Botanical Garden UPJŠ

If you're looking for a place where nature meets science, check out this green oasis. The Pavol Jozef Šafárik University Botanical Garden is the largest botanical garden in Slovakia, stretching across an area of about 30 hectares on the northern outskirts of Košice.

UPJŠ Botanical Garden. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Founded in 1950 as part of the Faculty of Science, it has become home to more than 4,000 plant species. One of the main jewels of the collection is the assembly of cacti, which is rightfully considered one of the most significant in the territory of the former Czechoslovakia. The garden harmoniously combines the functions of a research center and a beautiful park for relaxation.

Visitors can look forward to not only outdoor areas with an arboretum but also spacious greenhouses where tropical and subtropical climates are maintained. This place is ideal for those who want to temporarily trade the city bustle for the silence of shady alleys and enjoy the beauty of rare exotic specimens.

To clarify visiting details or plan group tours, you can use the official contact information. The garden administration is always ready to help guests with the schedule of themed exhibitions.

At the UPJŠ Botanical Garden, everyone will find something to enjoy. You can wander for hours through the winding paths of the arboretum, studying labeled plants from all over the world, or head into the greenhouses to feel the atmosphere of the real tropics. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see rare succulents and the unique cactus collection, which impresses with its variety of shapes and sizes.

This place is a true paradise for photographers. Here you can capture the blooming of rare exotic species or take atmospheric shots against the backdrop of the hilly landscapes surrounding the garden. The peaceful setting is perfect for thoughtful contemplation and a break from city noise.

In addition to regular walks, the garden offers educational programs and tours that will be of interest to both students and curious tourists. During the warmer months, themed exhibitions are often held on the grounds, such as butterfly exhibitions in the greenhouses, making a visit to the garden an unforgettable event for families with children. Quiet picnics in specially designated relaxation areas are also permitted.

Finding this green corner is easy: it is located in the northern part of the city at Mánesova 1889/23. From the city center, it is most convenient to get here by public transport. The bus ride takes about 20–30 minutes, and the stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the garden entrance.

If you prefer a faster option, you can use a taxi. The trip from the train station or the city center will take only 10–15 minutes. For those traveling by their own or a rented car, parking is available at the entrance to the complex.

Outdoor enthusiasts might enjoy a walk. The route from the central streets is about 4–5 kilometers and passes through the cozy residential quarters of the Sever district. This is a great way to see the less touristy but very pleasant parts of the city before immersing yourself in the world of tropical flora.

The academic heritage of this place is closely intertwined with the history of the city itself: the roots of higher education here date back to 1657, when the University of Košice was founded by the Jesuits. Although the modern Pavol Jozef Šafárik University was established in its current form in 1959, botanical traditions began to take shape much earlier.

According to historical chronicles, the first university botanical garden was established as early as 1799 through the efforts of Stanisław Bonifacy Jundziłł, a professor of natural history. He was a prominent naturalist of his time and made an enormous contribution to the study of the region's flora.

The garden began welcoming visitors at its current location in 1950. Since then, it has continuously developed as an important scientific center specializing in the study of biodiversity, ecology, and the biotechnology of medicinal plants, while remaining a favorite walking spot for locals and tourists alike.

To take a leisurely stroll through the main paths of the arboretum, visit the exotic greenhouses, and take memorable photos, most visitors need 2–3 hours. This is the optimal amount of time to get acquainted with the key collections, including the famous cacti.

If you consider yourself a true botany enthusiast or plan to relax in the shade of the trees with a book, it's worth setting aside half a day (up to 4 hours) for your visit. The garden invites a contemplative pace, and the abundance of secluded corners and educational signs allows you to spend your time here both peacefully and productively.

The botanical garden is open to visitors daily, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary. From Monday to Friday, the garden is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On weekends — Saturday and Sunday — the schedule is slightly shorter: from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Keep in mind that admission is by ticket, and it's best to enter at least an hour before closing to have time to explore the indoor pavilions and greenhouses. On public holidays, the schedule may change, so it's worth checking for the latest information before your visit.

Exploring the area around the botanical garden can significantly enrich your travel experience. The Sever district transitions smoothly into the historic center, where the city's main architectural monuments and cultural spaces are concentrated.

Many interesting locations are within a short ride or a pleasant walk. Below are the nearest attractions to include in your itinerary.