Things To Do
in Plzeň
Plzeň, known as Pilsen in English, is a city located in the western part of the Czech Republic. It is famous for being the birthplace of the Pilsner beer style, with the iconic Pilsner Urquell brewery located in the city. Plzeň is home to a beautiful historic city center featuring colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and the towering St. Bartholomew's Cathedral.
The city also has a rich cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and annual events such as the Pilsner Fest celebrating its brewing heritage.
- "Dobrý den" - Good day
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Ano" - Yes
- "Ne" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery for a tour and tasting session. Enjoy a hearty Czech breakfast at a nearby café.
Wander through the historic town square, seeing the elaborate St. Bartholomew's Cathedral. Take some time to explore local artisan shops and grab lunch in a traditional restaurant.
Dine at a local brewery restaurant, savoring traditional Czech dishes. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
Visit the Plzeň Historical Underground, a fascinating network of tunnels. Discover the city's history as a guide shares intriguing stories.
After lunch, head to the Great Synagogue, the second largest of its kind in Europe. Marvel at its stunning architecture and learn about its significance.
Enjoy a cultural performance at the DJKT Theatre. Grab a late-night drink at a cozy bar nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including beautiful architecture and historic sites.
- Home to the famous Pilsner beer, with several breweries and a vibrant beer culture.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities like Prague.
- A relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a great place for families and expats.
- Access to beautiful parks and natural surroundings, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields compared to larger urban centers.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive as in bigger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Czech speakers, as English may not be widely spoken outside tourist areas.
- Less vibrant nightlife and cultural events compared to major cities.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
Best Activities in Plzeň
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a guided tour of the historic Pilsner Urquell Brewery to learn about the brewing process and history of beer in Plzeň.
Explore the underground tunnels and cellars beneath the city of Plzeň to discover its fascinating history and legends.
Visit the Old Town Square to admire the beautiful architecture, historic monuments, and vibrant atmosphere of Plzeň.
Escape to the stunning Šumava National Park for a day of hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching in the picturesque Czech countryside.
Rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely ride along the scenic Berounka River, passing charming villages and countryside landscapes.
Experience hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and science-themed activities for visitors of all ages at the Techmania Science Center in Plzeň.
Tours
Uncover the best of Plzeň with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Plzeň
Visit one of these nice places.
Great views of the city and historic brewery for photo opportunities
Offers panoramic views of Plzeň from its tower
Food in Plzeň
Plzeň Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with beef, onions, and a generous amount of Pilsner beer, cooked to perfection and often served with bread dumplings.
Must-Try!
Tender roasted duck paired with tangy sauerkraut and knedlíky, a type of Czech dumpling, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
A marinated sirloin steak smothered in a creamy vegetable sauce and typically accompanied by bread dumplings, creating a savory and satisfying dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Plzeň better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the brewery to sample freshly brewed Pilsner Urquell beer and enjoy local snacks like pickled sausage or nakládaný hermelín (pickled cheese).
This bustling market offers a variety of Czech street food such as trdelník (sweet pastry), klobása (sausage), and langos (deep-fried flatbread).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Plzeň, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal or business settings. In more casual situations, a polite nod or verbal greeting is also appropriate.
Czech people generally value their personal space, so it's important to maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others. Be attentive to non-verbal cues and avoid standing too close, especially with people you have just met.
When dining in Plzeň, it's considered polite to wait for the host or the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it's customary to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'dobrou chuť' (enjoy your meal) before you start eating.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Plzeň with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Plzeň
Ensure a smooth experience
In Plzeň, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for other service providers. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill is generally considered appropriate.
Payment in Plzeň is commonly made in cash, although credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller shops or when dining in traditional restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Plzeň, as the weather is mild and the city is covered in blooming flowers. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's historical sites with fewer crowds.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Plzeň, with warm weather and longer days. It's a great time to attend outdoor events and festivals, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit Plzeň. Visitors can sample the seasonal food and beer offerings, and take part in cultural events.
Winter in Plzeň can be cold, but the city comes alive with festive decorations and holiday markets. Visitors can experience the traditional Czech Christmas celebrations and enjoy winter sports in the surrounding areas.
Plzeň at Night
Hiking in Plzeň
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park located southwest of Plzeň, offering a variety of hiking trails through forests, meadows, and along rivers.
A picturesque area near the German border, featuring dense forests and diverse wildlife, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Located north of Plzeň, this forest area features numerous trails and scenic views, with opportunities for both easy and challenging hikes.
Although a bit further away, this area features beautiful walks through vineyards and along limestone hills, renowned for its stunning vistas.
A nature reserve near Plzeň, ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful and serene hiking experience through the forested landscape.
Aiports
How to reach Plzeň by plane.
The largest international airport in the Czech Republic, located approximately 90 kilometers from Plzeň.
One of the major international airports in Germany, located about 250 kilometers from Plzeň.
An international airport in Germany, approximately 220 kilometers from Plzeň.
An international airport located about 200 kilometers from Plzeň, serving the city of Brno.
The main international airport in Austria, located around 300 kilometers from Plzeň.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority, often sharing cultural and historical ties with the Czech population.
An ethnic group with a distinct culture, often facing social challenges.
An increasing demographic group due to immigration in recent years.
A notable community, often engaged in small businesses and trade.
Includes various other foreign residents and expatriates from around the world.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Plzeň, with the local team FC Viktoria Plzeň being a prominent contender in the Czech League and competing in European tournaments.
Ice hockey enjoys a strong following in Plzeň, where the local team, HC Škoda Plzeň, competes in the Czech Extraliga, attracting many fans to their games.
Handball is popular in Plzeň, with local clubs participating in both men's and women's leagues, showcasing a vibrant community support.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local teams competing in national leagues and community programs encouraging youth participation.
Athletics has a dedicated following in Plzeň, with various clubs and events fostering a strong culture of running, jumping, and throwing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plzeň.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Plzeň offer vegetarian dishes like fried cheese (smažený sýr) or potato pancakes, and some also provide vegan alternatives, making it relatively easy to find plant-based options.
While traditional Czech cuisine heavily features bread and dumplings, some eateries in Plzeň are accommodating to gluten-free diets and may offer alternatives like rice or potatoes.