What to see and visit while studying medicine in Košice?
Studying medicine in Košice is a unique time – full of learning, clinical practice, and challenges. But it is also a huge opportunity to discover extraordinary places, as the city lies in the very heart of Central Europe. Within a few hours, you can be in Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, or Hungary, and enjoy both the beauty of nature and the culture of the region’s greatest cities. This makes every weekend a chance for a small journey that lets you take a break from books and gain new experiences. Here is a guide to the most interesting attractions waiting for students in Košice.
Slovakia
Košice
The city where you will spend your student years enchants with a charming old town. The main highlight is the monumental St. Elisabeth Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in the country. Walking along the main street, Hlavná, you will pass cozy cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, where student life thrives. It is worth visiting the State Theatre with beautiful frescoes and relaxing at the Singing Fountain, which glows in colors at night. This city combines modernity with history, creating an atmosphere you can easily fall in love with.
Bratislava
The capital of Slovakia, situated on the Danube, delights with its intimacy and unique atmosphere. The Old Town is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and small cafes that invite you to stop for a while. Overlooking the city is Bratislava Castle, offering panoramic views of the river and the surroundings. An interesting symbol is the SNP Bridge with its characteristic UFO restaurant, a great place to watch the sunset. It is a city where history meets modernity.
Prešov
The third largest city in Slovakia is very close to Košice and perfect for a day trip. It is famous for its baroque and renaissance houses, which create the unique atmosphere of its market square. Walking through the streets, you can feel a calmer atmosphere than in Košice, perfect for a break from student hustle. Prešov also has its beer traditions – this is where the famous Šariš beer is brewed. It is a charming place that enchants with its harmony between history and everyday life.
Slovak Paradise
A national park that attracts nature and adventure lovers. You will find gorges, waterfalls, bridges, and metal ladders leading along rock walls. It is one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in Europe. The trails are diverse – from easy walks to challenging routes that provide adrenaline. The name of this place is no coincidence – here you really feel like in paradise.
High Tatras
The highest mountain range in Slovakia, perfect for trekking and admiring alpine landscapes. Trails lead to Lomnický Peak, which can be reached by cable car, and to the picturesque Štrbské Pleso. It is a great destination both in summer and winter when the region turns into a skiing paradise. The views of jagged peaks and crystal-clear mountain lakes are breathtaking. Every student should visit at least once to feel the majesty of the mountains.
Dobšiná Ice Cave
One of the most beautiful ice caves in Europe. Even in the middle of summer, the cave’s interior holds ice that forms fairy-tale-like corridors and chambers. Walking through it, you can feel the atmosphere of eternal winter, with blue light reflecting off icy walls. It is an ideal escape from summer heat. The underground wonders make this an unforgettable natural attraction.
Southern Poland
Kraków
The historical capital of Poland and one of the most important cities in Central Europe. The Main Square impresses with the Cloth Hall and the bugle call from St. Mary’s Tower, while Wawel Castle rising over the Vistula River recalls the royal past. The Kazimierz district attracts with atmospheric streets, synagogues, and cafes. In Kraków, you can feel the spirit of history but also the energy of young people giving rhythm to the city. It is a place where tradition meets modernity.
Warsaw
The capital of Poland, which combines modernity with history. The Old Town, rebuilt after the war, with the Royal Castle, has been inscribed on the UNESCO list. The Palace of Culture and Science towers over the city panorama, being both a symbol of the communist era and a viewing point. The green Łazienki Royal Park is perfect for rest among palaces, gardens, and squirrels. Warsaw is developing dynamically, becoming a metropolis on a European scale.
Zakopane
The capital of the Polish Tatras and the mecca of mountain lovers. The main street, Krupówki, is full of restaurants serving oscypek cheese and highlander specialties. From here start trails to Giewont, Kasprowy Wierch, or the Kościeliska Valley. In winter, Zakopane turns into a skiing center, and in summer into a paradise for hikers. The town has a unique character and rich highlander culture.
Polish Tatras
Mountains full of legends, peaks, and valleys that attract thousands of tourists. The most famous spot is Morskie Oko, located among towering peaks, accessible via a scenic trail. The Valley of Five Lakes is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in the Tatras. The trails are varied – from easy routes for families to demanding ascents of Rysy, the highest peak in Poland. This is a place that shows the beauty of nature in its purest form.
Oświęcim (Auschwitz-Birkenau)
A place everyone should visit at least once in their life. It is a former Nazi German concentration and extermination camp, today a museum and memorial. Visiting the barracks, gas chambers, and exhibitions is an extremely moving experience. It is a history lesson that helps understand the magnitude of World War II tragedy. A visit here prompts reflection on the value of freedom and life.
Białka Tatrzańska – Thermal Baths
A popular thermal pool complex at the foot of the Tatras. The geothermal water has relaxing and health-promoting properties, making it an ideal spot after mountain hikes. In summer you can enjoy views of the mountains, and in winter bathe in hot water surrounded by snow. The complex also offers slides and a spa zone. It is a great option for a weekend relaxation.
Chochołów – Thermal Baths
The largest thermal baths in Poland, located near Zakopane. They offer dozens of pools, saunas, and wellness zones for full regeneration. The view of the Tatras from the hot pools is unforgettable. This place combines highlander tradition with modernity. Students often choose it as a spot for integration and rest.
Ojców and Pieskowa Skała
A part of Ojców National Park, full of limestone rocks, caves, and castles. The famous Hercules’ Club rock formation is a symbol of the region, and the Pieskowa Skała Castle delights with its renaissance architecture. The park is perfect for hiking in natural surroundings. You can also find caves such as Łokietek Cave, tied to Polish history. It is an excellent idea for a one-day trip
Vienna (Austria)
Vienna Opera
One of the most important places of classical music in the world. The building impresses with 19th-century monumental architecture and interiors full of splendor. Each year, dozens of opera and ballet performances take place here, with student tickets available at reduced prices. A walk around the Opera is also a chance to see the elegant Ringstrasse boulevard. It is the cultural heart of Vienna, inspiring with its atmosphere.
Schönbrunn Palace
The former summer residence of the Habsburgs is one of the most visited places in Austria. The palace has over 1,400 rooms, and its interiors take you back to the world of imperial splendor. The gardens around the palace are vast, full of fountains, alleys, and an orangery, perfect for long walks. On the grounds, you will also find the world’s oldest zoo – Tiergarten Schönbrunn. The entire complex is a UNESCO site and makes a huge impression.
Belvedere
A baroque palace complex consisting of Upper and Lower Belvedere. Today it functions as a museum with one of Austria’s most important art collections. The most famous work is Gustav Klimt’s 'The Kiss’, attracting crowds of visitors. Around the palace are beautiful French-style gardens. It is a place where art and architecture create perfect harmony.
Prater
A huge park in the heart of Vienna, known for the legendary Ferris wheel Riesenrad. It is a great spot for a walk, picnic, or bike ride. Besides green areas, you will also find an amusement park with attractions for all ages. In the evening, the place gains a special atmosphere thanks to colorful lights and lively crowds. It is an ideal combination of recreation and fun.
Czech Republic
Prague
The capital of the Czech Republic and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Prague Castle overlooking the Vltava River is the largest castle complex in the world, and Charles Bridge impresses with its Gothic statues. The Old Town with its astronomical clock and colorful houses creates a fairy-tale atmosphere. The city is full of life – from elegant restaurants to cozy beer halls. It is a place that charms in every season.
Brno
The second largest city in the Czech Republic, famous for its youthful energy. Špilberk Castle on the hill recalls the city’s history and offers stunning views. The Tugendhat Villa, inscribed on the UNESCO list, is a modernist masterpiece and a gem for architecture fans. Brno is full of cafes, bars, and meeting spots that give it a student character. It is a city that combines tradition with modernity.
Olomouc
A lesser-known but very charming city in Moravia. Its market square is adorned with the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO site. The city is full of churches, historic houses, and fountains that recall its past glory. Thanks to numerous universities, Olomouc has a youthful, open atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for a calm city break.
Bohemian Paradise
A region famous for unique rock formations and medieval castles. Walking the trails, you can admire picturesque gorges and viewpoints with panoramas of the whole area. The ruins of Trosky Castle, towering over the landscape, are particularly popular. It is perfect for hiking and discovering nature. The region enchants with its wild and fairy-tale character.
Moravian Karst
A karst area known for its numerous caves and underground rivers. The main attraction is the Macocha Abyss, over 130 meters deep, making a huge impression. Visitors can also take a boat trip on the Punkva River, admiring spectacular rock formations. The caves can be explored on different routes – from short visits to more demanding tours. This is a place that shows the magic of the underground world.
Hungary
Budapest
The capital of Hungary and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The city on the Danube combines the elegance of Pest with the historic character of Buda. The Parliament, bridges, and Castle Hill are must-see attractions. Budapest is also famous for its thermal baths like Gellért and Széchenyi, where you can relax in hot pools. It is a city that fascinates both day and night.
Eger
A picturesque town best known for its wine 'Egri Bikavér’ – 'Bull’s Blood’. The old town is full of baroque buildings and atmospheric wine cellars. Over the town rises a castle with beautiful panoramic views. It is also worth visiting the famous Valley of the Beautiful Women to taste local drinks. It is a place where history and wine culture intertwine in a unique way.
Debrecen
The second largest city in Hungary, sometimes called the 'Calvinist Rome’. Its most recognizable landmark is the Great Calvinist Church on Kossuth Square. The city has a vibrant student life and regularly hosts festivals and cultural events. Debrecen is also the gateway to Hortobágy National Park, making it a great base. It is a place where tradition meets modern living.
Balaton
The largest lake in Central Europe, often called the 'Hungarian Sea’. In summer, its shores turn into beaches full of tourists and water sports enthusiasts. The surroundings also offer charming towns like Tihany with its beautiful Benedictine abbey. It is a perfect destination for relaxation and sunbathing. Balaton attracts young people with its laid-back vibe and summer parties.
Hortobágy
A steppe national park listed as a UNESCO site. It is the largest area of its kind in Europe, with a unique puszta landscape. The park is famous for traditional animal breeds like gray cattle and horses. A popular attraction is the nine-arched bridge, a symbol of the region. It is a place where you can feel the true spirit of Hungarian nature.
Summary
Studying medicine in Košice is not only about lectures, exams, and long hours at the library – it’s also about living in one of the most exciting crossroads of Central Europe. The city itself enchants with its Gothic cathedral, cozy cafés, and vibrant student atmosphere, but the real treasure is how close it is to so many remarkable destinations. Within just a few hours, you can hike through the High Tatras or Slovak Paradise, relax in thermal baths in southern Poland, wander the medieval streets of Kraków or Prague, or admire the imperial elegance of Vienna. History becomes real when you visit Auschwitz, culture surrounds you in the Vienna Opera or Budapest’s thermal baths, and nature amazes in places like Balaton or Moravian Karst.
Every direction from Košice offers something different – mountains and lakes, castles and cathedrals, art and music, wine and traditions. This makes your student years not only a time of intense learning but also an opportunity to travel, explore, and build unforgettable memories across borders. In Košice, you don’t just study medicine – you discover the heart of Central Europe, piece by piece, weekend by weekend.
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Dentist, entrepreneur, coach, and alpine skiing competitor. He began working as a recruitment intermediary in 2011 while studying dentistry in Bratislava.
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