For centuries, the cities of Prague and Bratislava have been connected by the winding currents of the Vltava and Danube rivers by their intertwined pasts, and by the movements of empires across the region. Currently, they provide travellers with a distinctive cross-frontier experience Only a four-hour ride on the train or a quick flight separates the two Nevertheless, each has a character that is entirely its own. Comprehensive details on how to book touring companions can be found through our web portal.

Taking in both capitals as a pair reveals the intricate pattern of Central European traditions and influences. In these capitals, the soaring points of the Gothic period contrast with the heavy concrete of the communist years. 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 are not satisfied with simply seeing two places, but who want to sense the active connection linking them.

Begin your journey in Prague, a city that feels like a fairytale etched in stone. Its medieval Old Town Square, with the astronomical clock that has marked time since 1410, sets a dramatic stage. Venture over the Charles Bridge in the early hours, when the statues gradually appear from the mist and the castle on the hill is lit with gold. For a cultural experience, visit the Castle — the most extensive ancient castle in existence — and then take to the winding streets of the Lesser Town, where Baroque palaces keep hidden gardens for those who look. The city's musical legacy is deep; a concert at the Rudolfinum or the National Theatre is essential, because these are the halls where Dvorak and Smetana introduced their masterpieces.

Dining in the Czech capital is an experience that pleases taste and smell and sight. You should try traditional plates such as svickova (marinated beef with a creamy sauce) and trdelnik (a sweet pastry) in a pub that has character or in a restaurant on the water. The city's current gastronomy is just as impressive, with restaurants like La Degustation (a Michelin-starred venue) that are reinterpreting the old flavours of Bohemia. When you are not dining, the city's art life awaits — with the Mucha Museum at one end and the contemporary art at DOX at the other. Remember to try the local lager; the city's pubs are places for conversation, argument, and the slow, comfortable pace of Czech life, not just for drinking.

A short trip southwards arrives at Bratislava, the pleasant Slovak capital, often not as well known as the larger city near it, but which has its own considerable, unobtrusive attraction. In contrast to the grand size of Prague, Bratislava is compact and can be comfortably explored on foot. The ancient centre of the city is a maze of small streets, buildings in soft tones, and squares that are comfortable and appealing. From the castle on the hill above the city, you get an excellent view of the Danube, and on bright days you can even make out Austria and Hungary in the distance. Bratislava is small enough that you can easily move around; you can begin at St. Martin's, a Gothic cathedral where Hungarian rulers were crowned, and then go to the eccentric statue of Cumil, which is a bronze figure of a man emerging from a manhole.