Where to Stay in Bratislava (Best Areas + Hotels 2023)

Situated on the Danube River, in the western part of Slovakia, Bratislava has a very strategic location. The city borders Austria to the west and Hungary to the south. In fact, it’s the only capital that borders two sovereign states. Being a cheap destination combined with its excellent location turns Bratislava into a great base to explore this region of Europe.

In addition, the city is a great starting point for cruises. You can easily reach Bratislava on a boat cruise from Vienna. Planning a few days in Vienna as well? Then check out my hotel guide to best places to stay in Vienna (including the hotel where I always stay).

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia is full of history. It’s also a city of contrasts – Soviet architecture mixed with Baroque churches, medieval buildings and hipster coffee shops.

Not sure what is the best area to stay in Bratislava? No worries, in my guide you’ll find the best location to stay for sightseeing and partying, including hand-picked hotels and apartments.

I spent a day in Bratislava, arriving on a train from Vienna. As I had a short time to explore the city, I chose accommodation right in the heart of the Old Town. I wanted to be within walking distance to all points of interests.

If you’re visiting Bratislava for sightseeing, I’d recommend staying in the Old Town. In this way, you’ll be close to all the historic sights, restaurants and bars. Plus, the central train station is less than 20min walk from there.

In a hurry? Looking for a great hotel with a convenient location and an excellent rating?

Then check out Park Inn by Radisson Danube – it’s the most popular hotel.

Ideally located in the Old Town, in proximity to the castle, shopping centres and restaurants. Also, the Most SNP bus station is less than a 5min walk (perfect for a day trip to Vienna). Rooms are spacious and feature river views.
Why book – next to the river and the castle, spacious comfortable rooms, lovely swimming pool and a spa area

The best location to stay in Bratislava is the Old Town (Staré Mesto). This is the historic centre of the city.

The Old Town borders with the Danube River to the south. In fact, most places of interest are located within the Old Town. Generally, this is the best area to stay for a quick visit or to be close to everything. Also, the location is great for nightlife due to the numerous bars, restaurants and coffee shops.

The Old Town is quite charming and it’s full of cobbled alleys, Baroque churches and shops. Pretty and compact, it’s the best place to stay in Bratislava. You can easily get around on foot and you won’t need more than 1 day to tour the popular attractions.

Why stay in Staré Mesto

• Staré Mesto is the best area to stay in Bratislava for sightseeing and partying
• everything is within easy reach, including the Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral and the river (for boat cruises)
• take the sightseeing bus and enjoy a panoramic tour of all the popular attractions
• plenty of restaurants and bars, the perfect area for dining and partying
• the Central train station (Hlavná stanica) is less than a 20min walk

Stylish and comfortable hotel with a great location, just a short walk from the castle. The modern rooms feature spacious bathrooms and comfy beds. Breakfast is outstanding with fresh-pressed orange juice and a great choice of quality food.
Why book – 200m from the castle, rooftop lounge, underground parking, wellness area with panoramic view

Arcadia Boutique Hotel is the best place to stay in Bratislava for couples. Set in a medieval building, the hotel features boutique rooms with antique furniture. The marble bathrooms are equipped with heated floors. It’s like staying in a palace (perfect for a romantic trip)!
Why book – next to St. Michael’s Gate, underground parking, excellent modern spa centre

Set in a historic building from the 13th century, the hotel combines traditional comfort with modern amenities. Rooms are spacious with excellent facilities and heated bathroom floors.
Why book – 150m from the river, outdoor terrace, spacious rooms, restaurant on-site

Situated right on the Danube River, the hotel has an excellent location for sightseeing and restaurants. At a walking distance to all touristic points. Excellent breakfast with a vast choice.
Why book – on the riverbank, French restaurant on-site, heated indoor pool, coffee and tea making facilities

Marrol’s Boutique Hotel is right in the heart of the historic centre. It’s a stylish hotel with class and character, yet intimate and personal. The elegant rooms are designed to offer maximum comfort. The Jasmine Spa area equipped with a sauna and a whirlpool jacuzzi ensures a relaxing experience.
Why book – 150m from the river, coffee and tea making facilities, daily refilled free minibar

Roset Hotel is a boutique hotel, housed in a historic building. It’s a high standard accommodation with homely touches. The rooms are huge and comfortable with everything you may need. The hotel features a modern spa area and a trendy restaurant.
Why book – ideal location, spacious rooms, pillow menu, excellent breakfast with homemade food

If you search for a central location, you won’t find a better place than this. The apartments are right next to St. Michael’s Gate. It’s the only survived medieval entrance to the historic centre. VIP Apartments offer luxurious accommodation at a reasonable price. Each apartment is air-conditioned with a well-fitted kitchen. Excellently positioned for sightseeing and nightlife!
Why book – next to St. Michael’s Gate, quiet location, air-conditioning, comfortable beds

The apartments are just a 2min walk from St. Michael’s Gate. It’s the ideal choice if you want to be close to the main attractions and in a quiet area. The apartments are perfectly laid out with everything you’d possibly need for a stay. And if you don’t feel like cooking breakfast, visit the creperie next door for some tasty pancakes.
Why book – 120m from St. Michael’s Gate, contactless check-in and check-out, spacious apartments with excellent facilities

If you want to take advantage of Bratislava’s excellent location and explore this region of Europe, stay near the train station. It’s also a great location for those, who have an early train to catch.

Furthermore, the area is just a 20min walk from Old Town. This means that you’ll be still within a walking distance to the tourist sights and restaurants.

Located next to the Grassalkovich Palace, Loft Hotel has the perfect location. It’s less than a 10min walk from the city centre, as well as the Central train station. The rooms feature a modern design with good size en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning. The hotel has its own brewery, a terrace bar and large parking on site.
Why book – 650 from the train station, daily refilled free minibar, coffee and tea

A stylish hotel right next to the main railway station. The modern rooms are air-conditioned with excellent amenities and comfy beds. Perfect for a short stay!
Why book – opposite the train station, 24-hour front desk, large rooms