Bratislava has had a storied past. It was the capital of Hungary in the 16th century and later almost a suburb of powerful Vienna, a mere 60 km upstream. The Austro-Hungarian empress Maria Theresa brought prosperity to Bratislava in the 18th century. The Slovak Republic split from the Czech Republic in 1993, and Slovakia became its capital.
We rode a motorized tram around the old town, followed by a walking tour of the pedestrian area with a local guide. Bratislava is dominated by a huge castle on a hill overlooking the city. The old town on the river banks is filled with wonderful baroque and art nouveau buildings, and our guide told some marvelous stories of the city on our walking tour. We all enjoyed his tales and the interesting architecture.
The citizens are very proud of the restored Opera House. Prices are much cheaper in Bratislava than in nearby Vienna, so the Viennese help keep the Opera House filled.
We had the captain's welcome party and dinner that evening, and didn't sail away from Bratislava until 11:00 pm, so some cruisers walked back into town after dinner. Next stop Vienna.
