M. R. Štefánik Airport, also known as Bratislava Airport, is located approximately nine kilometres from Bratislava City, Slovakia. The airport is a popular flight destination as it serves four countries. M. R. Štefánik Airport is within one hour’s drive from Vienna, Austria and provides easy access to cities in Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
The most appealing attractions are outside the terminal building. Bratislava City has a wealth of history and landmarks to explore. Begin at Church of St. Elizabeth or the “Blue Church”. The Hungarian Art Nouveau design is awe-inspiring, resembling a beautifully decorated wedding cake. Bratislava’s charming medieval centre tempts all travellers. Straight off a picture postcard, quaint streets are lined with independent shops and stalls. There are several cafes and restaurants in which to stop for a snack or beverage in and around Main Square. Overlooking the city, Bratislava Castle is an impressive white structure with terracotta roof turrets. Originally built in the 9th century, the location offers views of Austria and on clear days, Hungary. Explore the castle’s fascinating history, sculptures, statues and artefacts from the Slovak National Museum. A contemporary icon of Bratislava’s UFO Bridge and Tower. The open-air observation tower in the UFO-shaped cupola has a restaurant, bar and great views of the cityscape. A short drive outside the city is Devin Castle, where visitors will find a well-preserved ruin etched into the rock face. The panoramic vistas of the River Danube and Morava are a photographer’s dream.
Buses run from M. R. Štefánik Airport terminal building to Main Railway Station in Bratislava City. The journey takes less than 20 minutes. From the station, it is possible to access trains, trams, trolleybuses, and bus services to cities further afield. Bratislava Railway Station operates trains to Prague, Budapest and Vienna. Buses travel to Vienna hourly and boats offer sailings along the River Danube. Taxis and Uber are available.
Flights from Bratislava began in 1923, with journeys between Prague, Czech Republic and Bratislava. Following the completion of Vienna International Airport just 55 kilometres away, passenger numbers began to decrease. Bratislava airport is compact but serves many European and Middle Eastern nations. The advent of low-cost airlines has increased passenger transfers at M. R. Štefánik Airport to just under 1.5 million a year.