Iconic Beer Experiences in Plzeň

You cannot visit Plzeň without acknowledging its most famous export. The golden lager changed the beer world in 1842, and the city remains a pilgrimage site for beer enthusiasts. However, the beer culture here goes beyond just drinking; it involves immersion, history, and wellness.

1. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Tour Type: Factory Tour Why go: This is the premier attraction in the city. You get to see the historic cellars and the modern bottling plant in one trip. The highlight is tasting unpasteurized beer straight from the oak barrel. Best for: Everyone (even non-drinkers appreciate the history). Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. 350+ CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main train station. Tip: Read our full Pilsner Urquell Brewery tour guide to learn about booking slots in English.
2. Name: Purkmistr Beer Spa Type: Wellness Experience Why go: This is not just a gimmick; it is a genuine relaxation therapy. You soak in wooden tubs filled with warm water, hops, yeast, and malt extracts. These ingredients are great for skin regeneration. While you soak, you can pour your own beer from a tap right next to the tub. Best for: Couples or friend groups looking to relax. Where: Selská náves, Černice district. Time: 60-90 minutes. Cost: Premium pricing, typically 1,200+ CZK per tub. Getting there: Take a taxi or bus to the southern outskirts. Tip: Capacity is limited, so reserve your spot at the best beer spas in Plzeň weeks in advance.
3. Name: Brewery Museum Type: Museum Why go: Located in original 15th-century brewing house, this museum tells the story of beer from ancient times to the present. It feels more intimate and historical than the large factory tour. You can see the smallest jug in the world and an old gothic malt house. Best for: History buffs. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entrace fee. Getting there: In the city center, near the main square. Tip: If you are visiting the Brewery Museum, ask about the combo ticket that includes the Underground tour.

Historical Landmarks & Architecture

Plzeň’s city center is compact, walkable, and visually stunning. The central square is dominated by Gothic architecture, while the surrounding streets reflect the wealth of the First Republic. Walking through these streets feels like stepping back into a different era of Bohemia.

4. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Religious Site / Viewpoint Why go: It has the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic, standing at over 102 meters. The climb is physically demanding, involving hundreds of steps. However, the panoramic view from the gallery is the best in the region. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Center of the main square. Tip: Before your St. Bartholomew's Cathedral tower climb, check the weather; visibility is key for this activity.
5. Name: The Great Synagogue Type: Historical Monument Why go: This is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and the third-largest in the world. The Moorish-Romanesque architecture is distinct and breathtaking. Recently renovated, the interior features incredible acoustics and ornate decorations. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Entry fee applies. Getting there: Just west of Republic Square. Tip: Check visitor details for the Great Synagogue as it sometimes closes for concerts.
6. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Architecture Tour Why go: World-renowned architect Adolf Loos created several unique residential interiors in Plzeň in the early 20th century. These guided tours showcase his functionalist style, using high-quality stone and wood. It is a stark, modern contrast to the baroque city streets. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Various locations (Brummel House, Kraus Apartment). Time: 60 minutes per tour. Cost: vary by route. Getting there: Guided tours start at designated meeting points. Tip: Tickets for Adolf Loos interiors tours sell out quickly, often weeks ahead.

For more general tourist information on these sites, you can check the official Visit Plzeň website.

Underground History & Science for Families

If the weather turns rainy or you need to entertain children, Plzeň excels with indoor attractions. From deep underground tunnels to high-tech science parks, the city offers adventure away from the typical sightseeing path.

7. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Adventure / History Why go: Explore a labyrinth of passageways, cellars, and wells running beneath the city center. The tour reveals how locals stored food, ice, and beer in the Middle Ages. You will wear a hard hat and descend into the cool darkness. Best for: Adventurous travelers (not for claustrophobia). Where: Entrance near the Brewery Museum. Time: 50 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Veleslavínova street. Tip: It is cold down there (6°C/43°F) year-round. Read our guide on the Plzeň Historical Underground tour to know exactly what to wear.
8. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Science Museum Why go: Located in a former Škoda factory hall, this is one of the best science centers in Central Europe. It features hundreds of interactive exhibits on physics, astronomy, and water. There is also a fantastic 3D Planetarium. Best for: Families with kids of all ages. Where: U Planetária 1. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Day pass available. Getting there: Near the train station (South Suburbs). Tip: Before going, check Techmania Science Center reviews for current show times at the Planetarium.
9. Name: Plzeň Zoo and DinoPark Type: Nature / Wildlife Why go: This zoo is cageless where possible, using natural barriers like moats. It shares a location with the DinoPark, which features life-sized moving dinosaur models. The botanical gardens here are also lovely for a walk. Best for: A sunny day out with children. Where: Pod Vinicemi 9. Time: Half-day. Cost: Combined tickets available. Getting there: Tram line 4 or bus. Tip: Use our Plzeň Zoo and DinoPark guide to plan the best route through the large complex.

For opening hours and specific exhibit details at Techmania, visit the official Techmania website.

Quick Day Trips Near Plzeň

While the city has plenty to offer, the surrounding Pilsen Region is dotted with castles and ruins. These spots are perfect for a half-day escape into nature or history.

10. Name: Kozel Castle Type: Hunting Lodge / Park Why go: Kozel is a classical hunting chateau surrounded by a massive landscaped park. It is less of a fortress and more of a noble residence. The interiors are beautifully preserved, and the park is perfect for a picnic. Best for: Relaxed walking and history. Where: Šťáhlavy (15km from Plzeň). Time: 3 hours. Cost: Park is free; interiors have a fee. Getting there: Train to Šťáhlavy, then a short walk. Tip: Visit in autumn when the park leaves change color.
11. Name: Radyně Castle Type: Ruins / Viewpoint Why go: Dominating a hill near the city, these ruins date back to Charles IV. You can climb the tower for incredible views of the whole Plzeň basin. It is a bit of a hike, so bring good shoes. Best for: Hikers and view hunters. Where: Starý Plzenec (10km from Plzeň). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Bus or car to the parking lot below the castle. Tip: Check the official Pilsner Urquell website if you want to combine this with a beer event, as they sometimes sponsor local festivals nearby.