Exactly how many steps to climb St. Bartholomew's tower?

To reach the observation gallery, you must climb exactly 301 steps. The climb is steep and follows a narrow spiral staircase. Most of the steps are made of stone, while the upper section features sturdy wooden stairs. It is a physical challenge that takes about 10 to 15 minutes for most people. You should take your time and rest if needed.

The tower of St. Bartholomew's Cathedral tower is the highest in the country. It reaches a total height of 102.26 meters. The viewing platform is located at 62 meters. From this height, you can see the entire city and the surrounding Bohemian countryside. On very clear days, you might even spot the peaks of the Alps.

Before you start your climb, here are some quick picks for your visit:

• Best for views: The Cathedral Tower gallery.
• Best for families: Techmania Science Center.
• Best rainy-day activity: The Historical Underground.
• Best free sight: Republic Square fountains.

For more details on the area, check the Visit Plzeň official tourism site. They provide updated information on seasonal events near the cathedral. Always check the weather before climbing, as the gallery can be windy.

10 Must-See Attractions in Plzeň for 2026

Plzeň is more than just a transit stop. It is a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history. This Plzeň sightseeing guide lists the top experiences you cannot miss. Use this list to plan your perfect itinerary in the city.

1. Name: St. Bartholomew's Cathedral Tower Type: sight Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the Plzeň region. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Usually around 100 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the center of the main square. Tip: The tower has its own entrance on the side of the church.
2. Name: Cathedral Interior Type: sight Why go: See the beautiful Gothic architecture and the famous Pilsen Madonna statue. Best for: History buffs. Where: Republic Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee or donation. Getting there: Main entrance in Republic Square. Tip: Respect ongoing services by keeping quiet.
3. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: experience Why go: Take a Pilsner Urquell brewery tour to see how the world's first golden lager is made. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Expect to pay around 350 CZK. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the city center. Tip: The tour includes a tasting of unfiltered beer in the cellars.
4. Name: Great Synagogue Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest synagogue in Europe and has stunning Moorish-Romanesque decor. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee for visiting the Great Synagogue. Getting there: Located on the edge of the historic center. Tip: Check for evening concerts held inside for the acoustics.
5. Name: Plzeň Historical Underground Type: experience Why go: Explore a labyrinth of medieval corridors and cellars beneath the city streets. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approximately 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Near the Brewery Museum. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
6. Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: neighborhood Why go: One of the largest medieval squares in Europe, featuring modern gold fountains. Best for: People watching. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Most tram lines stop nearby. Tip: Visit the seasonal markets held here throughout the year.
7. Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: museum Why go: Learn about the liberation of the city by the US Army in 1945. Best for: History fans. Where: Pobřežní 10. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Short walk from the Synagogue. Tip: The museum is small but packed with authentic artifacts.
8. Name: Techmania Science Center Type: indoor Why go: An interactive museum with hundreds of exhibits and a 3D planetarium. Best for: Families with children. Where: U Planetária 1. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Check the Techmania Science Center site for family tickets. Getting there: Take a trolleybus from the center. Tip: Great for a rainy day in Plzeň.
9. Name: Pilsen Zoo and DinoPark Type: nature Why go: A large zoo combined with a park featuring life-sized dinosaur models. Best for: Kids. Where: Pod Vinicemi 9. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram number 4. Tip: Use the "Zoo-train" that runs from the city center in summer.
10. Name: Kozel Castle Type: day trip Why go: A charming Neoclassical hunting castle surrounded by a massive forest park. Best for: Nature walks. Where: Šťáhlavy (15km from Plzeň). Time: 4 hours. Cost: Entry fee for the castle tour. Getting there: Local train from Plzeň main station takes 20 minutes. Tip: The park is free to enter and perfect for a picnic.

Practical Tips for Visiting Republic Square

Republic Square is the heart of Plzeň. It is where you will find the entrance to the cathedral and the tower. Most sights are within walking distance from here. The square is paved with cobblestones, so wear flat shoes. This is especially important if you plan to climb the 301 steps.

You can buy tickets for the tower directly at the entrance. They usually accept both cash and cards. During the summer, the tower stays open later in the evening. This is the best time to visit for a sunset view. Check the official Pilsner Urquell Brewery portal if you want to combine your tower visit with a beer tour.

Safety is generally not an issue in Plzeň. The square is well-lit and busy. However, the tower stairs are narrow. If you suffer from claustrophobia, you might find the climb difficult. Always keep a grip on the handrail as the stone can be slippery in wet weather.