Where is Plzeň located in the Czech Republic?

Plzeň is a city located in in the Czech Republic. It is both an administrative and economic center, located approximately 100 kilometers south-west of Prague. It is situated on the banks of the Mže and Úhlava. The city is located in the traditional Bohemian region, the Western Bohemia, close to the Bavarian border.

Plzeň is the fourth biggest city in the Czech Republic with 170,000 people living there as of 2020. The city of Plzeň covers a total area of 48 square kilometers, and is divided into 13 city parts, each of which has its own particular significance. The city is also known as Pilsen in English.

The city and its area is known for its history and traditional production of beer and food. Plzeň holds a prominent place in Czech history and culture, as it was the birthplace of numerous Czech cultural figures such as art historian Karel Mácha, architect and urban planner František Kříž, poet Jaroslav Vrchlický, and for a short period even emperor Franz Joseph I.

Today Plzeň is an important center of education and research as well as industrial production and tourism. Plzeň also provides a wide range of services from banking to arts and entertainment.

Geographically, Plzeň is located at 49.747 longitude and 13.375 latitude. Plzeň is just 40 kilometers from the border to Germany, approximately 100 kilometers south-east from Prague and approximately 140 kilometers from Vienna. The closest airports to Plzeň are Karlovy Vary (KLV) and Prague (PRG), though Vienna (VIE) also lies within relatively close proximity.

The nearest train station to Plzeň is located on the border between the Czech Republic and Bavaria, called Cheb/Eger – which is just 6 kilometers away from the city center. Trains run directly to the Main Station in Prague. The city can also be reached by a bus, which runs almost non-stop through Plzeň.

Plzeň’s Historic Attractions

Plzeň is known for its collection of historic buildings, monuments, churches and cathedrals. The most famous of which is probably the beautiful Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. The Gothic cathedral has its main entrance on the main square of the city, with its main tower rising to an impressive 73 meters – making it one of the tallest building in all of the Czech Republic!

Just opposite the Cathedral, you can find the beautiful Town Hall – another attraction not to be missed – with its unusual mix Gothic and Renaissance Elements. Plzeň Town Square is also home to a number of other historical buildings such as Zizkovo namesti with the plague column, Ursuline church, Velka synagogue, Municipal museum or various other points of interest such as little known sculptures or interesting murals that adorn walls throughout the city.

If you’re looking for a picturesque stroll through narrow cobbled streets and alleyways that lead to historic buildings with chequered histories, then Plzeň is definitely for you! An attractive sightseeing tour of Plzeň will likely include a visit to some of its vintage pubs, world-famous brewery Pilsner Urquell or just relaxing while admiring its wide selection of architectural works.

Finally, if you are looking for more than sightseeing and are interested in learning more about the history of this beautiful Czech region, then a trip to the local museum at Rezidence Škroupa is a must visit – with its extensive collection of artworks dating back as far as 10th century!

Conclusion

Plzeň is an amazing Czech city that has a lot to offer to travelers and tourists alike – especially those who are interested in history, architecture and culture. With its varied collection of buildings and monuments, heritage sites and picturesque alleyways, Plzeň offers something for everyone – and should be visited at least once!

An Insider’s Guide to Plzeň: Exploring Beyond Tourist Traps

Are you planning to visit the charming city of Plzeň? While there are plenty of well-known tourist attractions, there are also hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that only locals know. Here’s an insider’s guide to Plzeň that will help you dive deeper into the city’s culture and history:

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Treasures

While the Great Synagogue and Pilsner Urquell Brewery are famous landmarks, the city of Plzeň also has some underrated attractions. Take a stroll in the historic district of Lochotín, with its charming streets lined with brightly colored houses. Visit the Plzeň Zoo, home to over 400 species and a remarkable botanical garden. The Museum of West Bohemia also offers an excellent variety of exhibitions, including the exhibition of historical costumes and textiles.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Plzeň offers an exquisite culinary experience that is unique to the region. The Švejk Restaurant U Karla serves traditional Czech dishes, including roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut. Try the local staple dish, knedlíky (dumplings), served with tender beef and creamy sauce at Na Parkánu. Don’t forget to indulge in the city’s famous brew, Pilsner Urquell, at Na Spilce or Purkmistr Brewery.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing the City’s Heritage

Plzeň is steeped in vibrant cultural traditions, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the city’s heritage. The Plzeň Philharmonic, one of the most prestigious orchestras in the Czech Republic, offers concerts featuring world-class musicians. Head to the J. K. Tyl Theater to catch an opera, ballet, or a play. You can also visit the Museum of West Bohemia, displaying various exhibitions that depict the city’s history and culture.

Local History: Discovering Fascinating Stories

Plzeň is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of captivating stories to discover. A stroll through the city’s streets will take you to the Patton Memorial Pilsen Liberation Monument. Take a moment to remember the soldiers who died in World War II. Visit the St. Bartholomew Cathedral, built-in 1295, with its eye-catching Gothic architecture. History buffs would love the Museum of the Pilsen Resistance, exhibiting the struggle against Nazi occupation.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiencing the Unconventional

To break away from the run-of-the-mill attractions, head to the underground tunnels of Plzeň. Take a tour through the Pilsen Historical Underground, where you can explore secret passages and the city’s old aqueduct system. Visit the Techmania Science Center for incredible interactive exhibits related to science and technology. Also, explore the nearby town of Dobřany, located 9 km west of Plzeň, to immerse yourself in breathtaking nature.

Plzeň is a city that has something for everyone. With its rich history, unique culture, and hidden treasures, this city is waiting to be explored. I hope this insider’s guide to Plzeň will make your trip a memorable one.