The Fascinating History of Rabí Castle

Rabí Castle stands as a giant stone guardian over the Otava River valley. It was built in the early 14th century by the powerful Lords of Rýzmberk. This fortress served as a vital defensive point for many generations of noble families. Its size and strength made it one of the most formidable sites in Europe.

The castle is most famous for the siege led by Jan Žižka in 1421. During this battle, the legendary Hussite leader lost his second eye to an arrow. This event changed the course of Czech history and added to the castle's dark lore. You can still feel the weight of this history as you walk the grounds.

Over the centuries, the castle grew into a complex masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It features thick walls, deep moats, and high towers designed to withstand any attack. Today, it is recognized as a national cultural monument of the Czech Republic. It remains one of the best excursions from Plzen for history enthusiasts.

Walking through the ruins allows you to imagine life in the Middle Ages. The massive stones tell stories of wealth, war, and eventual decay. Preservation efforts continue in 2026 to keep these walls standing for future generations. You will appreciate the scale of this ruin the moment you arrive at the gates.

How to Reach Rabí Castle from Plzeň

Getting to the ruins is easy if you follow the right directions to Rabi Castle from Plzen. The drive takes about one hour through the beautiful rolling hills of West Bohemia. You should follow Route 27 south toward the town of Klatovy first. Then, transition toward Sušice to find the castle village clearly marked on signs.

If you prefer public transport, consider using the local train network. You can find many castles near Plzen by train that are easy to reach. Take a train from the Plzeň main station to the town of Sušice. From there, a short bus ride will take you directly to the castle entrance.

Bus services also run regularly between Plzeň and the village of Rabí. Check the latest schedules on the Plzeň Region official site before you leave. Travel times by bus usually range from 90 minutes to two hours depending on stops. This allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic rural landscapes along the way.

Parking is available in the village just a short walk from the castle. In 2026, expect to pay a small fee for all-day parking near the square. Arriving early ensures you get a spot close to the main path. The walk to the ticket office is uphill but very manageable for most visitors.

Top Things to See at Rabí Castle

The highlight of any visit is climbing the Rabi Castle tower for panoramic views. This massive donjon stands 26 meters tall and offers a bird's-eye view of the region. On clear days in 2026, you can see all the way to the Šumava mountains. The staircase is steep but the reward at the top is truly breathtaking.

Explore the deep castle cellars to see where food and supplies were once stored. These cool, dark spaces provide a glimpse into the logistical side of medieval life. Some areas even housed prisoners during times of conflict and local unrest. It is a stark contrast to the open courtyards found above the ground.

Do not miss the Rabi Castle falconry show schedule during the summer months. Skilled handlers demonstrate the ancient art of hunting with birds of prey. You can see eagles, hawks, and owls flying close to the ancient stone walls. These shows are popular with families and provide great photo opportunities for everyone.

The castle chapel is another architectural gem you must visit during your tour. It features beautiful late Gothic vaulting that has survived the passage of time. Many visitors find the quiet atmosphere here a peaceful break from the windy ramparts. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship of the stonemasons from centuries ago.

You should also wander through the extensive outer fortifications and dry moats. These areas show the sheer scale of the defensive systems built by the lords. You can walk along the ramparts and look down into the village below. It is easy to see why this fortress was so difficult to capture.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Standard entry tickets for the castle ruins cost around 180 CZK in 2026. You can choose between independent wandering or joining a guided historical tour. Guided tours offer access to interior spaces that are otherwise closed to the public. Most tours are conducted in Czech, but English printed guides are usually available.

Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip for your Rabí Castle day trip. The paths are made of uneven stones and can be slippery after it rains. You will be doing a lot of climbing on stairs and steep ramps. Comfortable clothing will make your exploration much more enjoyable throughout the entire day.

The castle is open from April through October each year for regular visitors. July and August are the busiest months with the most frequent special events. If you visit in May or September, you will enjoy much smaller crowds. Always check the official Visit Plzeň portal for seasonal updates and holiday hours.

Bring a bottle of water and some snacks for your visit to the ruins. There is a small refreshment stand near the entrance for basic drinks and food. However, the village square has several traditional Czech pubs for a full lunch. Trying a local beer after your hike is a great way to finish.

Exploring the Sušice Area Nearby

After visiting the castle, spend some time in the nearby town of Sušice. It is known as the gateway to the mountains and has a charming square. You can visit the local museum to learn about the history of match making. The town also offers lovely riverside walks along the banks of the Otava.

If you have extra time, consider a trip to the Sumava National Park from Plzen nearby. The park features dense forests and crystal-clear glacial lakes for nature lovers to explore. It is a perfect addition to a day spent at the castle ruins. You can find many hiking trails that start just a short drive away.

For those who love more history, the region is full of hidden gems. You can find several other smaller ruins and manor houses within a short distance. The Visit Czechia website lists many secondary sites worth seeing in the area. Combining two locations into one day is a great way to see more.

Finish your day with a meal at a traditional guesthouse in the village. Many local spots serve hearty Bohemian dishes like roast pork and bread dumplings. The atmosphere in Rabí is very quiet and peaceful once the day trippers leave. It is the perfect end to a long day of historical discovery.