Bratislava
The capital city of Slovakia has a charming historic centre of its own. It’s a little larger than Košice, but is still pleasantly compact and walkable.
Like at Spiš Castle, there is evidence of ancient habitation on this spot. It was recognized as a town in 1291, known at the time as Pressburg. During its history, control of the castle and town changed hands often between Hungarian, Czech, and German nobles. Czechoslovakia was created after the first World War and the decline of the Habsburg Empire, and then divided itself into the Czech and Slovak Republics in 1992.
Day 19 - Bratislava Staré Mesto
This morning, we need to get from Liptovský Mikuláš to the train station in Poprad. I'll drop you off at the station, return the car, and then come back to join you. The train ride is comfortable and scenic, and will take about four hours. I will collect our Bratislava Cards at the station before we go on.
We'll take the bus from the station to the city centre. From there, it will be a short walk to our accommodations. We'll be able to check in right away.
And now, of course, we'll go for our introductory walk through the Old City!
Church of the Annunciation This is the oldest church in use in Bratislava, consecrated just before the turn of the 14th century. A visit costs a nominal 1€.
St Martin’s Cathedral The largest and one of the oldest churches in Bratislava. We’ll take a picturesque walk through some of the narrowest streets in the city to approach the cathedral from the back, as a highway has been built right in front of its main door! I highly recommend a visit here; the cathedral's sanctuary is awe-inspiring. Most areas are free to enter.
Hviezdoslavovo námestie This long, narrow old town square features the Morový stĺp (Bratislava's 18th century plague memorial) at one end and the Slovak National Theatre at the other. In the middle is a statue of Pavol Országh Hviezdoslav, who is considered to be the first poet who composed works in Slovak.
Blue Church The Church of St Elisabeth is a uniquely designed church in the 20th-century Hungarian art nouveau style. It is a functioning church; visitors are welcome to attend scheduled masses, but there are no general opening hours.
This walk can take us as long as we want it to, but we'll probably have been to all of these places by late afternoon. You can decide now if you want to go for a rest, or if you want to continue wandering around on your own.
For supper today, I'll make a reservation at Le Papillon for everyone who is interested.
Schedule
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:00 | breakfast (pick-up) |
| 8:15 | drive |
| 9:30 | train: Poprad-Tatry to Bratislava |
| 1:30 | arrive in Bratislava |
| 2:00 | bus to city centre; check in to accommodations |
| 2:30 | introductory walk |
| 4:00 | self-directed |
| 6:00 | supper - Le Papillon |
| 7:15 | self-directed |