3 - Bratislava, Slovakia

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From Warsaw, catch a train to Bratislava, the Slovakian capital, which is close to the western border with Austria. Having a vague idea of an itinerary really does help on saving time, but doesn't mean you can't stop off along the way and explore. Spending the night somewhere unheard of and/or unexpected helps to break up the journey too.

Although Slovakia often features on interrailing itineraries, it is rarely a destination that is allowed to shine in its own right. To say that Slovakia is hip and happening wouldn't be accurate, but it is an ideal country to get back in touch with nature. With its nine national parks, there is plenty of opportunity for hiking and camping. If you are going to be exploring the country, a visit to the Carpathian Mountains is a must for the views. Also on the list of things to try here are the natural mineral and thermal springs that dot the Slovakian landscape due to its particular geology. Although it isn't everyone's cup of tea, Slovakia is also famous for having the most castles per inhabitant as well original folk churches made entirely out of wood.

Our advice is to make a stop in Poprad, the entrance to the highest part of the mountains on the way from Warsaw, then stop at the tiny town of Rajecke Teplice, which is absolutely ideal for letting the stress of long train journeys fall away in the town spas looking out to the beautiful Mala Fatra National Park. Build up some energy for our last stop in the country: its cosmopolitan capital, Bratislava. Reputed for its nightlife, although if you come from one of the world's 'great cities' like London, Barcelona or Paris, be prepared for a healthy dose of cheesy house and indefinable local anthems. We recommend heading to the SubClub, an old nuclear bunker under Bratislava Castle, for something worth writing home about!

Warsaw, Poland Ljubljana and the Alpi Giuli, Slovenia