Why Plzeň is a Cyclist's Paradise

The landscape around the city is incredibly diverse. You will find gentle slopes and challenging hills within a short distance. Most trails are well-marked with standard Czech cycling signs. These yellow signs make navigation very easy for tourists. You can find more details on the Visit Plzeň tourism website.

Local infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years. Many paths are now paved and separated from car traffic. This makes the area safe for families and children. You can easily combine a city tour with a ride into the countryside. Many routes start right in the heart of the historic center. This allows you to see the sights before heading into nature.

• Best overall: Radbuza River Trail
• Best for families: Borský Park to Litice
• Best for views: Radyně Castle Climb
• Best nature: Bolevec Ponds Circuit

10 Best Cycling Routes Around Plzeň

These routes cover a variety of terrains and distances. Each one offers a unique perspective on the region's heritage. Use these picks to plan your daily excursions from the city. Most of these trails are accessible throughout the spring, summer, and autumn seasons.

1. Name: Bolevec Ponds Circuit Type: nature Why go: This route takes you through a system of historical ponds from the 15th century. It is perfect for a relaxing ride with plenty of spots to swim. Best for: Nature lovers and casual riders. Where: Northern edge of Plzeň. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cycle north from the city center toward the Bolevec district. Tip: Stop at the Ostende beach for a quick snack by the water.
2. Name: Radbuza River Trail Type: sight Why go: This is one of the most popular cycling routes around Plzeň because it is almost entirely flat. It follows the river south toward the countryside. Best for: Families and long-distance training. Where: Starts near the city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access the path near the main brewery or the Štruncovy Sady park. Tip: Use our Radbuza river cycling trail map and guide to find the best rest stops.
3. Name: Radyně Castle Climb Type: experience Why go: This route leads to the iconic ruins of a royal castle. The view from the top is the best in the region. Best for: Fit riders who enjoy hills. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Small fee for castle tower entry. Getting there: Follow the bike trip Plzeň to Starý Plzenec route. Tip: The final ascent is steep, so don't be afraid to walk your bike for a few minutes.
4. Name: Kozel Chateau Loop Type: sight Why go: Visit a beautiful neoclassical hunting lodge set in a massive forest park. The paths around the chateau are smooth and scenic. Best for: Romantic rides and history buffs. Where: Šťáhlavy village. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free to ride in the park; fee for chateau tours. Getting there: Cycle south-east from the city through the forest trails. Tip: This is one of the best castles near Plzen by train if you want to ride only one way.
5. Name: Berounka Valley Path Type: nature Why go: The Berounka is the widest river in the area. This route offers dramatic views of cliffs and deep forests. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: North-east of the city. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start in the Doubravka district and follow the green cycling signs. Tip: The terrain can be rocky, so a mountain bike or hybrid is recommended.
6. Name: Hracholusky Reservoir Trail Type: day trip Why go: This massive dam is a hub for water sports. The ride there takes you through quiet villages and rolling hills. Best for: A full-day summer excursion. Where: West of Plzeň. Time: 6-8 hours (round trip). Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Mže river valley westward out of the city. Tip: This is a great choice for family day trips from Plzeň if you take the train back.
7. Name: Borský Park to Litice Type: activity Why go: This short and easy path connects the city's largest park with a charming suburban village. It is mostly paved and away from cars. Best for: Young children and beginners. Where: Southern Plzeň. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Borský Park tram terminus. Tip: It is one of the best flat cycling paths from Plzeň for families.
8. Name: Chotěšov Monastery Route Type: experience Why go: Explore the massive ruins of a Baroque nunnery. The building is hauntingly beautiful and very photogenic. Best for: Photographers and culture seekers. Where: South-west of Plzeň. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Small donation for monastery entry. Getting there: Ride through the flat fields of the Líně area. Tip: Check the Plzeň Region official site for seasonal festival dates at the monastery.
9. Name: Krkavec Lookout Tower Type: nature Why go: Reach one of the highest points near the city. The tower offers views all the way to the Alps on clear days. Best for: View seekers. Where: North-west hills. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee to climb the tower. Getting there: Follow the forest paths from the Košutka district. Tip: The tower has a small buffet where you can get a cold drink.
10. Name: Sigmond Nature Trail Type: experience Why go: This educational loop teaches you about the local forest history. You will see ancient tar ovens and unique rock formations. Best for: Curious riders and school-aged kids. Where: Northern forest belt. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the northern end of the tram line 4. Tip: The trail is narrow in some parts, so watch out for hikers.

Planning Your Cycling Trip in West Bohemia

Renting a bike in Plzeň is very simple. Several shops in the city center offer mountain bikes and e-bikes. E-bikes are becoming very popular for the hillier routes like Radyně. You can also find shared bike schemes for short trips within the city. Check the Visit Czechia portal for general cycling rules.

Public transport is very bike-friendly in the Czech Republic. Most regional trains have dedicated cars for bicycles. This allows you to plan longer weekend trips from Plzeň without riding back. Just look for the bicycle symbol on the train schedule. You will need to buy a small extra ticket for your bike.

Safety is important when exploring the region. Always wear a helmet, especially on forest trails. Carry a basic repair kit and plenty of water. While many villages have pubs, some remote forest sections do not. It is also wise to download an offline map of the area.

Longer Adventures Beyond the City Limits

If you have more time, consider heading further south. The Bohemian Forest offers world-class trails for experienced riders. You can find challenging climbs and deep wilderness. These routes are perfect for those who want to escape the city entirely. Many of these paths connect to international networks heading into Germany.

The spa triangle is another great destination for cyclists. You can ride between famous towns like Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně. These routes often feature elegant architecture and mineral springs. The terrain here is more demanding but very rewarding. It is a great way to combine exercise with relaxation.