Why Explore Parks and Gardens in Plzeň?

Plzeň is a very walkable city with a flat landscape. This makes it perfect for people of all ages. Exploring the local greenery is one of the best free things to do in Plzeň. You can enjoy fresh air while seeing historic monuments and modern art. Many parks are managed by the City of Plzeň to stay clean and safe.

The city layout is unique because of its historical development. In the 19th century, city walls were replaced by a chain of gardens. This created a "Green Ring" that encircles the old town. It allows you to walk through nature without leaving the city center. You can also learn about the health benefits of walking while enjoying these views.

Check out more things to do in Plzeň to round out your trip. Most of these parks are close to major museums and galleries. This makes it easy to mix culture with outdoor exercise. You will find benches, fountains, and cafes along almost every path.

10 Best Parks and Gardens in Plzeň for Walking

Here are the top picks for your next outdoor adventure. These spots range from manicured flower beds to wild forest trails. Most are open 24 hours and are completely free to enter. Use this list to plan your perfect route through the city.

• Best overall: Smetana Gardens
• Best for families: Borský Park
• Best for views: Lochotín Park
• Best for nature: Bolevec Ponds

1. Name: Smetana Gardens (Smetanovy sady) Type: Historic garden Why go: It is the heart of the city's green ring. You will see beautiful flower displays and the Great Theatre. Best for: A quick stroll before dinner. Where: City center, near Republic Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Look for the statue of Bedřich Smetana.
2. Name: Šafařík Gardens (Šafaříkovy sady) Type: Sculpture garden Why go: This park features the famous Spejbl and Hurvínek puppet statues. It is a very charming and colorful spot. Best for: Photos and puppet fans. Where: Southeast edge of the city center. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the Cathedral. Tip: You can often find free street art in Plzeň in this area.
3. Name: Mill Race (Mlýnská strouha) Type: Water park Why go: Known as the "Venice of Plzeň," it has colorful lights and water features. It is very romantic at night. Best for: Couples and evening walks. Where: Near the Puppet Museum. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk east from Republic Square. Tip: Visit at sunset to see the reflection of the colored lights.
4. Name: Borský Park Type: Large forest park Why go: This is the largest park in the city. It has wide paths, sports areas, and a small pond. Best for: Long walks and picnics. Where: Southern part of the city (Bory district). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Tram 4 to the final stop. Tip: Follow the path to the nearby Tyršův Bridge for more views.
5. Name: Lochotín Park Type: Landscape park Why go: It offers rolling hills and great views of the city skyline. It is located right next to the Zoo. Best for: Scenic vistas. Where: North of the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 or 4 to the Lochotín stop. Tip: Visit the Lochotín Pavilion, a historic mineral spring site.
6. Name: Plzeň Botanical Garden Type: Scientific garden Why go: It features exotic plants and a Mediterranean greenhouse. It is very peaceful and educational. Best for: Plant lovers. Where: Next to the Zoo in Lochotín. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (check official site). Getting there: Tram 4 to Pod Záhorskem. Tip: The garden is connected to the Zoo, so you can buy a joint ticket.
7. Name: Bolevec Ponds (Bolevecké rybníky) Type: Nature reserve Why go: This is a massive system of ponds surrounded by pine forests. It feels like being deep in the countryside. Best for: Hiking and swimming in summer. Where: Northern outskirts. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 to the Bolevec area. Tip: Walk the educational trail around the Great Bolevec Pond.
8. Name: Homolka Park Type: Neighborhood park Why go: It is a quiet spot with a high viewpoint over the Radbuza river. It is perfect for escaping the crowds. Best for: Local vibes. Where: Slovany district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 2 to the Slovany area. Tip: Bring a book; it is one of the quietest parks in town.
9. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Courtyard Type: Industrial garden Why go: While not a traditional park, the brewery grounds are historic and wide. You can walk under the iconic Jubilejní brána gate. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the main train station. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to walk the grounds. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the center. Tip: Book a Pilsner Urquell brewery tour for the full experience.
10. Name: Luft Garden (Luftova zahrada) Type: Hidden residential garden Why go: This is a unique wet garden with two ponds and rare trees. It has a very magical, overgrown atmosphere. Best for: Hidden gem seekers. Where: Doudlevce district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (limited opening hours). Getting there: Bus 30 or 14 to the Doudlevce area. Tip: Check the official Visit Plzeň site for open days.

Planning Your Walk in Plzeň

Walking in Plzeň is enjoyable year-round. Spring is the best time to see the gardens in full bloom. The cherry blossoms in the city ring are spectacular in April. Autumn offers golden leaves, especially in Borský Park and around the ponds. Winters are usually mild, but paths can be slippery after snow.

Wear comfortable shoes as many paths use historic cobblestones. Most parks have clear signage in Czech and English. You can easily find public toilets near the main garden ring. Drinking water fountains are available in the summer months. Always carry a small map or use a GPS app to find the smaller gardens.

The city's public transport is excellent for reaching outer parks. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on any tram or bus. This makes it easy to visit Lochotín or Borský Park. Most walks are dog-friendly, but keep your pet on a leash. Always check the local weather forecast before heading to the Bolevec Ponds.