Thinking about moving to Plzen? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Plzen.
Plzen, also known as Pilsen in English, is the fourth most populous city in the Czech Republic. Known worldwide for its Pilsner beer, this city has a lot more to offer than just a refreshing pint. From its rich history and culture to its modern amenities and lifestyle, Plzen is a city that has something for everyone. But like any city, living in Plzen has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the details.
Pros of Living in Plzen
One of the biggest advantages of living in Plzen is its affordability. Compared to Prague, the cost of living in Plzen is significantly lower. Rent, groceries, dining out, and other expenses are all more affordable here. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Plzen costs around 12,000 CZK per month, while in Prague, the same would cost you around 20,000 CZK.
Plzen is also a city that is rich in history and culture. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting beautiful architecture such as the Gothic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral and the Renaissance Town Hall. The city is also home to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, where the world’s first pilsner beer was brewed. For those interested in history and culture, the Patton Memorial Museum and the Museum of West Bohemia are must-visits.
Despite being a city, Plzen is surrounded by beautiful nature. The Krivoklat Forest and the Sumava National Park are just a short drive away, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, and camping. The city itself has numerous parks and green spaces, such as the Smetanovy Sady and the Borský Park, where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Plzen is also a city that values education. It is home to the University of West Bohemia, which offers a wide range of programs in fields such as engineering, law, and humanities. The city also has several international schools, such as the International School of Pilsen and the Pilsen International School, making it a great place for families with children.
Lastly, Plzen is a city that is well-connected. It is just an hour’s drive from Prague and is well-served by trains and buses. The city also has an efficient public transportation system, making it easy to get around.
Cons of Living in Plzen, Czech Rep
While Plzen has many advantages, it also has its share of disadvantages. One of the biggest challenges of living in Plzen is the language barrier. While English is commonly spoken in Prague and other tourist areas, it is less commonly spoken in Plzen. This can make everyday tasks such as shopping or visiting the doctor more challenging for those who do not speak Czech.
Another disadvantage of living in Plzen is the lack of diversity. While the city is home to a number of different nationalities, it is predominantly Czech. This can make it difficult for expats to integrate and can lead to feelings of isolation.
While Plzen is a city, it is much smaller than Prague and other major cities. This means that there are fewer job opportunities, particularly for those in specialized fields. While the cost of living is lower, salaries are also generally lower.
While Plzen is well-connected, it is still somewhat isolated. It is an hour’s drive from Prague, and while there are trains and buses, they are not as frequent as in larger cities. This can make it more difficult to travel and explore other parts of the Czech Republic and Europe.
Lastly, while Plzen has a number of parks and green spaces, it lacks the vibrant nightlife and cultural scene of larger cities. While there are a number of bars and restaurants, there are fewer options for live music, theater, and other cultural events.
