Climbing the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew Tower

The tower of St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral is the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic. It reaches a height of 102.26 meters. The viewing gallery is located at 62 meters. You must climb 301 steps to reach this platform.

The staircase is narrow and spiraling in several sections. It offers a glimpse into the medieval engineering of the cathedral. You can see the massive bells as you ascend. Most people take about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the top.

Once at the summit, the views are breathtaking. On clear days, you can see the peaks of the Bohemian Forest. You can also look down at the colorful houses of Republic Square. It is the perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Before you start your ascent, check the St. Bartholomew Cathedral Plzen tickets price online. Tickets are usually sold at the tower entrance. The tower is open year-round, but hours may vary by season.

10 Must-See Attractions in Plzeň for 2026

Plzeň is more than just a gateway to the famous Pilsner beer. It is a city of deep history and vibrant culture. Here are the top 10 experiences you should not miss during your visit.

• Name: Cathedral of St. Bartholomew Tower Type: Iconic sight Why go: To see the tallest spire in the country and enjoy 360-degree views. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Low (approx. 100 CZK). Getting there: Walkable from any central location. Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the narrow staircase crowds.
• Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Unique local experience Why go: Learn the history of the world's first golden lager. Best for: Beer lovers and history buffs. Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Book your tour in advance on the Pilsner Urquell Brewery website.
• Name: Great Synagogue Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and features stunning Moorish-Romanesque architecture. Best for: History and architecture fans. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: 5-minute walk from Republic Square. Tip: Read a Great Synagogue Plzen visiting guide to understand its restoration history.
• Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: Indoor/Museum Why go: Explore a labyrinth of corridors and cellars dating back to the 14th century. Best for: Families and those seeking a cool escape on hot days. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the Brewery Museum. Tip: Purchase Plzen historical underground tour tickets early as tours sell out.
• Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, surrounded by beautiful townhouses. Best for: People watching and local atmosphere. Where: City center. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub for all trams. Tip: Visit the modern golden fountains that represent the city's coat of arms.
• Name: Techmania Science Center Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Interactive exhibits and a 3D planetarium make science fun for all ages. Best for: Families with children. Where: U Planetária 1. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a short bus or tram ride from the center. Tip: Check the Techmania Science Center schedule for science shows.
• Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: Museum Why go: It documents the liberation of the city by the US Army in 1945. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: Pobřežní 10. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Located near the Peklo Cultural Center. Tip: Look for the personal items donated by veterans.
• Name: Borský Park Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: The largest park in Plzeň, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic. Best for: Nature lovers and joggers. Where: Southern part of the city. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram line 4 to the Bory stop. Tip: Visit in autumn for the beautiful changing leaf colors.
• Name: Radyně Castle Type: Day trip Why go: Medieval castle ruins on a hill offering views of the entire Plzeň region. Best for: Hikers and history fans. Where: Near Starý Plzenec. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: 20-minute drive or bus from Plzeň. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Bohemia Sekt winery nearby.
• Name: Pilsen Zoo and Botanical Garden Type: Nature/Activity Why go: One of the most visited zoos in the Czech Republic with a unique DinoPark. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: Pod Vinicemi 9. Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram line 4 or 1. Tip: Visit the Japanese garden section for a quiet moment.

Essential Tips for Visiting Plzeň

Plzeň is very easy to navigate on foot. Most major attractions are within walking distance of Republic Square. For longer distances, the public transport system is excellent and affordable. You can buy tickets using a contactless credit card on any tram.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During these months, the city hosts many outdoor festivals. The Visit Plzeň website lists current events. Always carry a light jacket, as the underground tours are quite chilly.

If you enjoy exploring national heritage, check out the Visit Czechia portal. It offers great ideas for extending your trip beyond the city. Plzeň is only 90 minutes from Prague by train. This makes it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.