Pilsen Region: Treasures in the Heart of West Bohemia

What Can You Enjoy in Pilsen?

Plzeň (Pilsen) is a historic city in the west of Czechia, best known for Pilsner – the world-famous beer. The city combines fascinating history, modern architecture, and cultural wealth, including the unique Loos interiors and the Great Synagogue. In addition, Pilsen offers plenty for visitors, from science centres such as Techmania to walks through the picturesque surrounding countryside.

Techmania Science Centre in Pilsen

If you’re interested in science and technology, you definitely shouldn’t miss the Techmania Science Centre in Pilsen. This modern interactive complex takes you into the fascinating world of science, where you can try out various physics experiments and explore the latest technological innovations for yourself. You can also enjoy the 3D planetarium, where you’ll experience a virtual journey through space. It’s the perfect place for families with children.

Pilsner Urquell Brewery

One of the most iconic places in Pilsen is the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, where the world-famous Pilsner lager was born. A tour of the brewery takes you into the historic cellars, which are part of the brewery’s more than 170-year-old history. You’ll have a unique opportunity to taste unfiltered beer straight from an oak barrel and learn about traditional brewing processes. The tour also includes a visit to the Brewery Museum.

How to get there:

• Flight from Tokyo to Prague in Czechia

• Or direct flight to Munich or flight to Nuremberg in Germany

• Bus/Train from Prague to Pilsen (50 minutes, book on Czech Railways or Flixbus)

• Bus from Munich to Pilsen (3,5 hours, book online on Flixbus)

• Bus from Nuremberg to Pilsen (3 hours, book online on Flixbus)

The Great Synagogue: Following in Jewish Footsteps

The Great Synagogue, this impressive Jewish temple, is the second largest synagogue in Europe and enchants every visitor with its Moorish-Romanesque architecture. A tour of the synagogue is definitely worthwhile! If you’re interested in the history and culture of the Jewish community in the Pilsen Region, then the Jewish Trails are the perfect tip for you. These themed routes will guide you through important sites, including the Jewish cemetery.

The Pilsen Zoo and DinoPark

Plzeň Zoo is a great destination for a family outing. The zoo is set in a beautiful environment and offers visitors the chance to see exotic animals from various parts of the world. What truly makes it unique, however, is the DinoPark with its giant dinosaur models set in realistic scenes.

 Unique Loos Interiors

In Pilsen, you can take part in several fascinating guided tours linked to the unique architect Adolf Loos, leading you into the historical interiors of prominent and wealthy residents. The main tours include the Vogls’ and Kraus’ flats, the Brummel House, the Semler Residence and Hugo Semler’s flat. For more information, visit the official Adolf Loos Plzeň website.

Castles in the Šumava National Park

Our tip: If you want to experience Czech nature up close, visit the wolf enclosure near the visitor centre in Srní.

The beautiful Šumava National Park also extends into the Plzeň Region. Here, you can visit several castles that will transport you back to the Middle Ages. One of the most popular is Kašperk Castle, the highest-altitude royal castle in the Czech Republic, offering breathtaking views of the Šumava landscape. Another interesting site is the ruin of Rabí Castle, where you’ll find well-preserved medieval fortifications and can explore the original castle walls and towers.

For Hikers

Our tip: Along the way, you can visit Dobrá Voda, where you’ll find a unique glass altar in the Church of St. Gunther.

For hikers seeking a blend of nature and history, the Plzeň Region offers several fascinating trails. The Gunther Trail takes you through the forests of the Šumava Mountains and picturesque villages, while the Bohemian Forest offers peaceful walks among mysterious ruins and natural scenery. The Golden Trail, a historic trade route, leads you to Kašperské Hory and Kašperk Castle – an ideal opportunity to explore both the history and the beauty of the area.

Rest for Body and Mind

Our tip: At the Chodovar brewery restaurant, try the traditional beer goulash and freshly tapped beer straight from the lagering tanks.

After a demanding hike, you deserve to relax. The Plzeň Region offers unique spa and wellness experiences. Konstantinovy Lázně is the only sulphur spa in West Bohemia, where you can enjoy therapeutic baths and massages. If you prefer a more original form of relaxation, visit the beer spas at Purkmistr, Chodovar or the Šumava Herbal Spa, where you can indulge in baths enriched with hops and barley.

And where else to go?