Slovak Learning Community and Resources

Staying in Slovakia Bingo: Ultimate Things to Experience

The playtime is on! And anybody who has ever stayed in Slovakia can join. Can you cross off all the things in our Staying in Slovakia Ultimate Bingo list? Let’s find out!

Ate Halušky

You can't visit Slovakia without trying this iconic dish! Halušky are delicious potato dumplings mixed with salty sheep cheese (bryndza), topped with bacon bits (škvarky). Halušky is a very hearty meal (as all the Slovak dishes) so don’t get too full before eating it. If you come across a traditional restaurant, typically a Koliba (Shepherd’s hut), you can be sure they have bryndzové halušky on their menu

Drank traditional cola drink

Slovaks and Czechs share a common love for a unique beverage that transcends borders: a traditional cola drink. This beloved soft drink, born out of the communist era as an alternative to western colas, holds a special place in the hearts of both nations. It is a true cultural symbol and it is widely available (usually on tap) in restaurants, bars, cafes, and grocery stores throughout both countries. Note: Halušky and the cola drink might not be the best combination.

Visited Bratislava

A visit to the capital is a must. Bratislava might not be the city that people love at first sight but its charm slowly reveals itself to those who take the time to explore its beauty and hidden treasures. The breathtaking views along the Danube River, the walks in the Carpathians forests, the strolls through the compact city centre, all of this contribute to Bratislava's undeniable allure.

Forgot that shops are closed on bank holiday

This is a common experience for many visitors as well as regular inhabitants. So if you need to shop your groceries or anything else, make sure you do it in advance. Also if you are planning a trip that falls on a public holiday, be prepared that transport services (mostly buses) can have different schedules and other services can be closed.

Sang Na Kráľovej holi

If there is a festive occasion or celebration going on, it’s with a high probability that the traditional Slovak folk song Na Kráľovej holi (On the King's Hill) would be sung at some point. The lyrics repeat in a pattern where each verse is sung twice before moving on to the next verse so it’s not that difficult to join the singing. And if you do, this experience will definitely bring you closer to locals.

Ate Korbáčiky

Korbáčik is a type of salty string cheese that resembles a whip and originated from the Orava region. The traditional production is handmade. In Orava, especially in Zázrivá village, you can find many local producers selling their korbáčiky in the stands along the road. However, you can buy it in grocery stores as well. Korbáčiky can be smoked or unsmoked. If you are into tasting traditional cuisine, korbáčiky should be on your list.

Visited at least one castle

Slovakia is home to countless magnificent castles (around 180), each with its own unique history and architectural beauty. You can find one in almost every part of the country so when planning trips, a castle can be an easy choice. Spiš castle is one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Orava castle is perched on the rocky cliff and has been featured in several movies (such as Nosferatu), Devín castle is situated at the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers, offering stunning views. And there’s many, many more.

The High Tatras (sometimes dubbed Little Alps) are a natural wonderland, boasting breathtaking mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing. A visit here is essential for experiencing the beauty of Slovakia's landscape. A photo from Štrbské pleso, with the iconic scenery of the lake, peaks, rowing boats and hotel building shouldn’t be missed in your gallery.

Was asked to pronounce čučoriedka

Slovaks love it when foreigners try to speak their language. And if they can challenge them a bit, they would probably ask them to pronounce the word “čučoriedka” (blueberry). It’s not the most difficult word in Slovak, but it has distinctive phonetics (choo-choh-ree-yed-kah). Have you tried to pronounce it? How did it go?

How well did you do in our special bingo? Did you manage to have a full bingo? Is there something you would add to this ultimate list? Share your results with the rest of the community here.