Planning your hiking trip to Starý Plzenec

Starý Plzenec is a small town with a very long history. It was once the main administrative center of the region. Today, it is a quiet spot perfect for outdoor lovers. You can easily reach it from the city of Plzeň. Most visitors enjoy the mix of historical ruins and lush green forests.

Before you start, check the weather forecast for the Plzeň region. The trails can get muddy after a heavy rain. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for walking. You should also consult the Visit Plzeň website for local event updates. This helps you avoid crowds during local festivals.

The hike to the Rotunda is relatively short but steep. It is suitable for most fitness levels, including families. You will walk through residential areas before hitting the forest path. Wear comfortable shoes to handle the rocky sections near the top. The effort is worth it for the panoramic views of the valley.

10 Best sights for hiking to Rotunda of St Peter and Paul

This list highlights the best stops for your journey. We include the main Rotunda and several nearby gems. These picks ensure a well-rounded experience for every traveler. Enjoy the blend of ancient stones and modern local culture.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Rotunda of St Peter and Paul
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Techmania Science Center
• Quick Pick: Best Viewpoint - Radyně Castle
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy Day - Plzeň Historical Underground

1. Name: Rotunda of St Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: It is the oldest preserved church building in West Bohemia. Best for: History enthusiasts and photographers. Where: Hůrka Hill, Starý Plzenec. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to view the exterior; small fee for tours. Getting there: Walk 20 minutes uphill from Starý Plzenec station. Tip: Visit during the summer months to see the interior frescoes.
2. Name: Radyně Castle Type: Day trip Why go: These 14th-century ruins offer the highest viewpoint in the area. Best for: Hikers and panoramic views. Where: Radyně Hill, near Starý Plzenec. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Follow the yellow hiking trail from the Rotunda. Tip: Bring a camera for the sunset over the Plzeň basin.
3. Name: Bohemia Sekt Visitor Center Type: Experience Why go: Taste the most famous sparkling wine in the Czech Republic. Best for: Couples and wine lovers. Where: Starý Plzenec town center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Varies by tour type. Getting there: Located 5 minutes from the train station. Tip: Book a sparkling wine tour in advance.
4. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: It features the highest church tower in the country. Best for: Architecture fans and city views. Where: Republic Square, Plzeň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Tram or bus to the city center. Tip: Climb the 301 steps for a view of the entire region.
5. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Experience Why go: See where the world's first golden lager was born. Best for: Beer lovers and industrial heritage. Where: U Prazdroje, Plzeň. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate tour fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: Visit the official brewery site for tickets.
6. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Indoor Why go: Explore a labyrinth of medieval corridors beneath the city. Best for: Rainy days and mystery seekers. Where: Veleslavínova Street, Plzeň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from Republic Square. Tip: Book underground tours early as they sell out.
7. Name: Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. Best for: Culture and history. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků, Plzeň. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Central Plzeň, accessible by all main trams. Tip: Check for evening concerts held in the main hall.
8. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Museum Why go: Interactive exhibits and a 3D planetarium for all ages. Best for: Families with children. Where: U Planetária, Plzeň. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Take the trolleybus from the city center. Tip: Visit the Techmania website to see show times.
9. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Neighborhood Why go: The heart of the city with colorful buildings and markets. Best for: People watching and local food. Where: Central Plzeň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub for all transport. Tip: Look for the three modern golden fountains.
10. Name: Hůrka Hill Nature Trail Type: Nature Why go: A peaceful walk through the woods surrounding the Rotunda. Best for: Nature lovers and dog walkers. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Connects directly to the Rotunda path. Tip: Follow the educational signs to learn about local flora.

Practical tips for your Plzeň adventure

Getting to your starting point is very simple. You can learn how to get to Starý Plzenec from Plzeň via local trains. The journey takes less than fifteen minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day and are very affordable. You can buy tickets at the station or via a mobile app.

When hiking to Rotunda of St Peter and Paul, stay on marked paths. The Czech hiking marker system is world-class and easy to follow. Look for painted stripes on trees or poles. Red and yellow trails are common in this specific area. These markers will guide you safely to the summit and back.

For more travel inspiration, visit the Visit Czechia portal. It offers great advice for exploring the wider Bohemia region. Always carry a bottle of water and a light snack. While there are pubs in the town, the hilltop has no facilities. Respect the quiet atmosphere of the historical sites you visit.