Come explore the beautiful city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic in this video. Stunning architecture!
1. Location and How to Get There
#pilsen (#Plzeň ) is located in the western part of the Czech Republic, about 90 km (56 miles) southwest of Prague. It is the fourth-largest city in the country and lies in the Pilsen Region.
By Car:
From Prague: Pilsen is easily accessible via the D5 motorway, which connects Prague and Germany. The drive takes about 1 hour.
From Germany: Pilsen is roughly 60 km (37 miles) from the German border, near Bavaria.
By Train:
Trains run frequently between Prague and Pilsen. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, with ticket prices starting at around €5-€10 (depending on the type of train).
By Bus:
Buses, such as those operated by FlixBus or RegioJet, connect Prague to Pilsen in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Nearest Airports:
Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG) is the closest international airport, about 80 km away.
Smaller regional airports, like Karlovy Vary Airport, are also accessible.
2. Freeway Fee (Czech Vignette)
To drive on highways in the Czech Republic, you must purchase an electronic vignette (e-vignette).
Costs (as of 2024):
10-day vignette: 310 CZK (~€13)
1-month vignette: 440 CZK (~€18)
1-year vignette: 1,500 CZK (~€63)
Where to Buy:
Online at www.edalnice.cz
At gas stations, post offices, or border crossings
Ensure your license plate is registered with the e-vignette system before driving.
3. History of Pilsen
Founded: In 1295 by King Wenceslaus II. It quickly became a vital trade hub due to its location at the crossroads of trade routes.
Beer Tradition: In 1842, the #pilsner Urquell Brewery was established, creating the world's first pale lager, which became the template for most modern beers.
Industrial Growth: The city became a significant industrial hub in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly with the Škoda Works, a major engineering company.
World War II: Pilsen was liberated by the U.S. Army in 1945, and the city's liberation is celebrated annually.
4. What to Do and See in Pilsen and Surroundings
In Pilsen:
Pilsner Urquell Brewery: Take a tour of the brewery and learn about the history of Pilsner beer. Don’t miss a sample of unfiltered Pilsner straight from the barrel.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral: Admire this Gothic cathedral with the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic (102 meters). Climb to the top for stunning city views.
Great Synagogue: The second-largest synagogue in Europe and a masterpiece of Moorish-Romanesque architecture.
Techmania Science Center: A family-friendly interactive science and technology museum.
Pilsen Historical Underground: Explore a network of tunnels and cellars beneath the city, originally used for storage and defense.
Surrounding Areas:
Šumava National Park (1.5 hours south): Perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying pristine forests and lakes.
Castle Rabí: One of the largest medieval ruins in the Czech Republic, about an hour from Pilsen.
Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad): A famous spa town known for its hot springs, about 1.5 hours northwest.
Klatovy: A charming historical town with the Black Tower and catacombs, located 45 minutes from Pilsen.
5. Sport Activities
Outdoor Activities:
Hiking and Cycling: Numerous trails in and around Pilsen, including the Berounka River trail and paths in nearby Šumava National Park.
Water Sports: The Berounka River offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities.
Fishing: Available in local rivers and reservoirs.
Indoor/City Activities:
Ice Skating: Winter skating rinks or year-round indoor arenas.
Climbing: Rock climbing gyms or outdoor climbing spots like Kozelka Rock near Nečtiny.
Golf: Golf courses are located just outside the city, such as Golf Park Pilsen.
Winter Sports:
Nearby mountains in the Šumava region offer skiing, cross-country trails, and snowshoeing.
6. Essentials and Practical Tips
Currency:
Czech koruna (CZK)
Credit cards are widely accepted, but have cash for smaller towns or traditional pubs.
Language:
Czech is the official language, but many locals, especially in tourism, speak English or German.
Tipping:
Common in restaurants; 10% is customary.
Weather:
Summers (June-August): Warm, great for outdoor activities.
Winters (December-February): Cold, often snowy.
Local Cuisine to Try:
Pilsner Beer: Enjoy fresh, locally brewed lager.
Svíčková: Beef in creamy vegetable sauce served with dumplings.
Trdelník: A sweet pastry often sold in tourist spots.
Pilsner Goulash: Rich stew made with Pilsner beer.
Public Transportation:
Pilsen has a reliable tram and bus network. Purchase tickets at kiosks or via mobile apps.
Local Events:
Pilsner Fest (October): Celebrating the birth of Pilsner beer.
Liberation Festival (May): Marking the city's liberation in 1945 by U.S. forces.
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Final Tips
Pack comfortable shoes for walking, as the city center is pedestrian-friendly.
Bring a reusable water bottle; (tap water is safe to drink).
Plan ahead for brewery tours—they are very popular and often sell out.
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