THE CONFETTI ON the streets was the only remnant of the night before, which happened to be New Year’s Eve. Otherwise, Bratislava seemed a relative ghost town rather than the well-known and affordable nightlife destination it is. We hadn’t yet caught a glimpse of its social scene, as our river cruise ship docked in the city a bit too early on New Year’s Day. Locals and tourists were still asleep — but not for long, and not usually, in this after-5 destination.

It wasn’t hard to imagine the streets more crowded, fun-filled and noisier just a few hours earlier, especially considering clubs stay open late, like Channels Club, which serves drinks until 6 a.m. Some evidence of its ubiquitous and unique nightlife was still on display, like a sidewalk sign pointing to a bar in an underground bomb shelter, among other advertisements. Subclub is housed in the former military bunkers beneath Bratislava Castle, and it has been a regular on the city’s club scene for decades. Given its location, music literally bounces off the cave-like walls, and the party lasts all night.

For something a bit milder and with a view, make your way to another Bratislava icon, the UFO. A hallmark of the city’s skyline along the Danube River, you’ll find this building prominently featured on just about every image of Bratislava, and you’ll also find watch.taste.groove at the top. After a 45-second elevator ride up, enjoy first-rate cuisine, top-notch cocktails and a vista of twinkling stars and city lights.

As Slovakia continues to shed its Communist past, its capital city comes more into its own. In addition to nightlife, Bratislava’s culinary scene is developing a name for itself. To sample hearty meat-and-potato specialties, visit Prašná Bašta or Modrá Hviezda. Slovak Pub sources its own ingredients at its bio farm while also boasting a list of Slovak beers to try. On select nights, traditional accordion music will complement the experience.

If your visit falls between early September and late June, more Slovakian culture can be found during a performance at the Slovak National Theatre, established in 1920. Today it boasts professional drama, opera and ballet companies performing in two venues: SND Historic Building in Hviezdoslav Square and SND New Building.

Same-sex marriage is not legal in Slovakia, and while Bratislava is the country’s most LGBTQ+-friendly city, it’s still not as friendly as other destinations around the world. Apollon Club is the country’s oldest and best-established gay club, found in the heart of Bratislava.

This casual capital city bursts with a bustling, restored Old Town boasting any number of cafés, restaurants, clubs and bars. Simply take your pick, as the post-workday culture in this city offers a little bit of everything.