Also known as Carlsbad, Karlovy Vary is a world famous spa town with a rich history. Its buildings and colonnades are constructed in various styles from Classicism to Art Nouveau. For many centuries the spa has been known for its 12 medicinal mineral springs, and for the production of the ‚thirteenth spring‘ – Becherovka herbal liqueur.  Other local produce includes Moser glass, porcelain and wafer biscuits.

In the first week of July, Karlovy Vary plays host to one of the world’s oldest international Film Festivals.

What to visit:

An enjoyable way to tour the town is simply to wander among the numerous  spas, hotels and colonnades.

Hotel Thermal – a spa hotel with a congress center and a swimming pool is located in the city center. Every year the International Film Festival takes place here. The Hotel Imperial is one of the city’s most noticeable landmarks. It was built before World War I to accommodate the large numbers of international clients.

Hotel Pupp – By far the most well-known of the towns luxury hotels. It was founded by Mr. Pupp in the middle of 18th century. The most recent film version of Casino Royale is one of many movies to feature its impressive architecture.

Among the most interesting colonnades you can see the Sadová, Mlýnská, Tržní, Zámecká and Vřídelní colonnades – in the last of these you can admire the hot water geyser – Vřídlo.

You can also visit the Jan Becher Museum where you can taste all kinds of this world-famous liqueur and, of course, there s Moser Glassworks. The entire city can be seen from the Diana lookout tower.

Karlovy Vary in Pictures