What to do in Plzen, Czech Republic: A Complete Guide

Plzen, or Pilsen, is a city in western Bohemia in the Czech Republic. Located just over an hour and a half from Prague, Plzen offers lots of interesting activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or something more extended, Plzen is a great option. Here’s your complete guide to spending time in Plzen.

History and Culture

Plzen is known as the birthplace of pilsner beer, thanks to Bürgerliches Brauerei—”Bürgerliches Brewery”—which was founded in the city in 1842. Its popular pilsner beer has been brewed for over 175 years and is still a world-famous drink today. Aside from its long brewing history, Plzen is also known for the Gothic Revival Church of St. Bartholomew and the Gothic Cathedral of St. Maurice. The Neo-Renaissance theater of Joséf Kajetán Tyl is another treat for lovers of culture. The city also has a medieval image protecting the town from bad spirits painted on a wall near the city’s main entrance.

Food, Shopping, and Accommodations

Plzen’s shopping malls and shopping centers have both, indoor and outdoor offerings. Plzeň Plaza offers a big shopping area with about 20 stores, a food court, and a cinema for entertainment. In the old part of Plzen, you can find open air markets offering many souvenirs, clothes, and food specialties. For example, Maly Samodrzec Market is a great place for fresh produce and handmade souvenirs typical of the region. When it comes to things to eat in Plzen, the local cuisine may surprise you. Popular restaurants include Cross Club, which features modern European cuisine, Bamboo Bar & Grill, specializing in international dishes, and vegan cafe GoVeg Veggie Bistro. Finally, accommodations in Plzeň range from historic buildings renovated as hotels to cozy guesthouses, luxurious apartments, and RV sites. Some of the most recommended places are Hotel U Zvonu near historic buildings, Louis Leger Hotel with fully equipped suites and apartments, and Adriana Bed and Breakfast with barbecue area and garden.

Things to Do

When it comes to what to do in Plzen, there are plenty of exciting activities for visitors. Art lovers will find plenty of places to discover in this city. The West Bohemian Gallery holds an extensive collection of painting and sculpture from 1600 to present day. The Gallery also features interesting traditional exhibits from both Czech artists and foreign masters such as Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, and Vincent van Gogh. For those who prefer nature, Plzen’s local parks are a great option. The Zoological and Botanical Garden features unique plants from all over the world and it is home to several species of animals. Other notable outdoors attractions include the Aquapark deep pool lake and the South Bohemia Zoo located not far from Plzen. Sports fans will enjoy Plzeň as well. Breweries are mainly known to offer guided tours around their plants so beer lovers shouldn’t miss this experience. Moreover, the city is part of the Pilsen Region cycling network with over 2000 miles of cycling lanes where you can freely explore the landscape around Plzen without needing to worry about traffic. There are also several stadiums in Plzen including one for soccer, one for athletics, and one for ice hockey. In my opinion, Plzen is an underrated city in Europe worth being visited. It has everything that you need to spend an amazing summer or winter holiday—well-preserved historical sites, outdoor attractions, plenty of eateries and shopping oportunities to satisfy your needs and budget. It’s also convenient close distance to Prague offers an easy route to explore two countries in one trip. If you’re looking for more information about visiting this beautiful Czech city there’s some helpful information at CzechTourism.

Insider’s Guide to Plzen, Czech Republic: Going Beyond Touristy Spots

Plzen often gets overshadowed by the more popular tourist spots in the Czech Republic, but it is an underrated gem worth discovering. As a local, I’ll take you on a journey to explore the lesser-known attractions and experiences that Plzen has to offer.

Local Attractions

Beyond visiting the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery, Plzen has several other hidden gems to explore. The Great Synagogue is Europe’s second-largest synagogue and a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture. The beautiful St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, built-in 1295, is known for its intricate stone carvings. For nature lovers, the nearby Krkavec Hill and Lobez Forest provide excellent hiking trails with breathtaking views of the city.

Dining Spots

Plzen has a rich culinary heritage. The city is known for its traditional Czech dishes like ‘svíčková’, a beef sirloin with dumplings and sweet cranberry sauce. For an authentic dining experience, head to U Salzmannu, a traditional Czech pub serving local cuisine.
Another must-visit dining spot is ‘Pivovarská Restaurace Purkmistr’, a brewery-restaurant where you can enjoy locally brewed beer and excellent grilled dishes.

Cultural Experiences

Plzen is a city with a vibrant cultural scene. The International Jazz Festival, held in October, attracts renowned musicians from all around the world. Besides, the city has several exceptional art galleries, like the Museum of West Bohemia and the Josef Sudek Gallery.

Local History

Plzen has a fascinating history, which dates back to the Middle Ages. One fascinating story is about the city’s underground tunnels, which were used to store beer during World War II. The tunnels are over 20 kilometers long and are now open as a tourist attraction. Another story is about the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, which was founded in 1842 and has been producing the world-famous Pilsner beer ever since.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, head to Vejprty, a small town close to Plzen. Here you can dive into the fascinating history of the Saxony Mining District, visit the Museum of Rafting, or explore the Gothic Church of St. Nicholas. Also, take a stroll around Plzen’s historic city center, where you can see colorful buildings and murals that reflect the city’s rich culture.

In conclusion, Plzen is a fascinating city that has something for everyone; history buffs, culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and beer aficionados. By exploring the off-the-beaten-path attractions and indulging in the local cuisine, you’ll be able to experience the true essence of this hidden gem.