The Slovak capital is picturesquely located on the River Danube near to the border with Austria and Hungary, which makes it a great base for exploring the entire region. For example, Vienna is a mere hour’s drive away. However, Bratislava itself has plenty to offer by way of historic charm in the compact Old Town full of pavement cafés and quirky restaurants. There is a brand-new opera house, as well as a charming historic one, and the Slovak Philharmonic orchestra organises the Bratislava Music Festival, which takes place each year in September/October. The nearby Little Carpathian mountains, famed for their vineyards and good food, are a popular destination for day trips.