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Things to do in Bratislava

Catch a classical concert at Slovak Philarmonic

The Slovak Philharmonic has played at the Reduta Building since 1914, and this is the place to go to hear professional classical music. The calendar is a mix of local favorites and international staples, and you’ll find performances of the likes of Beethoven, Strauss and Elgar (tel: +421 220 475 233; www.filharmonia.sk).

Check out the Blue Church

A short walk from the heart of Old Town is this striking example of the Hungarian Art Nouveau style. Sankt Elisabeth Kirche (Saint Elizabeth Church) was built in 1908 for the Hungarian Secessionist denomination, and to the untrained eye may bear more resemblance to a mosque than church. Call up the tourist office for more information (www.visitbratislava.com).

Get some river action at Zlate Piesky

Set 9km (6 miles) out town, this lake is a hotbed of local activity during Slovakia's many hot summer days. The beach itself is 400m long, but you'll do well to find a spot at the weekends. Waterskis and wakeboards are normally available for hire if you want to get active; if not, just sup some something cold and soak up some rays.

Go and look at some really old cars.

In a city somewhat lacking in attractions, the Bratislava Transport Museum (tel: +421 2 524 441 63; www.muzeumdopravy.com) seems like a pretty good way to spend an afternoon. With over 100 cars, including military and government vehicles from the war period, plus a pretty comprehensive history of rail transport in Slovakia, you'll come out knowing something new. Probably.

Take a day trip to Devin Castle

Located 10 km (6 miles) out of Bratislava, Devin Castle dates back to 400 BC. With its picturesque views of the Danube and many crofts, steps and follies to explore, it's perfect for a sunny afternoon. Get the 29 bus from the Nový Most bus stop in town.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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City Hostel

This is a basic but cheap and clean hostel on the edge of the old town. The single, double, triple and quad rooms each have their own ensuite bathrooms, and there’s free internet access at reception. Other amenities include a summer terrace and secure bicycle parking.

Hostel Blues

This fun and friendly place, just on the edge of the Old Town, is perfect for young travellers on a budget, particularly music-lovers. It hosts concerts weekly and provides free internet access.

Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava

This 162-room hotel on the edge of the Old Town has excellent business and conference facilities as well as very comfortable and elegant rooms for leisure travellers, as well as a gym and sauna. The staff are friendly and helpful.

Hotel Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel

Set in a beautifully restored old building on the Old Town's attractive main promenade, this luxury, 170-room establishment was built in 1837 and boasts a superb Danube view from the seventh-floor terrace, as well as an acclaimed restaurant and a casino. There's a leafy summer terrace, a plush Mirror Bar, an upmarket restaurant (the Savoy), and the buffet breakfasts are legendary.

Hotel Film

This attractive Hollywood-themed hotel, a 5-minute walk north of the Old Town, offers 13 rooms each dedicated to a different film star. It also boasts a pleasant café, cocktail bar and restaurant.

IBIS Bratislava Centrum

This modern 120-room hotel is close to the Old Town and the business district. Its sound-proof rooms with internet and an international on-site restaurant and bar run with the business clientele in mind.