Split into 10 easy-to-follow chapters, everything from local politics and cultural etiquette is covered in the opening sections, followed by planning, practical information, local transport (including the new bike-sharing scheme), accommodation, eating and drinking, entertainment, nightlife, sports and shopping.

City walks are also included, focusing on the main sights and beyond, plus sightseeing, from castles and palaces to museums, galleries, churches, gardens and parks. Beyond the city itself there are sections on Devín, Cervený Kamen, Ancient Gerulata - Rusovce, the Small Carpathian Wine Route, Senec, Piestany Spa, Trnava and Kosice. There are also useful reference sections on language (pronunciation and words and phrases) and sources of further information.

The legendary Casanova knew Bratislava and declared it 'the most beautiful city in Europe', and he knew a thing or two about beauty. Situated by the mighty Danube River and nestling in the Small Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is a good-looking capital filled with good-looking people who look like they're enjoying life. This is a city which effortlessly blends history with hedonism, where world-class restaurants have been joined by a clutch of quality coffee houses and literary tea and bookshops.

Bratislava's small size is satisfying: it's compact and visitor-friendly with many superbly-curated museums and not one but two opera houses, rivalling those in Budapest and Vienna. In short, Bratislava is the perfect destination for a weekend break, a romantic city break, a family holiday or as a base from where to discover the underrated attractions in the rest of Slovakia, and with Bradt's Bratislava you'll have everything you need for a successful trip.