Through the passage of centuries, these twin cities have remained connected by the gentle curves of the Vltava and the powerful sweep of the Danube by their common historical narrative, and by the rise and fall of the great powers that ruled them. These days, the two capitals offer a unique trans-national travel experience Only a four-hour rail trip or a quick hop on a plane divides them Yet each possesses a distinct soul. In-depth information on popular Slovakian models in Prague can be found on our website.

The journey through both capitals lays bare the cultural diversity of the region. Where the spires of the Gothic period are found together with the severe construction of the communist era. In these capitals, beer houses and wine cellars are found in the same districts. Where history is a living presence. This guide is for those who travel not just to see two capitals, but to engage with the living relationship they share.

Set out from Prague, a place where the city itself resembles a stone-engraved fable. Its medieval Old Town Square, with the astronomical clock that has marked time since 1410, sets a dramatic stage. Traverse Charles Bridge as the sun comes up, when the statues of the saints are visible through the morning mist and the castle is gilded by the low sun. For culture, go to the Castle, which is the largest of all old castles, and then wander the twisting alleys of the Lesser Town, whose Baroque palaces hide away peaceful gardens. The musical history of the city is important; you can go to a concert at the Rudolfinum or the National Theatre, the places where Dvorak and Smetana originally played their famous pieces.

The food of the city is a pleasure for the senses in every way. If you want to try the traditional food, svickova (beef with cream sauce) and trdelnik (a sweet pastry), you should go to a historic pub or a restaurant near the river. The modern dining experience is equally strong; La Degustation and other Michelin-starred restaurants are presenting Bohemian cuisine in an updated form. Between courses and between restaurants, you should take in the city's rich art scene   from the museum of Alfons Mucha to the contemporary shows at DOX. The local beer is a must; the pubs of Prague exist for drinking, yes, but also for conversation, for debate, and for the measured, easy pace of life in this city.

A brief trip to the south takes you to Bratislava, the attractive capital of Slovakia, which is frequently in the shadow of its more well-known neighbour but which is full of its own gentle appeal. Bratislava is not like Prague, which is large and impressive in scale; instead, it is small, close and easy to walk around. The old centre of the city is a labyrinth of small lanes, buildings in soft colours, and small squares that feel welcoming. The castle which is situated on the hilltop at Bratislava offers extensive views of the Danube, and on days when the air is clear you can see into Austria and Hungary. The city's limited size means you can explore without difficulty; you can visit St. Martin's Cathedral (a Gothic building where Hungarian kings were once crowned) and then see the curious Cumil statue, a bronze man looking out from a street-level opening.