About city
Bratislava is the capital and the largest city of Slovakia. It is also the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. It covers an area of 367 sq kms and had an approximate population of 462,603 in 2012.
The earliest traces of human habitation around Bratislava date from 5000 BC. The Celtic Boii tribe established the first major settlement here in 200 BC. The region came under the influence of the Romans and then the Slavs in 5th and 6th centuries. The area began to develop economically from the 10th century.
In 1536, it was designated as the capital of Hungary which was a part of the Hapsburg Empire. The city flourished under Queen Maria Theresa in the 18th century, but after that it began to decline. The events in Europe closely affected the city during the 19th and 20th centuries. Finally, in 1993, it became the capital of the Slovak Republic.
Geography
The city of Bratislava is located on the south-western part of Slovakia, on the borders with Hungary and Austria. It has grown up on the Danube basin and the river meanders through the city. Several other rivers like Morava, Little Danube, and Vydrica also pass through the city. The densely forested Little Carpathian ranges extend into the city. Bratislava lies at an average altitude of 140 mts above the sea level. The city mostly lies on the Zahorie and Danubian Lowlands.
How to reach (transport)
You can travel to Bratislava in the following ways:
- You can reach Bratislava by air. The city is served by the Bratislava Milan Rastislav Stefanik Airport and regular flights are available to most major cities of Europe.
- The other option is to fly to Vienna International Airport, which is connected to a greater number of destinations. It is located 40 kms from Bratislava and buses and taxis connect the airport with Bratislava.
- You can also travel to Bratislava from various cities of Europe by train. Connections exist with Vienna, Budapest, Prague, Berlin, Warsaw, Belgrade, and Kiev.
- Finally, a regular bus service connects Bratislava with domestic destinations, a number of places in the Czech Republic as well as to several major cities in Europe.
- You can also travel to Bratislava from Vienna by boat or ferry. It has also become popular to travel to the city from Germany by kayak or canoe.
Weather
Bratislava enjoys a moderately continental climate. Summers are warm and last from May to September while winters are quite cold and last from December to February. Summers are hot and dry while winters are wet and chilly. If you are not bothered by the cold, then December is the best month to visit Bratislava, when the famed Christmas market is held. Otherwise, July and August are the most preferred tourist months.
Culture (fairs and festivals) and traditions
Several festivals are celebrated in Bratislava. Some of these are as follows:
- The Bratislava Ball held in January is a prestigious social occasion. Classical music, dance, and ballet are showcased and the Bratislava Cucoriedka (Bilberry) Awards are given.
- The Easter Market held in March and April is a great place to collect some authentic Slovak souvenirs.
- The Bratislava City Marathon is held in March or April. It is a fun-filled event with a large number of participants in the various categories. It comes with concerts, shows, fireworks, and parties.
- The Wine Festival held in May and September includes a huge wine-tasting event and celebrates the delicious wines of Slovakia.
- Junifest is the National Beer Festival held in June, where you can taste a variety of draught beer. Beer contests, art and craft, and concerts are held.
- The Coronation Celebration is held in September and is an authentic re-enacting of the coronation of the king. It includes dubbing of the Knight of Golden Spurs, ox roasting, majestic fireworks, and historical music and dances.
- The Bratislava Music Festival held in October or November is the largest with international and national performers performing various genres of classical music.
- The Bratislava Christmas Market held in November and December attracts thousands of visitors. Wooden stalls sell Christmas memorabilia and local foods and drinks. Concerts and theatrical shows are held.
Points of interest (places to visit)
The most important places to visit in Bratislava are as follows:
- St. Martin’s Cathedral is one of the largest and oldest churches in the city and is the site of coronation of many Hungarian rulers.
- The President’s Palace is a baroque palace with French gardens. You can see the Slovak National Guard in front.
- The New Bridge spans over the Danube and offers a great view of the city.
- Other notable sights include the Bratislava Castle, Primate’s Palace, Slavin Monument, The Old Town Hall, Roland Fountain etc.
Accommodation
There are a variety of accommodations available in Bratislava. The 5-star hotels are Kempinski Hotel River Park Bratislava and the Tulip House Hotel, while 4-star hotels include the Holiday Inn Bratislava, Danubia Gate, Doubletree, and Radisson Blu. There are 3-star hotels like Matysak, Botel Gracia, Hotel Raki, and The Club etc. Besides, budget accommodations are also easily available in the city including Ibis Bratislava Centrum, Hotel Astra, and Ubytovacie Zariadenie Zvarac Hotel.