Placed on both sides of Danube, Bratislava is the capital and the largest city of Slovakia. The city, which is rightfully called “Beauty on the Danube” is a much sought-after destination attracting many tourists.
This article will guide you through Bratislava and the best things to do, see and eat in the capital of Slovakia.
What to do and see in Bratislava
Bratislava Old Town
Bratislava’s soul lies mainly in its Old Town. Small and compact, you can walk from one side to the other in less than 10 minutes.
Here you will also find many attractions, like: the Primate Palace, Hviezdoslav Square and the Coronation Dome of St. Martin. Other attractions in the Old Town include: Slovak National Theater, Michael`s Gate and the Old Town Hall.
In the Old Town you will also notice a series of creative statues in unexpected places. The most popular and most photographed of these is Cumil: a sewer worker poking out of a manhole with his chin resting on his arms.
Other attractions
Outside the old town, you will find several attractions as well. One of them is Bratislava Castle, which is the symbol of the city. Watching over the capital from its craggy roost, the castle is on a site that has been fortified for thousands of years. From the terrace you can see across the borders into Austria and Hungary and over the Danube.
Another thing to see is the shiny new quarter of Eurovea. Located on the left bank of the Danube in the southeast of the city, Eurovea is the symbol of a large mixed-use development combining homes, shopping and entertainment.
Finally, you cannot leave Bratislava without visiting St Elizabeth’s Church (Blue Church). As the name clearly suggests, this Art Nouveau church is in blue color. The exteriors, as well as interiors, showcase the stunning blue color.
What to Eat in Bratislava
Slovak food is incredibly delicious and tells a lot about the culture of the country. Here are the dishes we recommend:
Bratislavský Rožok (poppyseed pastry) are the most iconic product of Bratislava. These poppy and nut pastries are a typical delicacy to Bratislava such as the Sachertorte is to Vienna.
Another absolute must-try when visiting the country are dumplings. Here are a few variants:
- The first one is Bryndzové halušky: potato dumplings with sheep’s cheese, often topped with sour cream and crispy bacon pieces;
- The second one is Zemiakové knedličky s údeným mäsom: potato dumplings with smoked meat;
- The third one is Bryndzové pirohy: doughy, pierogi-style dumplings with sheep’s cheese;
As an alternative to dumplings, why not try Zemiakové placky: authentic Slovak potato pancakes?
Finally, soups are an essential element of the country’s eating culture. One of the most common variants is krémová cesnaková polievka: a delicious soup comprising creamy garlic soup served in a bread roll.
Where to Stay in Bratislava
Arcadia Boutique Hotel is located right in the heart of historical Bratislava, just a few steps from the most interesting sights, attractions and institutions.
Thanks to the transformation of medieval buildings into a hotel, guests will find themselves right in the heart of old times’ romance accompanied by comfort and friendly luxury of the present. Hotel Arcadia offers 34 luxurious, spacious rooms furnished in exquisite taste with high attention to detail. At Restaurant L´Olive guests can taste authentic slovak and international dishes accompanied by good wine. Fancy a royal treatment, instead? Come and relax in the Arcadia boutique Spa.
Bratislava is love at first sight and oozes style, culture and history. Don’t miss out Slovakia’s capital and let us know your favourite things to do, see and eat in the comments!