Why Autumn is Perfect for Hiking in Plzeň

The Plzeň region offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and untouched nature. During October and November, the landscape transforms into a golden paradise. Temperatures are usually mild, making long walks very comfortable. You can avoid the intense heat of the summer months. Most trails are less crowded now than in the peak season.

Walking through the fallen leaves provides a relaxing sensory experience. The low autumn sun creates excellent lighting for photography. You can capture stunning shots of the city skyline or rural castles. Many local trails are part of a well-maintained network. You can find more inspiration in our guide to scenic walks in Plzeň for year-round beauty.

Planning your trip is easy with local transport. Most trailheads are reachable by city buses or short train rides. Always check the weather forecast before you head out. Autumn rain can make some forest paths slippery. Wear sturdy shoes to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

10 Best Scenic Autumn Walks Near Plzeň City

Explore these top-rated spots for the best seasonal views. Each location offers something unique for nature lovers. Here are our top picks for your autumn itinerary:

• Best overall: Bolevec Ponds
• Best for families: Lochotín Park
• Best for views: Radyně Castle Hill
• Best free activity: Sigmond Trail

1. Name: Bolevec Ponds (Bolevecké rybníky) Type: nature trail Why go: See golden reflections of pine trees on the water surface. Best for: photography and easy walking. Where: Northern edge of Plzeň. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Tram 1 to the Bolevec terminal. Tip: Visit the Bolevec ponds nature trails for the most scenic loops.
2. Name: Sigmond Trail (Sigmondova stezka) Type: educational trail Why go: Learn about local forestry while walking through colorful woodlands. Best for: families and history buffs. Where: Bolevec and Krkavec areas. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start near the Bolevec pond parking lot. Tip: Look for the unique "Columnar Pine" along the path.
3. Name: Radyně Castle Hill Type: sight/viewpoint Why go: Dramatic castle ruins surrounded by deep autumn forests. Best for: panoramic views of the region. Where: Starý Plzenec, south-east of the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free for grounds; small fee for tower. Getting there: Take a train to Starý Plzenec then walk up. Tip: The climb is steep but the view is worth it.
4. Name: Krkavec Lookout Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: One of the highest points near the city with a classic stone tower. Best for: hikers wanting a steady incline. Where: North of the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee for tower access. Getting there: Follow the yellow markers from the Lochotín district. Tip: Check the tower opening hours on the Visit Plzeň website.
5. Name: Chotěšov Abbey Surroundings Type: day trip/experience Why go: Grand baroque architecture set against a rural autumn landscape. Best for: a quiet escape from the city. Where: 20km west of Plzeň. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free to walk around the exterior. Getting there: Direct train from the main station to Chotěšov. Tip: The abbey gardens are particularly beautiful in late October.
6. Name: Starý Plzenec & Hůrka Hill Type: sight/experience Why go: Visit the oldest rotunda in the Czech Republic. Best for: history lovers and short hikes. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus or train from Plzeň central. Tip: Combine this with a visit to Radyně Castle nearby.
7. Name: Valcha and Radbuza River Path Type: nature/river walk Why go: Peaceful riverside paths with hanging willow trees. Best for: cycling or a flat, easy stroll. Where: Southern Plzeň. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Trolleybus 15 to the Valcha stop. Tip: This path is excellent for watching local birdlife.
8. Name: Lochotín Park Type: park/nature Why go: Century-old oaks and maples in the heart of the city. Best for: a quick nature fix without leaving town. Where: Near the Plzeň Zoo. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 or 4 to the Lochotín stop. Tip: It is a great starting point for a self-guided Plzeň old town walk.
9. Name: Zábělá Nature Trail Type: nature/river Why go: Explore the steep canyon of the Berounka river. Best for: seeing dramatic cliffs and river bends. Where: North-east of the city. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus 28 to the Bukovec stop. Tip: The trail can be muddy, so bring waterproof boots.
10. Name: Kozel Castle Park Type: experience/day trip Why go: A massive landscape park designed for romantic walks. Best for: couples and long afternoon wanders. Where: Šťáhlavy village. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free park entry. Getting there: Short train ride to Šťáhlavy. Tip: Visit the Plzeň Region official site for seasonal event info.

Essential Tips for Your Autumn Adventure

Daylight hours get shorter quickly in the autumn months. Plan to finish your walk by 4:00 PM in late November. Always carry a small flashlight or ensure your phone is charged. The temperature can drop fast once the sun sets. Pack an extra layer like a light fleece or windbreaker.

Czech hiking trails use a world-famous color-coded system. Look for painted stripes on trees and poles. Red trails are usually long-distance or ridge paths. Blue and green trails are local routes of medium difficulty. Yellow trails are often short connecting paths between major points.

Respect the local environment by staying on marked paths. This protects the delicate forest floor and local wildlife. Always take your trash back to the city with you. Many forests near Plzeň are protected nature reserves. Enjoy the quiet beauty while being a responsible traveler.