bratislava
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, sits along the Danube River, bordering Austria and Hungary. It is encircled by vineyards and the Little Carpathian mountains, interlaced with wooded hiking and cycling paths. The pedestrian-only 18th-century old town is famed for its vibrant bars and cafes. Bratislava Castle, rebuilt and standing on a hill, offers panoramic views of the old town and the Danube below.