Bratislava sightseeing Bratislava attractions Bratislava history Bratislava restaurants Bratislava nightlife Bratislava accommodation & Bratislava weather info
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photos:www.bratislava.sk
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Bratislava History Overview
This city is cited by low cost airlines as a gate way to Vienna which is about 60km away. However, it is a city worthy of visiting as it has has since the fall of communism taken great care to preserve and resurrect the old part of the city - Stare Mesto. This 'old town' with cobbled streets has many beautifully restored examples of Hapsburg Baroque architecture. Stare Mesto is on the north side of the Danube. On the south side of Bratislava, like Berlin, Budapest Potsdam and to a lesser extent Prague there are still some sad examples of Stalin's influence on architecture in occupied country's which mean that within the city its architectural features are very diverse.
Bratislava lies close to the Lesser Carpathian Mountains and its origins can be traced back to about 200 BC when it (like Moscow) became recognised as a trading post / market. Since then it always been noted for its vineyards. In the 16th century it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire during which time it was officially designated as the Capital of Hungary. This was the 'throne' of several Hungarian Kings. Two hundreds years later it became part of Austria - Hungarian Empire. At the end of World War if became part of the Czech - Slovak Federation. (see the Slovak Country profile). In 1993 the federation ceased and Bratislava became Slovakia's Capital. It has a population of around 602,000 and has since the Slovakia joined the EU in 2004 become a popular destination for tourists. It is has also seen a significant growth in commercial investment from all over the European Union.
Bratislava City Guide - Business & Tourist Travel Information
Sightseeing and Attractions in Bratislava
Bratislava attractions are rich with historic examples of architecture. The most prominent building is The Bratislavsky Castle located on a hill by The Danube. Early settlements here date back to the Stone Age whilst the castle itself first built in Medieval times has been reconstructed several times since. Part of it is presently used for State functions. It also contains two exhibitions - The Treasury Of Slovakia which is an archeological history of Slovakia that includes findings from the grounds of the castle. There is also The Slovak National Museum which is an extensive exhibition of Slovakian history with very diverse features including old furniture and contemporary art.
St Martin's Cathedral at Rudnayovo Namestie was built in 1452 and includes a replica of the crown used for the coronation of Hungarian Emperors when it was their Coronation Church. It also has a Baroque Statue Of St Martin And The Beggar by the 18th century sculptor Raphael Donner. The Archbishops Palace at Primalacialne Namestie was built during the 18th century as a luxury palace for the local archbishop. At the turn of the 20th century it was purchased by the local council and is now the official residence of The Mayor. It contains an Exhibition of Bratislavian Tapestries & European Art.
For some the most attractive attraction in Bratislava is The Old Town Hall at Staromestska Radnica parts of which date back to the 14th century. It has an old clock tower and it's own courtyard with many examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It also features The Bratislava Museum which offers a detailed historical account of life in Bratislava an the added bonus of entry into the now unused City Torture Chamber. The Slovakian National Theatre at Hviezdoslavovo Namestie has since the late 19th century ben the home of Slovakia's Opera & Ballet. The internal decor is stunning. In the Old Town
Michael's Gate at Michalska st is the only remaining part of the original city wall. It is a 14th century tower, standing about 50 metres high, which offers a good view of the city. Within the gate is The Museum of Arms which details how the many rulers of the City of Bratislava have defended themselves from attacks.
The centre of The Old Town is The Main Square. Apart from many examples of renovated 17th century Burgher houses it is home to The Church Of The Holy Saviour. Nearby is The Gallery Of The City Of Bratislava at Mirbach Palace which is an exhibition of Renaissance Art between 17th - 19th century with a religious emphasis.
Please also see Slovakian Museums and The Bratislava Tourist Board
The 2009 Wilsonic Festival
Restaurants in Bratislava
One of the most impressive restaurants in Bratislava is the high class Ludwig Restaurant at Venturska 7 (Tel: 5464 8284). Its offers a range of well prepared European food with the trout and salmon dishes being particularly good. The venison dishes are out of this world especially the venison with cranberry and mushroom sauce. Follow this with the chocolate tart and chocolate sauce and even the most discerning patron will be pleased. Expensive but worth it. Also worth mentioning is the only establishment that you cannot miss - The UFO Restaurant 85m above The New Bridge. The menu is an adventurous combination of Asian and Mediterranean dishes accompanied by a well chosen wine and cocktails list. It is expensive but worth the experience which includes free admission to the viewing platform 10m above. There is a lift !
The Govinda Restaurant at Obchoclna 30 (Tel: 5296 23 66) which a mostly Indian vegetarian menu with a wide selection of healthy salads. Traditional Indian music creates a very relaxed ambience. The food here is good and served in vast portions and the prices are amazingly cheap. The Irish Pub at Sedlarska 6 is an English speaking pub and restaurant that seems to popular with the locals as well. Apart from serving good English and European food it has a fair selection of local beers and the all important Guinness. Lively. There are quite a few appealing restaurants in the main square area of the Old Town.
Nightlife in Bratislava
At Rebarborova 4 Ruzinon by the local cemeteryThe Harley Davidson Club is a testament to the fact that serious R&R is far from dead. The Metro Music Club at Suche myto, stary mesto is a jazz club that features national and international musicians. Somewhat unusual location as it is situated in an old metro tunnel which is apparently is good for the acoustics.
| Bratislava Night Life - Nightclubs Music Dance |
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Taxis: These are all metered and relatively cheap. At night the fares are higher.
Crime and Personal Safety & Security In Bratislava
Pickpockets and bag snatchers target tourists in Bratislava on public transport and in the street. Do not leave valuable in your car. There have been reports of men having their drinks spiked by women and later finding they have been robbed.
Passport Requirement
Immigration Note: Slovakian Immigration Officers have a reputation for refusing entry to visitors with well worn or damaged passports.
| Accommodation In Bratislava Hotels & Apartments etc |
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please see accommodation advice > |
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