Bratislava Running Tour

Bratislava promenade, river Danube, Old Bridge, New Bridge, Bridge Apollo, Janko Kral park, Eurovea, Old Town buildings, Bratislava castle, St Martin's Cathedral, Slovak National Gallery, Slovak National Museum, Michal's Gate (all the building only from the outside, description, history facts), Hviezdoslavovo square

As we run up to the iconic Bratislava Castle, you’ll instantly recognize its striking rectangular shape with four corner towers — a true symbol of the city. From here, the panoramic views are breathtaking: you can see the Danube River winding through the city, the Old Town rooftops, and even Austria in the distance on clear days.

While passing through the castle grounds, you’ll spot the Baroque gardens, restored to their royal elegance, and the statues of ancient gods and heroes lining the walkways. The courtyard is open and spacious — perfect for a short pause to take in the history.

This stop is a mix of history, beauty, and the best cityscape view Bratislava has to offer — a reward for the climb!

As we reach Bratislava’s Main Square, we find ourselves right in the heart of the Old Town — surrounded by colorful historic buildings, cozy cafés, and the rhythm of city life. In the center stands the elegant Maximilian Fountain, built in the 16th century as a source of water and crowned with a statue of King Maximilian II in knight’s armor. Just beside it rises the Old Town Hall, one of the city’s oldest buildings, with its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles reflecting centuries of change.

As we reach the Danube River, the scene opens up beautifully — the wide blue flow of Europe’s second-longest river gliding past Bratislava. From here, you can spot the striking UFO Bridge (Most SNP) with its futuristic tower and observation deck high above the water. On the opposite bank lies Petržalka, known for its endless rows of apartment blocks from the communist era — a sharp contrast to the historic Old Town behind us.

As we approach the elegant Presidential Palace, also known as Grassalkovich Palace, you’ll notice its graceful Baroque style shining behind the fountain in front — a favorite photo spot for locals and visitors alike. Built in the 18th century for Count Grassalkovich, it later became the residence of Slovak presidents, often called the “Slovak White House.” Behind the palace stretch the Presidential Gardens, open to the public and perfect for a peaceful stroll or a short cool-down run. The paths are lined with trimmed hedges, fountains, and trees planted by world leaders during their visits — each one carrying a story of diplomacy and friendship.

Running into the narrow streets of the Old Town, we arrive at Michael’s Gate — the only surviving gate from the city’s medieval fortifications. Built in the 14th century, it once guarded the entrance to Bratislava with a drawbridge and moat! Today, it’s one of the city’s most photogenic spots, with a tall white tower topped by St. Michael slaying a dragon.

St. Martin’s Cathedral is one of Bratislava’s most important landmarks — and the city’s oldest church. For nearly 300 years, it served as the coronation church for Hungarian kings and queens, including Maria Theresa, when Bratislava was part of the Hungarian Kingdom. If you look up, you’ll see the tall Gothic spire crowned with a gold-plated replica of the Hungarian royal crown, a reminder of its royal past. Inside, beneath the stone arches, lie tombs of nobles and centuries of history carved into every wall. Outside, the cathedral stands dramatically beside the modern highway — a symbol of old and new Bratislava side by side.

As we reach the charming Blue Church, officially the Church of St. Elizabeth, it feels like stepping into a fairytale. Its soft blue color, rounded shapes, and white mosaic details make it one of the most unique buildings in Bratislava — and one of the most photographed. Built in the early 1900s in Art Nouveau style, it was dedicated to St. Elizabeth of Hungary, who was born right here in Bratislava Castle.