One of Slovakia’s largest cities, Žilina lies in the country’s far north-west near its borders with Poland and the Czechia. It has been inhabited by Slavs since the 5th century and became an important manufacturing hub as part of the Kingdom of Hungary. In the late 19th century, Žilina's population boomed after it was linked to Bratislava by rail.
Things to do in Žilina
Stroll through Žilina to admire the historic burgher houses that line Marianske Namestie square and marvel at the twin-towered Church of St. Paul the Apostle. Dominating the city skyline are the soaring spires of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, which was built around 1400. Standing independently within the church compound is Burian’s Tower, from where you can enjoy elevated views across Žilina's medieval streets.
Dominating the junction of the Kysuca and Vah rivers is Budatin Castle, which was originally established in the 13th century to oversee the collection of tolls. It was rebuilt in a Renaissance style in the 16th century before serving as a barracks during the Austrian Empire’s revolutions of 1848. Today, Budatin Castle houses the Museum of Považie’s archaeological, ethnographical and natural history displays.
A short drive south of Žilina are the ruins of Lietava Castle, which was built in 1241 along the Amber Road that connected Europe and Asia. It was later reconstructed in a Gothic-Renaissance style, with ornate portals and grand fireplaces seen throughout. A walking trail connects the village of Lietava to the remains of this medieval hilltop fortress.
Getting around Žilina
Leoš Janaček Airport Ostrava is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Žilina and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect from Bratislava to the Žilina railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Žilina can easily be explored on foot.