5 Reasons to Visit Pilsen This Year
Planning on taking some trips this summer? Then our tips will come in handy as you make your way to Pilsen – the world’s metropolis of beer and one of the Czech Republic’s most popular destination cities. Lovers of beer, architecture, culture, nature, as well as families with kids – we have something for everyone.
1. The beer still tastes great
Although times may be changing, that hasn’t affected the taste of Pilsen beer (thank God!). Properly chilled Pilsen lager can be enjoyed this summer on one of the tours of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. You can even head down into the brewery’s historic underground and the brewery museum, or try your hand at the draft beer workshop. News of the brand new Proud microbrewery is also exciting. It’s located right on the grounds of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, in the former power station, where you can taste test some slightly more experimental beer styles.
2. The Cathedral once again opens its doors to visitors
Without a doubt, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, along with its tallest church tower in the Czech Republic, is the dominant feature of Pilsen’s historical city centre. In June of this year, this Gothic gem will open its doors to the public, now that its renovations are complete. You can admire the entire historical centre from end to end, which is adorned with dozens of beautifully iconic homes, standing alongside the Gothic cathedral, the Renaissance-era City Hall, and one of the largest synagogues on earth.
3. Cultural events are slowly making their way back
Already by the end of April, the regularly-held Saturday farmer’s market is returning to Pilsen’s Republic Square. As soon as the situation permits, cultural events and the loved gastro and beer festivals should gradually take off. For now, organisers are planning a show displaying young Czech design at Pilsen Design Week (5-6. 6.), a festival of fantastic food at Fresh Festival (14-15.8.), and a festival of small Czech breweries, i.e. the Sun in a Glass Festival (17-18.9.).
4. Even families with kids will have a blast in Pilsen
Pilsen has so much to offer families with children. You can go to the zoo and botanical garden for the entire day and enjoy the new pavilions and expositions that were made during the winter months. Right next to the ZOO, the loved DinoPark can be found. You’ll also have a great time at the fun science park Techmania. Plus, all summer long you can play the outdoor tracking game with kids at the DEPO2015 industrial centre. The game is available in both German and English. Lastly, the Depo also offers its fairyland visual exposition, The Mysterious Forest.
5. Also give the surrounding area a go
You don’t have to stay just in Pilsen, you can embark into the surrounding area for the nature, castles, and chateaus. Radyně Castle entices visitors with its views, from which you can then head to Chateau Kozel or the Rotunda of St. Peter and Paul in Old Pilsen (Starý Plzenec). Also, be sure to check out our tips on bike paths and set out on a trip yourself.
