How to get to Košice

Planning a visit to Košice? This picturesque city, located in eastern Slovakia, is renowned for its rich historical heritage and its status as a major cultural hub of the region. Figuring out how to get to Košice is quite simple: thanks to a developed transport network, you can choose a convenient route by plane, train, bus, or private car.

For those who value time and comfort, flying is the optimal way to reach Košice. The city is served by its own international airport (KSC), located just a few kilometres from the historic centre. Regular flights arrive here from several major European cities, making travel to eastern Slovakia convenient and accessible.

If there are no direct tickets available or you wish to plan a more complex route, consider flying into airports in neighbouring cities, such as Poprad or Debrecen in Hungary. From there, it is easy to reach your final destination by bus or train. Upon arrival at Košice Airport, tourists will find developed infrastructure and quick transfer options to their hotel.

Travelling by train is not only comfortable but also an incredibly scenic way to get to Košice. The city serves as a key railway hub for Eastern Slovakia, receiving trains at a modern station conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from the historic centre and main attractions.

The railway network connects Košice with a number of European capitals and major cities. Travellers can take advantage of direct routes from Bratislava, Prague, or Budapest. For example, the journey from the Slovak capital on the high-speed InterCity train takes about 5 hours. This transport choice allows you to enjoy the views from the window and arrive right in the centre of events, avoiding unnecessary transfers.

Bus journeys to Košice are often chosen for their cost-effectiveness and the beautiful landscapes visible from the window. A trip from Poprad, located at the foothills of the Tatras, takes no more than two hours, allowing you to quickly cover the 120-kilometre distance. The route from Debrecen in Hungary is equally popular: comfortable buses cover about 130 kilometres in approximately 2.5 hours, connecting the neighbouring countries.

For tourists heading from the east, Uzhhorod often becomes a key transport hub. The distance between the cities is only about 100 kilometres, although travel time can vary from 3 to 4 hours due to border crossing procedures. Most international and intercity routes arrive at the central bus station, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the historic centre.

Travelling by car to Košice offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of Central Europe. From the Slovak city of Poprad, the drive via the modern D1 highway takes about an hour and a half (120 km), revealing a magnificent panorama of the High Tatras along the way. The route from Debrecen in Hungary is also convenient: the 130-kilometre distance via the M30 motorway can be comfortably covered in less than two hours.

Another popular route leads from the city of Uzhhorod, located just 98 kilometres away, though total travel time here depends on traffic at the border crossing. If you prefer not to drive, you can book an international taxi: transfer costs from neighbouring countries usually start from 80–100 euros. Please remember that to drive on the motorways of Slovakia, you must purchase an electronic vignette in advance.

Preparing for a trip to Košice requires attention to detail to ensure your holiday goes perfectly. Here is a selection of useful recommendations that will help you feel comfortable in Slovakia's second-largest city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is moderately continental, so select your wardrobe according to the season: in summer, light clothing and sunglasses are useful, while in winter, you will need warm clothes and a windproof jacket. Be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes, as the historic centre is paved with old cobblestones.
2. Transport: The city centre is compact and ideal for walking; most attractions are located close to each other. For trips to more distant districts, it is convenient to use trams and buses; remember that tickets must be purchased in advance (at machines or kiosks) and must be validated immediately upon entering the vehicle.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro (€). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. However, it is recommended to carry a small amount of cash (small denomination notes and coins) for buying souvenirs, paying for street food, or transport fares.
4. Health and Safety: Košice is a calm and safe city, but standard precautions are always wise: keep an eye on your bags in crowded places. Tap water meets sanitary standards and is safe to drink. Pharmacies are easily recognized by the sign Lekáreň and a green cross.
5. Communication: The official language is Slovak. In the tourism sector, hotels, and cafes, staff—especially the younger generation—speak English well. Older people often understand German or Russian, which may facilitate communication.
6. Local Etiquette: Slovaks appreciate politeness. When entering a shop or restaurant, it is customary to greet people with the phrase "Dobrý deň" (Good day), and when leaving, say "Dovidenia" (Goodbye). Leaving a tip of 10% of the bill amount is considered good manners if you enjoyed the service.
7. What to Avoid: Do not attempt to ride public transport without a valid ticket—inspections are frequent, and fines for tourists are significant. Also, try to avoid exchanging money at dubious street points or with private individuals; it is better to use ATMs or official bank branches.
8. Extra Tip: Pay attention to the "Košice Visitor Card" if you are planning a rich cultural programme. It often provides free travel on public transport and substantial discounts on entry tickets to museums and galleries.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor organizational issues and fully focus on the atmosphere of the city. May your acquaintance with the eastern gem of the country leave only pleasant memories!