The Route of the Convoy of Liberty

The parade follows a traditional path through the city center. It usually begins on the outskirts and moves toward the heart of town. Most of the action happens on Klatovská Avenue. This is a very wide street with plenty of space for crowds.

The vehicles eventually turn toward the main square. You can check the Visit Plzeň website for the exact 2026 map. Knowing the route helps you avoid dead ends. It also ensures you find a spot with a clear view of the tanks.

Crowds begin to gather early in the morning. The main convoy usually starts around 11:00 AM. It takes about two hours for all vehicles to pass. Plan your morning carefully to secure a good position.

10 Best Places to Watch the Plzeň Liberation Parade

Choosing the right location depends on what you want to see. Some spots are great for photography. Others are better if you have small children. Here are the top picks for the best places to watch the Plzeň Liberation parade this year.

• Quick picks:
• Best for Atmosphere: Republic Square
• Best for Photos: Wilson Bridge
• Best for Families: Smetana Park
• Best for History: Patton Memorial

1. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the final stop where vehicles park for display. You can see many cultural attractions in Plzeň while you wait. Best for: People who want to see the vehicles up close after the drive. Where: City Center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Stand near the cathedral for the best backdrop.
2. Name: Klatovská Avenue (Central) Type: Activity Why go: This is the main artery of the parade. The energy here is unmatched as thousands of people cheer. Best for: Feeling the full scale of the event. Where: Between Sukova and Americká streets. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Stay on the sidewalk to avoid being moved by police.
3. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This museum is dedicated to the US Army. Watching from nearby adds deep historical context to the day. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Near the Peklo Cultural House. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to watch; museum fee applies. Tip: Visit the museum the day before to avoid the parade crowds.
4. Name: Smetana Park (Smetanovy sady) Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This green space offers shade and benches. It is much more comfortable for older travelers or families. Best for: Families with young children. Where: Edge of the old town. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Bring a picnic blanket to claim your space on the grass.
5. Name: Wilson Bridge (Wilsonův most) Type: Viewpoint Why go: The bridge offers an elevated view of the vehicles. It is one of the most scenic spots in the city. Best for: Amateur and professional photographers. Where: Connecting Americká street to the train station area. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Use a zoom lens to capture the crews in the jeeps.
6. Name: The Great Synagogue Area Type: Sight Why go: The parade passes right by this massive building. It is a stunning architectural site. You should consider visiting the Great Synagogue in Plzeň after the parade. Best for: Sightseers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: The steps of the nearby theater offer a slightly raised view.
7. Name: Sukova Street Intersection Type: Experience Why go: This is where the convoy often pauses or slows down. You get a longer look at the rare tanks and trucks. Best for: Vehicle enthusiasts. Where: Southern end of Klatovská. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: This area is usually slightly less crowded than the city center.
8. Name: Hotel Continental Type: Iconic sight Why go: This hotel has a rich history with American officers. Many veterans used to stay here during the festivals. Best for: Those seeking a nostalgic atmosphere. Where: Zbrojnická Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the commemorative plaques on the hotel walls.
9. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Gate Type: Unique local experience Why go: Some side events and smaller convoys pass near the brewery. It is the most famous spot in the city. Best for: Beer lovers. Where: U Prazdroje. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Grab a beer from the courtyard and watch the crowds walk by.
10. Name: Chotěšov Abbey Type: Day trip Why go: Many military camps set up in the Plzeň Region nearby. Chotěšov often hosts smaller vehicle displays before the main parade. Best for: Escaping the city center crowds. Where: 20km south of Plzeň. Time: Half-day. Cost: Small entry fee for the Abbey. Tip: Check the local schedule as dates for rural events can vary.

Practical Tips for Parade Spectators

The parade is a popular event for locals and tourists. You must plan for large crowds and closed roads. The City of Plzeň usually shuts down tram lines along the route. Wear comfortable shoes as you will do a lot of walking.

Arrive at your chosen spot at least 60 minutes early. For prime spots at Republic Square, two hours is better. Bring water and snacks, as local cafes will be very busy. Most shops in the center remain open, but they will be packed.

Respect the participants and the vehicles. Do not try to cross the street while the convoy is moving. Many of these vehicles are heavy and hard to stop quickly. Keep children behind the safety barriers at all times.