Spiš Castle

A Medieval Castle Beyond the Tatra Mountains

Spišské Podhradie
www.spisskemuzeum.com
Spišské Podhradie
39,000 m²

Area of the castle complex

1120

The earliest written mention of the castle

1993

Year of inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List

Spiš Castle is a place where medieval history comes to life

Spiš Castle is perched on a travertine cliff above Spišské Podhradie and is one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe. The earliest written mention of it dates back to 1120. It originally served as a border fortress, later becoming the seat of the Spiš County Governor and an important center of secular power in the Spiš region.

Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and rebuilt by several noble families. Palaces, defensive towers, a knights’ hall, and the Chapel of St. Elizabeth were constructed here. In 1780, a fire destroyed the castle, and it gradually fell into ruin. Since 1993, it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the surrounding monuments. Currently, the lower and middle courtyards are open to visitors, while the upper castle remains closed for reconstruction.

April–May, daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
June–August, daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
September–October, daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
What We Offer
A tour of the lower and middle courtyards
Historical and Museum Exhibits
Examples of Medieval Architecture
Panoramic views of the Spiš region
Cultural Events and Night Tours
Sivá Brada–Dreveník Nature Trail
What do you need to know before you arrive?
Set aside about two hours for your visit to the castle
Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes
The path to the castle leads through gently sloping and, in places, uneven terrain
The Upper Castle is closed due to ongoing renovations
Stay on the marked trails and access paths only
In case of inclement weather, the castle may be closed for safety reasons
Free parking is available below the castle on the side facing the village of Žehra
Entry to the premises is permitted only with a valid ticket

Please read this before your visit

Renovation and Accessible Areas of the Castle

The Upper Castle is closed to visitors due to renovation work. The lower and middle courtyards remain accessible. Due to the critical condition of some structural elements, it is prohibited to walk at the base of the castle hill, beneath the rocky cliff, and near the castle walls outside of the marked trails.

Hours and Admission

From June through August, Spiš Castle is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with last admission at 6:00 p.m. Due to restrictions caused by renovation work, the standard admission fee for adults has been reduced to €12. Students and seniors pay €8, children ages 6 to 18 pay €6, and children under 6 are admitted free of charge.

Parking and the Route to the Castle

Free parking for visitors is located below the castle on the side of the village of Žehra. From there, it’s about a ten-minute walk to the entrance. You can also set out for the castle from Spišské Podhradie, from where the hike takes about one hour. There is no parking lot directly below the castle on the Spišské Podhradie side.

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.

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Must-See Places. Discover them one by one

Every corner of the High Tatras and the surrounding area has its own story. Discover the places that shape the character of the region.

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Across the Priečne Pass through two Tatra valleys

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From Sedielko to Javorová Valley

10.4 1365 4 hours 30 minutes Ľahká
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A challenging hike to Zelené pleso beneath the Tatra peaks

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A leisurely walk to Jamské Lake

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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

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Taste the dishes

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Nature Trail

A short route suitable for children

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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.