The Magic of the Plzeň Park Ring

The park ring was built on the site of old city walls. It creates a lush circle around the Old Town. Locals call these parks "Sady." They are perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk. You can find more details in our walking guide to Smetanovy and Kopeckeho sady.

Each section of the park has a unique name. You will walk through Smetanovy, Kopeckého, and Šafaříkovy sady. These parks are home to the most famous fountains and statues in Plzeň city parks. The atmosphere is peaceful and very welcoming. Most paths are paved and easy to navigate.

Art is everywhere in these parks. You will see tributes to famous composers and inventors. Modern fountains provide a cool mist during hot summer days. It is a great way to see the city without the crowds. Check the City of Plzeň portal for seasonal event updates.

10 Best Fountains and Statues in Plzeň City Parks

This list includes the most iconic landmarks within the green belt. Each item is unique and worth a stop. Here are our top picks for your next visit.

• Best for families: Spejbl and Hurvínek Statue
• Best for history: Bedřich Smetana Statue
• Best for photos: The Fountain in Šafaříkovy sady
• Best free activity: Mlýnská strouha sculptures

1. Name: Spejbl and Hurvínek Statue Type: Statue Why go: See the world-famous puppets born in Plzeň. Best for: Families and puppet fans. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Republic Square. Tip: Rub Hurvínek's nose for good luck.
2. Name: Bedřich Smetana Statue Type: Statue Why go: Honor the famous Czech composer who studied here. Best for: Music lovers. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Great Theatre. Tip: Look for the nearby plaques about his life.
3. Name: The Music Fountain Type: Fountain Why go: Enjoy a peaceful water feature in the heart of the park. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main path from the museum. Tip: Visit at dusk to see the water sparkle.
4. Name: František Křižík Statue Type: Statue Why go: Celebrate the inventor of the arc lamp. Best for: Science enthusiasts. Where: Křižíkovy sady. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk east from the city center. Tip: This park is often quieter than others.
5. Name: Josef Skupa Monument Type: Statue Why go: See a tribute to the creator of the famous puppets. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Šafaříkovy sady. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the West Bohemian Museum. Tip: Great spot for a quick photo.
6. Name: Martin Kopecký Statue Type: Statue Why go: Learn about the mayor who created the park ring. Best for: History buffs. Where: Kopeckého sady. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Měšťanská beseda building. Tip: Notice the classical style of the sculpture.
7. Name: The Modern Fountain in Šafaříkovy sady Type: Fountain Why go: A stylish water feature that kids love. Best for: Cooling off. Where: Šafaříkovy sady. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the main square. Tip: Bring a towel if traveling with children.
8. Name: Statue of J.K. Tyl Type: Statue Why go: Tribute to the playwright of the Czech national anthem. Best for: Theater fans. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Right in front of the Tyl Theatre. Tip: The theater building itself is a masterpiece.
9. Name: Memorial to the Victims of Communism Type: Statue Why go: A moving and powerful tribute to history. Best for: Reflection. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the southern end of the park. Tip: Read the inscriptions for historical context.
10. Name: Mlýnská strouha Sculptures Type: Experience Why go: See colorful, modern art in a restored water channel. Best for: Modern art lovers. Where: Mlýnská strouha park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk towards the brewery from the center. Tip: This is the most colorful part of the park ring.

Planning Your Walk Through the Green Belt

A walk through the parks is one of the best walks in Plzeň. You can see all these items in about two hours. Start at Smetanovy sady and walk clockwise. This route is very logical and easy to follow. You can also join a Plzeň old town walking tour for more stories.

The parks are beautiful in all seasons. Spring brings blooming flowers and running fountains. Autumn offers vibrant golden leaves. Most fountains operate from late April to October. Check the Visit Plzeň website for exact dates. The statues are visible all year round.

Safety is not a concern in these public spaces. The parks are well-lit and popular with locals. You will find many benches for resting. If you get hungry, many cafes line the park edges. It is a very convenient way to explore the city. Consider visiting the Pilsner Urquell Brewery tour afterward.