"Zde se narodilo pivo." The phrase ("the birthplace of
beer") greets you at almost every turn. And they aren't kidding.
Some 400 years ago, a group of men formed Plzen's first
beer-drinking guild, and today beer is probably the only reason
you'll want to stop at this otherwise industrial town.
Unfortunately for the town, its prosperity and architecture were
ravaged during World War II, and few buildings were left untouched.
The main square, námestí Republiky, is worth a look, but after that
there's not much to see.
All Images © 2009 CzechTourism
Large shopping centres are located
not only at the outskirts of the city near the main slip roads but
in the city centre as well. They offer shopping in specialized
shops but also serve as a social space with pleasant atmosphere
(with entertainment and refreshment provided) where it is easy to
spend a significant part of a day.
Shops with luxury goods (e.g. glass, porcelain, antiques, and
fashion boutiques) are located mostly in the historical city
centre
Grill Restaurant 106.1
Near námestí Republiky, this small restaurant named after a local
radio station excels at grilled meats and poultry. Minor remodeling
made it a little less stuffy. Appetizers like mozzarella slices
with tomatoes and olive oil stand out in this city devoted to the
beer culture. The fondues are a little pricey but not a bad
alternative if you have someone to share with.
Pilsner Urquell Restaurant
In the same building that houses the brewery's management, this pub
has remained true to those who supply it with beverages by cooking
hearty, basic Czech meals. It is a little pricier than Na Spilce
across the way. Because the brewery workers make up the majority of
customers here, don't expect a multilingual menu or staff.
Pivnice Na Parkánu
There's nothing flashy at this typical Czech pub located next to
the Brewery Museum, even though it preys upon the tourist crowd
that has built up a thirst looking at all that brewing
paraphernalia. Wooden benches and tables provide the setting for
large pork schnitzels, hearty goulash, and creamy
svícková na
smetane.
Plzenské Pivovary (Pilsner Breweries), at U Prazdroje
7, will interest anyone who wants to learn more about the brewing
process. The brewery actually comprises several breweries, pumping
out brands like Pilsner Urquell and Gambrinus, the most widely
consumed beer in the Czech Republic. The 1-hour tour of the factory
(which has barely changed since its creation) includes a 15-minute
film and visits to the fermentation cellars and brewing
rooms.
