Planning Your Zbiroh Castle Excursion Guide

Visiting Zbiroh Castle requires a bit of planning because it is also a luxury hotel. You cannot simply wander through the main halls alone. You must join a guided tour to see the historical interiors. There are usually two main circuits available for visitors. The first focuses on the castle history and the famous Mucha Hall. The second is a "Secret Tour" that covers the castle's dark history during World War II. You should check the Zbiroh Castle ticket prices and tour options before you arrive. In 2026, tours are frequent, but English language slots may be limited. It is wise to book your spot at least a few days in advance. The castle is open year-round, but the surrounding park is most beautiful in autumn. Expect to spend about two to three hours here for a full experience.

Best for: Couples, art history enthusiasts, and families with older children.

Skip if: You are looking for a free, self-guided exploration or have very limited mobility.

What to Expect: The Three Emperors and Mucha

Zbiroh is known as the Castle of Three Emperors because it hosted Charles IV, Sigismund, and Rudolf II. The interiors reflect this high imperial status with grand decorations. You will walk through rooms filled with Renaissance furniture and royal portraits. The highlight for many is the grand hall where Alphonse Mucha lived and worked. He spent eighteen years here painting his famous Slav Epic masterpiece. The light in this hall is still as inspiring as it was in the early 20th century. You can learn more about this region's heritage on the Visit Plzeň tourism site. The guides are generally very knowledgeable about the castle's transition from a fortress to a chateau. They explain how the castle sits on a rare jasper rock foundation. Some locals believe this rock has special energetic properties that protect the site.

The Mysteries of the Deepest Well in Europe

One of the most famous features of Zbiroh is its well. At 163 meters, it is often cited as the deepest hand-dug well in Europe. During the tours, you will see how the well was used to hide secrets. During World War II, the SS occupied the castle because the jasper rock interfered with radio signals. They used the well to hide documents and artifacts from the Allies. The castle also has deep ties to the Knights Templar, adding to its mysterious aura. If you enjoy these kinds of legends, Zbiroh will not disappoint. It feels much more secretive than the Kozel Chateau hunting lodge tour, which is more about lifestyle. The "Secret Tour" at Zbiroh specifically dives into the StB (secret police) era and the Nazi occupation. It is a chilling but fascinating look at modern Czech history.

Pros, Cons, and My Honest Verdict

Zbiroh Castle is a high-quality destination that feels very different from other best castles near Plzeň to visit. It is well-maintained and offers a professional experience. The castle tavern, U Rudolfovy Číše, serves excellent traditional Czech food in a medieval setting. However, the costs can add up if you do multiple tours and eat at the restaurant. It is certainly one of the more expensive stops in the Plzeň region. Despite the price, the artistic and historical value makes it a top-tier choice. For more general travel info on the area, check the Visit Czechia website.

• Pros: Incredible art history, unique WWII secrets, and a stunning forest location.
• Cons: Guided tours only, higher price point, and limited English tour times.

Verdict: Zbiroh is a 5-star destination for those who want more than just pretty walls. It is a place of deep stories and world-class art. If you are in Plzeň, make time for this excursion.

How to Get to Zbiroh Castle from Plzeň

Reaching the castle is quite easy if you have a car. The distance from Plzeň to Zbiroh Castle by car is about 35 kilometers. You can take the D5 highway toward Prague and exit at the Zbiroh turnoff. The drive usually takes around 30 minutes through pleasant countryside. There is a large parking lot near the castle entrance for a small fee. If you prefer public transport, you can check the best train trips from Plzeň for connections. You would take a train to the Kařez station and then a local bus or taxi to the castle. This takes longer but is very affordable. The Plzeň Region official site has more details on local transport maps. Combining Zbiroh with a walk in the nearby Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area is a great idea for a full day out.