Top Free Sights and Activities in Plzeň

Plzeň has a compact center that is perfect for walking. Most of the historic sights are located near the main square. You can enjoy the architecture and atmosphere for free. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Best overall: Republic Square
• Best for families: Borský Park
• Best rainy-day: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Nave
• Best free view: Radyně Hill

1. Name: Meditation Garden (Memorial of Victims of Evil) Type: experience Why go: It is a place of deep peace and stunning sculpture. Best for: Quiet reflection and history buffs. Where: Doudlevce district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (during community events or viewing the perimeter). Getting there: Take bus 30 or 21 to the Tyršův most stop. Tip: Check the official tourism site for free concert dates.
2. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: neighborhood Why go: It is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. Best for: People-watching and architecture. Where: City Center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Most tram lines stop here. Tip: Look for the three modern golden fountains representing the city's coat of arms.
3. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Nave) Type: sight Why go: The interior of this Gothic cathedral is breathtaking. Best for: Art lovers and spiritual visitors. Where: Center of Republic Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (for the main nave). Getting there: Walk to the center of the square. Tip: Read more about St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral visit options before you go.
4. Name: Mlýnská Strouha (Mill Race Park) Type: viewpoint Why go: It is often called the "Pilsen Venice" due to its water features. Best for: Couples and photographers. Where: Near the city museum. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from Republic Square. Tip: The colorful sculptures here make for great social media photos.
5. Name: Borský Park Type: nature Why go: This is the largest park in the city. Best for: Jogging, picnics, and family walks. Where: Southern part of the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Tram 4 to the Bory terminus. Tip: This is one of the best free parks and gardens to visit in Plzeň.
6. Name: Great Synagogue (Exterior) Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Trams 1, 2, or 4. Tip: The sunset light hitting the towers is spectacular.
7. Name: Bolevec Ponds (Bolevecké rybníky) Type: nature Why go: A system of ponds dating back to the 15th century. Best for: Swimming in summer or winter walks. Where: Northern edge of Plzeň. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 or 4 heading north. Tip: Follow the Sigmond nature trail that loops around the water.

Tips for Visiting the Meditation Garden in Plzeň for Free

The Meditation Garden is a unique site. It was created by Luboš Hruška as a symbol of reconciliation. While there is usually a small entry fee, you can still enjoy it on a budget. Visiting the Meditation Garden in Plzeň for free is possible during specific cultural events.

Check the local calendar for the "Night of Churches" or open-house days. During these times, the garden often opens its gates to everyone. You can also walk around the exterior to see the beautiful landscaping. The surrounding area is quiet and perfect for a slow afternoon.

If you visit during a paid time, the cost is very low. It usually costs less than a cup of coffee. However, the spiritual value of the garden is priceless. Always respect the silence of the area during your visit.

Free Day Trips Near Plzeň

If you have extra time, explore the surroundings of the city. Many historic sites are just a short bus or train ride away. These spots offer great views and fresh air for no cost. Here are some top nearby picks.

1. Name: Radyně Castle Ruins Type: day trip Why go: Dramatic ruins of a royal castle on a high hill. Best for: Hikers and history enthusiasts. Where: Near Starý Plzenec. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free to hike the trails and view the exterior. Getting there: Take a local train to Starý Plzenec then hike up. Tip: The view of the entire Plzeň basin is the best in the region.
2. Name: Rotunda of St. Peter and Paul Type: day trip Why go: It is the oldest preserved stone building in the Czech Republic. Best for: History lovers. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to view the grounds. Getting there: Short train ride from Plzeň main station. Tip: Visit the Visit Czechia portal for more regional history.
3. Name: Chotěšov Abbey (Exterior) Type: day trip Why go: A massive and mysterious Baroque monastery. Best for: Urban explorers and photographers. Where: Chotěšov village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free to walk around the massive walls. Getting there: Bus or train toward Stříbro. Tip: The scale of the building is truly impressive from the road.
4. Name: Sigmond Nature Trail Type: nature Why go: A 7km loop through pine forests and sandstone rocks. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Northern Plzeň. Time: 2.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Bolevec tram stop. Tip: Look for the "Columnar Pine," a rare local tree.