Spreading fan-like across both banks of the Danube, Bratislava may be one of Europe's younger capital cities, but it's no juvenile upstart. A prime geographic location has endowed it with a compelling history dating back thousands of years.
Imposing Gothic castles jostle for space alongside communist-era high-rises and thankfully, the former are winning the fight.
Laid-back, inexpensive, and extremely friendly, the city is one of the former Eastern Bloc's secret treasures. Although it doesn't ooze the glamour of neighbouring Prague and Vienna, it doesn't play host to their hordes of tourists either.
Some of the best sights are to be found in the medieval Stare Mesto (Old Town). The main square, once famed for it's many executions, is now dotted with welcoming wine taverns, cafés and gently buzzing bierkellers, all of which really come to life after sundown.
Once you've sunk a couple of cold Slovakian beers, tackle the climb up to Bratislava's sole surviving city gate at the northern end of the old town - the perfect vantage point to watch the crowds below. An even more spectacular vista can be enjoyed from 9th-century Bratislava Castle, with views over to the Austrian and Hungarian borders.
Tired legs can take a boat tour of the Danube, its banks dotted with numerous bars and restaurants. From the river you won't be able to miss the communist-era Novy Most, or 'New Bridge'. Looking rather like a lost UFO, it's not exactly handsome, but is certainly eye-catching.
Discover Bratislava before everyone else cottons on. It's not only blooming - it's blooming cheap as well.
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