| VITAL INFORMATION | |
| Population | 426,091 |
| Languages spoken | Slovak |
| Currency | 1.00 USD = 22.68 SKK |
| Average temperature | Summer: 79F, Winter: 40F |
| High season | April to November |
Bratislava, capital of the modern day Slovak Republic, has a fascinating demographic history; the earliest records can be traced back to at least the 9th century, and yet, until the early 1900’s, Slovaks themselves were a distinct minority in it. Indeed, it wasn’t until the end of World War II that the Slovaks became the dominant ethnic group, and by then they were already part of Czechoslovakia, and no longer a freestanding entity. Some 45 years later, the two countries would divorce and the Slovaks were finally free to rule themselves.
Today, 90% of the population is very much Slovak; they’re a kind and welcoming people, eager to show you their city. Bratislava is full of beautiful architecture -- and beautiful Slovak women -- that a man could easily spend days admiring. The city is both quaint and charming, with a very relaxing atmosphere. But don’t let their cordiality fool you; Bratislava has a wild nightlife that can easily compete with any metropolis in the West. Whether you’re in the market for culture or beauty, this city will not disappoint.
Day 1: Royal Bratislava
You’re going to love the four-star Apollo Hotel. Start your day with their continental breakfast buffet and then catch the city bus at the hotel’s doorstep. A 10-minute ride to the center of town, find Beblaveho Street and follow it to Bratislava Castle. The castle, located between the Carpathians and Alps, has been in use since the early 900’s. Not only does it provide a breathtaking view of the Danube, but it also, when weather permits, allows you to actually see Vienna. The Slovak National Museum maintains several permanent exhibits, and you’ll want to see the Crown Tower as well as the Treasures of the Far Past of Slovakia exhibits. If you’re interested in archeology, be sure to check out The Stone Witness, hosted in the castle’s courtyard.After you’ve toured the castle, head back to the center of town. Because Slovak food is quite heavy and best reserved for dinner, pop into a lovely cafe for a freshly made baguette and a nice pilsner beer. Once refreshed, make like the Europeans do and just stroll for the pleasure of it. Bratislava has tons to admire in the form of outdoor fountains, famous street art sculptures and beautiful buildings. The Maximillian, Ganymede, Rolandova, Hviezdoslav, Zem, St. George, and Duck’s fountains are all must-see sights. Add to that their modern street statues like Cumil the subway worker, Paparazzi, Napoleon’s Soldier, and the Bronze Zero (which points toward foreign cities and tells you how far they are) and you’ll have plenty to see. Lastly, don’t miss The Narrowest House in Europe, located at 15 Michalska Street -- it’s only 51 inches wide!
Next, head to Slovenska Restauracia for an early dinner. This traditional Slovakian restaurant is sure to impress -- try their pork goulash with potatoes gnocchi. Not only will it delight your taste buds, but it’s very affordable. After dinner it’s onto the Slovak National Theatre for one of the best opera performances in Europe. You’ll want to be dressed smartly, lest you stick out like a sore thumb: the local men will likely be wearing suits. Tickets can be purchased online and performances usually start at 7:00 p.m.
Day 2: Cerveny Kamen Castle
Originally built in the 13th century, Cerveny Kamen Castle was a state-of-the-art defense fortress after its modification in the 16th century. This medieval castle, which you may recognize from films such as Dragonheart, can be reached by rental car or by taking a bus from Bratislava to the town of Casta, which sits below the castle. Either way, it’s roughly an hour-long trip. Popular exhibits include the torture chambers, ancient weaponry, jousting performances, and historical art galleries. The Slovak National Museum will guide you through speaking tours or you can wander at will. The Japanese and Russian rooms are amazing; you can visit the Castle Pharmacy, Library, Church, and Knight’s Hall. For a closer look at the underground defense system, take the cellar tour. Outside, the castle grounds offer falconry performances, horseback riding and lush greenery as far as the eye can see. For lunch, we recommend a picnic on the hillside, where you can truly enjoy the view. If the weather doesn’t permit, the castle’s tavern, Pod Bastou, offers small meals to tide you over.After lunch, head back into town and visit the Grassalkovich Palace, which serves as the seat for Slovakia’s President. Explore the palace gardens and then stroll to nearby St. Martin’s Cathedral, site of 11 Hungarian coronations throughout history. Public access may be limited.
You’ll be heading over to the Museum of Transportation next. Exhibitions of trolleys, trams, trains, motorcycles, and cars used in previous centuries will intrigue you. Staying on theme, wrap the tour up with the Museum of Ships, located on the Danube itself.
For dinner, go to the Novy Most (New Bridge) for UFO Taste, a very trendy restaurant located 83 meters above ground level. Prepare to be stunned by the view. We recommend the curried Brazilian veal and vegetable carpaccio, followed by a delicious fruit sorbet. Following your meal, it’s back to earth and over to Cirkus Barok. This ultra-trendy dance club is a multilevel ship anchored in the Danube. Music themes vary from night to night, but you’ll always find a very competent DJ mixing it up. Don’t be surprised to see a host of scantily clad girls body painting each other, and don’t be surprised if you’re asked to participate.
Day 3: Take the Danube to Vienna
You’ll be catching the boat to Vienna this morning. If you’re hungover from the night before, don’t worry -- you can nap comfortably on the way. The hydrofoil express boat leaves from the Fajnova Nabrezie port and arrives in the heart of Vienna two hours later. The Schwedenplatz subway station is right there, and you’ll take a short subway ride to Karlsplatz station where you’ll find the popular Ringstrassen Galerien. This high-end shopping complex is both classy and regal. For prestigious clothing, Aigner offers suits that truly make the man; they also operate a second shop specializing in leather shoes. If you’re in the market for Armani or Dior, try the Sir Anthony store. Golf Lowe will appeal to your refined tastes, while the Jack Wolfskin shop offers a rugged selection of sporting goods.
When it’s time for lunch, catch the subway to Stephansplatz and head for the DO & CO hotel. The view from its rooftop restaurant is the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Try the sushi sashimi bar, or go all out with a succulent Turkish doner kebab. If you’d like traditional Viennese fare, try the schnitzel with a side of fries, and don’t forget the beer! After lunch, catch the subway to Schönbrunn, named for the exquisite Viennese palace located there. Since you’re on a time schedule, you’ll want to make the most of your visit. We recommend the Grand Tour -- 40 rooms reflective of Vienna’s historic royal family. If you have time left over, check out the royal park, which, along with the palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From there, take the subway back to Schwedenplatz and catch the boat back to Bratislava. You’ll arrive just in time for dinner, so head straight for Tempus Fugit, one of the most romantic restaurants in Bratislava. Try their breast of duck specialty, served in a lovely Morella sauce and a side of creamy, cinnamon mashed potatoes. Top it off with their house cheesecake and a nice Viennese coffee. Give yourself time to digest your meal, because from there you’ll be moving on to Trafo, a haven for music lovers, and DJ’s keep the fervor stoked all night long. Sexy Slovak girls come here to shake it on the dance floor, and they aren’t shy about inviting foreigners to join them; lust at first sight should be this club’s slogan.
tips for the trip
- If you need a taxi, have your hotel call one for you; don’t take one off the street.
- You can purchase single-use bus tickets from ticket booths that are set up around the city, but once you’re in the center of town, you should be able to walk everywhere.
- Bratislava has four distinct seasons similar to the Northeast U.S., and your clothing should reflect this; snow is very possible in the winter.
- If traveling with a woman, make sure she brings a pair of flats, as high heels and cobblestones don’t always mix.
- Don’t ask the locals about Communism -- this is considered very tacky.
- If you need local bank notes, use an ATM as opposed to exchange offices -- the rate is far better.
- Always say hello and goodbye when entering or leaving an establishment; it’s rude not to.
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