Bratislava the capital of Slovakia is situated in the south west of the country on the banks of the Danube and in the foothills of the Little Carpathian mountains. This small city which is home to 425 000 people has throughout its history due to its location been of strategic importance. It is today a growing modern city however its true beauty can be seen in its jewel of a old town with the Castle of Bratislava at its heart.
How to get there.
Bratislava airport is situated approx 9 km North East of the city and is by comparison a fairly small international airport it has decent connections with most European countries. To get from the airport the easiest way is by taxi however there is also a airport bus. (Bus No 61)
However Bratislava is also served by the larger Vienna International Airport which is in fact just over a hour away by train. Plus Vienna has a much greater number of destinations to connect from than Bratislava Airport.
With the city being on the banks of the Danube it is also a popular stop on many river cruise itineraries and this is how many visitors arrive in the city.
There is also a river ferry that operates in the summer months between Vienna and Bratislava.
River cruise boats in Bratislava
What to see and do
Wander the streets of the Old Town
This historical area is small and compact but it is where most of the cities must see tourists sights are to be found, however the area in general is perfect for simply exploring its cobblestone streets and searching for a favourite cafe or bar it really is a picturesque old world location.
Wandering the old town
Michael's GateBuild in 1300 Michael's Gate is the only surviving medieval gate in Bratislava. its in the Old Town and you can simply walk up to it and take a picture or you can climb to the top of it for a better view.
Michael's Gate at the end of the street
Closer view of Michael's Gate and Tower.
View from top of the gate
Old Town Hall
One of the oldest buildings in Bratislava the Old Town Hall has had a mixed history having previously served as a prison and a mint. It sits in the Main Square at the heart of the Old Town and you can climb its Tower for some great views of the Square and city.
Old Town Hall
View from the tower of Old Town Hall
Another view from the tower
Logistics Manager at top of the tower
Hviezdoslavov Square
This Square or Boulevard in the Old Town has the Slovak National Theater at one end and is lined by embassies and smart Townhouses, there is also rows of trees and fountains. It is a popular spot for outdoor displays or concerts.
Slovak National Theater
Cobblestone's in the square and fountain in front of the theater at night
St Elizabeth's Church ( Blue Church)
This Art Nouveau Church is just East of the Old Town area, it was built in 1910 as the Chapel for a Grammer School but has since gone on to be a symbol for Slovakia. You can go inside the church where the pews are also painted blue and there is a painting of St Elizabeth.
The blue church
Bratislava Castle
The castle watches over the city and can be seen from various points around it, it sits on a defendable hill high above it, the castle was unmatched as it sat between the Alps and the Carpathians defending a important ancient ford in the Danube. Its heyday came in the 16th century when it was the seat of the Kings of Royal Hungary and was the home of the Hungarian Crown Jewels for 200 years. It is now one if not the most famous landmark in the city with a museum inside.
Bratislava Castle
Castle at night
Most SNPThis is another iconic landmark of Bratislava and one you will get a great view of if you arrive in the city via the river. Its full name is, Bridge of Slovak National Uprising. It was opened in 1972 and holds a world record. It is the longest cabel-stayed bridge to have only one pylon and a single set of cables.
At the top of that pylon is another viewing platform, known by the locals as the UFO. As well as a viewing platform there is also a restaurant up there which you can book. You can also walk across the bridge for some good views of the Danube.
Most SNP Bridge
A view of the UFO
Myself and Logistics Manager on the bridge
Statues in the Old TownIf your looking for that quirky photo for your social media, well the Old Town may just give you it, dotted in some very unusual places you will find a number of creative and at times cheeky statues. Look out for them as you walk around.
Statues in the Old Town
Watch out for this guy as you walk around.
Grassalkokovich Palace
This grand palace original built in 1760 is now the official residence of the Slovak President.
As a result of it being a government building it is not open to the public, however it has a stylish fountain outside and you can stop there and take pictures. You can then go behind the Palace where you will find what was originally the Palace's Gardens but is now a beautiful public park.
The palace and park is situated just to the north of the Old Town.
Fountain and Palace
Primate's PalaceThis palace was original built in its Neoclassical style in 1770s for a Archbishop it was more recently until 1996 the residence of the President. It is open to the public and its most famous feature is a tour of the Hall of Mirrors which is a sequence of 5 rooms each named after its colour of decor.
Primate's Palace
Where to eat and drink.
There is a a wide choice of bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from in Bratislava and particular in the Old Town. The area is well known for its sweet and savoury dumplings, as well as its Slovak beer. Bratislava also produces a excellent sparkling wine that is well worth sampling.
As for premises I have included three establishment's that I would recommend trying, as we certainly enjoyed them on our visit.
Fabrika Beer Pub
This place provides some excellent burgers with a wide range of toppings, it also brews its own craft beers on the site if you like your beer, I particularly liked the Fabrika F12 Lager, a type of Pilsner but there are more to try and I am sure you will find one to your liking.
Orbis Street Food
This restaurant 2 minutes from the Old Town Square is perfect for visitors on a budget or ones just looking for a snack on the go. Get a carry out order and take it with you to the square to enjoy as you watch the goings on. It has a great varied menu and everything is cooked to perfection.
LaPutika Cafe
This traditional Slovak cafe is found in the Old Town it has very reasonable priced drinks and offers a set 2 course menu along traditional lines. The portions were a good size and the beef soup I had was full of flavour. Give this excellent local cafe a look.
Conclusion
Bratislava is not as popular or well publicise as many cities and locations along the Danube or in this region as a whole, but it offers so much in a compact area that makes it a great location if you are visiting for the day from Vienna or on a River Cruise. However it also is in its own right a good and different choice for a city break I was not sure what to expect before we went but I left with a very positive view of the city. Give it a try.
Hope you enjoyed my review if so please share on social media and follow along as we continued our journey around this blue planet.
See you soon.
Davie
