Known as the birthplace of the world-famous Pilsner beer, Plzeň (Pilsen) is more than just a paradise for lager lovers. It’s a vibrant city full of history, architecture, public art, and green spaces—and best of all, many of its top attractions are completely free. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or just love discovering cities beyond the usual tourist stops, here are the best free things to do in Plzen:
1. Explore Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky)
Start your visit at Republic Square, one of the largest squares in the Czech Republic. It’s surrounded by colorful Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance-style buildings, making it perfect for a leisurely walk or people-watching session. Don’t miss the quirky “Golden Fountain” sculptures, representing Pilsen’s symbols (a camel, an angel, and a greyhound).
2. Admire St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Exterior + Interior)
Isiwal/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
One of the best free things to do in Plzeň is to visit the St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral. Located on Republic Square, this landmark boasts the tallest church tower in the country (102.6 meters). While climbing the tower requires a small fee, admiring the majestic Gothic exterior and interior is free.
3. Admire the Renaissance Town Hall on Republic Square
Standing proudly on Plzeň’s central Republic Square, the Renaissance Town Hall is one of the city’s most striking historical landmarks. Built between 1554 and 1559 by Italian architect Giovanni de Statia, this elegant building is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, with its sgraffito-decorated façade, ornate gables, and symbolic details representing civic pride and justice.
4. Relax in Šafaříkovy Sady and City Parks
Just a few minutes’ walk from the main square, Šafaříkovy Sady is a beautifully maintained park with fountains, flower beds, and statues. It’s perfect for a picnic or a short break. You can also explore Lužánky Park, Borský Park, and Homolka Hill—ideal for walking, running, or simply enjoying nature in the city.
5. Visit the “Thank You America!” Memorial
One of Plzeň’s most meaningful monuments, the “Thank You America!” Memorial honors the U.S. Army’s liberation of the city in May 1945 during World War II. Located on the Americká street, the monument features two flags—Czech and American—along with an inscription commemorating the moment U.S. troops entered Plzeň.
6. Walk the Historical City Walls and Bastions
Take a step back in time by walking along the remains of Pilsen’s medieval city walls, which once protected the town from invaders. Some parts of the wall and bastions have been preserved and incorporated into modern spaces, such as the Šafaříkovy Sady area. There’s no admission fee, and the short walk offers a peaceful way to experience the city’s past.
7. Visit the Pilsen Great Synagogue (Exterior)
While entry inside the Great Synagogue of Pilsen is paid, viewing this stunning Moorish-Romanesque building from the outside is free—and absolutely worth it. It’s the third-largest synagogue in the world and one of Pilsen’s most iconic landmarks.
8. Browse Free Exhibitions at DEPO2015
(c) Plzeň 2015, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This former bus depot turned cultural hub is one of the city’s most creative spaces. DEPO2015 often hosts free exhibitions, installations, and community events, along with a cool industrial vibe and outdoor seating areas. More information (Czech languge) HERE.
9. Climb the Paluba Hamburk Lookout Tower
Right outside Plzeň’s main train and bus station (near Šumavská Street), you’ll find Paluba Hamburk—a stylish and modern public space that combines architecture, culture, and community. Built in 2021, this area includes a 12-meter-high lookout tower, a public gallery, an information center, and an open-air terrace with benches and small eateries. It’s free to enter, and climbing the tower gives you a unique urban view of the city’s railway district and surrounding neighborhoods.
10. Walk the Radbuza River Valley Educational Trail
For a longer, scenic urban escape, explore the Radbuza River Valley Trail, a 12.5 km route that winds through some of Plzeň’s most historic and picturesque neighborhoods. Starting at the confluence of the Radbuza and Mže Rivers in Štruncovy Sady, the trail follows the river past iconic spots like Wilson Bridge, Papírenská Footbridge, and Tyrš Bridge, eventually reaching Lhota at the charming Jára Cimrman Footbridge.
Along the way, you’ll pass through the culturally rich area known as Plzeňské Benátky (Pilsen’s Venice) and see a variety of architectural gems. The trail includes 12 educational panels explaining the area’s history, nature, and local landmarks.
11. Stroll Through Mlýnská Strouha – Plzeň’s “Little Venice”
Just a short walk from Republic Square, you’ll find one of Plzeň’s most romantic corners—Mlýnská strouha, often nicknamed Plzeň’s Venice. This charming canal, once a part of the historic millrace system, has been beautifully revitalized into a peaceful promenade surrounded by greenery, benches, and small bridges.
12. Cool Off at Košutecké Lake
Looking for a natural escape within city limits? Head to Košutecké jezírko, a picturesque pond in Plzeň 1, formed by the flooding of an old sandstone quarry. Just a short ride from the city center, this peaceful spot offers a grassy beach, a gentle sandy-bottom entry into the water, and even a few dramatic rocky cliffs along the shore.
Perfect for a summer swim, sunbathing, or a family outing, the site is equipped with chemical toilets, a children’s playground, and a restaurant about 100 meters away.
13. Step Back in Time at the Františkánský Klášter (Franciscan Monastery)
Ondrej.konicek, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tucked just a few minutes’ walk from Republic Square, the Františkánský klášter is one of the oldest and most atmospheric places in Plzeň. Originally founded in the 13th century and rebuilt over time, this Gothic monastery complex includes the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful cloister garden, and the Chapel of St. Barbara with beautifully preserved frescoes.
Even if you don’t enter the paid museum, simply wandering through the exterior cloister courtyard or admiring the Gothic details offers a moment of quiet reflection away from the city buzz.
14. Discover the Hidden Charm of the Infant Jesus Church (Kostelík U Ježíška)
A little off the typical tourist path, the Church of the Infant Jesus—known locally as Kostelík U Ježíška—is a small but historically rich chapel nestled in a quiet neighborhood just south of Plzeň’s city center. This Baroque-style church was built in the 18th century and has become a beloved local landmark, especially around Christmas, when it hosts traditional nativity scenes and Advent events. Surrounded by a small park and peaceful streets, the chapel offers a lovely stop for anyone exploring beyond the Old Town.
Conclusion
Plzeň is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and natural beauty—and the best part is, you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy it! From wandering charming historic streets and peaceful river valleys to exploring unique museums and hidden gems like the Franciscan Monastery or the Infant Jesus Church, there’s something free and fascinating for every visitor.
