Bordering both Austria and Hungary and couched between the Danube and the Little Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is a picturesque city whose natural surroundings are rivaled only by its own historic architecture. Dating back centuries, the Old Town is home to numerous historic churches, castles, galleries and museums, including the Museum of Jewish Culture and Bratislava City Museum. The surviving fortifications at Michael's Gate provide a glimpse into the medieval history of the city.

Staré Mesto, the Old Town of Slovakia's capital, whisks visitors back a few centuries as they wander through cobbled streets, admire the Baroque architecture, enjoy summer and Christmas concerts at Old Town Hall and while away time at cafés and restaurants. Venture beyond for more sites, including the 15th-century hrad (castle) with its treasury and museums of history and music, the Slovak National Theatre and the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Slovak National Gallery, housed in an 18th-century palace.

Over 15 million gallons of water bubble daily into Budapest's 118 springs and boreholes. The city of spas offers an astounding array of baths, from the sparkling Gellert Baths to the vast 1913 neo-baroque Szechenyi Spa to Rudas Spa, a dramatic 16th-century Turkish pool with original Ottoman architecture. The "Queen of the Danube" is also steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. Get your camera ready for the Roman ruins of the Aquincum Museum, Heroes' Square and Statue Park, and the 300-foot dome of St. Stephen's Basilica.