Planning Your Trip to Castles Near Plzeň

The Plzeň Region offers a dense network of historical landmarks. Most of these sites are located within 60 kilometers of the city. You can easily combine several stops into one full day of exploring. Many travelers choose to use Plzeň as a central base. This allows for relaxing evenings in the city after a day of hiking. You will find that most day trips from Plzeň are very affordable.

Renting a car is the most flexible way to see the countryside. It allows you to reach remote ruins and small villages. However, the Czech railway system is also quite reliable. Many castles are located near train stations or bus stops. You can find several best train trips from Plzeň that lead to historic sites. Always check the latest schedules before you depart from the main station.

Timing is important when visiting Czech castles. Most sites are open fully from May through September. During April and October, they may only open on weekends. Many castles close their interiors during the cold winter months. However, the castle grounds and parks often remain open for walks. Visiting in the shoulder season helps you avoid the largest crowds. You will also enjoy the changing colors of the Bohemian forests.

10 Best Castles Near Plzeň to Visit

West Bohemia features a diverse range of architectural styles. You can see Gothic fortresses and Renaissance mansions in the same afternoon. Each site tells a unique story about the Czech nobility. Here are the top selections for your next adventure.

1. Name: Kozel Chateau Type: experience Why go: This neoclassical hunting lodge is famous for its massive forest park. It offers a glimpse into 18th-century noble life. Best for: Families and nature walks. Where: Šťáhlavy (15km from Plzeň). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 180-250 CZK for tours. Getting there: Short drive or local train to Šťáhlavy. Tip: Book a Kozel Chateau hunting lodge tour to see the original furnishings.
2. Name: Radyně Castle Type: viewpoint Why go: These iconic ruins sit on a high hill overlooking the entire region. It was built by Emperor Charles IV in the 14th century. Best for: Panoramic views and hiking. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 80-120 CZK. Getting there: Bus or train to Starý Plzenec, then a steep hike. Tip: Follow the marked trail for a scenic Radyně Castle ruins hike.
3. Name: Zbiroh Castle Type: sight Why go: Known as the "Castle of Three Empires," it has a deep secret history. It features the deepest well in Europe and a stunning Neo-Renaissance look. Best for: Luxury lovers and history buffs. Where: Zbiroh (35km from Plzeň). Time: 3 hours. Cost: 250-400 CZK. Getting there: Best reached by car via the D5 highway. Tip: Check the Zbiroh Castle excursion guide for details on the secret StB history.
4. Name: Švihov Water Castle Type: iconic sight Why go: This is one of the few surviving water fortresses in the country. Its massive moat system is a marvel of medieval engineering. Best for: Movie fans and architecture enthusiasts. Where: Švihov (30km south). Time: 2 hours. Cost: 200-300 CZK. Getting there: Direct train from Plzeň toward Klatovy. Tip: Combine this with a Klatovy town and catacombs visit nearby.
5. Name: Rabí Castle Type: sight Why go: Rabí is the largest castle ruin in the Czech Republic. It features a massive tower and complex defense walls. Best for: Photography and exploring ruins. Where: Rabí village. Time: 3 hours. Cost: 200-280 CZK. Getting there: Car is best; bus options are limited. Tip: Climb the main tower for incredible views of the Šumava mountains.
6. Name: Kašperk Castle Type: nature Why go: It is the highest royal castle in Bohemia. It sits deep in the Šumava forests with a very mystical atmosphere. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: Near Kašperské Hory. Time: 4 hours (including hike). Cost: 150-220 CZK. Getting there: Car to the parking lot, then a 1.5km walk. Tip: Visit during the autumn for the most beautiful forest colors.
7. Name: Velhartice Castle Type: unique experience Why go: This site features a unique stone bridge connecting two parts of the castle. It is a very romantic and peaceful location. Best for: Couples and quiet exploration. Where: Velhartice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 180-240 CZK. Getting there: Car is recommended for this rural area. Tip: Walk through the open-air museum of folk architecture below the castle.
8. Name: Horšovský Týn Type: museum Why go: This castle was never conquered or destroyed. It shows a perfect mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Best for: Interior design fans. Where: Horšovský Týn town square. Time: 3 hours. Cost: 200-350 CZK. Getting there: Direct bus or train from Plzeň. Tip: Visit the castle kitchen to see how royal meals were prepared.
9. Name: Manětín Chateau Type: neighborhood Why go: Manětín is often called the "Baroque Pearl of West Bohemia." The chateau and the entire town are filled with beautiful statues. Best for: Art lovers and Baroque fans. Where: Manětín (35km north). Time: 2 hours. Cost: 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Best reached by car. Tip: Explore the chateau gardens which are free to enter.
10. Name: Klenová Castle Type: museum Why go: This site combines medieval ruins with a modern art gallery. It offers a unique contrast between old stone and new sculptures. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Near Janovice nad Úhlavou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Train to Janovice, then a 2km walk. Tip: Check the outdoor sculpture park for some very unusual modern pieces.

Essential Tips for Your Castle Tours

When visiting the best castles near Plzeň to visit, preparation is key. Most castles require you to join a guided tour to see the interiors. These tours often run at set times throughout the day. English tours are common but may need to be booked in advance. You can check the national tourism board for booking links. Always arrive at least fifteen minutes before your tour starts.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for every trip. Many castles are built on rocky hills or have uneven stone floors. You may also need to walk from the parking lot to the gate. Some paths can be steep or slippery after rain. Bringing a light jacket is also a good idea. Castle interiors remain quite cool even during the hot summer months.

Photography rules vary by location. Most castles allow photos in the courtyards and gardens. However, many forbid photography inside the furnished rooms. Always look for signs or ask your guide before taking pictures. Respecting these rules helps preserve the delicate historical items. You can usually find postcards or books in the gift shops instead.