5 things to avoid

1. Pricey Restaurants

UFO is the circular restaurant located on the New Bridge in Bratislava. I have been there before; it offers a beautiful view of the city and modern restaurant. But besides the lovely view from the open air observation deck, the restaurant is overly priced. If you are travelling on a budget, then you should avoid this tower. If you just want to see the view, the price to take the elevator up to UFO is €6.50 for one adult and €3.25 for students. So if it’s the view of the city you are seeking, then it is best to go to the Bratislava Old Castle. Le Monde, Paparazzi, and Trafo are also on the list of the most expensive restaurants in the town.

2.  Taking Public Transportation Without a Ticket

In Bratislava you cannot pay the driver when you get on the bus or tram. There are orange-colored self-serve ticket machines where you can purchase your bus tickets. The machines do not take bank notes or debit cards, so be sure to have some change in your pockets.

You can also buy bus tickets from any news stands that sell cigarettes and magazines; I should warn you that you should not take the tram without a ticket, as the public transportation inspectors ride the buses and trams to check everyone to see if they have paid for the ride. If you get caught riding without a ticket, the fine is €45.00.

3. Overly Priced Shops in the Centre

There are plenty of shopping centres and discounted shops in Bratislava, so it is best to avoid the high street shops in Old Town. On Laurinská Street, the Central Passage has Alizé, a designer shop with Versace, D&G, and DKNY. Pretty pricey, if you ask me.  If you are budget shopper then head to Commerce Street where there are plenty of trendy fashion stores like New Yorker and Terra Nova.

4. Taxing Taxis

Bratislava is a decent size city to get around in, especially if you have a map. With many tram and bus lines to get you virtually anywhere, it is best to avoid taking taxis. Taxis in the town are expensive and rely on lost tourists to increase their rate, so beware!

A tip: If you need to take a taxi, the rate is cheaper when you call from your mobile and order one. The taxis queued at the taxi rank will charge you a higher rate.

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5.  Do Not Get Robbed! Keep Your Eyes on Your Purse, Wallet, and Bags

It is a good idea to keep your passports, cash, and credit cards close to you in a passport holder or your pockets. Make sure your purses and luggage are always closed and zippered up. Since Bratislava does not have an underground, crowded trams and buses are ideal environments where pick pocketers operate.

A tip: I have friends who were pick pocketed in the Old Town while at a pub or riding public transportation, so keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

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