Is Bratislava Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Bratislava is the capital and largest city in Slovakia.

This capital is gorgeous, reminiscent of Italy because of its narrow, winding streets.

You’ll also find a hill-top castle next to the river Danube, as well as other historic monuments and buildings to visit.

Forget about its center – the perfect shopping opportunities, the modern city center, and urban people – Bratislava also has many gorgeous rural areas that are perfect for exploring.

Around 50 km north and east of Bratislava, you’ll find farms, vineyards, agricultural land, and tiny villages that will take your breath away.

Warnings & Dangers in Bratislava

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Overall, Bratislava is very safe to travel to. Its crime rates are very low, and pickpockets are the biggest concern you'll have to deal with while on a holiday there. Have your wits with you and be vigilant at all times.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Slovakia has the eighth-most dangerous roads in Europe, according to the European road safety chart. That being said, be careful when driving in Bratislava, especially after dark. Be wary of taxi drivers trying to overcharge for their services with cheap tricks.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets are common, but not as much as in other European countries. You should be careful when it comes to your valuables, keep them safe in your accommodation or at least don't carry them all in one place. Be especially cautious in Bratislava's Old Town, the Christmas markets in December, and on public buses, trams, or trains.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are no severe threats of natural disasters in Bratislava, apart from occasional flooding.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

When it comes to mugging, it is not common, though you should avoid empty, deserted or poorly lit streets, and in such an occasion, hand over your possessions immediately and never resist the attacker.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Bratislava's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

In all tourist cities, there's always a heightened risk of getting scammed. Check every change twice, negotiate everything beforehand and never give your money before you receive the service you're paying for. In taxis, always insist on the meter and only pay what the meter shows

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Bratislava is, in general, very safe for women traveling solo. Apart from a few precaution rules you should apply to minimize your chances of something going wrong, if you avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and follow your common sense, your trip should go smoothly.

So... How Safe Is Bratislava Really?

Bratislava is a safe city to visit.

Crime rates are low, even by European standards and violent crime is almost non-existent.

Pickpockets are a problem, though much less so than in other European countries and top destinations.

Still, bear in mind that they tend to roam around the city and tourist-frequented areas.

Be careful with your valuables and keep them in a safe place.

The most usual places where they operate are crowded train stations, airports and shopping areas.

There will also be scammers waiting to trick you, so be wary of taxi drivers adding an imaginary surcharge to the metered value, or not running the meter at all and then delivering and astronomical fee at the end.

Always insist on the meter before entering the vehicle.

Also common are car break-ins and you can expect thieves to smash your windows whether or not valuables are in plain sight.

Always bear in mind that going out at night has its dangers.

There have been reports of people getting spiked drinks from locals and then waking up a few hours later with empty pockets.

Don’t be paranoid, but try to avoid accepting drinks from strange people or simply insist on going with them to the bar and watching the drinks being made.

How Does Bratislava Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

For up to 90 days of stay, visas are not required for US citizens, Australians, Canadians or UK citizens. Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months longer than the expected validity of the visa. If you are not sure about your visa status, you should contact your local Slovakian embassy.

Currency

Euro is the official currency in Bratislava and most capitals of Europe. ATMs are available in most tourist destinations, and credit cards accepted in major hotels - for other establishments it is best to ask upfront.

Weather

Bratislava has the typical European continental influenced climate characterized by warm, dry summers and somewhat cold winters. Daytime temperatures during summer are usually somewhere around 20-25°C, but sometimes they rise to 30°C or more.

Airports

M. R. Štefánik Airport also referred to as Bratislava Airport is the main international airport of the entire country of Slovakia. It is located about 9 km northeast of Bratislava city center.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Bratislava, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Bratislava Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Slovakia - Safety by City