was built as a border fortress. Over time, the castle evolved into the administrative, economic, and cultural center of the Szepes County. The castle changed hands several times throughout history, from the Kingdom of Hungary to various noble families.

Spis Castle was originally constructed in the Romanesque style but was later reconstructed in the Gothic style. A major renovation took place in the 15th century, adding features such as a knights' hall, chapel, and a grand palace. Unfortunately, in 1780, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it in ruins that we can explore today.

Exploring Spis Castle Today

Today, Spis Castle is considered the largest castle complex in Central Europe, covering around 4 hectares. Even in its ruined state, the castle is magnificent, with towers that stand proudly above the surrounding landscape. Visitors will find that there's much to explore in the middle and lower courtyards, where we can learn about the history of the region.

The panoramic views from the castle's upper sections are stunning, offering a breathtaking sight of the surrounding countryside and the Tatra Mountains on clear days. Despite the ruins, it's easy to spend at least an hour wandering around and appreciating the site.

How to Get to Spis Castle

If you're traveling by car, getting to Spis Castle is a breeze, thanks to its location near the D1 highway. There is free parking available just outside the castle, and from there, it's only a short walk to the entrance.

For those using public transportation, you can take a bus to Spisske Podhradie, the town at the base of the castle. Direct buses operate from nearby cities such as Poprad, Levoca, and Kosice. The bus stop in Spisske Podhradie is located near the main square, and from there, we can follow a scenic trail that leads to the castle. In the summer, a tourist train also runs between the castle and the town.

Visiting Spis Castle

Before heading to Spis Castle, it's important to check the opening hours to avoid any disappointment. The castle is closed from November to March. In April and October, it is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, while from May to September, the castle stays open from 9 am to 7 pm.

The entrance ticket costs 8€, which includes a guided tour in English, German, or audio guides in several languages. Visitors can explore the middle and lower courtyards, walk along the walls, and view the remnants of the castle's original structures. A restaurant on-site offers a place to relax and grab a bite to eat.

Nearby Attractions

While Spis Castle is a major highlight, there are several other interesting places nearby worth visiting. Spisske Podhradie, the town below the castle, is a charming area with a 16th-century town hall, a synagogue, and other historical buildings.

Another must-see is Spisska Kapitula, a medieval town with St. Martin's Cathedral, which was an important spiritual center in the region. The village of Zehra, with its UNESCO-listed chapel of the Holy Spirit, is also a short distance from the castle. Lastly, the picturesque town of Levoca, just 17 km away, is famous for its 15th-century town hall and the largest Gothic wooden altar in the world.