Discover a different side of the Czech Republic on this self-guided cycling trip based in Plzeň (Pilsen)—the birthplace of Pilsner beer and a hidden gem of Bohemian culture. Ride quiet country roads to Kozel Castle, centuries-old monasteries, and shimmering lakes, while immersing yourself in the rich history and laid-back rhythm of western Czechia. Stop at cafés in spa towns, explore UNESCO World Heritage architecture, and toast your rides with fresh local brews. With curated routes, boutique accommodations, and Trek Travel’s signature support behind the scenes, this bike tour in Bohemia is the ideal blend of freedom, culture, and scenic riding—all at your own pace.
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Pedal past Baroque facades, neoclassical lodges, and Gothic spires in a living gallery of Czech architecture
Step into the golden age of European spa culture in Mariánské Lázně, a 19th Century UNESCO World Heritage site
Raise a glass to a great day with a well-earned pint from Pilsen’s celebrated breweries, including the world-famous Pilsner Urquell
Savor the quiet beauty of forest-lined roads, lakeside trails, and storybook countryside villages
Descend into Plzeň’s underground maze of passageways, cellars, and wells dating back to the 13th century
An array of color and architectural styles
Wander the Republic Square in Plzeň
Step outside your hotel to explore a vibrant medieval square surrounded by Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque façades, all alive with history, color, and local life.
Pilsen is a hidden gem for cycling. I love its vast network of cycle paths that wind through dense forests, open fields, and quiet villages. The routes are thoughtfully designed to invite you to experience the region like a local—enjoying beautiful architecture and great beer every day.
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A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
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I was expecting a lot from my Trek Travel tour after reading all the good comments online. My expectations were FAR exceeded by the actual trip. I cannot wait for another trip with you guys. The attention that your online trip planners gave me was exceptional.
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This is my 5th Trek Travel Trip. With every trip, I say, “Wow, this is the best trip yet!” I’ve encouraged quite a few friends to try Trek Travel and they too are now repeat customers. The trip itineraries are perfect. The cycling amazingly beautiful and perfectly (did I really just say that?) challenging.
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Great Ride
Step aboard the train to the spa resort of Mariánské Lázně, enjoying the mineral springs before a forest-lined ride through small hamlets and quite countryside.
Book early for the best price
Guaranteed
Join Waitlist
Private
Limited Availability
Where to Arrive
Airport:
Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Pick-up location:
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Pick-up time:
11:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Drop-off location:
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Drop-off time:
11:00 AM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your Czech Republic Self-Guided bike tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG). From the airport, you can take the bus to Hlavní Nádraží Train Station. There are direct trains to Plzeň (Pilsen); it is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour train ride and tickets cost between $5-15. You will need to taxi from the Plzeň train station to the hotel. Private shuttles with Daytrip and taxis are available for pick up at the airport and should be scheduled ahead of time ($100-120). They will be able to take you directly to your hotel.
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Depending on the number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Please have your riding gear readily accessible to avoid having to unpack your luggage. After a brief trip overview, you may change into your cycling gear where you will then be fitted to your Trek bike ensuring you will be comfortable for the week. Following a safety talk and a review of the details of the route, head out on a self-guided warm-up ride along the roads of the Bohemia.
If you will be late for the meeting or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your Trek Travel host. If you cannot reach them, please call our hotel, Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb (+420 607 227 227) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.
Additional Departure Information
Your Trek Travel host will meet you at Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb at 11:00 AM to take your bike and equipment and say farewell before your departure. For onward travel to Prague, we recommend taking the train from the Plzeň Train Station. Please allow adequate connection time for any ongoing travel to accommodate possible traffic delays.
Discover Bohemian countryside villages as you ride to Chrast
Overview
Dobrý den! Welcome to Plzeň (Pilsen)! After meeting your Trek Travel host and getting fit on your bike, ease into your adventure with a scenic ride on a former rail line turned cycling path. You'll pass by the legendary Pilsner Urquell brewery—founded in 1842—where you can elect to stop for a tour before continuing to the forested edge of the city and into the quiet village of Chrast. Take in views of the Ejpovice Dam and stop for a refreshment at the... Dobrý den! Welcome to Plzeň (Pilsen)! After meeting your Trek Travel host and getting fit on your bike, ease into your adventure with a scenic ride on a former rail line turned cycling path. You'll pass by the legendary Pilsner Urquell brewery—founded in 1842—where you can elect to stop for a tour before continuing to the forested edge of the city and into the quiet village of Chrast. Take in views of the Ejpovice Dam and stop for a refreshment at the Pod Lipou brewery, a local favorite. Return to Plzeň at your own pace, and enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants clustered around Republic Square. Read More
Hotel
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Highlight of the Day
Plzeň Old Town Republic Square
Ride rolling countryside and visit a local brewery before ending in Plzeň’s Republic Square, framed by Gothic and Renaissance facades.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Plzeň to Chrast Countryside - Approximately 20 mi | 32 km and 872 ft | 265 m
Ride Option2
SHORT RIDE:
Plzeň to Chrast Countryside - Approximately 17 mi | 27 km and 598 ft | 182 m
Ride in beautiful wooded areas to the historical hunting lodge, Kozel Castle
Overview
After a delicious breakfast and a relaxed coffee, set out from Plzeň and follow a mix of quiet countryside roads and scenic bike paths through the rolling hills of southern Bohemia. Your ride leads to Kozel Castle, an elegant Neoclassical hunting lodge built in 1789. Framed by landscaped gardens and forest, it offers a picturesque spot to pause and explore. You can enjoy lunch at the charming tearoom restaurant just below the castle, or in one of the nearby village... After a delicious breakfast and a relaxed coffee, set out from Plzeň and follow a mix of quiet countryside roads and scenic bike paths through the rolling hills of southern Bohemia. Your ride leads to Kozel Castle, an elegant Neoclassical hunting lodge built in 1789. Framed by landscaped gardens and forest, it offers a picturesque spot to pause and explore. You can enjoy lunch at the charming tearoom restaurant just below the castle, or in one of the nearby villages before pedaling back to the city. This evening, use the curated recommendations in your Ride with GPS app to choose the perfect spot for dinner in town. Read More
Hotel
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Kozel Castle Historic Hunting Lodge
Ride to Kozel Castle, a 1789 aristocratic hunting lodge, then savor local fare at the historic tearoom beside the estate.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE
Plzeň to Kozel Castle and Return - Approximately 24 mi | 38 km and 1,087 ft | 331 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Plzeň to Stary and Return - Approximately 16 mi | 25 km and 558 ft | 170 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Plzeň to Kozel Castle Loop - Approximately 39 mi | 57 km and 1,946 ft | 593 m
Experience Europen spas by bike and by train in Mariánské Lázně
Overview
This morning, roll your bike aboard a Czech train—a common local practice made easy with dedicated spaces for bicycles. Today you’re bound for Mariánské Lázně, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed 19th-century spa town tucked in the tranquil Slavkov Forest. Before beginning your ride, stroll beneath the ornate cast-iron colonnade and sample mineral-rich spring waters long be... This morning, roll your bike aboard a Czech train—a common local practice made easy with dedicated spaces for bicycles. Today you’re bound for Mariánské Lázně, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed 19th-century spa town tucked in the tranquil Slavkov Forest. Before beginning your ride, stroll beneath the ornate cast-iron colonnade and sample mineral-rich spring waters long believed to hold healing properties. Linger over coffee at a charming café then pedal back to Plzeň on a scenic route that winds through forested hills, quaint hamlets, and patchwork farmland. End your day with a refreshing pint on the town square, taking in the rhythm of local life. Read More
Hotel
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Mariánské Lázně
Experience the golden era of European spa culture in Mariánské Lázně, a forest retreat once favored by Chopin and Goethe.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Train Route from Mariánské Lázně to Plzeň - Approximately 47 mi | 75 km and 2,756 ft | 840 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Train Route from Stribo to Plzeň - Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 1,483 ft | 452 m
Explore the wonders of Baroque architecture in Plasy
Overview
Cycle north through open fields and charming villages to reach Plasy, home to a grand Baroque monastery founded in 1144 and later reimagined by celebrated architect Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel. Explore its ornate halls and unique architectural details before stopping at Pivovar Plasy, the on-site brewery housed in the former stables. Avid riders can extend the day to Manětín, a picturesque town famed for its perfectly symmetrical square, Baroque statues, and 18th-c... Cycle north through open fields and charming villages to reach Plasy, home to a grand Baroque monastery founded in 1144 and later reimagined by celebrated architect Jan Blažej Santini-Aichel. Explore its ornate halls and unique architectural details before stopping at Pivovar Plasy, the on-site brewery housed in the former stables. Avid riders can extend the day to Manětín, a picturesque town famed for its perfectly symmetrical square, Baroque statues, and 18th-century château, before returning to Plzeň. Celebrate your final night with an evening out in the historic center, perhaps toasting your week at a favorite local restaurant. Read More
Hotel
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Plasy Monastery
Visit the grand Baroque Plasy Monastery, redesigned by Santini-Aichel, and toast with a beer brewed on its historic grounds.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Plzeň to Plasy Loop - Approximately 40 miles | 64 km and 2,873 ft | 875 m
Ride Option2
SHORT OPTION:
Plzeň to Tremosna Loop - Approximately 24 miles | 37 km and 1,388 ft | 423 m
Ride Option3
AVID OPTION:
Plzeň to Plasy and Manetin Loop - Approximately 55 miles | 88 km and 3,818 ft | 1,163 m
A peaceful farewell cruise around Bolevec Lakes
Overview
Enjoy a final tranquil loop around the Bolevec Lakes, a cluster of freshwater reservoirs and wooded walking paths just north of the city. Head out early to savor the calm trails, soft morning light, and a coffee overlooking Kamenný Lake. It’s an ideal way to close out your self-guided adventure. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb at 11:00 AM to collect your bike and equipment, share a warm farewell, and send you off for your de... Enjoy a final tranquil loop around the Bolevec Lakes, a cluster of freshwater reservoirs and wooded walking paths just north of the city. Head out early to savor the calm trails, soft morning light, and a coffee overlooking Kamenný Lake. It’s an ideal way to close out your self-guided adventure. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb at 11:00 AM to collect your bike and equipment, share a warm farewell, and send you off for your departure and onward travels. Read More
Hotel
Spa Beerland at The Golden Lamb
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Bolevec Lake Trail
Follow the lakeside trails of the Bolevec Lakes, where sunrise light and calm waters create a peaceful finale to your Czech escape.
Ride Options
Ride Option1
TODAY'S RIDE:
Bolevec Lakes Loop - Approximately 10 miles | 16 km and 538 ft | 164 m
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Non-riders are welcome on a Self-Guided trip if they are staying in the same room with a riding guest. Non-riders will be offered a $500 discount from the trip price. Please contact a trip consultant for details and to book a non-riding companion. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip—please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
On a self-guided tour you need to feel comfortable changing a flat, as this is a common event when cycling. All self-guided trips include Ride With GPS, which is like having a personal guide in your pocket! You'll get turn-by-turn directions and recommendations from Ride With GPS, plus the you'll have the added navigation support of a Garmin GPS. In the rare case of a bicycle breakdown or mechanical issue beyond a simple repair, your Ride With GPS app will have detailed contact information with emergency phone numbers to call for assistance. Learn more about our Self-Guided Bike Tours.
Set in the heart of Plzeň, this historic property blends vintage charm with modern comforts. Stay in character-filled rooms with cozy fireplaces, plush beds, and private baths. In the spa, soak in beer baths infused with natural extracts from Czech Pilsner Urquell for a one-of-a-kind wellness experience.
Road
With Shimano’s Ultegra Di2 12-speed wireless electronic drivetrain, the Domane SL 7 Gen 3 delivers lightning-fast, precise shifts in any conditions. A carbon frame with front and rear IsoSpeed smooths rough roads, while carbon wheels keep the ride quick and efficient. Add in powerful disc brakes, and you’ve got a performance road bike that’s fast, stable, and always fun to ride.
E-Bike
Fun from the first pedal stroke, the Trek Verve+ 3 helps you go farther with ease. Its low-step frame and upright riding position keep you comfortable, while the Bosch motor provides a natural boost up to 15 or 20 mph (region specific). Shimano hydraulic disc brakes deliver smooth, controlled stopping, so every hill and every mile feels relaxed and enjoyable.
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Your Day. You Decide.
Our self-guided vacations are designed to fit all types of travel styles. Whether you like to spend your time relaxing or on a non-stop adventure, you get to decide what your day looks like. Choose your mileage, itinerary, and experience level and leave the rest to us!
Your Trip Need to Knows:
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a maze of narrow streets and small squares, with Baroque buildings and enchanting corners. It’s wonderful to get lost in it, but there are places that you really shouldn’t miss.The Church of Saint Nicholas, located in the Little Quarter, is one of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Europe—it's a sight to behold. A walk on Charles Bridge, with its 31 groups of statues, is a must-see as well. For those who have a passion for music, the Mozart Museum offers them the chance to see the place where the great composer lived when in Prague. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Monastery Garden Prague
Set against the backdrop of the St. Agnes Monastery, this historic hotel blends medieval charm with modern comfort. Located steps from Prague’s Old Town Square and the iconic Charles Bridge, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city's rich history. www.monasterygardenprague.com
987 Prague Hotel
In the heart of Prague, 987 offers a contemporary, stylish escape. With modern amenities and a prime location near historical sites, it’s a chic, urban retreat for those looking to experience Prague in style. www.987praguehotel.com
Pytloun Kampa Garden Hotel
Located in the heart of Prague, Hotel Kampa Garden offers spacious rooms with stunning views of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Enjoy the tranquil setting by the Certovka Canal, while still being close to the city’s main attractions. www.pytlounkampagardenhotel.com
Summer season in the Czech Republic is warm with moderate humidity and occasional rain, with average temperatures between 70-80s ºF (low to high 20s ºC). July and August can get hot, up to 90s ºF (30s ºC). Rain is not unusual and can be substantial at times so make sure pack your rain gear. View our Packing List
View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know before you go. Once you arrive at your destination, your Trek Travel host will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and give you an overview on the daily route information and detailed maps within the Ride with GPS app. The turn-by-turn directions allow you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Your Self-Guided trip price is per person based on two guests sharing a room. If you are a solo traveler or if you want to stay in your own private room while traveling with other people, you will have a Single Supplement Fee added to your trip price at the time of booking.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Self-Guided FAQs
Want to learn more about our trips? Watch our recorded Guide-Led Virtual Events—just visit our Trek Travel Youtube Channel and search for your trip.
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Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.
Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.
This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.
If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.
Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.
Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
