Top Attractions and Things to Do in Starý Plzenec

Starý Plzenec may be small, but it packs a punch with its variety of sights. From towering castle ruins to underground wine cellars, there is something for everyone. Most visitors start their day by looking up at the hill where the castle stands. The town center is also full of small architectural surprises. You can easily spend a full day here without getting bored. Here are the top activities to add to your itinerary.

• Best overall: Radyně Castle
• Best for couples: Bohemia Sekt Tour
• Best for nature: Andrejšky Rocks
• Best free activity: Rotunda of St. Peter and Paul (exterior)

1. Name: Radyně Castle Ruins Type: sight Why go: This 14th-century fortress was built by Emperor Charles IV. It offers the best panoramic views of the Plzeň basin. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: On the hill overlooking the town. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Hike up the yellow-marked trail from the town center. Tip: Visit at sunset for incredible photos of the surrounding landscape. Learn more about visiting Radyně Castle ruins before you go.
2. Name: Bohemia Sekt Visitor Center Type: experience Why go: This is the home of the most famous Czech sparkling wine. You can tour the cellars and see how the wine is made. Best for: Wine enthusiasts and couples. Where: Smetanova street, near the train station. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: A short walk from the Starý Plzenec train station. Tip: Book your tour in advance as they often sell out on weekends. You can find more details on the Visit Czechia portal.
3. Name: Rotunda of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest preserved Romanesque building in the Czech Republic. It dates back to the 10th century and sits on the site of an old hillfort. Best for: History lovers and architecture fans. Where: Hůrka hill, north of the town center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to view the exterior; tours by appointment. Getting there: Follow the educational trail from the main square. Tip: The walk up Hůrka hill is steep but provides great views of the town.
4. Name: Andrejšky Rock Formations Type: nature Why go: These unique natural rock formations are hidden in the woods. They are perfect for a quiet walk away from the main tourist spots. Best for: Hikers and families with children. Where: In the forest between Starý Plzenec and Šťáhlavy. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green-marked hiking trail from Radyně. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the paths can be muddy after rain.
5. Name: Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist Type: sight Why go: This church stands on the site of a much older 12th-century building. It features a mix of Gothic and Baroque elements. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Malá Strana neighborhood. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the lower part of the town. Tip: Look for the medieval tombstones embedded in the outer walls.

Historical Sights and Cultural Experiences

The history of this area is deeply tied to the early formation of the Czech state. Before Plzeň was founded, Starý Plzenec was the main power center. You can still feel this ancient atmosphere in the Malá Strana district. The town has preserved its layout for centuries. Exploring the local heritage is one of the most rewarding things to do in Starý Plzenec. Many buildings here are protected as national cultural monuments.

The Plzeň Region is famous for its religious and industrial history. In Starý Plzenec, these two worlds often collide. You might see a medieval church right next to a modern winery. This contrast makes the town very photogenic. The local community is proud of their roots and often hosts festivals. Check the local calendar for events like the Radyně celebrations or wine harvest festivals.

If you enjoy walking, the educational trails are excellent. They connect the most important historical points in a logical loop. You will find information boards in both Czech and English. These boards explain the significance of the old hillfort and the various churches. It is a great way to learn about the Přemyslid dynasty. The trails are well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels.

Best Day Trips Near Starý Plzenec

Starý Plzenec is a perfect base for exploring the wider region. There are several places to visit near Plzen that are very close. You can use local trains or buses to reach these spots quickly. Most of these attractions are less than 20 minutes away by car. This makes it easy to combine multiple sights into one day. Here are the best nearby options for your trip.

8. Name: Chateau Kozel Type: day trip Why go: A beautiful Neoclassical hunting lodge surrounded by a large park. It is one of the most visited sites in the region. Best for: Families and garden lovers. Where: Šťáhlavy, 5 km from Starý Plzenec. Time: 3 to 4 hours. Cost: Moderate for the interior tour; park is free. Getting there: Take a local train or bike along the river path. Tip: The chateau park is especially beautiful during the autumn months. Read our Chateau Kozel tour guide for more tips.
9. Name: Air Park Zruč Type: day trip Why go: A unique private collection of planes and military technology. You can even climb inside some of the aircraft. Best for: Families with kids and tech fans. Where: Zruč-Senec, north of Plzeň. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Best reached by car or bus from Plzeň. Tip: It is an outdoor museum, so check the weather before you go. This is a great Air Park Zruc family trip option.
10. Name: Plzeň City Center Type: day trip Why go: The fourth-largest city in the country is right next door. It features the tallest church tower and the famous brewery. Best for: Everyone. Where: 10 km west of Starý Plzenec. Time: Full day. Cost: Varies. Getting there: Frequent trains and buses take only 10-15 minutes. Tip: Visit the Great Synagogue, which is the third-largest in the world. This is one of the best castles near Plzen areas to explore.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Planning your trip to Starý Plzenec is quite simple. The town is very accessible from the regional capital. Most people visit as a day trip from Plzeň. However, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the quiet evenings. There are a few local pensions and small hotels available. You should try the local food at the traditional pubs in the square.

The best time to visit is from April to October. During this period, the castle and wine center are open daily. In winter, some attractions have limited hours or are closed. Always check the official websites for the latest opening times. Public transport is reliable and very cheap. You can use the "IDP" regional ticket for both trains and buses.

English is widely understood in tourist spots like Bohemia Sekt. However, learning a few basic Czech phrases is always appreciated. The locals are generally helpful and friendly to visitors. If you are hiking, remember to stay on the marked trails. The Czech hiking marker system is one of the best in the world. It uses color-coded stripes on trees and poles.