Žilina ranks among the four largest cities in Slovakia. It is an important international crossroads linking the transport networks of Slovakia, Czech Republic and Poland. The city and its surrounding region have a sufficiently varied and diverse offer for the development of the travel industry. For visitors the primary attraction is its historical centre, the focal point of which is Marian Square with its historical houses and typical arcade on all sides of the square. The oldest landmark is the Church of St. Stephen the King in the city borough of Rudiny. Experts date its origins to the beginning of the 13th century. Of particular value are its decorative wall paintings dating approximately from the year 1260. Among the tourist attractions here are several castles near the city – Strečno, Budatín and Lietava. In addition to historical landmarks in Žilina you can visit and experience the atmosphere of several events for the wide public. Among those worthy of attention are the Old Town Festivals, the Žilina Summer of Culture, Medieval Day, the Žilina Days of Health and many others which help to create the atmosphere of the city. Lovers of modern creative arts should not miss the Museum of Art Žilina, which they’ll find on Andrej Hlinka Square. Žilina is also the seat of several important businesses and institutions. University of Žilina, the Transport Research Institute and other institutions dealing with science and research have an important standing in the city. Sport is also an important element of the city. The Football Club MŠK Žilina has played several times in prestigious European football tournaments. One good tip is also a visit to nearby Rajecké Teplice. The grounds of the local spa have undergone a major reconstruction which has significantly improved the quality of their services. In addition to the spa, Rajecké Teplice also offers wellness services.
In the centre of Žilina, its suburban areas, as well as in the spa town of Rajecké Teplice, you’ll find ample opportunities for accommodation and meaningful use of your free time. The advantage of Žilina as a regional capital is that it makes use of its cultural-historical potential. At the same time it is a transport junction, and several excellent tourist attractions and thermal springs are located in its vicinity.
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Visitors to Žilina who are lovers of meals prepared from fresh and high-quality ingredients can choose from the offer of Žilina’s four-star hotels. The restaurants of these businesses are focused on quality gastronomy.
The city of Žilina, in cooperation with partners, each year organizes cultural events which have become a part of the city’s atmosphere. Many of its residents and visitors today can no longer imagine Žilina without the Old Town Festivals or without the Žilina Summer of Culture, favoured perhaps by all generations.
In Žilina you’ll find a wide selection of possibilities for meaningful ways of spending your free time. Whether you want to rest or to devote yourself to active movement, you have a lot to choose from here.
In Žilina and its surrounding villages are many places where the past is linked with the present. The significance of some of the landmarks reaches beyond the borders of Slovakia and draws the interest of visitors to the city.