Top Family-Friendly River Trails

River trails are the backbone of cycling in this region. They offer the flattest terrain possible. Most paths are paved and well-maintained. You will find plenty of spots to stop for snacks. These routes are perfect for kids on small bikes or in trailers. The Plzeň Region official site provides maps for these major arteries.

• Best overall: Radbuza River Path
• Best for nature: Mže River Path
• Best for peace: Úslava River Path

1. Name: Radbuza River Path Type: Sight Why go: This is the most popular route in the city. It is very flat and passes through beautiful parks. Best for: Families with small children. Where: Starts near the city center and goes south toward Doudlevce. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at Štruncovy Sady near the brewery. Tip: Check out the Radbuza river cycling trail map and guide for the best rest stops.
2. Name: Mže River Greenway Type: Nature Why go: This path leads you toward the Plzeň Zoo and botanical gardens. It stays away from main roads. Best for: Combining a bike ride with a zoo visit. Where: Western part of the city. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access the path near Roosevelt Bridge. Tip: The path is very shaded, making it great for hot summer days.
3. Name: Úslava River Trail Type: Experience Why go: It offers a quieter alternative to the busier central paths. You will see local gardens and quiet neighborhoods. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Eastern Plzeň, through the Doubravka district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start near the St. George Church in Doubravka. Tip: Look for the small playgrounds located along the riverbank.

Best Nature Loops and Park Paths

If you prefer loops, Plzeň has several large green spaces. These areas offer dedicated lanes for cyclists and skaters. They are ideal for teaching kids how to ride. You can enjoy fresh air without leaving the city limits. Many of these areas have cafes nearby for a quick break.

1. Name: Bolevec Ponds Loop Type: Nature Why go: This is a stunning chain of ponds surrounded by pine forests. The trails are wide and mostly flat. Best for: Swimming stops in the summer. Where: Northern edge of Plzeň. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the tram to the Bolevec stop and ride from there. Tip: Stop at Ostende beach for a drink and a view of the water.
2. Name: Štruncovy Sady Loop Type: Iconic sight Why go: Located right behind the famous brewery. It is a modern park with perfect asphalt. Best for: Short, safe rides for toddlers. Where: City center, near the football stadium. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk or ride from the main square. Tip: Visit the nearby Techmania Science Center after your ride for indoor fun.
3. Name: Borský Park Forest Paths Type: Nature Why go: This is the largest park in Plzeň. It has a mix of paved and hard-packed dirt paths. Best for: A forest experience within the city. Where: Southern district of Bory. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the tram line 4 to the Bory terminus. Tip: The central meadow is perfect for a family picnic.

Easy Day Trips for Active Families

Ready for a longer adventure? These routes take you just outside the city. They remain mostly flat by following the river valleys. These are great for older children who can ride longer distances. You will find historical sites and fun destinations at the end of each trail.

1. Name: Starý Plzenec Route Type: Day trip Why go: You can see the ancient Rotunda of St. Peter and Paul. The path follows the Úslava river. Best for: History lovers. Where: South-east of Plzeň. Time: 3-4 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the bike markers from the Slovany district. Tip: Read our guide on the bike trip Plzen to Stary Plzenec for details.
2. Name: Kozel Castle Riverside Path Type: Day trip Why go: Kozel is a beautiful hunting lodge with a large park. The ride there is scenic and gentle. Best for: A full-day family outing. Where: Near the village of Šťáhlavy. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free (castle entry extra). Getting there: Follow the path along the Úslava river past Starý Plzenec. Tip: The castle park is a great place for kids to run around.
3. Name: Hradiště Sports Complex Path Type: Neighborhood Why go: This path leads to a popular local swimming and sports area. It features a great playground. Best for: Active play and river swimming. Where: Southern edge of the Slovany district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Radbuza/Úhlava river junction paths. Tip: Try the local snacks at the riverside kiosks in Hradiště.
4. Name: Úhlava Valley Trail Type: Nature Why go: This trail is very peaceful and stays close to the water. It is less paved than others but very flat. Best for: Seeing local wildlife and birds. Where: South Plzeň, heading toward Radobyčice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the southern end of Borský Park. Tip: Bring a camera for the beautiful river reflections.

Planning Your Family Bike Trip in Plzeň

Cycling in Plzeň is very safe for families. The city has invested in clear signage and bike lanes. You should always wear a helmet, especially children. Most trails have frequent benches and trash cans. It is easy to find your way using mobile maps.

You can rent bikes at the main train station or local shops. Many hotels also offer bike rentals for guests. If you need a break, the city has many weekend trips from Plzeň that include cycling. Always carry water, as not all trail sections have shops. The best time to ride is from April to October.