3. November 2025
On the right bank of the Danube, Southbank – a new urban district defined by world-class architecture and a strong focus on public space – will soon take shape. Even before construction begins, the area is already demonstrating that urban development can start long before the first building rises. During the first season of the activation phase, the site opened to the public and welcomed more than 11,700 visitors. The space between the Apollo and Prístavný bridges transformed into a lively meeting point full of food, culture and city life.
At the heart of the activation stood Bufet 24, created in collaboration with Bistro 24 and the Slovak architecture studio GRO architekti. The pavilion under Apollo Bridge, simple yet striking in its design, offered authentic, relaxed gastronomy throughout the summer months. The menu featured local favorites such as the traditional parížak (a creamy ham salad), fresh pretzels, and homemade termix milk dessert— with more than 7,000 products sold over the season.
The activation phase, however, offered more than just culinary experiences; it also provided an opportunity for the public to take part in shaping the future of Southbank. Visitors were invited to share their ideas about what they would like to see along the riverfront – with the most common suggestions being a children’s playground, streetball court, dog park, beach volleyball, and an open-air cinema. These proposals are being collected and reviewed, and some will be incorporated into the project’s next phases.
Through this activation, Southbank has become a testing ground for future urban functions and public-space features. The project builds on the concept of so-called “bowls” – themed public zones designed to connect sports, culture, gastronomy, and leisure. The strong public interest has already shown that Bratislava residents are eager to rediscover the riverfront, and that the connection between architecture, community, and daily life works beautifully in the project’s early phase.
The second activation season will launch in spring 2026, bringing new functional improvements, seasonal events, and activities inspired by visitor feedback. The vision is for Southbank to be alive and vibrant today – and to keep that same energy well beyond the completion of construction.
