Experience the St. Bartholomew's Cathedral Tower Climb

The St. Bartholomew's Cathedral tower climb is not for the faint of heart. You must navigate 301 narrow stone steps to reach the top. At 102.26 meters, it is the tallest church tower in the country. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. On clear days, you can see the peaks of the Bohemian Forest. You can find more information about the region on the Plzeň Region official site.

Inside the cathedral, you will find a stunning gothic interior. The main altar features the famous Pilsen Madonna statue. This wooden carving dates back to the late 14th century. The tower itself was completed in the early 16th century. It has survived fires, storms, and wars over the centuries. Today, it remains a symbol of the city's resilience and faith.

Before you start your climb, check the weather conditions. The gallery is open-air and can be very windy. It is best to visit during the morning hours. This helps you avoid the largest crowds and mid-day heat. Remember to wear sturdy shoes for the steep stairs. The cathedral is located right in the heart of the city. You can easily find other best things to do in Plzeň nearby.

12 Best Things to Do in Plzeň in 2026

Plzeň offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. From deep underground tunnels to modern science centers, there is plenty to explore. Here are our top picks for your itinerary. We have included a mix of iconic sights and hidden gems.

• Best overall: St. Bartholomew's Cathedral
• Best for families: Techmania Science Center
• Best rainy-day: Pilsner Urquell Brewery
• Best free activity: Republic Square stroll

1. Name: St. Bartholomew's Cathedral Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the highest panoramic views in the Czech Republic. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Approximately 100 CZK. Getting there: Walk from any central hotel. Tip: Bring a camera with a good zoom for distant landscapes.
2. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Experience Why go: This is the birthplace of the world's first golden lager. Best for: Beer lovers and history fans. Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: 15-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Check out our Pilsner Urquell brewery tour guide for booking details.
3. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Experience Why go: Explore a labyrinth of medieval corridors and cellars. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Located near the Brewery Museum. Tip: Wear a jacket as the tunnels are cold year-round. Read more about the historical underground tour here.
4. Name: Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and third-largest in the world. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Short walk from the city center. Tip: Visit the Great Synagogue Plzeň to see the stunning Moorish-Romanesque style.
5. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Activity Why go: Interactive exhibits and a 3D planetarium make science fun. Best for: Families with children. Where: U Planetária 2969/1. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a trolleybus from the center. Tip: Check the official Techmania Science Center site for showtimes.
6. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: Sight Why go: See world-class modernist apartment designs from the 1930s. Best for: Design and art fans. Where: Various locations (guided tours start at Bendova 10). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Premium tour price. Getting there: Most sites are walkable from the center. Tip: Book Adolf Loos tours well in advance.
7. Name: Plzeň Zoo and DinoPark Type: Nature Why go: A large zoo with a botanical garden and life-sized dinosaurs. Best for: Nature lovers and kids. Where: Pod Vinicemi 9. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram number 4. Tip: Use our Plzeň Zoo guide to plan your route.
8. 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 buffs. Where: Pobřežní 10. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Walking distance from the Great Synagogue. Tip: It is one of the best museums in Plzeň for modern history.
9. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Neighborhood Why go: The heart of the city with colorful houses and golden fountains. Best for: People-watching and relaxing. Where: City center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub for all transport. Tip: Visit during the seasonal markets for local food.
10. Name: Beer Spa Experience Type: Experience Why go: Soak in a tub of beer ingredients while drinking unlimited lager. Best for: Couples and relaxation. Where: Various central locations. Time: 1 hour. Cost: High. Getting there: Most are in the old town. Tip: Find the best beer spas in Plzeň for a unique treat.
11. Name: Radyně Castle Ruins Type: Day trip Why go: A 14th-century royal castle perched on a hill near the city. Best for: Hikers and history fans. Where: Starý Plzenec (10km from Plzeň). Time: 3 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Short train ride or bus. Tip: Hike the marked trails for great views of the countryside.
12. Name: Chotěšov Abbey Type: Day trip Why go: A massive, mysterious baroque monastery currently under restoration. Best for: Urban explorers and architecture fans. Where: Chotěšov (20km from Plzeň). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Small donation/fee. Getting there: Train from Plzeň main station. Tip: Check opening times as it is mostly open on weekends.

Planning Your Visit to Plzeň

Plzeň is a very walkable city. Most major attractions are within a 15-minute walk of Republic Square. For longer distances, the tram and trolleybus system is excellent. You can buy tickets using a contactless bank card on the vehicle. For more on the geography, see the Plzeň Region Wikipedia page.

If you are traveling with children, the city is very welcoming. There are many parks and interactive museums. You can find more things to do in Plzeň with kids to keep them entertained. The Techmania center is especially popular for rainy days. Most restaurants offer high chairs and kid-friendly menus.

For those on a budget, many sights are affordable. Walking through the historical center costs nothing. You can also find many free things to do in Plzeň like visiting the parks. The city's nightlife is also vibrant and fairly priced. Explore the plzen nightlife and beer halls for an authentic evening experience.