Pilsen is among the most prosperous cities in the Czech Republic, boasting a lower cost of living compared to other regions in the country. In our previous article, we have already delved into taxes, housing prices, transportation, food, internet, and other expenses in detail.
Now, let's turn our attention to the fun stuff – entertainment! What kind of excitement can you anticipate in this charming, albeit small city with a population of just over 174,000 people?
Back in 2015, Pilsen was granted the esteemed title of European Capital of Culture, and it's not hard to see why. This city is bursting with exciting leisure activities to suit all tastes and interests.
Now, let's turn our attention to the fun stuff – entertainment! What kind of excitement can you anticipate in this charming, albeit small city with a population of just over 174,000 people?
Back in 2015, Pilsen was granted the esteemed title of European Capital of Culture, and it's not hard to see why. This city is bursting with exciting leisure activities to suit all tastes and interests.
Pilsen Food Scene: Where to Eat
When it comes to dining options, Pilsen has no shortage of choices, from restaurants and cafes to pubs and street vendors. As a general rule, the closer you get to the city center, the pricier the food becomes. For a mid-range option, lunch for two would set you back around €17.
If you're looking for a delicious and filling meal at an affordable price, consider restaurování (they are more like eating houses that offer cheaper food than ordinary restaurants and cafes). Locals choose to dine here because portions are generous and prices are wallet-friendly. You can expect to pay around €8-9 for a satisfying meal that includes soup, a chicken dish, salad, and beer. And if you want an even better deal, go for various business lunch options: they will save you even more.
It's customary to leave a tip of around 10%. Always double-check your receipt before paying, as sometimes the tip may already be included in the total price. If that's the case, you can just pay without leaving any additional tip.
For those looking to try the local pizza, prices typically range from €4-15 depending on the size and toppings. For instance, a 50 cm Salami pizza can be ordered for just €10. Sushi is also an option, with prices ranging from €5-13. For example, classical California costs about €9.
If you're in the mood for a quick and budget-friendly meal, McDonald's is always an option. A standard order that includes 6 Chicken McNuggets, large fries, a salad, and a drink will set you back around €7.
Now, onto the best part: how much does a beer cost in Pilsen? The price varies depending on the location and brand. On average, a 0.5-liter bottle in a restaurant will cost you around €4, while the price drops to around €3 in pubs. If you're looking for the best value for your money, head to a beer house where you can enjoy a refreshing draft beer for as little as €2. And if you want to enjoy it at home, you can find a regular 0.5-liter bottle for just €1 at local supermarkets.
Wondering what the most popular beers in Pilsen are? Here are just a few:
If you're looking for a delicious and filling meal at an affordable price, consider restaurování (they are more like eating houses that offer cheaper food than ordinary restaurants and cafes). Locals choose to dine here because portions are generous and prices are wallet-friendly. You can expect to pay around €8-9 for a satisfying meal that includes soup, a chicken dish, salad, and beer. And if you want an even better deal, go for various business lunch options: they will save you even more.
It's customary to leave a tip of around 10%. Always double-check your receipt before paying, as sometimes the tip may already be included in the total price. If that's the case, you can just pay without leaving any additional tip.
For those looking to try the local pizza, prices typically range from €4-15 depending on the size and toppings. For instance, a 50 cm Salami pizza can be ordered for just €10. Sushi is also an option, with prices ranging from €5-13. For example, classical California costs about €9.
If you're in the mood for a quick and budget-friendly meal, McDonald's is always an option. A standard order that includes 6 Chicken McNuggets, large fries, a salad, and a drink will set you back around €7.
Now, onto the best part: how much does a beer cost in Pilsen? The price varies depending on the location and brand. On average, a 0.5-liter bottle in a restaurant will cost you around €4, while the price drops to around €3 in pubs. If you're looking for the best value for your money, head to a beer house where you can enjoy a refreshing draft beer for as little as €2. And if you want to enjoy it at home, you can find a regular 0.5-liter bottle for just €1 at local supermarkets.
Wondering what the most popular beers in Pilsen are? Here are just a few:
- Pilsner Urquell (a crisp, refreshing taste)
- Velkopopovický Kozel (a smooth, slightly sweet flavor)
- Staropramen (a full-bodied lager)
- Velvet (a smooth taste and lower alcohol content)
- Gambrinus Original 10 (a light and refreshing lager with a slightly bitter finish)
Pilsen's Stage and Screen
Looking to catch a movie in Pilsen? You'll find both dubbed and original films (with Czech subtitles). For instance, the recently trending film Avatar: The Way of the Water at CineStar Plzeň costs €10 per adult.
Pilsen also boasts other popular cinemas, such as CinemaCity, Kino Beseda, and Cine Star. And the good news is that ticket prices are pretty much on par across all of these venues, so you can take your pick based on location or showtimes.
If you enjoy live performances, the theater J.K. Tyla is a great option. However, this type of entertainment costs more. Tickets for the opera Prodaná nevěsta start at €14, while prices for the musical My Fair Lady start at €19. However, if you opt for smaller theaters, you may be able to find cheaper performances.
Pilsen also boasts other popular cinemas, such as CinemaCity, Kino Beseda, and Cine Star. And the good news is that ticket prices are pretty much on par across all of these venues, so you can take your pick based on location or showtimes.
If you enjoy live performances, the theater J.K. Tyla is a great option. However, this type of entertainment costs more. Tickets for the opera Prodaná nevěsta start at €14, while prices for the musical My Fair Lady start at €19. However, if you opt for smaller theaters, you may be able to find cheaper performances.
Museums and Other Cultural Attractions
Pilsen is a treasure trove, with so many museums and attractions to satisfy anyone’s interest and budget. Climb the tower of St. Bartholomew's Cathedral for just €5 and take in breathtaking views of the city from above. Or, delve into the history of Škoda at the Škoda Museum for only €5 (without a guide). For a unique experience, explore the West Bohemian Museum's impressive collection of weapons and books for about €20 (if you want to visit all halls and exhibitions).
Beer enthusiasts won't want to miss the Brewery Museum, where you can learn all about Pilsen's rich brewing history for just €7. And if you're feeling adventurous, venture into the depths of the Pilsen Historical Underground – admission is only €9.
If you're up for a day trip, make sure to visit the numerous castles scattered throughout the region.
Beer enthusiasts won't want to miss the Brewery Museum, where you can learn all about Pilsen's rich brewing history for just €7. And if you're feeling adventurous, venture into the depths of the Pilsen Historical Underground – admission is only €9.
If you're up for a day trip, make sure to visit the numerous castles scattered throughout the region.
Pilsen's Annual Main Festival
Pilsner Fest is not just any festival, it's a beer lover's dream come true! This spectacular event has been celebrated for over 180 years (since the first beer was brewed in 1842). In October, the city squares come alive with lively concerts, while the Brewery Museum hosts special tours and costume shows. And let's not forget the most important part – everyone enjoys all sorts of beer!
Nightlife Adventures
Pilsen is a city that knows how to party, even after the sun goes down. Nightlife is alive and well here, with a range of bars and clubs blasting music until the early hours. But if you're not sure where to go, why not try an express tour with a local guide? For around €50, you can hit up four of the city's top clubs in one night, sample some delicious drinks, and maybe even make some new friends. It's the perfect way to experience Pilsen after dark.
Get Active in Pilsen: Sports
As a programmer or anyone with a sedentary job, it's important to take care of your physical health by incorporating regular exercise and movement into your routine. It's great that Pilsen offers many options for staying active, from outdoor exercise areas to fitness clubs.
1.Running, biking, and exercising in free areas with equipment is a great way to keep yourself in shape, and the city has many special areas for joggers and cyclists to explore
2.For those who prefer fitness clubs, there are different options available, ranging from independent sessions to group or individual training
Prices may vary depending on the club and the type of session. For example, Fitness Plzen offers a session with a trainer for €15, while Max Fitness has a monthly subscription for self-training for €40. It's worth exploring different variants based on your location and budget preferences.
Pilsen offers a wide range of sporting opportunities, such as tennis, rock climbing, and ice skating. Additionally, skiing is also accessible with the nearest ski areas located just an hour away by car. For example, Alpalouka slopes in Železna Ruda, where you can buy a day ticket for €24 (no need to bring your equipment, rent it on the spot).
1.Running, biking, and exercising in free areas with equipment is a great way to keep yourself in shape, and the city has many special areas for joggers and cyclists to explore
2.For those who prefer fitness clubs, there are different options available, ranging from independent sessions to group or individual training
Prices may vary depending on the club and the type of session. For example, Fitness Plzen offers a session with a trainer for €15, while Max Fitness has a monthly subscription for self-training for €40. It's worth exploring different variants based on your location and budget preferences.
Pilsen offers a wide range of sporting opportunities, such as tennis, rock climbing, and ice skating. Additionally, skiing is also accessible with the nearest ski areas located just an hour away by car. For example, Alpalouka slopes in Železna Ruda, where you can buy a day ticket for €24 (no need to bring your equipment, rent it on the spot).
We hope that our guide has provided helpful insights about life in Pilsen. For more details about the city, please check out this detailed Tourist Information Website. To keep abreast of job opportunities with relocation or remote work, we encourage you to visit our website, as well as follow us on our LinkedIn page.
