Why Choose Rail Travel in West Bohemia?

Traveling by train is the best way to see the Plzeň Region. The tracks often wind through areas that cars cannot reach. You will see hidden valleys and pristine nature. Most regional trains have large windows for great views. The rail network is dense and very easy to navigate. It is also a very sustainable way to travel. You can sit back and enjoy the greenery while the train does the work. Many routes follow winding rivers or climb into misty mountains. It is an authentic experience that connects you with local life.

9 Best Scenic Train Routes from Plzeň for Tourists

If you are planning a trip, here are some top picks. These routes offer the best views and experiences. Check out these Visit Plzeň suggestions for your next outing.

• Best Overall: Plzeň to Železná Ruda
• Best for Families: Plzeň to Prague
• Best for Nature: Plzeň to Sušice
• Best for History: Plzeň to Cheb

1. Name: Šumava Forest Express (Plzeň to Železná Ruda) Type: nature Why go: This route climbs into the Šumava Mountains. You will see dense pine forests and mountain streams. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: South towards the German border. Time: Around 2 hours. Cost: 150-250 CZK. Getting there: Direct regional fast trains from Plzeň main station. Tip: Sit on the right side for the best mountain views.
2. Name: Berounka Valley Route (Plzeň to Prague) Type: sight Why go: This is one of the best train trips from Plzeň for river scenery. The tracks follow the winding Berounka River through limestone cliffs. Best for: Iconic views and city access. Where: Northeast towards the capital. Time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Cost: 120-200 CZK. Getting there: Frequent Pendolino or regional fast trains. Tip: Take the slower regional train to see more of the river valley.
3. Name: West Bohemian Spa Route (Plzeň to Mariánské Lázně) Type: experience Why go: Travel through rolling hills to reach the famous spa triangle. The architecture of the stations is very charming. Best for: Relaxation and architecture fans. Where: West of Plzeň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 100-180 CZK. Getting there: Direct trains run every hour. Tip: Walk from the station to the Colonnade for a grand entrance.
4. Name: Teplá Valley Line (Plzeň to Karlovy Vary) Type: day trip Why go: This route passes through the romantic Teplá River valley. You will see the Bečov nad Teplou castle from the window. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Northwest towards the famous spa town. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: 140-220 CZK. Getting there: Use the Karlovy Vary visiting guide to plan your arrival. Tip: Look out for the castle ruins near Bečov.
5. Name: Chodsko Cultural Route (Plzeň to Domažlice) Type: experience Why go: Explore the traditional Chodsko region with its unique folklore. The train passes through peaceful agricultural landscapes. Best for: Cultural immersion. Where: Southwest towards Domažlice. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 90-150 CZK. Getting there: Regular regional trains from the main station. Tip: Visit during the Chodsko Festival in August for local music.
6. Name: Black Tower Route (Plzeň to Klatovy) Type: viewpoint Why go: This short trip offers views of the Šumava foothills. Klatovy features a famous historic tower and catacombs. Best for: A quick half-day trip. Where: South of Plzeň. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 70-120 CZK. Getting there: Very frequent local connections. Tip: Climb the Black Tower in Klatovy for a panoramic view.
7. Name: Egerland Gateway (Plzeň to Cheb) Type: sight Why go: See the transition from Bohemian fields to Germanic-style timbered houses. Cheb has a stunning medieval square. Best for: History buffs. Where: Far west near the border. Time: 1 hour 20 minutes. Cost: 130-210 CZK. Getting there: Fast trains towards Cheb or Nuremberg. Tip: Check out the "Špalíček" houses right near the town center.
8. Name: Střela River Canyon (Plzeň to Rabštejn nad Střelou) Type: unique Why go: You take the train to Žihle and then a short bus or hike. The area features massive granite boulders and a tiny town. Best for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers. Where: North of Plzeň. Time: 1 hour by train. Cost: 80-130 CZK. Getting there: Train to Žihle station. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the river canyon.
9. Name: Otava Gold River Path (Plzeň to Sušice) Type: nature Why go: The train follows the Otava River, once famous for gold panning. The scenery is lush and very green. Best for: Water views and peacefulness. Where: South towards the mountains. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 110-180 CZK. Getting there: Change trains in Horažďovice for the best river views. Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy by the river in Sušice.

Essential Tips for Your Train Trips from Plzeň

Planning your journey is simple with the right tools. We recommend using the Czech Railways app for tickets. It allows you to buy tickets in English and see live delays. You can also find more information on the Visit Czechia website. Most trains have 2nd class and 1st class options. For scenic routes, 2nd class is usually perfectly fine. Try to travel during the day to maximize the views. Many stations have small cafes where you can buy snacks. Always check the platform number on the electronic boards at the station.