Žilina
A northwestern city built round an arcaded square, with a chapel decorated by the painter Ľudovít Fulla.
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Žilina sits where three valleys meet and grew as a trading town on the route to Poland and Silesia. Its centre is Mariánske square, arcaded on all four sides, which is unusual in Slovakia and gives it a Moravian or Polish character. Above the square stands the church of the Holy Trinity and the Burian tower. The Church of St Stephen on the edge of the city is Romanesque, the oldest building in the region, with medieval wall paintings inside.
What you actually see
- Marianske square - an arcaded square on all four sides, rare in Slovakia.
- The Burian tower - the freestanding Renaissance bell tower above the square.
- St Stephen's church - a Romanesque building with medieval wall painting.
- The Fulla gallery - the painter's own house and collection in the city.
When to go
April to October is the most comfortable, with the square's terraces running. Museums close on Mondays. Winter is cold and grey.
Honest expectations
The city is a transport hub and industrial around the edges. The Romanesque church is on the outskirts and needs transport. Museums are labelled in Slovak.
Nearby
Terchova is east, and Sulov rocks are southwest.
What to pack for Žilina
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.