Quick picks for your castle tour

If you are short on time, these quick picks will help you choose. The region offers a diverse range of historic sites for every traveler. Some are perfect for a quick hike, while others deserve a full day. Use this list to find your ideal match.

• Best Overall: Radyně Castle (Iconic ruins and views)
• Best for Families: Chateau Kozel (Large park and easy paths)
• Best for Rainy Days: Zbiroh Castle (Indoor tours and hotel)
• Best Free Experience: Gutštejn Ruins (Wild nature and no entry fee)

Each location provides a unique look at Czech history. You can easily reach most of these sites from the city. For more ideas on local travel, check out these places to visit near Plzeň. Planning ahead ensures you see the best of the Plzeň Region official site offerings.

Why the best castles near Plzeň are worth the trip

West Bohemia was once a strategic crossroads in Europe. Kings and noblemen built fortresses here to protect trade routes. Today, these buildings stand as monuments to different eras. You will see Gothic towers, Renaissance halls, and Baroque gardens. The variety makes the best castles near Plzeň truly special.

Visiting these sites is also a great way to see the landscape. Many castles sit on high peaks or near quiet rivers. You can combine history with a refreshing nature walk. The Plzeň Region (Wikipedia) is known for its rolling hills and deep forests. It is the perfect backdrop for a medieval adventure.

Travel in 2026 is easier than ever. Most sites have updated visitor centers and English tours. You can enjoy modern comforts while exploring ancient walls. Local villages often have cozy pubs serving regional food. It is a complete cultural experience just outside the city.

The 10 best castles near Plzeň to visit in 2026

Here is our curated list of the top historic sites in the area. Each entry includes practical details to help you plan your visit. Make sure to check local transport schedules before you depart.

1. Name: Radyně Castle Type: Medieval Ruin Why go: It is the most iconic landmark near the city. The high tower offers 360-degree views. Best for: Viewpoints and hiking. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low (approx. 100 CZK). Getting there: Short drive or bus from Plzeň. Tip: Read our guide on visiting Radyně Castle ruins for trail info.
2. Name: Chateau Kozel Type: Hunting Lodge Why go: This four-wing classicist chateau is surrounded by a massive forest park. It feels like a peaceful retreat. Best for: Families and nature lovers. Where: Šťáhlavy. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Mid-range for tours. Getting there: Easy train ride to Šťáhlavy then a walk. Tip: Check the Chateau Kozel tour guide for seasonal events.
3. Name: Zbiroh Castle Type: Chateau/Hotel Why go: Known as the "Castle of Three Kings," it has a mysterious history. It features the deepest well in Europe. Best for: History buffs and luxury seekers. Where: Zbiroh. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Best reached by car via the D5 highway. Tip: See our Zbiroh Castle day trip tips for dining options.
4. Name: Švihov Water Castle Type: Fortress Why go: It is one of the few surviving water castles in the country. The moat system is incredibly well-preserved. Best for: Photography and unique architecture. Where: Švihov. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Direct train from Plzeň main station. Tip: This was a filming location for the famous Czech fairy tale "Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella."
5. Name: Rabí Castle Type: Ruin Why go: This is the largest castle ruin in Bohemia. Its massive walls and towers are truly imposing. Best for: Exploring large spaces and history. Where: Sušice area. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Car is recommended for this trip. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain inside the ruins is very uneven.
6. Name: Horšovský Týn Type: Castle and Chateau Why go: It offers a rare mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The interiors are exceptionally rich. Best for: Art and architecture enthusiasts. Where: Horšovský Týn. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Bus or car from Plzeň. Tip: Visit the adjacent park for a quiet walk after your tour.
7. Name: Manětín Chateau Type: Baroque Palace Why go: Known as the "Baroque Pearl of West Bohemia," it features stunning statues and frescoes. Best for: Fans of the Baroque era. Where: Manětín. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Car is the most convenient option. Tip: The town itself is very small and charming for a short stroll.
8. Name: Křivoklát Castle Type: Royal Castle Why go: One of the oldest and most important castles of Czech kings. It has a magnificent chapel. Best for: A full day trip. Where: Křivoklát (Central Bohemia border). Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Mid-range to high. Getting there: Car or train with a transfer. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the busy summer months.
9. Name: Točník and Žebrák Type: Twin Ruins Why go: You get two castles for the price of one trip. Točník even has a bear pit with live bears. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Near Hořovice. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Low to mid-range. Getting there: Car via the D5 highway. Tip: The climb to Točník is steep but the views are worth it.
10. Name: Kašperk Castle Type: Gothic Fortress Why go: It is the highest royal castle in Bohemia. It offers breathtaking views of the Šumava mountains. Best for: Mountain scenery and fresh air. Where: Kašperské Hory. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Car is best; expect a walk from the parking lot. Tip: Check for special "night tours" which are very popular in summer.

Planning your castle road trip from Plzeň

Getting to the best castles near Plzeň is quite simple. If you have a car, most sites are within 30 to 60 minutes. The roads are generally well-marked and pass through scenic villages. For those without a car, the train network is a reliable alternative. Many castles are located near small stations on local lines.

Before you go, visit the Visit Czechia portal for general travel news. It is helpful to carry some cash in Czech Koruna. While many gift shops take cards, small local pubs might not. Always check the opening hours on official websites before your departure. Some sites close on Mondays or during the winter season.

If you enjoy walking, consider hiking in Rabštejn nad Střelou. It is the smallest town in Central Europe and has its own castle ruins. You can also find interesting things to do in Starý Plzenec near Radyně. Combining a castle visit with a short hike makes for a perfect day.