Free and Freely Accessible Castles: Trips Without Admission

A trip back in time need not cost a cent. Slovakia has plenty of castles and ruins you can visit without paying — just set off and walk. This article explains the difference between "free-entry" castles and "freely accessible" sites and suggests where to go.

Freely accessible versus free entry

• Freely accessible sites are mostly ruins without gates or ticket offices — you can enter any time, even at dawn. Perfect for a spontaneous trip.
• Free entry means the site has grounds or an exhibition but does not charge admission (at least to part of it).

Tips for freely accessible ruins

Popular freely accessible castles include romantic ruins such as Beckov, Čachtice and Devín Castle (grounds and surroundings). The walk to them is often a lovely trip in itself.

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How to plan a trip without admission

• Check access — even a freely accessible castle may have a closed tower; the grounds are usually open.
• Respect the monument — ruins are fragile; move carefully and do not damage the masonry.
• Go in daylight — exposed ruins are safer by day.

Where next

Find the full list on our free-entry castles and freely accessible castles pages, and browse the catalogue.