Bratislava: Slovakia's capital makes a remarkable comeback
I admit that Bratislava used to leave me cold. But changes over the last two decades have transformed it into a delightful destination. Bratislava's energy is inspiring.
IF YOU VISIT...
SLEEPING: Roset Boutique Hotel, on the eastern edge of the old town, feels classy and upmarket with spacious and plush rooms (splurge, www.rosethotel.sk). Aplend City Hotel Michalska, with an ideal location on a picturesque lane, is a little hotel with a peaceful back garden tucked just inside St. Michael's Gate in the old town (budget, www.aplendcity.com/en/hotel-michalska).
EATING: A couple blocks north of the old town, Bratislavska Restauracia features classic Slovak dishes with hearty portions (Namestie SNP 8, 011-421-917-927-673). Zylinder's food leans closer to Austrian than traditional Slovak in a classy circa-1900 atmosphere (19 Hviezdoslavovo Namestiec, 011-421-903-123-134).
GETTING AROUND: Most of Bratislava's sights are within a short walk of the main train station, but buses can get you into and around town (see http://imhd.sk).
TOURIST INFORMATION: www.visitbratislava.com.
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(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)
(c)2019 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
