At a Glance: Your Chodsko Day Trip Highlights

This region is one of the most colorful parts of the Plzeň Region. It is known for its brave history and preserved customs. A day trip here is easy to manage from the city. You can enjoy a mix of city sights and rural charm. Many travelers find this area more authentic than larger tourist hubs. It is a top choice for day trips from Plzeň.

• Morning: Explore Domažlice square and the leaning tower.
• Lunch: Taste traditional Chodský koláč in a local bakery.
• Afternoon: Visit Chod Castle and the village of Klenčí.
• Evening: Enjoy a local beer before heading back.

The area is very walkable and friendly. You will notice the Chodsko dog symbol everywhere. This dog represents the loyalty of the local people. They guarded the borders for many centuries. Today, they welcome visitors with open arms and delicious pastries.

The Ultimate Domažlice and Chodsko Region Day Tour Itinerary

Day 1: 08:30 – 10:30: Start your journey from Plzeň Main Station. The train ride is scenic and takes about an hour. Once you arrive, walk toward the historic center. You will first see the massive Lower Gate. This gate leads you directly into the colorful main square. Take your time to admire the what to see in Domažlice town square list.

10:30 – 12:30: Climb the leaning tower of the Archdean Church. It offers a great view of the entire Chodsko region. The tower leans by about 60 centimeters. Afterward, visit the Chod Castle museum. It houses amazing displays of folk costumes and bagpipes. You will learn about the 11 original Chod villages. This museum is one of the best castles near Plzeň to visit for culture.

13:30 – 16:00: After a local lunch, take a short bus or drive to Klenčí pod Čerchovem. This village is famous for its blue and white pottery. You can visit a workshop and see how it is made. If you have time, hike up to the Baldov hill. It features a giant stone sculpture of a Chodsko hat. This spot offers a peaceful view of the Bohemian Forest. It is a great alternative to a Šumava National Park day trip.

16:30 – 18:30: Head back to Domažlice for a final walk. Visit a local shop to buy some traditional ceramics. The patterns are unique to this specific region. If you visit in August, you might see the traditional Chodsko festivals near Domažlice. These events are filled with music and dancing. Catch the evening train back to Plzeň to finish your day.

Exploring the History of the Chod People

The Chod people have a very proud history. They were free peasants who served the king. Their job was to guard the border with Bavaria. In return, they received many special privileges. They had their own courts and laws. This independence helped them keep their traditions alive for centuries. You can see this pride in their local museums today.

The region has its own unique dialect. Even other Czech people find it interesting to hear. Many folk songs are still sung in this traditional way. The bagpipe is the most important instrument here. It sounds different from the Scottish versions you might know. You can hear this music during local celebrations. It is a vital part of the Visit Czechia experience.

The Chodsko dog is another famous symbol. It is a loyal and brave breed used by the guards. You will see statues of this dog in many villages. It represents the spirit of the local people. They were known for being stubborn but very fair. This history makes a Domažlice and Chodsko region day tour very meaningful. It is more than just seeing pretty buildings.

Practical Tips for Your Trip from Plzeň

Getting to Domažlice is very simple. Trains run frequently from the Plzeň main station. This is one of the best train trips from Plzeň for tourists. The journey is affordable and very comfortable. You do not need to book tickets far in advance. Just arrive at the station 15 minutes before departure. Most trains have space for bicycles too.

If you prefer to drive, the trip takes about 50 minutes. Parking is available near the town center for a small fee. Having a car lets you visit smaller villages more easily. However, the train is much more relaxing. You can enjoy the rolling hills of West Bohemia. If you like historic towns, you might also enjoy a Klatovy town and catacombs visit on another day.

Plzeň is the best base for this excursion. Stay near the city center to be close to the station. There are many hotels and apartments for every budget. Most staff speak English and can help with directions. Always check the weather before you leave. The border region can be a bit cooler than Plzeň. Bring a light jacket even in the summer months.

Where to Eat and What to Try in Domažlice

You cannot leave without trying the Chodský koláč. This is a large, flat cake with beautiful patterns. It is topped with poppy seeds, cottage cheese, and jam. Each village has its own traditional design for the toppings. They are often served at weddings and festivals. You can find them in almost every bakery in Domažlice. They are delicious and very filling.

For a main meal, look for local game meat. The nearby forests provide excellent venison and boar. Many restaurants serve these with traditional dumplings and cabbage. The food here is hearty and perfect for travelers. Pair your meal with a local beer from the region. While Plzeň is famous for Pilsner, this area has its own small breweries. It is a great way to support local businesses.

Try to eat at a restaurant with traditional decor. Many places use the local blue and white pottery for service. This adds a lovely touch to your dining experience. Prices are generally lower than in Prague or Plzeň. You will get a lot of high-quality food for your money. Don't forget to try the local spirits if you are not driving. They are often made from forest fruits.