Surrounded by mountain ranges and sitting at the confluence of three rivers, Žilina's stunning geographical location is undoubtedly one of its most appealing aspects. Adding to the city’s charm is a clutch of historical buildings, including churches and a castle. Explore the old sites, pick up insights in the city’s history and learn about traditional Slovakian crafts.
Start your day in Žilina in Mariánske Námestie (Mariánske Square) in the historical center. View the colorful façades of the old burgher houses, which are built on medieval cellars. Look at the old town hall building, marvel at the stone statue of the Virgin Mary and then enjoy a meal in one of the square’s open-air restaurants.
At the western end of the square is the 18th-century Church of St. Paul the Apostle, noted for its symmetrical façade. One of the exterior’s standout features is the stone statue of St. Paul the Apostle in a niche above the main entrance. Inside are several paintings of the saint and a baroque altar.
Tour Žilina’s other churches, including the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Church of St. Barbara and the well-preserved medieval Church of St. Stephen the King. The interior features wall paintings that date back to the middle of the 13th century. Other pictures include depictions of four Hungarian saints. One of them is of St. Elizabeth, a 13th-century Hungarian princess.
Investigate the 13th-century Budatín Castle, a picturesque fortress situated in a park by the meeting point of two rivers. Survey its architectural features, which include a cylindrical Romanesque tower, and then go inside for its exhibitions. The castle hosts collections of the Museum of Považie, encompassing natural sciences, archeology and the history of the area. There are also displays of tinker wares, objects made out of wire by skilled artisans.
Žilina is situated in northwestern Slovakia. It can be reached by regular train services from several other major cities as well as by buses from smaller towns. The historic core with its fascinating buildings is compact enough to be traversed on foot.
