Petrzalka Waterfront
Best Views of the Old Town
About
Welcome to Petrzalka, the southern district of Bratislava! Established in the 1970s on the grounds of the old village of the same name (formerly Engerau in German), this monumental Communist-era housing project, designed to accommodate laborers from across the country, has grown into the largest borough in Central Europe.
The area near the Danube offers a fascinating mix of contrasts, from the futuristic architecture of the UFO Bridge and a modern shopping center to the oldest public park in Central Europe, established 200 years before the first apartment blocks were built in Petrzalka.
The Petrzalka Waterfront itself, officially known as Tyrsovo Embankment, is a favorite spot for locals, thanks to its proximity to the river and stunning views of the Old Town skyline. Whether you’re up for a morning run, a leisurely afternoon stroll, or an evening at one of the boat restaurants, Petrzalka’s waterfront is well worth a visit.
Logistics
- Tyršovo nábrežie, Bratislava, Bratislava
- Non-stop
- Free of charge
- In the evening hours, enjoy a stunning vista of Bratislava Castle illuminated against the night sky.
Tips
Nearby restaurants
If you seek a romantic place with a nice view, check one of the restaurants on Petrzalka’s waterfront, some of them with a view of the Old Town. Bubbles is a popular floating restaurant moored on the Danube River, offering not only delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes, but also an incredible panoramic view of Bratislava’s skyline, especially stunning at sunset. We recommend that you check the availability in advance, as it is regularly used for private events.
The UFO restaurant atop of the SNP Bridge houses a high-end restaurant with a fantastic view. It might be a good idea to check availability and book a table.
For latecomers, Au Cafe and Leberfinger also are pricier options which are open every day until midnight. Bistro Ferdinand situated in the Janko Kral Park offers very good coffee and a selection of cakes and snacks for an affordable price.
Last, but not least, the Aupark shopping center located in close vicinity of the Petrzalka Waterfront provides plenty of dining options, including coffee shops, a fine tea room, and both fast-food and more fancier restaurants.
Things to do nearby
Three popular tourist attractions are located near the Petrzalka Waterfront. Janko Kral Park, the oldest public park in Central Europe, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. The UFO Observation Deck and Restaurant provides arguably the best panoramic views of Bratislava’s Old Town. Lastly, Aupark Shopping Center boasts a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a multiplex cinema.
Although named after a 19th century romantic poet and Slovak national activist Janko Kral whose statue is situated at the central crossroads, the park’s origins are much older. It was established in 1774-1776 as the first park for the general public (not just for the nobility) in Central Europe. Janko Kral Park features precious old trees, resting areas with sculptures representing the zodiac signs, and a unique gothic gazebo, originally a tower of the Franciscan Church in the Old Town.
Bratislava features one of the world’s most unique bridges, housing an open-air observation deck and a fancy restaurant atop of its pylon, with a stunning view on the Bratislava Castle and the Old Town. Thanks to its futuristic flying-disc shape, it has become known as UFO.
One of Slovakia’s first major shopping malls that replaced the traditional department stores and boutiques as the primary place for shopping in the early 2000s, Aupark has been benefiting from its advantageous location between Petrzalka and Old Town, as well as its proximity to the popular Janko Kral Park. There are dozens of stores, coffee shops, a multiplex cinema, a game zone, and a large supermarket. Benefit from the shopping center’s garage parking policy, allowing its customers to park 3 hours free of charge on weekdays and 5 hours on weekends. After that period, you pay 3 euros per hour.
