Budatín Castle stands at the confluence of the Váh and Kysuca rivers, a kilometre north of the old town. The core of the castle — a round tower — dates from the 13th century, with later Gothic and Renaissance additions creating the complex that survives today. The setting is striking: the castle sits on a low promontory exactly where the two rivers meet, and the reflection in the water on calm mornings makes for good photographs.
The castle now houses the Považské Museum, with permanent exhibitions on regional history, ethnography, and a notable collection of tinwork from the Kysuca valley — the region had a long tradition of metalworking, and the 18th and 19th century pieces are unexpectedly fine. Entry is cheap; the walk up from the old town along the Váh riverbank is pleasant in good weather.