What to Do in Plzen: An Insider’s Guide

Situated in the western Czech Republic, Plzen is an idyllic city founded in 1295, marking an important milestone in the country’s history. Although it might not be as popular as Prague or Brno, Plzen has plenty of exciting things to offer its visitors – especially if you’re keen to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions and activities. Whether you’re into culture, nightlife, sports, food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of one of the oldest cities in the country, this guide will offer you insight into what you can do in Plzen.

Cultural Attractions

Probably the most popular tourist destination in Plzen is the town square located at Namesti Republiky, otherwise known as Republic Square. The historic square dates back to the 13th century and features a few beautiful monuments and buildings of great importance for both its history and culture, including the Plague Column (Morový Sloup) from 1712 and the Gothic St Bartholomew’s Cathedral from the 13th century. Another building of historic significance is the Town Hall (Radnice). The Neoclassical building stands at 144m tall and boasts a 64-metre-high bell tower with stunning views of the city.

Historical Places

If you’ve ticked off the must-see sights of Plzen, then your next stop should be The Great Synagogue. Dating back to 1892 and the original design of German architect Wilhelm Stiassny, this is the second-largest synagogue in all of Bohemia. Participants of Jewish faith often organize guided tours of The Great Synagogue to help educate fellow visitors about past and present Jewish customs. Another worth-visiting site is St. Thomas’ Church, founded in 1292 and rebuilt in baroque-style between 1704 and 1755. One remarkable feature is its furnishing, donated by Maria Theresa after being saved from fire earlier that century.

Outdoor Activities

When you’re done exploring Plzen’s historic sights, why not walk around and experience its natural beauty? The city’s 40 parks and squares are perfect for discovering its scenic landscape. One of its best green spaces is Tyrsuv Sad, a romantic park surrounding an 18th-century observatory with a nice play area for children. Furthermore, Plzen is an excellent spot for sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and rafting on the Radbuza River or playing golf in Frydlant Country Club – one of the oldest golf clubs in Europe.

Nightlife & Entertainment

After dark, Plzen turns into a vibrant city full of nightlife and entertainment options for all ages. Take a seat at one of the bars at Strossmayerovo Namesti and experience pub culture at its finest with a local beer. Additionally, you can find many interesting venues around main squares like Namesti Republiky, trendy dance clubs such as Kejklíř perfroming events and even small cafés with live jazz music. Art lovers will be in their element with galleries like Galerie Proluka that offers over 600 square metres of exhibition space to explore.

Where to Eat

Let’s not forget about food – one of Plzen’s biggest pleasures! Restaurants like U Slovanske Lvi offer up traditional yet innovative Czech dishes such as roasted pork knuckle with dumplings, or you can sample the region’s famous beer at Chodovar Brewery & Restaurant – just 10 minutes away from town. Bistro 196 next to Namesti Republiky is perfect for relaxed afternoons making your way through renowned Czech classics.

Plzen Pub and Club Crawl

Those looking for a unique way to explore nightlife in Plzen will be pleased to know about our Plzen Pub and Club Crawl. This one-of-a-kind guided tour helps participants discover some of the best bars in town while supervised by an experienced guide who will make sure you party safe and have a great time. Taking part in this tour is also a great way to meet fellow travellers with similar interests – guaranteeing an unforgettable night out!

So whichever part of this beautiful Czech city captures your imagination, you’ll be sure to find something to enjoy in Plzen that suits your taste! With so many attractions to explore, stunning historical sights, delicious local dishes, exciting activities and vibrant nightlife, a visit to the city promises plenty of unforgettable memories.

What to Do in Plzen: An Insider’s Guide

As an insider in Plzen, I am thrilled to share with you some of the lesser-known gems of this beautiful city. Whether you are an adventurous explorer or seeking cultural experiences, Plzen has a myriad of unique and breathtaking places that are waiting to be discovered. Listed below are some local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will help enhance your Plzen experience.

Local Attractions

While the Pilsner Urquell Brewery is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts, Plzen has more hidden gems than just its famous brewery. Take a stroll through the colorful and vibrant street art murals that adorn the walls of many buildings downtown. These murals depict historical figures, contemporary art, and local culture. For a truly unique experience, visit the catacombs of St. Bartholomew’s Church, where you can witness stunning frescoes and learn about its rich history.

Dining Spots

Czech cuisine is hearty, savory, and satisfying. Take a break from the tourist traps and try out some of the local foodie favorites. At Mestsky Pivovar, you can enjoy traditional Czech dishes while overlooking the beautiful Republic Square. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the svickova, which is a beef dish served with a creamy sauce and homemade dumplings.

Did you know that Plzen is also home to chlebicek? Chlebicek is an open-faced sandwich that has been a staple of Czech cuisine for decades. Stop by Cafe Bajer to enjoy their famous chlebicek, which is topped with pickles, ham, and a generous helping of mayonnaise and mustard.

Cultural Experiences

Plzen is home to the famous Czech Philharmonic, which puts on extraordinary performances throughout the year. Head to the Great Synagogue, the second-largest synagogue in Europe, to learn about the Jewish history of the city. The synagogue also hosts regular concerts and events.

If you happen to be visiting during the summertime, make sure you attend the International Folklore Festival held every July. The festival brings together performers from over 20 countries to showcase the beautiful and diverse art forms of the world.

Local History

Plzen has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The city played a pivotal role in World War II, as it was the location where General Patton’s army met with the Soviet Union’s Red Army, effectively ending the war in Europe. Visit the Museum of West Bohemia to learn more about Plzen’s history, including its industrial past and the creation of the famous Pilsner beer.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, visit the Skoda Auto Museum, which showcases the development of the Skoda car brand. Another interesting destination is the Techmania Science Center, where visitors can explore exhibits and participate in interactive science experiments. Finally, venture out of the city to the nearby Bohemian Forest, which offers miles of hiking trails, stunning views, and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In conclusion, Plzen is a city that has something to offer every type of traveler. From hidden gems and a rich history to mouth-watering cuisine and cultural experiences, Plzen is a destination that cannot be missed. Happy exploring!