At a Glance: Your 2-Day Plzeň Adventure

This itinerary balances physical activity with city exploration. You will spend your first day in nature. The second day focuses on the urban charms of Plzeň. This plan is perfect for a weekend getaway in 2026.

• Day 1: Morning hike to Radyně Castle, afternoon in Starý Plzenec, evening dinner in Plzeň.
• Day 2: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, historical underground tours, and brewery visits.

We recommend staying in the city center of Plzeň. This makes transport much easier. You can find many hidden gems in Plzeň within walking distance. Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. Always check the weather before you start your hike.

Day 1: Conquering the Radyně Castle Ruins Hike

Day 1:

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Start your day by taking a local train. Travel from the main station in Plzeň to Starý Plzenec. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once you arrive, follow the yellow hiking markers. These lead you toward the base of the hill. The Radyně Castle ruins hike begins with a steady climb through the forest.

Afternoon (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Reach the summit to explore the ruins built by Charles IV. The tower offers a panoramic view of the Bohemian countryside. You should check the Radyně Castle viewpoint opening hours and entry before arriving. After your visit, descend via the rocky formations known as the Radyně Rocks. This area is popular with local climbers. Grab a quick snack at the castle kiosk if it is open.

Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Head back to Plzeň for a hearty meal. The city is famous for its beer culture. You can visit several craft beer microbreweries in Plzeň for dinner. Try traditional Czech goulash or roast pork. Rest your legs and prepare for another day of exploring. Consider reading about the ghost legends of Radyně Castle before bed.

Day 2: Exploring the History and Culture of Plzeň

Day 2:

Morning (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Focus on the heart of the city today. Visit Republic Square to see St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral. It has the tallest church tower in the country. Next, go below the streets for Plzeň historical underground tours. These tunnels date back to the 14th century. They were used for food storage and water management. Wear a jacket as it is cold underground.

Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Enjoy a long lunch at a local tavern. Afterward, choose a museum that fits your interests. The Brewery Museum Plzeň guide can help you plan a visit there. It is located in a historic brewing house. If you prefer science, visit the Techmania Science Center for interactive exhibits. The city also offers beautiful parks for a slow walk.

Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): End your trip with a stroll through the Mill Race area. This part of town is very romantic at sunset. You can see the colorful facades of the old buildings. For more official information on events, check the Visit Plzeň website. It lists seasonal festivals and concerts. Enjoy one last local pilsner before you depart.

Essential Tips for the Radyně Castle Ruins Hike

Planning is key for a successful hike. The trail to Radyně is not very long but it is steep. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The paths can be slippery after rain. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. There are limited shops on the trail itself.

Public transport in the Plzeň Region is very reliable. You can use the IDPK app to buy tickets on your phone. This saves time at the station. The castle ruins are usually open from April to October. In winter, you can still hike the trails. However, the tower might be closed to visitors. Always respect the natural environment and stay on marked paths.