What Is Plzen?

Plzen, known as Pilsen in English, is the fourth largest city in the Czech Republic, in the western Bohemian region. Located in the elaborately beautiful landscape of Bohemian forest and the nearby foothills of the Šumava mountains, Plzen is home to around 170,000 people, attracting a large influx of tourists due to its rich cultural attractions, its thriving music and art scene, and its prestigious brewing industry.

History of Plzen

Plzen has a fascinating cultural heritage. Preceded by a former settlement of farmers and craftsmen, it was officially declared a Royal town in 1295. This allowed it to become something of an economic hub during the Middle Ages, with its favorable location on the old trade route and its growing brewing industry. It is thought that the city received its name from the Czech word “plíz” which means wheat beer. Plzen also played an important role in the Reformation and the Hussite protests, as well as in both WW1 and WW2.

Plzen Tourist Attractions

Today, Plzen is regularly touted as one of the best places in the Czech Republic for visitors, who come both to learn more about its intriguing past, as well as to take advantage of the many modern amenities and attractions. A stroll around Plzen’s old town is sure to reveal some of the historic architecture still visible today, such as the Powder Tower or Town Hall, as well as churches like St. Bartholomew’s. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy in Plzen’s active modern culture-rich city parks to vibrant music venues, art galleries and cinemas. Another of Plzen’s popular assets is the České pivo, or “Czech beer”, which originated right here and remains its most famous export. Tourists can head to Pilsner Urquell for tours on how it’s made and taste samples of this delectable beer.

Getting Around Plzen

Exploring Plzen has been made surprisingly easy with excellent transport links from neighbouring cities like Prague and Karlovy Vary not to mention the rest of Europe. In addition to reliable bus and train services from other cities, Plzen also boasts its own growing public transport network including the bus and metro. Visitors can also get around on pushbikes; there are currently ten cycling routes within the city limits and many surrounding paths that offer a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Conclusion

From its long history stretching back centuries to its opulent architecture, to its delicious beer and exciting modern culture, Plzen is without a doubt one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. It offers something for every type of traveller from culture-seekers to craft beer connoisseurs finding new experiences every time they come back. With efficient transportation options getting to Plzen shouldn’t be hard for any traveller so get there soon!

An Insider’s Guide to Plzen, Czech Republic

Plzen (also written as Pilsen) is a beautiful city situated in the western part of the Czech Republic. Founded in the thirteenth century, the city is famous for its beer, architecture, and as the birthplace of Pilsner beer. Visitors to Plzen will be mesmerized by the stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture that adorns the city’s buildings, along with the bustling beer gardens, restaurants, and cafes. This insider’s guide provides a comprehensive list of must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Plzen one to remember.

Attractions

Plzen is truly a cultural hub and a paradise for those who love history and architecture. Here are some of the top attractions in the city:

– The Great Synagogue: This is one of the largest synagogues in Europe, located in the northern part of the city. It was built in 1893 in the Moorish Revival style and has been beautifully restored.

– The Pilsen Zoo: Located on the edge of Borsky Park, the Pilsen Zoo is a great place to explore with family and friends. The zoo is home to more than 1,300 animals from over 225 species.

– St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral: This 13th-century Gothic cathedral is known for its impressive size, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate detailing.

– The Pilsen Brewery Museum: Plzen is known for its traditional Pilsner beer, and the Pilsen Brewery Museum celebrates this ancient craft. The interactive museum takes visitors through the history of beer brewing, including tastings of some of the local brews.

Dining Spots

Plzen is full of amazing cafes, restaurants, and breweries that cater to different tastes and budgets. Here are a few recommendations:

– Na Spilce: This brewery and restaurant is located in the heart of Plzen and is known for serving great traditional Czech food and beer.

– Kavárna Prague: This coffee shop is the perfect spot for a cozy brunch or lunch. The restaurant serves homemade cakes, sandwiches, and coffee.

– U Salzmannu: This traditional Czech restaurant serves delicious meals and is located near the famous brewery. The restaurant’s medieval-style interior creates a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Plzen is home to a variety of art galleries, museums, theaters, and cultural events that are worth exploring. Here are a few cultural experiences to add to your itinerary:

– Bohemian JazzFest: If you’re a music lover, don’t miss the Bohemian JazzFest. It is a four-day festival featuring concerts from top jazz musicians from around the world.

– West Bohemian Museum: This museum is a great place to learn about the history of Plzen and the surrounding region. It houses a variety of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts, textiles, and fine art.

– The City Theatre of Plzen: This theater has been entertaining audiences since 1902. The theater stages a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, opera, ballet, and concerts.

Local History

Plzen has a rich history that is worth exploring. Here are a few historical landmarks and monuments to add to your itinerary:

– The Pilsen Historical Underground: Plzen’s historical underground was once used to store beer and is now open to the public. Guided tours take visitors through the underground tunnels and provide insight into the history of the city.

– The Renaissance City Hall: The City Hall is the heart of the city and is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

– The Brewery Museum: Plzen is famous for its beer, and the Brewery Museum is a great place to learn about the Pilsner brewing process and the history of Plzen’s breweries.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you explore Plzen like a local:

– The Patton Memorial Museum: This museum pays homage to General George S. Patton, who liberated Plzen during World War II. The museum houses an impressive collection of military artifacts and equipment.

– The Horymír Forest: Located on the outskirts of Plzen, the Horymír Forest is a beautiful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The forest is perfect for hiking, biking, or picnicking.

– The Pilsen City Walls: The city walls offer an opportunity to explore the history of Plzen and the region. Visitors can walk along the walls and take in the stunning views of the city from above.

In conclusion, Plzen is a fascinating city with a lot to offer for tourists looking for history, culture, food, and the famous Pilsner beer. This insider’s guide provides a variety of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will help you create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Plzen.