From Bratislava: UNESCO: Banská Štiavnica: Mine, Castle, Spa
Sklene Teplice Kupele, Slovakia
UNESCO-listed and romantic Banská Štiavnica! Mining experience in Bartolomej Shaft in Summer, Spa in Sklené Teplice's thermal cave. Options are the Old Štiavnica Castle, or near Sväty Anton castle.
Overview
This guided tour explores Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia’s UNESCO-listed mining town, suitable for history and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Explore the historic Štôlňa Bartolomej gold mine gallery
- Relax and swim in mineral-rich thermal water inside Parenica Cave Spa
- Discover the unique volcanic crater setting of Banská Štiavnica
- Visit optional UNESCO heritage sites: Štiavnica Old Castle or St. Anthony’s Manor House
Description
Travel from Bratislava to Banská Štiavnica, a historic mining town surrounded by “Tajch” artificial lakes. Experience the underground Štôlňa Bartolomej mine, located 2 km from the town, where you will wear mining gear and tour dimly lit tunnels to learn about the town’s mining history. The guided mine visit lasts about 90 to 100 minutes.
Explore Banská Štiavnica’s medieval streets, admire centuries-old architecture, and enjoy local cafés offering Slovak specialties. On the way back, visit the nearby Sklene Teplice spa, known for its natural thermal springs. Swim in the unique Parenica Cave’s alkaline-gypsum mineral waters, a spa tradition dating to the 16th century once visited by Empress Maria Theresia. The spa offers treatments for musculoskeletal and nervous system conditions, featuring a cave steam bath and historic-style thermal pool.
The town’s mining heritage is further showcased at the Slovak Mining Museum in Nature, including the unique horse-powered Gápel engine. In winter, when the mine is closed, visitors can explore St. Anthony’s Manor House or Štiavnica Old Castle as alternative historic sites.
Includes
- Round-trip drive from Bratislava to Banská Štiavnica and Sklene Teplice
- Ticket to Banská Štiavnica Mining Museum and Štôlňa Bartolomej mine (summer) or St. Anthony’s Manor House (winter or alternative)
- 1 to 1.5 hour guided city walk
- Entrance and 45–60 minutes cave spa procedure at Sklene Teplice Spa (Parenica Cave)
- Bottled water on board
- Entrance to Štiavnica Old Castle
Excludes
- Meals and drinks
- Souvenirs
- Tips
Important Information
- The mine environment can be cold, damp, and dirty; wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Bring swimwear and a towel for the cave spa visit.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Reserve your spot in advance, especially for the mine tour and spa visit. Dress in layers for underground temperatures and bring swimwear. The best time to visit the mine is during the warmer months when it is open. In winter, visit alternative historic sites.
