- Must visit
Slovak National Gallery
Modern and contemporary art museum in a riverside modernist building, known for temporary exhibitions and strong Slovak art context.
Cheapest price on Sep 17
€9
Average ticket price on Sep 17
€9
Fastest journey on Sep 17
2 h 47 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
2 h 47 m
Trains on Sep 17
2
Distance
169 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Žilina to Bratislava is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Žilina to Bratislava will cost around €9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €9.
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 2 trains from Žilina to Bratislava, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 169 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 47 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 2 h 47 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.




Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Žilina to Bratislava among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €8 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 2m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €8, while a bus costs an average of €17.
Distance: 105 miles (169 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€8 Average price Cheapest | €17 Average price | €42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 2m Average total duration Fastest 2h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration 2h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 44m 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 Žilina to Bratislava:
A train is €9 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Žilina to Bratislava costing on average €17.
Other travel options to Bratislava take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 48m.
The journey is about 12m faster (2h 32m by train vs 2h 44m by car) and roughly €35 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€8 vs €42). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with RegioJet a.s., Railways of Slovak Republic (ZSSK).
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Žilina to Bratislava trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:26 AM Žilina | 2h47 | 6:13 AM Bratislava | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:26 AM Žilina | 2h47 | 7:13 AM Bratislava | 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 Žilina to Bratislava run on average 1 times per day, taking around 2h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:46, the last at 20:22. The fastest train covers the 105 miles (169 km) distance in 2h 1m.
Distance 105 miles (169 km) |
Average train duration 2h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price €7 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 1m |
First train 12:46 AM |
Last train 8:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Bratislava — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bratislava trip today.
Modern and contemporary art museum in a riverside modernist building, known for temporary exhibitions and strong Slovak art context.
Slovakia’s leading national museum presents archaeology, history, and cultural collections inside Bratislava Castle.
Main city museum documenting Bratislava’s urban past through diverse exhibits in the Old Town’s historic core.
Bratislava’s compact historic center is packed with medieval lanes, landmarks, courtyards, and lively public spaces for walking.
A broad riverside promenade ideal for walking, cycling, and Danube views, especially pleasant in warmer months.
The city’s main square features historic facades, seasonal markets, and easy access to key Old Town sights.
Potato dumplings mixed with sheep cheese and topped with bacon. It is Slovakia’s best-known national dish and a staple of traditional mountain cuisine.
Thin potato pancakes often seasoned with garlic and marjoram. A beloved Slovak comfort food, commonly served at markets and casual eateries.
Breaded and fried Edam-style cheese, usually served with fries or potatoes and tartar sauce. A classic meat-free dish in Slovak pubs and canteens.
Established Bratislava restaurant focused on Slovak and Austro-Hungarian traditions, with seasonal dishes and a more intimate, upscale atmosphere.
Modern Slovak fine dining near the old town, known for refined regional ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service in an elegant setting.
Traditional Slovak restaurant with a rustic interior, generous portions, and reliable classics such as halušky, soups, and roast meat dishes.
Moderate for Central Europe: hotels and dining are usually below Vienna, while transit is cheap and many sights are low cost.
Service may be included, but 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up in cafes and for taxis if service was good.
The train connection between Žilina and Bratislava is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore Slovakia's vibrant capital. The journey typically takes around 2 hours, offering scenic views of the Slovak countryside along the way. RegioJet a.s. provides comfortable services with modern amenities, ensuring an enjoyable ride for passengers. Whether you're heading to Bratislava for business or leisure, this rail link makes it easy to experience all that both cities have to offer.
The train connection from Žilina to Bratislava takes approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day, making it a convenient option for travelers. The journey departs from Žilina and arrives at both Bratislava-Vinohrady and Bratislava Hlavná Stanica.
The first daily train journey from Žilina to Bratislava departs at 05:09 AM. This early morning service allows travelers to start their day with a scenic ride through the beautiful Slovak countryside, making it an ideal option for those looking to maximize their time in the capital city.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Žilina to Bratislava is €7. The average ticket price typically hovers around €8, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these two beautiful Slovak cities.
Bratislava Castle, perched majestically on a hill overlooking the Danube River, has roots dating back to the Stone Age and has served as a royal residence for centuries. Its significance lies not only in its role as a symbol of Slovak history but also in its stunning panoramic views of Bratislava and beyond. Unique features include its distinctive white façade and the impressive four corner towers that reflect various architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque.
St. Martin's Cathedral is one of Slovakia’s most important religious sites, originally built in the 13th century and serving as the coronation church for Hungarian kings. This magnificent structure holds great historical significance due to its rich heritage intertwined with both Slovakian and Hungarian culture. Notable aspects include its striking tall spire adorned with gold leaf, which makes it an iconic part of Bratislava's skyline.
Michael's Gate stands out as one of the last remaining medieval city gates in Bratislava, dating back to the late 14th century when it was constructed for defensive purposes. Its importance is underscored by being a key entry point into Old Town while showcasing elements from different periods throughout history including Renaissance architecture influences. The unique feature here is undoubtedly its charming baroque tower topped with an ornate statue that adds character to this historic landmark.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Žilina to Bratislava 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 Bratislava, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Žilina to Bratislava trains use the Žilina to Bratislava Hlavná Stanica station pair, with some services arriving at Bratislava-Vinohrady. Use this guide to compare Žilina and Bratislava train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Žilina has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Dubná Skala, Pizzeria Vulcano
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Žilina. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Žilina. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Žilina: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Žilina: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Žilina: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Žilina, Hotel Dubná Skala, Hotel Slovakia.
Bratislava Hlavná Stanica is 1 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:
Bratislava Hlavná Stanica has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Fach Restaurant, Savoy Restaurant
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava Hlavná Stanica: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Matyšák, Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel, Loft Hotel Bratislava.
Bratislava-Vinohrady is 4 km from Bratislava city centre. Public transport options include:
Bratislava-Vinohrady has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Bratislava-Vinohrady.
ATMs are available at Bratislava-Vinohrady.
Available at Bratislava-Vinohrady: Parking, WC.
Available at Bratislava-Vinohrady: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bratislava-Vinohrady.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need