Planning Your Plzeň Historical Underground Tour

The underground system in Plzeň is one of the largest in Central Europe. These tunnels date back to the 14th century. They were used for food storage and water management. During the tour, you will learn about medieval life. The corridors are narrow and full of mystery. You can find more details on tickets and opening hours online. This is one of the best things to do in Plzeň for any traveler. Make sure to book your slot early during the summer months. The groups are small to ensure everyone can hear the guide.

12 Top Sights and Experiences in Plzeň

Plzeň offers a great mix of old-world charm and modern energy. Here are the top experiences you should not miss during your visit.

1. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Sight Why go: Explore a 14th-century labyrinth of tunnels and wells. Best for: History buffs and curious explorers. Where: Veleslavínova 6, City Center. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Moderate (includes a beer voucher). Getting there: Walk from Republic Square. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the floor can be damp and uneven.
2. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Experience Why go: See where the world's first golden lager was born. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: Eastern edge of the city center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Check out our Pilsner Urquell brewery tour guide for booking advice.
3. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the highest church tower in the Czech Republic. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Located in the heart of the city. Tip: Read more about the cathedral tower climb before you go.
4. Name: The Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: The second-largest synagogue in Europe with stunning Moorish-Romanesque architecture. Best for: Architecture and culture lovers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from the main square. Tip: View our guide on the Great Synagogue visit for more history.
5. Name: Brewery Museum Type: Museum Why go: Housed in an original medieval malt house, it explains the brewing process. Best for: Learning about local traditions. Where: Next to the Underground entrance. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walkable from any city center hotel. Tip: Combine this with the underground tour for a discount.
6. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Experience Why go: Visit beautifully preserved modernist apartments designed by a world-famous architect. Best for: Design and art fans. Where: Various locations in the city. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Most are within walking distance or a short tram ride. Tip: These tours require advance booking as they sell out fast.
7. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Indoor/Activity Why go: Interactive exhibits and a 3D planetarium for all ages. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near the Škoda factory site. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a trolleybus from the center. Tip: See our Techmania science center reviews for the best exhibits.
8. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: The vibrant heart of the city with seasonal markets and golden fountains. Best for: People watching and local atmosphere. Where: Central Plzeň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub for all transport. Tip: Visit during the Christmas or Easter markets for local crafts.
9. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the liberation of the city by the US Army in 1945. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: KD Peklo building. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the Great Synagogue. Tip: The museum has many authentic artifacts from American soldiers.
10. Name: Pilsen Zoo and DinoPark Type: Nature/Family Why go: A large zoo with a botanical garden and life-sized dinosaur models. Best for: A full day out with kids. Where: Northern part of the city. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram number 4 or 1. Tip: Use the official tourism board site to check feeding times.
11. Name: Karlštejn Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: A stunning 14th-century Gothic castle founded by Charles IV. Best for: Fairytale views and history. Where: 60 km east of Plzeň. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Easy train ride from Plzeň main station. Tip: The walk from the train station to the castle is steep.
12. Name: Mariánské Lázně Type: Day Trip Why go: A famous spa town known for its colonnades and singing fountain. Best for: Relaxation and elegant architecture. Where: 70 km west of Plzeň. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct train takes about one hour. Tip: Bring a reusable cup to taste the different mineral springs.

Essential Tips for the Historical Underground

The Plzeň Historical Underground tour requires some preparation. The temperature underground stays around 10 degrees Celsius all year. This is true even in the hot summer. You should bring a light jacket or sweater. Check our clothing tips for more advice. The tour involves climbing several stairs. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Safety helmets are provided and must be worn at all times. Children are welcome but must be supervised. You can find more info at the Pilsner Urquell visitor center.