A city fast modernising, all the while staying true to its tradition as the former coronation outpost of Hungarian kings, Bratislava oozes the air of a modern city open to all. Open arrival, the MICE journalists strolled the walkable city centre, admiring the palaces and historical edifices adorned with Art Noveau details. To understand the city’s connection with the Danube, historically the economic backbone, they ascended Bratislava’s iconic UFO Restaurant, overlooking the meandering river. With spectacular cityscape views and superb cuisine, the legendary “alien” building served as the perfect introduction to Slovakia’s capital. The journalists stayed in the legendary Radisson Blu Carlton, in the very heart of the city. During the press trip, they also visited two historical venues, the Old Market Hall and the Reduta, the seat of the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Danube – Bratislava’s backbone
The following day, the Danube welcomed the journalists for an exhilarating ride with a speedboat. As the attendees were whisked away from the centre towards the border with Austria and Hungary, they could admire the sprawling downtown dotted with growing skyscrapers. Among them, the late Zaha Hadid’s Sky Park towers remain a timeless piece of architecture. Next on the list was a visit to one of the most extensive galleries in the region – the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum. Here, the participants could see world-renowned artworks from famed artists, including original pieces from Andy Warhol. Near the gallery, the journalists also visited the Čunovo Water Sports Centre.
In the afternoon, the attendees could enjoy international classics with a modern twist in one of the city’s recent openings – the Narbon Restaurant. The Bratislava Convention Bureau also took the MICE journalists on a journey into the past with the city’s legendary red historical oldtimer. The next stop was the imposing Bratislava Castle, erected as early as the 9th century. Bratislava is also a city of innovations. It is home to leading IT companies globally and is where the first flying car was invented. Another pioneering experience has been luring tourists lately – wine tasting in the dark. Attendees experienced an eye-opening degustation of the country’s most unique wines in complete darkness. The experience opened their eyes and taste buds to Slovakian wines that have gained international recognition. Incentives like this help promote local wines and connect winemakers. To finish the day, the journalists experienced superb cuisine in a restaurant destined to earn a spot in Michelin’s Guide, the Irin Restaurant.
Gastronomy and winemaking par excellence
Michelin-worthy restaurants are mushrooming across town, and it is a question of time before the renowned French guide comes knocking on their doors. Bringing the most awe-inspiring attention to detail and microscopic touches to their plates, the Irin Restaurant has taken the crown as the best new fine-dining establishment, opened at the end of 2022. The young team hustling day-round in their spotless kitchen embellished with rose-hued ceramic tiles serves sublime dishes. The participants relished their signature sourdough bread and mouthwatering interpretations of classic Slovak dishes.
On the final day, the journalists got up close and personal with one of the country’s traditional crafts – pottery-making. The clay pots and vases, adorned with motifs depicting rural life and decorated with floral patterns, are as intrinsic to Slovakia as the iconic Kofola drink, their version of Coca-Cola. Later, they tried a cup of the award-winning coffee from Ebenica Coffee. The coffee culture is rooted in Slovakian culture, and many local cafes use their own blends. Quality wine is equally important as coffee in Slovakia. The tradition of winemaking has been around for centuries and was well-respected during the times of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. To see one of the country’s most modern wineries, the attendees went to Elesko Winery, where they could sample and savour some of the best rieslings and pinot noirs.
A city fast transforming into a cosmopolitan metropolis yet remaining charmingly accessible and authentic, Bratislava continues to develop as a tourist destination. The press trip organised by the Bratislava Convention Bureau will help the destination gain prominence among the readership of leading MICE media and drive future growth as an event destination.
Learn more about Bratislava as a meeting destination here.
