With the ever-growing popularity of Eastern European cities for both regular tourists and the odd stag do, the range of choices on our Guru's recommended list of the best places to stay in Bratislava has expanded accordingly.

Bratislava promises a colourful mix of nature's beauty and man's design, with "small", "cosy" and "eclectic" featuring heavily in guide books of the city. A castle-topped capital surrounded by flood plains and forests with a blend of medieval and Socialist architecture, this small city is a place brimming with fascinating contrasts.

If you want to venture further afield, Bratislava is a great base for popping to Vienna, or jump on a boat down the Danube and catch a glimpse of the ruined Devin Castle.

You don't have to stroll far from the city centre before you start to feel the presence of dense woods around the city - it's just a 30 minute walk from the train station to the Small Carpathians (the lower of this mountain range), where there's hiking, vineyards and skiing in season.

The city has a very buzzy atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars to be discovered in the maze of pedestrian streets and squares of the tiny old town. If you want a truly Slovak experience then head off to the Prasna Basta Restaurant which is always packed with locals, or alternatively give Slovenska Restauracia a try.

What not to miss:

• Be sure to visit Bratislava Castle, standing proud on the hill and providing breathtaking views of the city.
• Make a stop at St. Martin’s Cathedral, where the Hungarian Monarchs were crowned between the 16th and 19th centuries.
• The Slovak National Gallery, National Museum and Holocaust Museum all lend fascinating perspectives on Slovakia's past.
• Get out of the city for the day and go hiking or skiing in the surrounding mountains.

Where to stay - which neighbourhood?

Whilst Bratislava itself is divided into three large districts, each of which is home to multiple neighbourhoods, the majority of hotels are located in the Old Town or the New Town. The other districts are mainly residential: full of large apartment blocks, and not the prettiest surroundings for a trip abroad.

• Stare Mesto, the Old Town, is where you'll find all Bratislava's most historic sights. Meander through charming narrow streets, admire the opulent palaces and enjoy a spot of people-watching with a coffee.
• Alternatively, if you fancy more modern surroundings then you could always stay in Nove Mesto, the New Town. Whilst not nearly as characterful as the Old Town, it's home to the city's sport stadiums as well as the large Kraft factory.

As with all increasingly popular destinations, the best places to stay in Bratislava can get booked up well in advance. So plan ahead, or else visit this city in the quieter months, when there's less competition for the top properties!

Best places to stay in Bratislava

For a city break

• Marrol’s has wonderful retro style and spirit, with lots of treasures kept from the 20s and 30s. Once a stylish townhouse, now one of the best places to stay in Bratislava for a stylish city break, this whole property proclaims 'old-fashioned luxury' to guests - who'll be greeted by name by white-gloved bellmen.

• The Art Hotel William is a smart, modern hotel in a great spot in Bratislava's Old Town. There's a strong colour scheme in the spacious rooms, giving this place a sophisticated air.

• The Hotel Arcadia in the heart of the Old Town offers five star decor and service, including award-winning traditional Slovak cuisine, an extensive spa menu and classically elegant interiors - and all in a charming 13th century building.

• The Hotel Albrecht is often thought of as one of the best places to stay in Bratislava, with a reputation for magnificence - but state-of-the-art, of course. It's also got a great spa and an excellent restaurant, and the outside of the hotel will really impress you.

For city chic

• Loft Hotel is a stylish, urban destination in the centre of Slovakia's capital complete with sleek, contemporary rooms and a lively bar and beerhouse.

On a budget

• Antares is a four-star, budget priced hotel in an upscale residential location - so you get peace, privacy and city views with state-of-the-art equipment and a lovely garden and terrace starting from €79 per night.
• The Hotel Arcus is a small, family-run B&B, also conveniently positioned for Bratislava's main sights, with big rooms and a sunny garden and terrace.

For families

• Penzion Virgo is a Baroque-style pension house within walking distance of the charming Old Town. As well as generously proportioned rooms and suites, the Penzion Virgo also has several guest apartments with their own catering facilities. It's great value too, with rooms starting from €74 per night.
• Well located for the major sights, the Skaritz Hotel and Residence has a mix of 20 rooms, suites and apartments, and an understated elegance. So its great for discerning families and groups. Room rates start from €87 per night.

To relax

• Mama’s Design & Boutique Hotel is designed to be homely and relaxing, with luxurious rooms done in warm tones with subtle lighting. As well as the hot tub on the terrace and great spa facilities there's also a gym - in case you find exercise relaxing...
• The Kempinski Hotel River Park Bratislava has a luxurious spa and many of its rooms and public spaces offer beautiful views of the Danube. The whole vibe is bright and airy, with upmarket service and a great restaurant.

For luxury

• Set in a beautifully renovated 19th century palace, the Wilson Palace Hotel is alive with opulence and grandeur.

For an apartment

• If you'd rather book a self-catering property, we recommend you visit our online partner, Booking.com, where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

• Fly to Bratislava Airport which has good connections across Europe or to Vienna International Airport, located 40km from Bratislava.
• Travel by train to Bratislava Hlavná Stanica (Bratislava's international station).
• Bratislava experiences a typically continental climate, with short, fairly hot summers and chilly winters. Spring can be the best time to visit, as the days tend to warm quickly, with consistently pleasant, mild weather for most of May.
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Bratislava.
• Expand your search to the best places to stay in Slovakia.
• Or, feel free to contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Bratislava