Leave time for a walk in the modern centre – the large area around piazza Vittorio Veneto – which was planned during the early 20th century, by the architect Marcello Piacentini, and is a very interesting example of town planning.

This international festival of classical music ranks among the most significant cultural events in Pilsen, and organised by the Pilsen Philharmonic Orchestra, it invites foreign and Czech stars to perform on stage here alike. While the programme changes annually, you can definitely look forward to great performances and unique experiences.

The collection of streets between the city centre and the Jeker quarter is known as the Stokstraat quarter. It’s that historic corner of the city between two statues, ‘De Mestreechter Geis’ and ‘Slevrouwe’. All of these streets ultimately lead to the ever-charming, intimate and romantic Onze Lieve Vrouweplein. In this part of the city, you can find the warmth and charm of a classic Maastricht pub on virtually every corner. The quarter takes its name from what may be the city’s most famous (or infamous) street. Today, Stokstraat is known as the place for the most exclusive and luxury shops in the Netherlands, but it was not always so. If there’s any street that has seen its fortunes turn over the years, it’s this one. In the Middle Ages, its reputation was dubious thanks to its many bathhouse-brothels; later, the street enjoyed a renaissance with many reputable merchants established in it, until, as the Industrial Revolution took hold and the city centre became overpopulated with wave after wave of migrants from the countryside, the street became synonymous with grinding poverty. Living conditions here became so dire that there was even talk of demolishing the entire street. The Stokstraat quarter of today is the result of a dramatic redevelopment between 1950 and 1973, which succeeded in preserving its historic character but transforming it into a fashionable address for living, shopping, and dining.

The Xiqu Centre building, inspired by the design of traditional Chinese lanterns, seems to invite you inside with its facade resembling a futuristic interpretation of stage curtains opening. 1,073 guests can enjoy Xiqu exhibitions and the traditional Chinese opera in the Grand Theatre, while the Tea House Theatre holds 200 seats. Guided tours in different languages can also be booked.