Take a stroll through Plzeň in the Czech Republic and discover an array of cultural attractions that were highlighted during the European Capital of Culture 2015 program. Start at the Brewery Museum, where medieval cellars and a faithful reconstruction of a late 19th-century village pub set the scene. The museum also features a detailed model of a steam brewery, an exhibit of drinking vessels from different eras, and a diverse collection of beer-related artifacts and curiosities that trace the region’s long brewing tradition.
From there, descend beneath the city’s cobbled streets to explore Plzeň’s extensive underground network. These passages include historic workshops, malt houses, cellars, wells and a long labyrinth of tunnels and corridors dating back to the 14th century. The underground tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s past and its once-hidden infrastructure.
Back on the surface, visit the Church of St. Bartholomew and climb its 301-step tower for sweeping views over the main square and the surrounding cityscape. On clear days you can see as far as the peaks of the Šumava mountains, giving a sense of the wider landscape beyond the urban center.
For a taste of local cuisine, stop by the Na Parkánu Taproom housed in a historic building next to the city ramparts. The setting overlooks hop fields and complements a menu of traditional dishes such as hearty goulash soup and beer-braised pork knuckle, typically served with mustard, horseradish and regional “chodský” cabbage. The combination of rustic flavors and brewing heritage makes the meal a memorable part of any visit.
If your trip coincides with the first week of August, plan to attend the festival of carvers held near Křivoklát Castle. The event showcases skilled craftsmen and their woodwork, offering visitors a chance to see live demonstrations and admire finely carved pieces in a historic castle setting.
Plzeň blends historical architecture, brewing heritage and lively cultural events, making it an engaging destination for visitors interested in history, food and traditional crafts. Whether wandering underground corridors, climbing church towers for panoramic views, or sampling regional specialties in an atmospheric taproom, the city presents a compact but richly layered experience.