Komárno

Komárno stands where the Váh joins the Danube, and the Habsburgs turned it into one of the largest fortresses in Central Europe: a system of bastions, ditches and outworks built from the sixteenth century into the nineteenth and never taken. Much of it survives and parts are shown on tours. The town also has the Courtyard of Europe, a square built in the 2000s with facades in the architectural styles of different European nations, which divides opinion sharply.

What you actually see

• The fortress - an extensive bastion system built over three centuries and never taken.
• The Courtyard of Europe - a 2000s square of buildings in various national styles.
• The Danube confluence - the Vah joining the Danube at the town.
• The bridge - the crossing to Komarom on the Hungarian bank.

When to go

April to October is the main season. Fortress tours run on a limited schedule and should be booked. Summer brings events to the courtyard.

Honest expectations

Much of the fortress was in military use until recently and access is still partial and by tour only. The Courtyard of Europe is a modern pastiche that many find kitsch. The town is bilingual and Hungarian is dominant.

Nearby

Kolarovo is north, and Nitra is north beyond it.