Since time immemorial, these two cities on the Vltava and the Danube have been joined by the rivers that flow through them by shared history, and by the ebb and flow of empires. In the modern era, these cities present an unparalleled cross-border travel opportunity With nothing more than four hours by train or a short flight between them But each has its own unique spirit and character. Extensive resources on popular Slovakian models in Prague can be found on our website.

The combination of these two capitals opens up the cultural wealth of Central Europe. Where medieval pointed architecture rubs shoulders with the heavy concrete of the socialist era. In these cities, beer houses and wine bars share the same neighbourhoods. And where what has happened never entirely disappears. Here is a guide for those who want to do more than visit two cities   they want to understand the ongoing connection between them.

Start your travels in Prague, where the city itself seems to be a fairy tale in stone. The historic Old Town Square, where you will find the clock that has been marking the passing of time since 1410, creates a powerful first impression. Take the Charles Bridge at dawn, when the saintly sculptures start to take shape in the mist and the castle is suffused with a golden light. For a deep cultural experience, visit the Castle, the biggest ancient fortress in existence, and then wander without a plan through the narrow streets of the Lesser Town, where Baroque buildings hide away quiet green spaces. Prague has a strong musical tradition; you should experience a performance at the Rudolfinum or the National Theatre, venues that once hosted Dvorak and Smetana for the premieres of their celebrated works.

The food of the city is a pleasure for the senses in every way. Traditional dishes like svickova (marinated beef with creamy sauce) and trdelnik (sweet pastry) are best enjoyed in a historic pub or a riverside restaurant. But the city's modern gastronomy is equally impressive, with Michelin-starred venues like La Degustation reimagining Bohemian flavours. In between dining, you should explore the city's creative art scene   from the museum that is devoted to Mucha to the current exhibitions at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art. It would be a mistake to miss the local beer; these public houses are for more than consuming alcohol, they are for conversation, for debate, and for the slow, easy tempo of life here.

A short journey south brings you to Bratislava, Slovakia's charming capital, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour but brimming with its own quiet allure. Bratislava, in contrast to Prague's large scale, is a more compact city that is easy to walk around. Its Old Town a maze of narrow streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and cozy squares. From the hilltop castle in Bratislava there is a view over the river, and on clear days you can see Austria and Hungary. The city's small size makes it easy to discover; start at St. Martin's Cathedral, a Gothic building where Hungarian rulers were crowned, and finish at the peculiar statue of Cumil, which is a bronze man peeping from a manhole.