Top Free Sights and Cultural Landmarks

The heart of Plzeň is filled with stunning architecture and history. Most of these landmarks are easy to visit on foot. You can find many best things to do in Plzeň right in the center. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Republic Square
• Best for families: Mill Race Park
• Best rainy-day: Great Synagogue (Exterior)
• Best free: Brewery Museum Courtyard

1. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. You can see the famous modern gold fountains. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: City Center. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Any tram to the center. Tip: Visit at night to see the fountains illuminated.
2. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: This gothic cathedral has the tallest spire in the country. The exterior is impressive and free to admire. Best for: History buffs. Where: Republic Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (interior/tower have fees). Getting there: Walk from any central point. Tip: Look for the angel on the outer gate for good luck.
3. Name: The Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. The Moorish-Romanesque architecture is truly unique. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 15 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Tram lines 1 or 2. Tip: The best photo angle is from across the main road.
4. Name: Pilsner Urquell Jubilee Gate Type: Sight Why go: This iconic archway was built in 1892. It is a symbol of the city's beer industry. Best for: Photo opportunities. Where: Brewery entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Read the Pilsner Urquell brewery tour guide for more details on the site.

Visiting the Brewery Museum Plzeň Courtyard

Visiting the Brewery Museum Plzeň courtyard is a highlight for many tourists. This area is tucked away in a former medieval malt house. The courtyard offers a quiet escape from the busy streets. It serves as a gateway to the city's underground and brewing past.

5. Name: Brewery Museum Courtyard Type: Experience Why go: You can see original medieval walls and brewing equipment. It feels like stepping back in time. Best for: History and atmosphere. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the courtyard. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from Republic Square. Tip: Check the Visit Plzeň site for seasonal events held here.
6. Name: The Historical Well Type: Sight Why go: Located within the museum area, this well shows how water was sourced. It is a vital part of the malt house history. Best for: Curious travelers. Where: Inside the Brewery Museum grounds. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Part of the courtyard visit. Tip: Peer down to see the depth of the medieval engineering.
7. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen (Exterior) Type: Museum Why go: It honors the liberation of the city by the US Army. The memorial plaques outside are very moving. Best for: WWII history fans. Where: Pobřežní street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Walk from the Great Synagogue. Tip: The museum itself is worth the small fee if you have time.

Best Parks and Nature Escapes in Plzeň

Plzeň is a very green city with many parks. These spots are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Many locals spend their weekends at these locations. You can enjoy nature without leaving the city limits.

8. Name: Mill Race Park (Mlýnská strouha) Type: Nature Why go: Often called the "Pilsen Venice." It features beautiful ponds and colorful sculptures. Best for: Relaxing walks. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Brewery Museum. Tip: It is a great spot for a picnic in the summer.
9. Name: Bolevec Ponds Type: Nature Why go: A series of large ponds perfect for swimming or hiking. The surrounding pine forests are very peaceful. Best for: Outdoor activities. Where: Northern edge of the city. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 to the end of the line. Tip: Bring your swimsuit if you visit in July or August.
10. Name: Borský Park Type: Nature Why go: The largest park in the city with many trails. It is ideal for jogging or a long stroll. Best for: Families and pets. Where: Southern part of the city. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 4 to Bory. Tip: Visit the Plzeň Region official site for local trail maps.

Historic Day Trips Near the City

If you have more time, explore the surrounding area. The Plzeň Region is full of castles and ruins. These sites offer a great look at the Czech countryside. Most are accessible by local trains or buses.

11. Name: Radyně Castle Ruins Type: Day trip Why go: A 14th-century royal castle perched on a high hill. The views of the region are spectacular. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free to hike around (tower has a fee). Getting there: Train to Starý Plzenec, then a steep hike. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the rocky paths.
12. Name: Chotěšov Abbey Type: Day trip Why go: A massive, mysterious baroque monastery. The architecture is hauntingly beautiful and grand. Best for: Photographers. Where: Chotěšov village. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free to view the exterior and grounds. Getting there: Bus or train from the main station. Tip: Visit during the "Evening of 1000 Candles" event if possible.