Once we arrived in Bratislava yesterday and settled into our downtown hotel, we headed off the tourist office to plan our 2 days here. We bought a 48 hour Bratislava card which gave of a whole lot of free entry into lots of museums and other things. So, after the hotel's great buffet breakfast this morning, we were ready to hit the streets! The castle was the first stop. With a lengthy history of construction, wars and reconstruction, this is a beautifully restored castle, exhibit of historical artifacts and they are still renovating.

We also stopped in at St. Martin's church at which many Kings and Queens were coronated. Thus, the gilded replica of a crown on the top of the cathedral tower. Unfortunately, we could not visit inside as Mass was in progress.

The unusual Blue Church is not quite so old (early 20th century) but the city seems proud of its features including the use of mosaics - very pretty.

We joined a guided tour group in the afternoon led by Dasha. Dasha is a young lady born in this city and very well spoken. After the tour we went to the Old Town Hall and 45 metre high tower. We climbed the very narrow spiral staircase to the top and were provided with some great views of the old city and the castle.

Lots if ice cream shops and bars (coffee, wine and beer) to satisfy tourists and quite affordable too!

This city is definitely one of our favorites!