Bratislava borders Austria and Hungary, being the only national capital that borders two countries. Bratislava and Vienna are also two of Europe's closest national capitals, at less than 60 kilometres (37 mi) apart.

Being the the political, cultural and economic centre of Slovakia, Bratislava is the seat of the Slovak president, parliament, and the executive branch of the government. The climate is continental with four different seasons Bratislava is home to several universities, museums, theatres, galleries and other important economic, cultural, and educational institutions.  Many of Slovakia's large businesses and financial institutions headquarters are in Bratislava as well.