Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, sits along the Danube River at the crossroads of Central Europe. It's the only capital in the world bordering Austria and Hungary, which makes it an easy stop on many European itineraries. Yet Bratislava is more than a waypoint; it offers a compact city center filled with centuries of history. The Old Town’s cobbled lanes lead past Gothic cathedrals, Baroque palaces, and buildings once used by Habsburg royalty.
This is your passage into the sacred "Garden Isle," where the sweet smell of the mokihana berry permeates the air and the lush green landscapes intoxicate your senses. Visit Waimea Canyon and witness the union of water, sunshine, clouds and canyon walls as they create the most colorful rainbows imaginable.
This city, which started as a modest fishing village, now offers plenty of modern German charm. The extensive public transportation makes it a perfect home base for seeing nearby attractions such as Heidelberg. Mannheim is known for its many pretzel stands, so make sure you indulge in one of these delicious treats before you leave!
Its legacy as the former imperial capital of Vietnam is just one of many reasons to visit Hue. For more than a century, the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945) ruled from the Forbidden Purple City, the innermost enclosure of the citadel. Today, this complex is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and draws millions of visitors each year.