Why Visit the Meditation Garden Plzeň?

The Meditation Garden Plzeň is more than just a park. It was created by Luboš Hruška, a former political prisoner. He spent years turning a former fruit orchard into this sanctuary. The garden serves as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and peace. It is a place for quiet reflection and appreciation of life.

Visitors can walk among hundreds of coniferous trees and beautiful flowers. The garden features the Stations of the Cross, created by talented sculptors. These artworks add a deep spiritual layer to the landscape. You can learn more about the region's history on the Plzeň Region official site. It is a must-visit for anyone seeking tranquility.

The atmosphere here is unique compared to other tourist spots. It feels personal and deeply moving. Many people come here to escape the noise of daily life. The garden is well-maintained and offers many benches for rest. It is a highlight of any trip to the Plzeň Region for those who value meaningful travel.

11 Best Things to Do in Plzeň

Plzeň offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. From industrial heritage to serene nature, the city is full of surprises. This list includes the most iconic landmarks and hidden treasures. Use this guide to plan your perfect itinerary in Plzeň.

• Best overall: Pilsner Urquell Brewery
• Best for peace: Meditation Garden Plzeň
• Best for families: Techmania Science Center
• Best view: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Tower

1. Name: Meditation Garden Plzeň (Památník obětem zla) Type: experience Why go: To experience a peaceful sanctuary with a moving history of human resilience. Best for: Couples and solo travelers seeking quiet. Where: Doudlevce district, southern Plzeň. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (approx. 60-100 CZK). Getting there: Take bus number 30 to the Tyršův most stop. Tip: Visit in late spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
2. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: sight Why go: See the birthplace of the world's most famous lager and enjoy fresh beer. Best for: Beer lovers and history buffs. Where: East of the city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate (tours vary). Getting there: A short walk from the main train station. Tip: Book your tour online at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery site to skip the lines.
3. Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: sight Why go: To see the highest church spire in the Czech Republic and enjoy panoramic views. Best for: Photographers and history fans. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for the tower climb. Getting there: Located in the heart of the city center. Tip: The climb is steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
4. Name: Great Synagogue Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and features stunning architecture. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Easily reached by tram lines 1 or 2. Tip: Check for evening concerts held inside for a unique acoustic experience.
5. Name: Adolf Loos Interiors Type: unique experience Why go: See masterpieces of modern interior design by a world-famous architect. Best for: Design lovers and art students. Where: Various locations in the city center. Time: 1.5 hours per tour. Cost: Moderate; booking required. Getting there: Most are within walking distance of the square. Tip: Read more about these Adolf Loos interiors in Plzeň before you book.
6. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: activity Why go: Explore a labyrinth of medieval corridors and cellars under the city. Best for: Adventure seekers and families. Where: Near the Brewery Museum. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from Republic Square. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer. Check this underground tour guide for details.
7. Name: Bolevec Ponds Type: nature Why go: Enjoy swimming, hiking, and cycling in a beautiful natural setting. Best for: Nature lovers and active travelers. Where: Northern edge of Plzeň. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram number 1 to the Bolevec area. Tip: Follow the Bolevec nature trails for the best views.
8. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: museum Why go: Learn about the liberation of Plzeň by the US Army in 1945. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: Pobřežní street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Walkable from the city center. Tip: Visit the Patton Memorial museum during the Liberation Festival in May.
9. Name: Radyně Castle Ruins Type: day trip Why go: Hike up to a 14th-century royal castle with amazing views of the region. Best for: Hikers and families. Where: Starý Plzenec, near Plzeň. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free to hike; small fee for tower. Getting there: Take a local train to Starý Plzenec then hike up. Tip: Check out our guide to Radyně Castle ruins for the best trail.
10. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: activity Why go: Interactive exhibits and a 3D planetarium make science fun for everyone. Best for: Families with children. Where: Former Škoda factory complex. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Higher than average. Getting there: Take trolleybus 15 or 16. Tip: Visit the Techmania Science Center website for special event schedules. See our Techmania tips for more info.
11. Name: Brewery Museum Type: museum Why go: Discover the history of brewing in a preserved medieval malt house. Best for: History lovers and beer fans. Where: Veleslavínova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Republic Square. Tip: Use this Brewery Museum guide to plan your visit.

Practical Tips for Exploring Plzeň

Plzeň is a very walkable city, especially in the historic center. Most major sights are within a 15-minute walk of Republic Square. For longer distances, use the efficient tram and trolleybus network. You can buy tickets using a contactless card directly on the vehicle. This makes getting to the Meditation Garden Plzeň very easy.

If you plan to visit many museums, consider the Pilsen Card. It offers discounts and free transport for a set period. Always check the opening hours of smaller attractions before you go. Many places have shorter hours during the winter months. Booking tours for the brewery and Adolf Loos interiors is highly recommended.

The city is generally safe and welcoming for international tourists. English is widely spoken in major tourist spots and restaurants. However, learning a few Czech phrases will always be appreciated. Try the local food in traditional pubs for an authentic experience. Plzeň is a city that rewards those who explore its side streets.