Quick Guide to Castles Near Plzeň

Planning a trip can be overwhelming with so many options. We have categorized the top picks to help you choose quickly. These selections focus on the most popular interests for visitors in 2026. Use this list to prioritize your itinerary based on your travel style.

• Best Overall: Chateau Kozel for its stunning park and accessibility.
• Best for Families: Švihov Castle with its unique water moat and fairy-tale vibes.
• Best for Hiking: Radyně Castle ruins, offering the highest views in the area.
• Best for History: Rabí Castle, the largest castle ruin in the entire country.

Each of these locations offers a unique glimpse into the past. Most castles are open from April to October. Always check the weather before heading out to the ruins. Sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended for all sites listed below.

The 10 Best Castles Near Plzeň to Visit

This list features the most impressive historical sites within an hour of the city. We have included a mix of restored chateaus and atmospheric ruins. Each entry provides the essential details you need for a smooth visit. Here are the 10 best castles near Plzeň for your next adventure.

1. Name: Chateau Kozel Type: Neoclassical Chateau Why go: This is a beautiful hunting lodge surrounded by a massive landscape park. It is perfect for a relaxing walk. Best for: Families and couples. Where: Šťáhlavy (15km south of Plzeň). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate tour fees; park access is free. Getting there: 20-minute drive or a short train ride to Šťáhlavy. Tip: Visit in the spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.
2. Name: Radyně Castle Type: Gothic Ruin Why go: It sits on a high hill and offers a 360-degree view of the region. The tower is very well preserved. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low entry fee for the tower. Getting there: 15-minute drive from Plzeň. Tip: Combine this with a trip to the nearby Romanesque Rotunda of St. Peter and Paul.
3. Name: Rabí Castle Type: Medieval Fortress Ruin Why go: It is the largest castle ruin in Bohemia. The massive walls and deep cellars are incredible to explore. Best for: History buffs and explorers. Where: Rabí (near Sušice). Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 1-hour drive south of Plzeň. Tip: Take the guided tour to see the castle's impressive underground areas.
4. Name: Švihov Castle Type: Water Castle Why go: It is one of the few surviving water castles in Europe. It was used as a filming location for famous fairy tales. Best for: Movie fans and families. Where: Švihov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 30-minute drive or direct train from Plzeň. Tip: Rent a boat to see the castle walls from the water moat.
5. Name: Horšovský Týn Type: Renaissance Chateau Why go: This castle has never been destroyed, so it retains many original features. The interiors are exceptionally rich. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Horšovský Týn. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 45-minute drive west of Plzeň. Tip: Visit the castle kitchen, which is one of the best-preserved in the country.
6. Name: Manětín Chateau Type: Baroque Chateau Why go: Known as the "Baroque Pearl of West Bohemia," it features a stunning collection of statues. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Manětín. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40-minute drive north of Plzeň. Tip: The chateau garden is a peaceful spot for a picnic after your tour.
7. Name: Kašperk Castle Type: High Gothic Castle Why go: It is the highest royal castle in Bohemia. It offers dramatic views over the Šumava mountains. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Kašperské Hory. Time: 3 hours (including the hike up). Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 1 hour 15-minute drive. Tip: The walk from the parking lot is steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
8. Name: Velhartice Castle Type: Medieval Fortress Why go: It features a unique stone bridge that connects two parts of the castle. It is a very rare architectural element. Best for: Unique photo opportunities. Where: Velhartice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 1-hour drive from Plzeň. Tip: Check the local calendar for medieval festivals often held in the courtyard.
9. Name: Křivoklát Castle Type: Royal Gothic Castle Why go: One of the oldest and most important royal castles in the Czech Republic. The chapel is a masterpiece. Best for: Serious history fans. Where: Křivoklát (Central Bohemia border). Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate to High. Getting there: 1-hour drive east. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the busy summer months.
10. Name: Zbiroh Chateau Type: Neo-Renaissance Chateau Why go: It has a fascinating history involving the Knights Templar and secret Nazi experiments. It also has the deepest well in Europe. Best for: Mystery seekers. Where: Zbiroh. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 30-minute drive toward Prague. Tip: You can actually stay overnight here as the chateau also functions as a hotel.

Practical Tips for Your Castle Day Trips

Getting to the best castles near Plzeň is relatively easy. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for visiting remote ruins. However, many sites are accessible via day trips from Plzeň by train. The Czech rail network is reliable and affordable. You can find more information about national travel on the Visit Czechia portal.

Most Czech castles operate on a seasonal schedule. They are usually open daily in July and August. In April, May, September, and October, they may only open on weekends. Always check the official website of the specific castle before you travel. Many guided tours are only available in the Czech language. However, most sites provide English printed texts or audio guides for international visitors.

Carry some cash (Czech Koruna) for smaller castles. While larger sites accept cards, small kiosks and parking lots often do not. Wear layers, as castle interiors can be very cold even in summer. Stone walls retain the chill for a long time. Finally, try to arrive early to avoid the largest crowds, especially at popular spots like Švihov or Kozel.