Plzeň-City District: Culture, Nature and Brewery Cellars

When planning your trip to Plzeň-City District, culture, brewery cellars or time outdoors may be what tips the balance. In Plzeň, ideas for a visit range from historic buildings and interactive exhibitions to ponds, trails and brewery cellars. When choosing your accommodation, consider which of these interests you want to shape your stay; this will help you focus your travel plans accordingly.

Nature, trails and activities in Plzeň

The Bolevec Pond System comprises ten ponds. Several of them date back to the mid-15th century. Today, there are cycling and hiking trails, inline skating routes and two accessible circular trails. The range of routes makes it possible to plan your time outdoors according to how you want to get around; the accessible circular trails are expressly listed as a separate option. The pond area is accessible by public transport. Check the connections that suit your visit before setting off.

Another natural highlight is the Sofronka Arboretum, with more than 60 pine species from around the world. If you would rather combine a bike ride with other activities, you can choose a route in Plzeň that reaches Hradiště. There are play facilities for children and places to swim there. A falconry show is also part of the recurring visitor offering at Plzeň Zoo: in the amphitheatre, you can watch birds in flight and listen to a falconer's commentary. The seasonal availability of the shows may vary.

Architecture, history and hands-on activities

The history of St Bartholomew's Cathedral dates back to the city's founding: construction of the church began in 1295 and was not completed until the early 16th century. At 102.26 metres, its tower is the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic. Climbing it involves nearly 300 steps; from the top, the view stretches across the city and the wider region. The tower's height, construction history and views make it a particularly well-defined destination to visit.

The Great Synagogue offers a different way to explore history: its upper galleries house the permanent exhibition “Tady žili Židé”. The Semler Residence, meanwhile, is the only realised example of the Raumplan principle in the Loos style, and can be visited as part of a guided tour. As tour dates may change, it is advisable to check the latest schedule before your visit.

If you would rather get involved yourself, the Puppet Museum gives you the chance to move puppets and put on your own theatrical performance. Techmania Science Center combines interactive exhibits with a 3D planetarium, workshop and laboratory programmes, films on an interactive globe, and science shows. The centre is located in historic Škoda Works buildings. The hands-on activities differ: at the Puppet Museum, putting on your own show takes centre stage, while Techmania presents science in several interactive ways.

Another perspective is offered by the historic visitor route through Plzeň's underground. It is about 800 metres long and runs at depths of 9 to 12 metres. The approximate length and stated depth range give you a concrete reference point if you want to combine this visit with above-ground sights.

Brewery cellars and cultural events

Pilsner Urquell is still produced in small quantities in large wooden barrels in the brewery cellars. A tour of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery also includes a tasting of unfiltered, unpasteurised beer drawn from oak lagering barrels in the historic brewery cellars. The tour therefore combines a glimpse inside the cellars with a specific tasting experience.

DEPO2015 is a cultural venue for exhibitions, conferences, events and festivals. Its recurring programme also includes the DEPO Street Food Market, with food stalls and food trucks. As the event programme may change, check the dates if the market is important to your travel plans.

A trip to the surrounding area

Radyně Castle lies near Plzeň-City District. Charles IV had it built in the mid-14th century to protect the trade route between Prague and Bavaria. Its history is thus closely linked to a transport and trade connection of the time. As a complement to Plzeň's cultural and natural attractions, the castle offers a different historical focus.

Discover more destinations: Chrást, Starý Plzenec, Pilsen, Chválenice, Dýšina, Kyšice, Letkov, Šťáhlavy, Tymákov, Lhůta, Losiná, Mokrouše, Štěnovický Borek, Nezbavětice, Nezvěstice, Vstiš, Radčice, Bolevec.

Back to the main travel overview: Pilsen.