Guide to visiting Modrý kostol (The Blue Church) in Bratislava
Guide to visiting Modrý kostol (The Blue Church) in Bratislava
One of the highlights in Bratislava’s trove of attractions near the Old Town is Modrý Kostol, better known as the famous ‘Blue Church’ of Bratislava. Read on to find out all about this cute-as-a-button Bratislava icon.
The underrated capital of Slovakia is filled to the brim with hidden treasures, adorable photo stops and pastel-coloured buildings. Modry Kostol was our favourite stop while exploring Bratislava.
Modry Kostol in Bratislava, better known as ‘The Blue Church’
Modry Kostol, Bratislava
What is Modry Kostol?
Modrý Kostol is an intimate church near Bratislava’s old town. In English, the church is known as the St Elisabeth Roman Catholic Church, but is more aptly referred to as “The Blue Church”.
Modry Kostol stands out because of its unique blue colour
Building on the church started in 1909 and went through many iterations until it finally started operating as a church in 1913. The Church was strategically located next to a grammar school so students could attend the chapel with ease.
The exterior of the church is painted in an uncommon shade of pale blue, and is probably one of the most uniquely designed churches in Europe. The interior is also equally as photogenic as it retains the blue theme. The church also houses a beautifully intimate altar, where services are still held to this day.
The interior of Modry Kostol is also beautifully blue
Today, Modry Kostol is one of Bratislava’s most well-known sights and is frequently visited by tourists.
How do I get to Modry Kostol?
From anywhere in Bratislava’s Old Town, the church can be reached in an easy 15-minute walk.
The Church is just on a street called Gajova Street, and will be easily noticed when you’re close because of its striking blue colour.
You can also reach the church using the Bratislava Tram. Take Tram line number 1 heading towards Nam. L. Stura and get off at Nam. SNP stop. The church is about a 5 minute walk from the stop.
Are there any other tips and suggestions?
Because the Church is located on a suburban street, there isn’t actually that much space to take a clear photo of you and the church.
If you happen to have a fish eye lens for your phone or a wide angle lens for your camera, or even a Go Pro, I would recommend bringing them to take a photo of the church and yourself in the shot.
If you have a fisheye lens or wide camera lens, bring it as it’s hard to fit Modry Kostol into one frame.
The Church does get busy with visitors so coming early in the morning, at around 7am or 8am usually means less visitors.
Entrance fees and opening hours
Modry Kostol’s opening hours are to be paid attention to if you want to visit the interior of the church.
Make sure you check Modry Kostol’s opening hours before you visit as they’re pretty particular.
To visit inside, you’ll have to visit between the following hours:
Monday to Saturday: 6:30am – 7:30am and 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Sunday: 7:30am – 12:00pm and 5:30pm – 7:00pm
Note that times may change during holidays. We visited on the 26th of December (Boxing Day) and the Church was closed.
Mass is held on Mondays to Saturdays every day at 7:00am and 6:00pm. On Sundays, masses are held at 8:00am, 9:30am, 11:00am and 6:00pm.
Got any questions about Modry Kostol or Bratislava? Planning a visit?
Let us know in the comments below!