Bratislava is to be found in south-western Slovakia, occupying both banks of the Danube. Bordering Austria and Hungary, it is the only national capital that borders two independent countries.

This is the political, cultural, and economic centre of Slovakia, the seat of the Slovak president, the parliament, and the Slovak Executive. It is home to universities, museums, theatres and galleries.

The attraction for tourists is primarily Staré Mesto, the old town. Here, you can wander back through the centuries along cobbled streets lined with Baroque architecture.

Culture vultures will snap up affordable tickets for the Slovak National Theatre and the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, while the Slovak National Gallery, housed in an 18th century palace, is a must.

FACTFILE

LANGUAGE: Slovakian

CURRENCY: Euro

TIME ZONE: GMT + 1

BEST MONTHS: Winter is cold so unless you’re heading for the Christmas Markets, look to spring and late summer for decent weather but without the peak season crowds. Both May and late August are good compromise choices.

VISAS ETC: EU passport holders do not require a Visa.

HOTELS

POSH: Kempinski Hotel River Park Bratislava, Dvorakovo nabrezie 6 (www.kempinski.com)

You know what you’re getting with the Kempinski brand.

Rooms are spacious with big screen TVs, bathrooms are good, and food excellent. The hotel is in a handy location, too, ideal for a walk along the embankment.

Pay around £127 for a double room in June.

BUDGET: Hotel Plus, Bulharska 72 (www.hotelyplus.sk)

Inexpensive hotel about 20 minutes from the city centre on the No 1 bus.

Don’t expect luxury – some rooms lack a phone, tea and coffee facilities and air conditioning.

Breakfast is plentiful, however, and it’s a good basic option. The area outside has seen better days, but what do you expect when you can get a double room from £20?

EATING OUT: Antica Toscana, Madarska 27 (www.anticatoscana.sk)

Excellent Italian restaurant offering dishes with a Tuscan twist, using ingredients brought in twice a week from the Italian owner’s hometown.  It’s an intimate eaterie so booking is advisable.