Planning your historic honeymoon in Bratislava

Planning a wedding is no easy feat, so after the festivities have come to an head - head over to Bratislava which is the perfect destination to unwind on your honeymoon. Nestled between Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital fuses historic beauty and contemporary architecture. It's the perfect setting for couples planning a European escape that's a little out of the ordinary. Check out our top picks to add to your romantic Bratislava itinerary.

Venture to Starý Mesto, or better known as the Old Town, to stroll through shady, tree-lined, cobblestone streets, winding your way hand-in-hand through narrow passages and pastel villas. Pause for lunch at Cafe Verne, a cozy spot preferred by locals for its soups and salads. Save room for freshly made sweet cakes at Cafe Mayer, where you can take your coffee al fresco during summer months, watching the bustling crowds on the cobble stone square.

Explore the city's rich cultural heritage at Devín Castle, perched above the Danube and the Morava rivers. The romantic ruin offers stunning vistas - the perfect backdrop for your honeymoon photos. The castle dates back to 864 in the 15th century, and its ancient passageways and walled lawns have witnessed centuries of military misadventure. If you're visiting during spring or fall, plan your visit to coincide with one of the castle's evening events.

Hidden behind the Presidential Palace, the spacious green lawns of Grassalkovich Garden seem a world away from the bustling city. Fill your picnic basket with spicy klobasa sausage, traditional bryndza cheese and a chilled bottle of Slovakian Riesling. During the summer months, head to Kuchajda Lake for a swim (it's also a great spot to ice skate in the winter) before an elegant lakeside lunch at Molo, where you can watch the swans on the water and dine with your soulmate at the same time!

Bratislava is a classic destination for spa junkies, so take the opportunity to de-stress. Turn up the heat at family-owned Sauna Penev, where you can take a traditional Finnish steam or try the modern (and increasingly popular) infrared sauna. There are massage services and indoor pools on site, but if you want to feel like a local, cool off by diving into Lake Drazdiak.

It may be located just steps from our grand Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel, Bratislava on the edge of Old Town, but LemonTree is one of the most modern eateries in town. Serving up a delicious fusion of Thai and Mediterranean cuisine against a backdrop of exposed brick walls and hardwood floors, it's also a hotspot for cocktails. After dinner, head back to the Radisson Blu and enjoy cocktails in Mirror Bar, where the interiors are similar to a classic library and the drinks add to the overall historic atmosphere.