Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia, set on the banks of the Danube River in the Bratislava Region of central Europe. It is a compact city, and much of its appeal lies in how easily its historic core can be explored on foot.
What to see
- The medieval castle, which rises above the river and gives the city its most recognisable outline.
- The old town, a charming area of narrow streets, squares and older buildings to wander through without a fixed plan.
- Architecture in layers: Gothic, Baroque and modern buildings sit close together, so a single walk can take in several centuries.
Planning your visit
Bratislava is also known by its older names, Pressburg in German and Pozsony in Hungarian, which you may see on maps and in older texts. Its position close to Vienna makes it an easy addition to a trip through the region, and many visitors combine the two cities.
The river is central to the city's character, and a stroll along its banks makes a good way to link the castle with the old town. Allow a day or two to see the main sights at a relaxed pace, and leave time for simply sitting in a square and watching the city go by.
