Quick Picks: Plzeň Hidden Escapes

If you are short on time, here are the top recommendations for your visit. These spots represent the best variety the city has to offer. You can find more details in the full list below.

• Best Overall: The Meditation Garden (Oldřich Hruška).
• Best for History: Franciscan Monastery Garden.
• Best Free Spot: Mlýnská strouha (Mill Race).
• Best Unique Vibe: DEPO2015 Courtyards.

10 Best Secret Gardens and Courtyards in Plzeň

Exploring the city on foot is the best way to find these treasures. Most are located within the historic center or just a short tram ride away. Here are the top secret gardens and courtyards in Plzeň for your 2026 itinerary.

1. Name: Meditation Garden (Garden of Oldřich Hruška) Type: experience Why go: It is a stunning site dedicated to peace and victims of evil. The stone sculptures and manicured plants are breathtaking. Best for: Quiet reflection and photography. Where: Doudlevce district (South Plzeň). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (usually under 100 CZK). Getting there: Take bus 30 to the Tyršův most stop. Tip: Check the visiting the Meditation Garden in Plzeň guide for seasonal hours.
2. Name: Brewery Museum Courtyard Type: museum Why go: This courtyard feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. It is surrounded by historic brewing equipment and old stone walls. Best for: History lovers and beer fans. Where: Veleslavínova Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the courtyard; fee for museum. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Republic Square. Tip: Look for the old delivery carts parked in the corners.
3. Name: Franciscan Monastery Garden Type: sight Why go: This is one of the most peaceful spots in the city center. The Gothic cloisters and small herb garden are very relaxing. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Františkánská Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free entry to the garden area. Getting there: Located right next to the main square. Tip: Visit during the morning for the most peaceful atmosphere.
4. Name: Mlýnská strouha (Mill Race) Type: nature Why go: Known as the "Venice of Plzeň," this park features a small pond where a mill once stood. It is a lush green space with colorful murals. Best for: Families and picnics. Where: East edge of the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Cathedral toward the park ring. Tip: Great spot for kids to see the colorful fish in the pond.
5. Name: DEPO2015 Courtyards Type: experience Why go: This former bus depot is now a creative hub. The industrial courtyards are filled with street art and pop-up cafes. Best for: Modern art fans and younger travelers. Where: Presslova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free entry to the grounds. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the center or take tram 1 or 2. Tip: Check the Visit Plzeň site for events like food festivals here.
6. Name: Great Synagogue Courtyard Type: sight Why go: The courtyard offers a unique view of the world's third-largest synagogue. It is often used for small exhibitions. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included with synagogue ticket. Getting there: Walkable from any central location. Tip: Look for the memorial plaques that tell the local Jewish history.
7. Name: Hotel Continental Courtyard Type: experience Why go: This is one of the most unusual places to visit in Plzeň center. The courtyard has a classic, old-world charm perfect for a coffee. Best for: Afternoon tea or coffee. Where: Zbrojnická Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a drink. Getting there: Located near the West Bohemian Museum. Tip: Ask about the famous guests who stayed here in the past.
8. Name: Smetana Woods (Smetanovy sady) Type: neighborhood Why go: While it is a park, it acts as a series of connected gardens. The flower beds are changed seasonally and are always perfect. Best for: A relaxing stroll. Where: Inner city ring. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Borders the entire western side of the old town. Tip: Sit near the fountains to enjoy the local street performers.
9. Name: Lochotín Park Type: viewpoint Why go: This park offers wide open spaces and views of the city. It feels like a grand garden from the 19th century. Best for: Sunset views. Where: North of the center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1 or 4 to the Lochotín stop. Tip: Walk up to the amphitheater for the best panoramic photos.
10. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Courtyard Type: sight Why go: The main courtyard is massive and historic. You can see the iconic Jubilejní brána (Jubilee Gate) up close. Best for: Everyone. Where: U Prazdroje. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk around the main grounds. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the main train station. Tip: Consider a full Pilsner Urquell Brewery tour to see the underground cellars.

Tips for Finding Hidden Gems in Plzeň

Finding secret gardens and courtyards in Plzeň requires a bit of curiosity. Many of the best spots are hidden behind large, heavy doors. Do not be afraid to look inside open gateways in the historic center. You will often find beautiful stone carvings or small cafes. The City of Plzeň maintains many of these public spaces well. Spring and summer are the best times to visit for flowers. However, autumn brings beautiful colors to the city's park ring. Always respect private property when exploring courtyards. If a gate is locked, it is likely private. Stick to the many public and semi-public spaces listed here.