Žilina - Discovering Slovakia

Travelling to Žilina

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Žilina, a pretty good destination in Slovakia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Žilina and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Žilina, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Slovakia, here's everything to know about Žilina for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Žilina

Žilina is a city located in northwestern Slovakia, near the border with the Czech Republic and Poland. It is the fourth-largest city in Slovakia and is considered to be one of the country's cultural and economic centers. Žilina has a rich history dating back to the 9th century, and is home to many historic buildings, museums, and cultural institutions. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with the Malá Fatra and Veľká Fatra mountains located nearby. Žilina is easily accessible by road, rail, and air transportation, making it a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike.

What to visit in Žilina

Sure, here are some of the famous tourist attractions of Žilina along with some information about them: 1. Budatín Castle - This is a historical castle that was built in the 13th century and has been restored and renovated over time. It is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque location on the banks of the River Váh.
2. Marianske Namestie - This is the main square in Žilina and is surrounded by historic buildings and features a beautiful fountain in its center. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to gather and relax.
3. The Považská Gallery - This is an art museum that features both contemporary and traditional art from Slovakia and other countries. It is located in the center of Žilina and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
4. St. Stephen's Church - This is a beautiful Gothic-style church that dates back to the 13th century. It is located in the center of Žilina and has been beautifully preserved over the years.
5. Areal Fatra - This is an adventure park located on the outskirts of Žilina that offers a variety of activities such as rope courses, ziplines and bungee-jumping among others. It is a great spot to visit for some adrenaline-fueled fun.
6. Horský Park - This is a beautiful park located on the hill above Žilina that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It is a great spot for hiking, picnics, and other outdoor activities.
7. The Žilina Zoo - This is a small-scale zoo that is home to a variety of animals such as monkeys, reptiles, and exotic birds among others. It is a great spot to visit with kids or for animal-lovers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Slovakia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Žilina.

When to go on holiday to Žilina

The best time to visit Žilina is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. During this time, most of the outdoor activities and attractions are available, and you can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery around the city. However, if you are a fan of winter sports, then the winter season, from December to February, might be the best time to visit Žilina. During this time, the city is covered in snow and offers various winter sports activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding in surrounding ski areas. Overall, the best time to visit Žilina depends on your interests, but the summer months offer a wider variety of activities and attractions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Žilina

There are several ways to get to Žilina (Slovakia), depending on your starting point and preference. Here are some common options: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Žilina is the Žilina Airport. However, this airport mostly serves private and charter flights. If you're coming from abroad, you might find it more convenient to fly to the Bratislava Airport or Vienna International Airport in Austria, and then take a train or bus to Žilina.
2. By train: Žilina is an important railway hub in Slovakia, and there are several direct trains to Žilina from major cities such as Bratislava, Košice, and Prague. You can check timetables and buy tickets online at the website of the national railway company, ZSSK.
3. By bus: There are also several long-distance buses that go to Žilina from various cities in Slovakia and neighboring countries like the Czech Republic and Poland. You can check schedules and buy tickets online at websites such as Flixbus or RegioJet.
4. By car: If you prefer to drive, Žilina is easily accessible by car via the D1 motorway, which connects it to Bratislava in the southwest and Košice in the east. Just make sure you have a valid driver's license, insurance, and a vignette (toll sticker) if you're driving on highways.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Žilina, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Žilina

Here are some typical foods from the Žilina region of Slovakia: 1. Bryndzové halušky - This is a national Slovakian dish often considered as Slovakia's national dish. It consists of potato dumplings served with sheep cheese and bacon.
2. Kapustnica - This is a traditional Slovakian cabbage soup, usually served during Christmas Eve dinner. It is commonly served with smoked sausages or bacon.
3. Živánska - This is a spicy smoked sausage made from pork and beef, originating in the Žilina region. It is often sliced and served as an appetizer or as part of a main course.
4. Langoš - This can be described as a deep-fried flatbread, sometimes topped with garlic butter, cheese, and ketchup. It is often served at festivals and street food events in Slovakia and other Eastern European countries. 5. Pirohy - These are stuffed dumplings, similar to the Polish pierogi or Ukrainian varenyky. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, potatoes, or even meat.
6. Kofola - Although not a food, Kofola is a popular Slovakian soft drink that originated in the Czech Republic during the Communist era. It has a distinct cola-like flavor and is often served as a non-alcoholic alternative to beer.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes and drinks that you can find in the Žilina region of Slovakia.
You can find general info about typical foods in Slovakia here.

Is Žilina an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other countries in Western Europe, Slovakia is generally considered to be a more affordable destination for tourists. However, within Slovakia, Žilina is one of the larger cities and may have slightly higher prices for accommodation, dining, and transportation compared to smaller towns and villages in the region. That being said, travelers can still find affordable options for lodging and food in Žilina, especially if they are willing to stay in budget hotels or hostels and eat at local cafes and restaurants rather than upscale establishments.

Where to find accomodation in Žilina

The best areas to find accommodation in Žilina would be the city center and the surrounding neighborhoods. The Old Town area is perfect for those who want to explore the city's historical sites and enjoy its charming atmosphere. Other areas that offer good accommodation options include Marianske Square, Hliny, Dolny Hricov, and the area around the train station. These areas are well-connected to the city center and offer easy access to Žilina's main attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Žilina here:
Booking.com

Is Žilina a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Žilina, Slovakia is generally a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate and violent crime is rare. However, tourists should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings to avoid petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas. It's also important to follow basic safety measures such as not leaving valuables unattended in public places and being cautious when using public transportation at night. Overall, if you practice common sense and take basic precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable visit to Žilina.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Slovakia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Žilina.

What type of travelers will enjoy Žilina the most?

Žilina, Slovakia is a great destination for a variety of travelers. The city offers a mix of historic and modern attractions that appeal to a broad range of interests and age groups. Here are some suggestions on the types of travelers that may enjoy Žilina: 1. History and Culture Buffs: Žilina has a rich history and many historical buildings for tourists to explore. The city boasts several beautiful churches, such as St. Mary's Church and St. Stephen's Church. Art lovers can visit the Považská Art Gallery, which displays both contemporary and traditional Slovakian art.
2. Couples: Those who are looking for a romantic getaway may find Žilina to be an attractive destination. The city's picturesque scenery, including the stunning Mala Fatra mountain range, makes for the perfect backdrop for a romantic vacation. Couples can take long walks around city parks, enjoy a candlelight dinner, or even explore the city's nightlife together.
3. Families: There are many family-friendly attractions in Žilina, such as the nearby Dinopark. The city also offers several parks and play areas where children can enjoy themselves.
4. Active Travelers: Adventure seekers can take advantage of Žilina's natural surroundings: such as hiking and biking in the Mala Fatra mountains. Additionally, skiing and snowboarding is a popular winter activity in the area.
5. Foodies: Those that enjoy good food and drink will appreciate trying traditional Slovakian cuisine at numerous local restaurants. One popular dish is "bryndzové halušky", a Slovakian-style pasta with cheese.
Overall, Žilina has something for everyone, and it is a great destination to explore for many different types of travelers.

How to get around Žilina

There are several transportation options available for getting around Žilina (Slovakia), including buses, taxis, and your own private vehicle. Additionally, there are also bike rental services available for those who prefer to cycle around the city. The public bus system is reliable and affordable, with many bus stops connecting the city's various neighborhoods and attractions. Taxis are widely available and are a convenient option for shorter trips or when you need to get around quickly. Finally, if you are more comfortable driving, you can rent a car or use your own vehicle to explore the city.

What to see around Žilina

Sure, here are some places you can consider visiting on a day trip from Žilina: 1. The Orava Castle - located about an hour's drive from Žilina, this medieval fortress is one of the most visited attractions in Slovakia.
2. Terchová - a picturesque mountain village in the Malá Fatra National Park, known for its traditional wooden houses, hiking trails, and beautiful scenery.
3. Strečno Castle - a castle ruins situated on a hill overlooking the Váh river, about half an hour's drive from Žilina.
4. Rajecké Teplice - a popular spa town located about 30 km from Žilina, known for its natural thermal springs and health treatments.
5. Budatín Castle - a Renaissance castle located in Žilina, which houses the Považské Museum.
6. Kysuce Open-Air Museum - an open-air museum located in the village of Vychylovka, which showcases the traditional rural architecture and way of life of the Kysuce region.
7. Liptovská Mara - a large reservoir situated in the Liptov region, about an hour's drive from Žilina, which offers a variety of water sports and activities.
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