Basic information

Žilina is a natural centre of north-western Slovakia and with a population of 85 621 inhabitants (as per February 29, 2008) it ranks among the largest cities in Slovakia. Its geographic location is 49°15' of north latitude and 18°45' of east longitude and it lies at an altitude of 333 metres above sea level. Žilina is situated around 200 km from Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. 

Žilina is located in the valley of the Váh river, in the Žilina Basin, at the confluence of the Váh river with its tributaries Kysuca and Rajčanka. The Žilina Basin is surrounded by the mountain ranges of Malá Fatra (Lesser Fatra), Strážovské vrchy (Strážov Hills), Súľovské vrchy (Súľov Hills), Javorníky and Kysucká vrchovina (Kysuce Highlands).

The Žilina District has an area of 815 km2 and population of 156 869 (as per December 31, 2004). Žilina covers an area of 80,03 km2. 

The city of Žilina is the seat of the Žilina Region. The city of Žilina is a centre of theatres, museums, galleries, parks and sports facilities. Its historical centre is crossed by one of the longest and the most beautiful pedestrian zones in Slovakia.

Interesting events held in the city of Žilina and its surroundings during the year (Carnival Slovakia, Central European Festival of Concert Art, Old Town Festival, Folklore Festival in Terchová, Medieval Day, Rajec Marathon ...) make the development of the City tourism more dynamic.