Are you traveling to the Slavic countries of Eastern Europe for the holidays? Find out where to stay in Bratislava!
The capital of Slovakia, which became independent in 1993, Bratislava is located in the southwest part of the country, adjacent to the borders of Austria and Hungary. Crossed by the Danube – the second largest river in Europe – it has a population of 419,678 and is the country’s largest city. Thanks to its breathtaking historical and cultural heritage, Bratislava was once a major hub of influence in Europe, particularly during the Habsburg Empire of Austria.
The city of Bratislava is subdivided into 17 boroughs where city’s past seamlessly coexists with modernity although Slovakia’s rich architectural heritage has in many ways failed to survive the Soviet era. Are you looking for accommodation in Bratislava? Find out about the best areas to stay in Bratislava.
Staré Mesto
Photo credit: Flickr – Henning Klokkeråsen
Located west of the city, Staré Mesto (which translates as the “Old Town” in Slovak) was first mentioned in writing in 907. It now has a population of 38,823. Staré Mesto is one of the best areas to stay in Bratislava. Here, you will find everything you need regarding accommodation: youth hostel at € 9-10 per night, comfortable hotel for around 65-70 € per night. Overall, accommodation in Bratislava is not very expensive. The borough houses several parks, including Horsky Park and the Presidential Garden near Grassalkovitch Palace, as well as the Presidential Palace, which houses remains of the Austrian period.
Wander through the area’s little squares, and discover its array of small cafés, shops, and cute café-bookstores where you can purchase souvenirs and local products. Don’t miss Hlavné námestie, the central square, always lively, as well as Hviezdoslavo square, packed with cafés and restaurants, and of course, the Bratislava castle, a medieval fortress built in the 10th century. It’s great just to stroll and relax in the castle’s garden on sunny days. An excellent place to stay in Bratislava, Staré Mesto allows you to explore the city on foot.
Find a hotel in Staré Mesto
Find an Airbnb in Staré Mesto
Petrzalka
Photo credit: Flickr – Ondrej Pelech
Located on the southern banks of the Danube, Petržalka is Bratislava’s largest borough. Situated on the right bank of the river Danube, the area shares a land border with Austria and is home to around 100,000 people. This former working-class area still bears the imprint of the Soviet era. Some residents of Petržalka might tell you that the communist period was not as bad as the current free market economy, although the whole of Slovakia seems to want to forget this Soviet past. Cranes, towers and dull concrete buildings: at first sight, Petržalka does not look like your dream destination. However, this part of Bratislava offers a rare glimpse into the city’s recent history. Besides, the area provides cheap accommodation: an affordable borough to stay in Bratislava. And you will only need to cross a single bridge, the Stary Most, to find yourself in the city center. What to do in Petržalka? Built in the shape of a flying saucer, the UFO Observation Deck, Bratislava’s iconic building is an absolute must-see. Climb up the tower to enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the city below. The area is also home to the Janko Kral Park, one of the oldest municipal parks in Europe, where you can admire the Gothic tower, built in the 15th century.
Find a hotel in Petrzalka
Find an Airbnb in Petrzalka
Nové Mesto
Photo credit: Flickr – Miroslav Petrasko
Nové Mesto (meaning New Town), a borough of Bratislava located north of the Old Town, dreams of becoming a futuristic capital. Created in the 19th century, Nové Mesto is home to the “vestiges” of the communist architecture built between 1950 and 1980. To the northwest of the district, the impressive Carpathian mountain range in Kamzik begins: it is an excellent starting point for hiking and climbing up over the city. Nové Mesto is an excellent place to stay in Bratislava if you’re traveling to Slovakia with your family and are keen to enjoy a quiet stay.
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