Botanical Garden UPJŠ

About

The Botanical Garden of UPJŠ in Košice is the largest botanical garden in Slovakia and a remarkable sanctuary of biodiversity. Established in 1950, it now protects more than 4,000 plant species, including rare and endangered varieties from around the world. One fascinating fact is that its tropical greenhouse complex is home to one of the country’s richest collections of orchids and exotic butterflies, making it a favourite destination for nature lovers. Inside, visitors can explore three main greenhouse zones: tropical, subtropical, and desert. Each offers a distinct atmosphere, from lush rainforest vegetation and giant ferns to cacti towering above head height. The outdoor grounds feature themed sections such as the Japanese garden, a peaceful space with ponds and carefully shaped greenery, and the arboretum, where mature trees create a calm, shaded landscape. Seasonal exhibitions—especially the annual butterfly show—add an extra layer of discovery. The Botanical Garden UPJŠ is both a scientific institution and a serene escape, inviting visitors to wander, observe, and reconnect with the natural world.

Košice Slovakia

Location

The Botanical Garden of Pavol Jozef Šafárik University is located on Mánesova Street in the Košice-Sever district of Košice, Slovakia. Just a short walk from the city center, the garden sits in a green residential area that makes it easy to reach by foot, bus, or trolleybus. Covering about 30 hectares, it is the largest botanical garden in Slovakia and celebrates over 75 years of history. Visitors can explore more than 4,000 plant taxa, including Slovakia’s biggest collections of cacti and cycads, tropical greenhouses with orchids and citrus fruits, seasonal butterfly exhibits, forest paths, and areas dedicated to beekeeping. The peaceful grounds are perfect for a two-hour stroll among exotic plants and quiet benches. Right next to the garden you will find the Mini ZOO, a small family-friendly attraction that adds to the natural feel of the area. About 730 metres to the northeast is Štadión Lokomotívy, a historic multi-purpose stadium once used by local football clubs. From the garden it takes only around 15 minutes to reach Košice’s vibrant city center. There you can visit Hlavná Street, St. Elisabeth Cathedral, the State Theatre, the Singing Fountain, and numerous cafés and museums in the Old Town. Public transport stops like Botanická Záhrada are only a few minutes away, making it simple to combine a calm visit to the gardens with Košice’s main tourist sights.