The cities of Bratislava and Prague are only about 330 kilometers apart, making travel between them quick and easy.
Slovakia and Czechia were once united as Czechoslovakia, a country formed in 1918 after the end of World War I. Czechoslovakia existed as a single nation until it peacefully split into two independent countries, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, on January 1, 1993.
Nowadays, both countries have similar customs, like enjoying hearty food, traditional folk music, and a love for sports, especially ice hockey. Many Slovaks travel to Czechia for work, study, or leisure, and the shared history keeps them culturally close. So, it's time to see this unique, yet closely connected country with my own eyes.
The Old Town of Bratislava is a charming maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and historic squares.
I love my hotel BEIGLI, because it is located in the city centre, and the room is very spacious, even with the view to The Castle, which I am going to visit today with my friend.
My friend often travels from Vienna to Bratislava, which feels like a second home to her due to its proximity (only 60 kilometres). The short distance between the two cities makes it easy for her to visit regularly, and she’s grown quite familiar with Bratislava over time. For her, this close connection makes the city feel like an extension of Vienna, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Bratislava Castle is a famous landmark sitting on a hill above the Danube River (at 85 metres). It was built in the 9th century, with much of its current structure dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. The castle has served as a royal home and a military fort over the years. After a fire in 1811, it was rebuilt and is now a popular tourist spot.
Interestingly, the castle’s shape resembles a four-pointed crown, symbolizing its royal history, and its towers were once used for defense and as watchtowers.
The view from Bratislava Castle also offers a stunning panoramic vista of the city, the Danube River, showcasing the city’s blend of historic and modern architecture.
As my time in Bratislava comes to an end, I am grateful for the memories made, and already looking forward to the next adventure. While the Old Town is beautiful, I wish I had more time to explore outside of the central district to fully experience the city's diverse character. So, I will come here again to check, what the city has to offer.
