TIPS FOR TRIPS

Whether you are extending your stay before or after ELEKTRO 2026, or simply looking for an enjoyable time after the conference sessions, the region around Žilina offers plenty of opportunities to discover the beauty of Slovakia.

Explore Žilina

Take a walk through the historic city centre with its charming Mariánske Square, arcaded houses, cafés and restaurants. Visit Budatín Castle (distance 3 km, time needed 1–2 h), located at the confluence of the Váh and Kysuca rivers, and enjoy a relaxing walk through its beautiful park.

Discover Malá Fatra National Park

Only 30 minutes from Žilina lies Malá Fatra National Park, one of Slovakia's most beautiful mountain regions.

Popular destinations include:

Jánošíkove Diery – spectacular gorges with waterfalls, wooden walkways and ladders (distance 30 km, Half day).
Vrátna Valley – ideal for hiking or taking the cable car to enjoy magnificent mountain views.
Veľký Rozsutec – one of Slovakia's most iconic peaks for experienced hikers.

Castles Worth Visiting

Strečno Castle – a well-preserved medieval castle overlooking the Váh River (distance 15 km, time needed 2–3 h.)
Lietava Castle – one of the largest castle ruins in Slovakia with breathtaking panoramic views (distance 15 km, time needed 2–3 h.)

Traditional Slovak Villages

Čičmany – famous for its unique painted wooden houses (distance 45 km, Half day).
Vlkolínec (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – one of the best-preserved traditional villages in Central Europe.

Day Trips

If you have an extra day, consider visiting:

The High Tatras – Slovakia's highest mountains.
Orava Castle – one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.
Terchová – the birthplace of the legendary Slovak folk hero Juraj Jánošík.

Our Recommendations

🥾 Jánošíkove Diery – probably the most beautiful hiking destination near Žilina. Wooden bridges, waterfalls and narrow gorges create an unforgettable experience suitable for most visitors.

🏰 Strečno Castle – a perfect combination of history and spectacular views over the Váh River valley.

🏡 Čičmany – a unique village unlike anywhere else in the world, famous for its traditional wooden houses decorated with distinctive white geometric patterns.

⛰️ The High Tatras – if you have an additional day, don't miss Slovakia's magnificent mountain range. Even a short cable-car trip offers unforgettable scenery.

Did you know?

Slovakia has:

9 national parks,
more than 180 castles and castle ruins,
over 8,000 caves (around 20 are open to the public),
and one of the highest densities of castles per capita in the world.

We hope that your visit to ELEKTRO 2026 will be memorable not only for its scientific programme, but also for the opportunity to discover the beauty, history and hospitality of Slovakia.