Beautiful city with stunning architecture is Europe's 'best-kept secret'
Kosice serves as the economic and cultural hub of Slovakia 's eastern region. Yet, despite its importance, tourists frequently bypass it.
The city ranks as the second-largest in this eastern European nation, housing approximately 230,000 residents alongside the Slovak Constitutional Court, three universities, museums and numerous theatres.
Among its most striking characteristics is the architecture, which blends contemporary and historical styles to form a distinctive cityscape.
One of Europe's most remarkable examples of Gothic cathedrals, St Elizabeth, stands here, close to the Neo-baroque State Theater and the municipal hall.
These magnificent attractions can all be appreciated whilst strolling along Kosice's cobblestone promenade, reports the Express.
Discussing this peaceful walk, one visitor commented on the tourism board website Tripadvisor: "Walking around the promenade is different every day. Each time you can find here new surprising details.
"So it is better to take a local guide and reserve enough time to enjoy this place. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants on the perimeter to take a rest."
Designated European Capital of Culture in 2013, Kosice also boasts a flourishing arts scene, with murals adorning the city's walls and galleries in abundance.
Visitors keen to discover more about Slovakian culture also have the opportunity to attend one of the numerous festivals occurring throughout the year, including the Music Spring Festival, the Summer in the Park, and Kosice Beer Fest.
Ryanair has spotlighted Kosice as a hidden gem, dubbing it "Europe's best-kept secret".
Many holidaymakers who have visited the city agree that Kosice is an underrated treasure.
One traveller took to Tripadvisor to share their surprise at the city's charm: "After visiting beautiful Budapest, Pecs and Eger in Hungary, our expectations for Kosice centre were not high but what a great surprise.
"The centre of the old town is pedestrianised which makes walking around a delight. There are some lovely buildings, beautiful fountains especially near the Cathedral and in the city park, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to pass the time."
Another tourist confessed they had low expectations before arriving in Kosice, but were pleasantly surprised: "We had lower expectations about visiting Kosice than some of the bigger cities we were visiting on this trip, but we were pleasantly surprised. The historic centre is charming, and its very long, narrow public 'square' was unique."
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