In this off-the-beaten-path capital, I discovered these hidden gems.

Beyond visiting Bratislava's iconic Castle Hill and magnificent palace, the shops, cafes, and unique restaurants in the Old Town's alleys are well worth exploring. Even the coffee houses can be considered "attractions."😍😍😍 Michalská Brána (Michael's Gate) The ancient character of the Old Town is evident at Michalská Brána, the city's oldest building, dating back to the 14th century. Nearby, I was drawn to a Slovak street artist creating paintings from coffee grounds. His works captured the essence of Slovak architecture. I bought one, and he was delighted to have his art travel to distant China. For me, it was a truly meaningful moment.😁😁😁 Konditorei Kormuth – A Century-Old Coffee House This coffee house, a favorite of Queen Maria Theresa, has over a century of history. Stepping inside, I was captivated by the exquisite murals, carvings, Rococo moldings, and stained glass windows depicting the Austro-Hungarian Empire's chronicles. It's more than just a vintage coffee house – it's an art museum. We chose a €10 afternoon tea set, including a cake and a drink.❤️❤️❤️ Kostol svätej Alžbety (St. Elizabeth's Church) A short walk from the Old Town lies the St. Elizabeth's Church, built in 1907 and known as the "Blue Church" for its sky-blue exterior. Constructed by Hungarians to honor Princess Elizabeth, it was designed by Edmund Lechner in the Art Nouveau style. The church's light blue and white color scheme, adorned with floral patterns, gives it a fairytale castle appearance. Currently, the church is used for weddings. To visit inside, go between 6:30–8:00 or 17:30–19:30. Otherwise, you might be out of luck, like we were. Remember to like and follow for more stories. Due to limited space, we'll continue the European tales next time. #Bratislava #Slovakia #Travel