Things To Do
in Plzeň
Plzeň is a compact Bohemian city famed as the birthplace of Pilsner beer, with a lively Old Town centered around Republic Square. Its skyline is dominated by St. Bartholomew's Cathedral and a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and modern architecture. Visitors can tour the original Pilsner Urquell Brewery and explore family run pubs along cobblestone streets.
The city balances industrial history with cultural happenings, parks and riverside walks along the Mže.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Plzeň Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, where you can admire its stunning Gothic architecture and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque Republic Square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and unique historical buildings surrounding you. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a traditional Czech breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries and coffee.
Dive into the rich history of Plzeň by visiting the West Bohemian Museum, where you can explore exhibits that showcase the region's cultural heritage. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like goulash or svíčková. Afterward, take a guided walk through the city’s charming streets, learning about its significance in the beer brewing industry.
As the sun sets, head to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery for an engaging tour that reveals the secrets behind the world-famous lager. Enjoy a tasting session of fresh beer straight from the cellar, then dine at the brewery’s restaurant, where you can pair your meal with a perfect pint. The evening concludes with a stroll back through the city center, where you can enjoy the illuminated buildings and vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before making your way to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, the birthplace of the world-renowned beer. Join a guided tour that takes you through the brewing process, from the raw ingredients to the fermentation tanks. Make sure to capture photos of the impressive brewery architecture and the historic cellar.
After your brewery tour, enjoy a delicious lunch in the brewery's on-site restaurant, sampling traditional Czech cuisine paired with the perfect beer. Post-lunch, explore the interactive exhibits at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery Museum, where you can delve deeper into the history of Czech beer. Don’t forget to stop by the brewery shop for some unique souvenirs to take home.
For the evening, consider a relaxing meal at a nearby beer garden where you can unwind with locals and enjoy live music. Sample a variety of Czech beers while savoring grilled sausages and other local specialties. As the night falls, take a leisurely walk through the city, appreciating the blend of history and modern life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $9-15 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread (0.5 kg) | $1-2.5 |
| ☕Cappuccino (regular) | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 mile (2 km) | $2-3 |
| 🏠Apartment (1 bedroom, city center, per month) | $700-1100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich beer culture and historic center compact enough to explore on foot
- Distinctive Gothic and Renaissance architecture with modern cultural spaces
- Excellent brewery heritage and access to the Pilsner Urquell experience
- Relatively affordable compared to Western European cities
- Strong regional cuisine and vibrant riverfront atmosphere
- Smaller city lifestyle means fewer big-city entertainment options late at night
- Some parts of the outskirts can be quieter or less English-friendly
- Seasonal tourism can make popular spots busy in peak months
- Parking can be challenging in the historic center
- "Dobrý den" - Good day / Hello
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Na shledanou" - Goodbye
- "Mluvím jen trochu česky" - I speak only a little Czech
- "Můžete mi pomoci?" - Can you help me?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Mohu si vzít jídelní lístek?" - May I have a menu?
- "Můžete doporučit restauraci?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Plzeň
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant square framed by colorful facades and the Town Hall, ideal for street photography and café culture.
Gothic cathedral with a towering spire offering dramatic city views from the top.
Industrial heritage meets modern beer culture; great for architectural and cultural photography.
Converted railway depot with modern and industrial silhouettes perfect for edgy shots.
Historic synagogue with distinctive architecture; a striking contrast to the rest of the town.
Food in Plzeň
Plzeň Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef stew served with dumplings or bread, a staple across Czech pubs.
Must-Try!
Beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce with cranberry reduction and dumplings.
Roast pork with dumplings and stewed cabbage, a Czech classic.
Mushroom dill soup with potatoes and a hint of sour cream.
Crispy potato pancakes often served with sour cream or as a side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend stalls offering local produce, cheeses, and baked goods in the heart of the city.
Casual bites like grilled sausages, pretzels and trdelník close to scenic walking routes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite Czech phrases such as Dobrý den (Good day) or Ahoj (Hi) are appreciated; use formal language with strangers.
Stand close enough to converse, avoid loud conversations in quiet venues, and respect local queues.
Ask for the check by saying 'účet, prosím' and wait for the waiter to bring it; tipping is optional but valued.
Safety
Tipping in Plzeň
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. Cash tips are appreciated but cards are increasingly accepted.
Cash in CZK is widely accepted; credit and debit cards are accepted in most venues and ATMs are common in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming trees, and lively markets. Expect fresh produce and comfortable sightseeing weather.
Warm days ideal for beer gardens along the river; occasional rain showers; long daylight hours allow for extended strolls.
Crisp air and fall foliage; great for photography and slower museum visits as crowds thin.
Cool to cold with possible snow; Christmas markets in the city center brighten the evenings and offer cozy dining options.
Plzeň at Night
Hiking in Plzeň
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills just outside the city with well-marked trails and scenic viewpoints.
Expansive Bohemian Forest area within a couple of hours drive, offering longer day hikes and nature trails.
Riverside trails and gentle woodland paths suitable for all levels, with several lookouts and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Plzeň by plane.
Major international hub about 90-120 minutes by high-speed rail or road from Plzeň; broad flight connections.
Regional airport about 60-90 minutes by road from Plzeň; convenient for Central European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population attends the University of West Bohemia and allied institutions, bringing a youthful energy to cafes and cultural events.
Czech families and professionals who make up the steady backbone of the city.
Domestic and international visitors drawn by beer culture, architecture, and museums.
A growing community of researchers, engineers, and language workers due to university and industry links.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport with local clubs and occasional games in city arenas.
Local teams play in regional leagues; matches draw dedicated crowds.
Indoor team sport enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plzeň.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose mushroom or cheese dumplings, vegetable sides, and soups like kulajda; ask for oil instead of lard and avoid meaty gravies.