- Must visit
Považie Museum at Budatín Castle
The main regional museum with archaeology, history, and natural science collections. It offers the best introduction to Žilina and northwestern Slovakia.
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$10
Fastest journey
2 h 42 m
Average duration
2 h 42 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
169 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bratislava to Žilina is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bratislava to Žilina will cost around $10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Of the 1 trains that leave Bratislava for Žilina on Sat, Jul 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 18 the direct trains cover the 169 km distance in an average of 2 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .
On Sat, Jul 18 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
RJ 1045 (Prague -> Žilina)
RJ 1045 (Prague -> Žilina)Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bratislava to Žilina among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $7, and a bus costs an average of $15.
Distance: 105 miles (169 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$10 Average price Cheapest | $21 Average price | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 47m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 31m Average total duration 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Bratislava to Žilina:
A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bratislava to Žilina costing on average $21 (€17).
Other travel options to Žilina take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 1m.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with RegioJet a.s., Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Bratislava to Žilina trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RJ 1045 (Prague -> Žilina) | 7:37 PM Bratislava hlavná stanica | 2h42 | 10:19 PM Žilina station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Bratislava to Žilina run on average 1 times per day, taking around 2h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $7 (€6) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:46, the last at 19:37. The fastest train covers the 105 miles (169 km) distance in 2h 42m.
Distance 105 miles (169 km) |
Average train duration 2h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 (€6) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 12:46 AM |
Last train 7:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Žilina — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Žilina trip today.
The main regional museum with archaeology, history, and natural science collections. It offers the best introduction to Žilina and northwestern Slovakia.
A restored historic synagogue used for exhibitions and contemporary culture. It is both an architectural masterpiece and one of the city’s top art venues.
A regional art gallery presenting Slovak modern and contemporary art. It is a strong stop for visitors interested in local visual culture.
The historic main square lined with arcades, cafes, and colorful houses. It is the city’s social heart and the best place to absorb old Žilina.
A riverside green area around Budatín Castle and the confluence of two rivers. It combines parkland, history, and easy walking paths.
The principal pedestrian shopping street linking the station and old town. It is ideal for strolling, people-watching, and everyday city atmosphere.
Bryndzové halušky are potato dumplings with sheep cheese and bacon. They are Slovakia’s signature dish and a staple in the Žilina region.
Strapačky are potato dumplings mixed with sauerkraut, often topped with bacon. This hearty mountain dish is common in northern Slovakia.
Kapustnica is a rich sauerkraut soup with mushrooms, sausage, and spices. It is traditional at holidays and widely loved in the region.
Elegant restaurant in Hotel Dubná Skala with refined Slovak and international cuisine, suitable for a more upscale meal.
Traditional Slovak koliba style restaurant known for bryndzové halušky, grilled meats, and rustic mountain atmosphere.
Established brewery restaurant serving house beer, Slovak classics, and hearty pub dishes in a lively central setting.
Moderate for Slovakia: lodging is cheaper than Bratislava, while dining and local transit stay reasonable for most travelers.
Service is usually not included. Round up or tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxi fares. Small change is fine in cafés.
Official public transport app
Žilina station -> Mariánske námestie, Žilina
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bratislava to Žilina by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Žilina, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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