Vienna, Austria’s capital, and Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, are Europe’s two closest capital cities, separated by a mere 31 miles. Vienna is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Hapsburg rulers; the gothic St.
Stephen’s Cathedral; and the Hofburg, the Hamsburg’s main imperial palace which now houses the Spanish Riding School. Other attractions include the Sigmund Freud Museum, the imposing St Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Staatsoper opera and ballet house.
The city also boasts culinary delights such as delicious chocolate and tasty Wiener Schnitzels. It frequently ranks among Europe’s most liveable cities, with one Economist survey highlighting its “unrivalled combination of stability, good infrastructure, strong education, healthcare services, and an abundance of culture and entertainment”.
Vienna is also considered one of the world’s cleanest and greenest cities, with numerous public parks along the River Danube. Just over an hour down the river lies Bratislava, a city that rivals Prague or Budapest but benefits from smaller crowds and cheaper prices.
The city showcases elements of medieval, Rococo, Baroque and 20th-century modernism, like most post-communist capitals, reports the Express.
The Old Town of Bratislava is a picturesque area that’s perfect for exploring on foot. It boasts pastel-coloured buildings and an array of cafes and restaurants nestled along its cobbled streets, where most of the city’s historic architecture can be found.
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The Bratislava Castle, perched on an isolated rocky hill of the Little Carpathians, is arguably the city’s most significant landmark. Its imposing size and strategic location have made it a dominant feature of the landscape since its construction in the 9th century.
The Town Hall, built in the 14th century, and Michael’s Gate, the only remaining gate from the medieval fortifications and one of the oldest town buildings, are also worth a visit. For something a bit different, check out the UFO Tower on the riverbank, which offers stunning views over the city and houses a restaurant at the top.
Other capital cities that are close to each other include Rome and Vatican City in Italy, Pyong and Seoul in North Korea, and Buenos Aires in Argentina and Montevideo in Uruguay
