During your stay in the Czech Republic, if you want to discover a medium-sized city with great potential and a strong identity, Plzeň could be a good destination for you.
In terms of discovering the city, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or simply a fan of historical or religious monuments: visiting Plzeň will do you a world of good in terms of local culture !
Where is Pilsen ?
Located in the west of the Czech Republic, Plzeň (Pilsen) is just under 90 kilometers from Prague, the capital. European Capital of Culture in 2015, it is also known as the national beer capital.
Indeed, Pilsen attracts many foreign tourists due to the popularity of its beers. The famous brewery is also located here. Pilsen is a medium-sized city, with a population of 172,441 in 2019.
How do I get to Plzeň ?
To get to Plzeň, there’s nothing like the train or bus. Allow 2 hours by train and 1h30 by bus from Prague.
- Prices are very affordable: €9 by train and €5 by bus;
- Buses stop right next to the train station, giving you quick access to the city and a 3-minute walk to the famous brewery – a great way to start your stay!
- The city has an easily accessible tramway with 3 lines for 45 stops stretching to the outskirts of the city. Nevertheless, Plzeň is on a human scale and every part of the city is within easy walking distance, which is both appreciable and worthwhile.
What to do in Plzeň ?
Here, we present you with a list of unmissable things to do in Plzeň. This is your chance to find out what the best things to do on site are.
1. Visit the Pilsner Urquell brewery
This is surely the first place you want to visit in Pilsen. It’s located at the entrance to the city when arriving by train, making it easy to get to on foot.
For the equivalent of €10 per person, you can take part in the classic tour (lasting 80 minutes) tracing the history and conception of their various handcrafted beers.
From the basement to the bottling plant, via the various operating rooms (brewing, fermentation, filtration), you’ll have the opportunity to learn in detail about the production process of the Czech Republic’s most popular beers.
A small but important detail to know: you’ll get a free tasting of a fresh, unfiltered Urquell Pilsner straight from the classic barrels used in the cellar.
Discover the essence of Czech nightlife with Pilsen’s best bars !
2. St. Bartholomew's Cathedral in Plzeň
This monument is located in the middle of Republic Square in the heart of the city, making it a must-see for all visitors.
Known as the highest bell tower in the Czech Republic, its single visit will take you up no less than 200 steps to admire the whole city and its surroundings. In particular, you can see the great synagogue of Plzeň. Well worth the detour!
3. The Great Synagogue of Plzeň
Located to the west of the city’s historic center, it is Europe’s second-largest synagogue, with impressive Gothic architecture and a granite façade. Renovated in the mid-1990s, it is also used for classical concerts. There’s something for every architecture enthusiast.
4. The beer museum
Pilsen is a city of beer. As such, we invite you to visit the Beer Museum ! Here, you’ll discover the close relationship between beer and the Czech Republic. The museum is located right next to the brewery. You’ll find all the equipment you need for brewing, old instruments and explanations of the history of Pilsner Urquell.
5. Discover Pilsen Zoo
Like other major cities in the Czech Republic, Pilsen has its own zoo. The zoo is quite old, but the current version was completed in 1996. Many of the species housed here (1210 in all) are part of the European Endangered Species Program. Buying a ticket will also give you access to the botanical gardens and DinoPark.
6. J.K. Tyl Theatre
This is Pilsen’s main theater. Here you can enjoy operas, dramas and magnificent interpretations of Shakespeare and more. Announcements and performances are quite frequent. So if you’re spending the night, don’t hesitate to visit !
Where to stay in Pilsen ?
Would you like to spend the night in Plzeň? If you’re thinking of booking a hotel, we’d like to take you to our article dedicated to the best hotels in Pilsen. Here you’ll find a list of the city’s best establishments.
Where to eat in Pilsen ?
Are you feeling peckish or would you like to eat some local specialities? Don’t hesitate to discover some of the best restaurants in Pilsen! We’ve put together a wonderful little list for you. On it, you’ll find the best restaurants in town.
What we think of Pilsen
Whether with family or friends, going to Plzeň is a good idea for anyone wanting to learn more about Czech culture. One day should be enough to have a great time and enjoy a typically Czech experience. We recommend you try the many bars and restaurants in the city center, which have their own distinctive style and atmosphere, and sample the many local beers available.