Why Visit Rabí Castle in the Plzeň Region?

Rabí Castle is a masterpiece of medieval defense. It was built to protect the gold-bearing Otava River. Today, its ruins cover a vast area on a limestone hill. You can see the history of Rabí Castle ruins in Bohemia through its massive fortifications. The site is famous for its role in the Hussite Wars. It is here that the famous leader Jan Žižka lost his second eye.

The castle is a top choice for weekend trips from Plzeň because of its size. You can spend hours wandering through the different courtyards. The atmosphere is peaceful yet powerful. It feels like stepping back into the 14th century. The surrounding countryside is also very beautiful.

Visiting this site is easy for those staying in West Bohemia. It is one of the best castles near Plzeň by train and bus. The local village is charming and offers traditional food. You will find plenty of space for children to explore. It is a must-see for any traveler in the Plzeň Region.

Top 10 Highlights: Rabí Castle Largest Ruins Guide

Here are the top things to see and do at and around Rabí Castle. Use this list to prioritize your time during your visit.

• Best overall: The Great Tower (Donjon)
• Best for families: Falconry Displays
• Best rainy-day: The Castle Cellars
• Best free: The Courtyard Views

1. Name: The Great Tower (Donjon) Type: sight Why go: It is the highest point of the ruins. You get a 360-degree view of the Šumava mountains. Best for: Photographers and view seekers. Where: The highest point of the inner castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the main tour. Getting there: Follow the stairs from the main courtyard. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the steps are steep and uneven.
2. Name: The Castle Cellars Type: experience Why go: These cold, dark rooms were used for storage and defense. You can see how they kept food fresh in the ice room. Best for: History buffs and escaping the heat. Where: Beneath the main palace ruins. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the tour. Getting there: Accessible via the lower courtyard entrance. Tip: Bring a light jacket even in summer because it is very cold inside.
3. Name: The Castle Chapel of the Holy Trinity Type: sight Why go: This is one of the few parts of the castle with a roof. It features beautiful Gothic architecture. Best for: Lovers of art and religious history. Where: Located near the entrance of the upper castle. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in most tickets. Getting there: Walk through the second gate. Tip: Look up to see the intricate vaulted ceiling.
4. Name: Falconry Demonstrations Type: activity Why go: You can see owls, eagles, and hawks up close. The handlers show how these birds were used for hunting. Best for: Families and children. Where: The lower castle moat area. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually a small extra fee. Getting there: Check the schedule at the ticket office. Tip: These shows usually run from May to September only.
5. Name: The Large Model of the Castle Type: sight Why go: It shows what the castle looked like before it became a ruin. It helps you understand the massive scale of the site. Best for: Visual learners and kids. Where: Inside the visitor center. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Getting there: Located right next to the ticket desk. Tip: Take a photo of the model to use as a map while you walk.
6. Name: Sušice Town Type: day trip Why go: Known as the "Gateway to Šumava," it offers great river views and a museum of matches. Best for: A relaxing afternoon after the castle. Where: 10 kilometers from Rabí. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Take a local bus or drive for 15 minutes. Tip: Visit the local bakery for traditional Czech pastries.
7. Name: Šumava National Park Type: nature Why go: It is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Europe. You can find deep forests and glacial lakes. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: A short drive south of the castle. Time: Full day. Cost: Free access to trails. Getting there: Use the Šumava National Park hiking trails guide for routes. Tip: Always check the weather before heading into the mountains.
8. Name: Kašperk Castle Type: sight Why go: It is the highest-altitude royal castle in Bohemia. It offers a different, more intact look than Rabí. Best for: Castle enthusiasts. Where: Near the town of Kašperské Hory. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 25 minutes by car from Rabí. Tip: The walk from the parking lot to the castle is uphill and scenic.
9. Name: The Medieval Archery Range Type: experience Why go: You can try your hand at shooting a traditional bow. It is a fun, hands-on way to experience the past. Best for: Active travelers and kids. Where: In the outer courtyard. Time: 15-30 minutes. Cost: Small fee per arrow set. Getting there: Look for the targets near the main gate. Tip: Ask the instructor for tips on your stance for better aim.
10. Name: Velhartice Castle Type: day trip Why go: It features a unique stone bridge that connects the palace to a tower. It is very romantic and picturesque. Best for: Couples and photographers. Where: 20 kilometers west of Rabí. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Standard castle entry. Getting there: Best reached by car or local bus. Tip: Visit the open-air museum of folk architecture nearby.

Practical Tips for Your Rabí Castle Trip

Planning your visit is simple if you know the basics. First, check the Rabí Castle opening hours and ticket prices before you leave. The castle is usually closed during the winter months. Spring and autumn are the best times to avoid large crowds. Summer is busy but offers the most events and shows.

Getting there from Plzeň is quite convenient. You can check the bus connection from Plzeň to Sušice and Rabí for daily times. If you drive, there is a parking lot in the village. It is only a short walk up the hill to the gate. Most people spend about two to three hours at the ruins.

For a better experience, consider a guided tour. These tours explain the defensive systems of the castle in detail. If you prefer to walk alone, you can buy a ticket for the courtyards and the tower. Remember that the site is quite large. You will do a lot of walking on uneven ground. Visit the Visit Czechia website for more national travel advice.

Planning Your Weekend Near Plzeň

Rabí Castle is just one part of a great trip. You can find many family day trips from Plzeň in this area. The region is famous for its beer and history. You might also enjoy the local spa towns or hiking trails. There is always something new to discover in West Bohemia.

If you have more time, explore the smaller villages. Many have hidden gems like old mills or small chapels. The food in this region is hearty and affordable. Try the local venison or traditional dumplings. Most restaurants near the castle are very welcoming to tourists. It is a great place to relax after a day of exploring.

For those who love the outdoors, the Otava River is perfect. You can rent a canoe or raft in Sušice. It is a very popular activity during the summer months. The river flows right past the castle ruins. It provides a unique view of the walls from the water. This is a top tip for active travelers.