Bratislava

Bratislava, Slovakia

With fewer than half a million people, Bratislava, or the "little big city" as it's known, ranks among Europe's most relaxed capitals since everything is in close vicinity or a short walk away. It even has two capital cities nearby: Vienna (80km) and Budapest (200km)--also reachable by boat through the river Danube.
Slovakia's capital boasts an old-town charm, sophisticated restaurants, traditional pubs, good music ranging from jazz to opera, and an urban design that allows you to enjoy your visit without exhausting yourself. All this with Central Europe's greatest river as a backdrop.

Population:

424,428 (2016)

Currency:

Euro (EUR), €1=100 cents

Emergency Numbers:

Emergency: 112
Police: 158
Fire: 150
Ambulance: 155
City Police: 159

Opening Hours:

Newspapers:

The Slovak Spectator (English)
Hospodárske Noviny
Nový Čas
Pravda
SME - Bratislava

The City

The Capital of the Slovak Republic, Bratislava, also referred to as the Beauty on the Danube, can not only boast interesting history but it is also the centre of the most dynamically developing region of central Europe at present.

Bratislava is situated in the south-west of Slovakia and stretches on both banks of the Danube and in the foothills of the Little Carpathian Mountains. Slovakia's borders with Hungary, to the south, and Austria, to the west, make it the only capital city to border two neighbouring countries. In addition, the Czech Republic is only 62 kilometres away. The Austrian capital Vienna is only 60 kilometres distant, making them among the world's closest capital cities. Thanks to this favourable position it was always a commercial centre. Today the historic places are witness to the rapid development of the young Slovak Republic.

In spite of its exciting history, Bratislava is one of the youngest capitals in the world and its population is also very young. The modern metropolis is open to Europe and to the world as proved by the increasing number of foreign visitors from many diverse countries. They are attracted to the cosiness of the rather small city that nevertheless possesses a throbbing social life and historic charms combined with the most recent trends. Palaces, modern shopping, works of art by Slovak chefs and brewers, friendly people and various international cultural or sport events, exhibitions, and business opportunities are the reasons why it is worth of visit.

Do & See

Bratislava is not just the political but is also the cultural and sporting capital of Slovakia. Owing to its historically multi-ethnic character, the city's cultural scene is a product of various influences: German, Slovak, Hungarian, and Jewish, among others. Bratislava boasts numerous theatres, museums, galleries, concert halls, cinemas, film clubs, and foreign cultural institutions.

It also has the country's biggest football and ice hockey teams, a purpose-built white-water rafting centre on the Danube, and numerous walking and cycling trails in or near the city. High-quality spa and relaxation facilities are increasingly popular throughout Slovakia and easily accessible. Bratislava has numerous coffee shops and restaurants, offering international as well as Slovak cuisine, including lively bars and clubs.

Dining

Local specialities include Halusky, small dumplings topped with cheese and bacon. Hungarian influences have added much-needed spice to traditional Slovak cuisine. As far as international cuisine goes, there is plenty to choose from, as Bratislava builds a reputation as an eastern European capital of gastronomy.

Cafés

Despite being a relatively small city, Bratislava is rich with cafés, from grand coffee houses to trendy student hang-outs. Most of the best cafés are in the centre of town, especially around the Main Square. During the summer, many have outdoor tables, perfect for relaxing after exploring the Old Town.