Levoča

Levoča

Levoča
18.62 m

The height of the tallest wooden Gothic altar in the world

2009

The Year Levoča Was Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List

2.5 km

Original length of the city fortifications

Levoča is a town where the Middle Ages are still alive

Levoča is one of the most precious historic towns in Slovakia. Its well-preserved medieval center, featuring the expansive Master Paul Square, burgher houses, and city fortifications, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2009. The town’s dominant feature is St. James’s Basilica, which houses the world’s tallest wooden Gothic altar—an 18.62-meter-high work by Master Paul of Levoča.

As you stroll through the center, you’ll discover the historic town hall, the Cage of Shame, stately townhouses, churches, and well-preserved city gates. After climbing the 216 steps in the tower of St. James’s Basilica, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the city, Mariánska Mountain, the High and Low Tatras, and Slovak Paradise. You can also learn about the history of individual landmarks using an audio guide with 22 stops.

The historic center is open year-round
The information office is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tower tours will take place from June 15 to September 30, 2026
What We Offer
A tour of the historic city center
A Visit to St. James Basilica
Climbing the Tower of St. James Basilica
Exhibits at the Spiš Museum in the Historic Town Hall
Audio Guides at Major Landmarks
Guided tour of the city with commentary
Hiking Trip to Mariánska Hora
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Set aside at least half a day to visit the city
Admission to St. James Basilica is permitted only at designated times
Guided tours are not available during church services, weddings, and other liturgical celebrations
The climb up the tower consists of 216 steps and is not wheelchair-accessible
The tour of the Spiš Museum's exhibits begins at the Historic Town Hall
The best way to explore the historic center is on foot
Free parking lots are located near the Košice Gate
Wear comfortable shoes for a walk on the pavement

Please read this before your visit

Entrances to the basilica and the tower

Visitor admission to St. James Basilica takes place at specific times, which vary by season. In 2026, the standard admission fee for adults is €4. The tower is open to visitors from June 15 through September 30, with a standard admission fee of €3. We recommend checking the current schedule before your visit, as admission times may be affected by church services or weddings.

Museums and Historical Exhibits

The exhibits at the Spiš Museum in Levoča are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; last admission is at 3:30 p.m. The tour begins on the ground floor of the Historic Town Hall. Master Paul’s House is currently closed for renovation, so please check the current availability of individual exhibits before your visit.

Parking and Information Office

Parking directly on Námestie Majstra Pavla is subject to a fee year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You can park for free at the overflow parking lots in the moat in front of the Košice Gate, about a five-minute walk from the city center. The information office at 47 Námestie Majstra Pavla is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where to Stay in the Area

Plan a comfortable stay—choose accommodations near this location and enjoy the region to the fullest without unnecessary travel.

Where to Eat in the Area

From traditional Tatra mountain huts to modern restaurants with mountain views—discover the local cuisine and plan where you’ll treat yourself to a well-deserved break with a good meal after your trip.

Other Trips in the High Tatras Area

The area around the Tatra Mountains is home to even more places worth visiting—discover other destinations and plan an outing for each day of your stay in the region.

The Tatra Mountains wake up differently every day

Current conditions, upcoming events, and editorial recommendations. Everything you need to know before heading to the Tatras.

Webcams

Most sidewalks are open
The chairlifts are in operation
The bike trails are open

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.

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    The High Tatras have something to offer all year round. The best time for high-altitude hiking is from June to October, when the hiking trails at higher elevations are open. Fall brings more stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful views. Winter is ideal for skiing, winter walks, and visiting locations that are accessible year-round. Before setting out on a trip, always check the current weather conditions and any trail closures.

    You do not need a special permit for regular hiking on marked trails. However, you must comply with TANAP’s visitor regulations and seasonal closures, and you may only hike on open trails. Special rules apply, for example, to rock climbing, ski mountaineering, hiking off marked trails, or bringing a dog into the park.

    You can easily reach the main Tatra resorts by train. The Tatra Electric Railways connect Poprad, Starý Smokovec, Štrbské Pleso, and Tatranská Lomnica. A cog railway runs from Štrba to Štrbské Pleso. You can also take advantage of regular bus routes and seasonal shuttle services in the region.

    You can park in designated parking lots in the various Tatra villages. During peak periods, we recommend using the P+R park-and-ride lot at Eurocamp in Tatranská Lomnica and continuing by shuttle bus. From this parking lot, you can take public transportation to destinations such as Tatranská Lomnica, Tatranské Matliare, Biela Voda, or the Belianska Cave.

    For hiking, choose sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles that stabilize your feet and protect them on rocky or wet terrain. Your gear should also include weather-appropriate clothing and a rain jacket. Sandals and regular city shoes are not suitable for more demanding hikes.

    When a storm is approaching, leave peaks, ridges, saddles, mountain passes, and open areas as soon as possible. Descend to lower elevations, avoid standing near isolated trees or metal objects, and keep your distance from other members of your group. If possible, take shelter in a mountain hut or a safe building. The best prevention is to check the weather forecast, set out early in the morning, and shorten or cancel your hike in a timely manner if conditions take a turn for the worse. Safety must take precedence over reaching your destination.