An Audio Tour of the City of Beer: Pilsen's History and Legends
Active
50m - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this self-guided walking tour, you'll toast the treasures and little-known facts of the 'city of beer' - Czechia’s industrial capital, Pilsen.
Pilsen gave rise to the legendary Pilsner Beer. This West Bohemian treasure's history spans more than 900 years, and during the Industrial Revolution, the city was the richest in the Austrian Empire.
On this walking tour, you’ll get an eloquent introduction to the city’s glory and magnificent monuments. You’ll see the city’s oldest beer house and marvel at the town hall’s richly decorated facade. You’ll hear mysterious legends from Pilsen’s past, including lazy Thaddeus, who made a deal with the devil to build Saint Bartholomew Church. I’ll also tell you how Pilsen made history in World War Two.
At the end of this tour, you’ll have encountered the city’s artistic treasures, surprisingly dramatic history, and some of the extraordinary people who shaped it. You’ll also know there’s much more to Pilsen than just its famous beer!
Available options
An Audio Tour of the City of Beer: Pilsen's History and Legends
What's included
Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your journey at the Brewery Museum, where you'll delve into the fascinating history of Pilsen's legendary Pilsner Beer.
2
Marvel at the majestic Marian Column, a symbol of faith and resilience, gracing the heart of Pilsen's historic core.
3
Explore the awe-inspiring Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, with its towering spires and richly decorated facade. It boasts the highest tower in Czechia.
4
Visit the impressive Great Synagogue, the second-largest synagogue in Europe, a testament to Pilsen's diverse cultural heritage and architectural prowess.
5
Pass by the historic J.K. Tyl Theatre, a cultural landmark showcasing the vibrant arts scene and theatrical traditions of Pilsen.
6
Pay homage to renowned composer Bedřich Smetana at the Monument of Bedřich Smetana, honoring his enduring legacy and contribution to Czech classical music.
7
End your tour at the Museum of West Bohemia, where you can further immerse yourself in the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please bring your own smartphone and headphones
Meeting point
The tour begins in front of the Brewery Museum (Pivovarské muzeum) in Veleslavínova 58/6. It's just a 5-minute walk from the parking house Rychtářka in Truhlářská 5. Cross the busy Tyršova Street into Sady 5. května and then right into Veleslavínova Street.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Pilsen
Pilsen is famous for its beer heritage, being the birthplace of Pilsner beer. The city boasts impressive architecture, a rich cultural scene, and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Top Attractions
Pilsner Urquell Brewery
The birthplace of Pilsner beer, offering guided tours and beer tasting experiences.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (200-400 CZK)
Pilsen Cathedral of St. Bartholomew
A stunning Gothic cathedral with a tall spire offering panoramic views of the city.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (tower climb 60 CZK)
Great Synagogue
One of the largest synagogues in Europe, now serving as a cultural center and museum.
Historical
1 hour
Moderate (100-150 CZK)
Techmania Science Center
An interactive science museum with exhibits and activities for all ages.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate (150-200 CZK)
ZOO Plzeň
A well-maintained zoo with a wide variety of animals and beautiful gardens.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate (150-200 CZK)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Svíčková
Marinated beef sirloin in creamy vegetable sauce, served with dumplings and cranberry sauce.
Dinner
Contains beef and dairy
Pilsner Urquell
The original Pilsner beer, brewed in Pilsen since 1842.
Drink
Gluten-free options available
Trdelník
A sweet, rolled pastry coated with sugar and cinnamon, often filled with ice cream or Nutella.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby forests
Cycling tours
Kayaking on the River Berounka
Spa treatments
Parks and gardens
Beer tasting
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Pilsen for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with various festivals and events.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Czech
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Czech Koruna (CZK)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Pilsen is a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unusual requests
Getting there
By air
- Plzeň-Líně Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Plzeň hlavní nádraží
By bus
Plzeň bus station
Getting around
Public transport
The tram network is efficient and covers most of the city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or via mobile apps.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Liftago, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Bory
Doudlevce
Day trips
Český Krumlov
150 km • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning castle, medieval architecture, and scenic surroundings.
Karlovy Vary
140 km • Full day
A famous spa town known for its hot springs, elegant colonnades, and the annual Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
Prague
90 km • Full day or overnight
The capital city of the Czech Republic, offering a wealth of historical sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
Festivals
Pilsner Fest • September
Christmas Markets • December
Pilsen Film Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Pilsner Urquell Brewery for an authentic beer experience
- Climb the tower of Pilsen Cathedral for panoramic views of the city
- Explore the Great Synagogue and its rich history
- Enjoy local Czech cuisine at traditional restaurants and beer halls
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Prague or Český Krumlov
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
