Karlovy Vary what to visit in one day. Excursions from Prague in Russian. Famous guests of Karlovy Vary

A trip to the quiet and peaceful Karlovy Vary is a real rest for the soul and a healing balm for the body. For Russian tourists this Czech resort has become "native" since tsarist times. From time immemorial, aristocrats and intellectuals rushed here for treatment.

Today Karlovy Vary is a worthy balneological tradition, excellent service of comfortable hotels and, of course, numerous hot springs that can improve health and cure numerous ailments. Local sanatoriums offer various health programs for every taste.

Also, the urban surroundings are of great interest. Here are medieval castles, picturesque canyons on the wooded slopes of the river and numerous equipped trails to contemplate all this splendor.

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What to see and where to go in Karlovy Vary?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

There are about 70 mineral springs in Karlovy Vary, but only 12 are considered to have healing properties. Each is designed to treat and prevent a specific group of diseases. The water temperature ranges from 30°C to 70°C. Picturesque colonnades were erected around the thermal springs in the 19th-20th centuries, which protected them from the effects of the external environment.

The tower is located on the top of Druzhba Hill. Tourists can get there by funicular, or spend half an hour and walk along the hiking trail. From the observation deck of the tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the forested green hills that surround Karlovy Vary. In addition to the tower itself, there is a cafe, a restaurant on the hill, as well as benches and comfortable places for relax.

The building was built at the end 19th century, is the oldest observation deck in Karlovy Vary. It is interesting that in 1945 the tower was named after I. Stalin, but already in the 60s. renamed. A staircase consisting of 165 steps (42 meters high) leads to the top of the building. Many objects of the Goethe Tower were restored only in 2002 with the active participation of F. Gasp, who wanted to make the appearance of Karlovy Vary more attractive.

An elegant castle built under the reign of Charles IV. The building was originally intended to be used as hunting lodge, but after the construction was completed, the local aristocracy began to arrange holidays, balls and magnificent receptions here. In 1604 the castle was destroyed by fire, but soon a new tower was erected. The building of the 17th century has survived to this day. Now there is a restaurant on the territory of the Castle Tower.

Glass building built in the 1970s. XX century according to the project of Ya. Otrub. The colonnade is located near the Vrzhidlo spring, which bursts out of the ground with a powerful hot stream (2 thousand liters of water / min.). Due to the high temperature, it is impossible to stay near the geyser for a long time. In the colonnade, in addition to the hall with the source, there is an extensive hall where souvenirs, dishes and Bohemian glass are sold.

A picturesque colonnade built in the 19th century in the Neo-Renaissance style with elements of an elegant Empire style. It consists of 124 monumental columns supporting the facade with bas-reliefs by V. Lokvents. Inside the Mill Colonnade there are mineral springs "Prince Vatslav", "Melnichny", "Rusalka", "Libuše" and "Rocky". The water temperature in the springs ranges from 45°C to 64°C.

The structure was erected in 1883 of wood and was supposed to last only a few years before the construction of something more imposing. But it lasted over 100 years. At the end of the 20th century, the city authorities decided on a complete reconstruction, and now tourists have the opportunity to admire the restored landmark. Inside there are two sources - "Market" and "Karl IV". Immediately behind the Market Colonnade is the Castle Tower.

The colonnade was erected in 1880 according to the project of G. Gelmer and F. Felner. These two architects made a great contribution to the appearance of Karlovy Vary. In the middle of the 20th century, the pavilion was dismantled and only a frame with columns remained from the building. However, in 2002 historical appearance was restored. Now the Garden Colonnade is a real decoration of the city. Inside are the sources of "Freedom", "Snake" and "Garden".

An architectural building in the Art Nouveau style, erected at the beginning of the 20th century according to the design of the Viennese architect F. Oman. At the beginning of the 21st century, the colonnade was renovated at the expense of the Zamkovy Lazne hospital, which made many facilities available only to the clients of this institution. healing water everyone can drink from the spring, but admiring the magnificent interior decoration of the Castle Colonnade is available only to tourists living in the Castle Lazne.

Temple of the 18th-19th centuries, designed by K. Dientzenhofer. The first church in the Gothic style appeared on this site in the 15th century, it belonged to the order of the Crusaders. Later, the building was rebuilt in a more fashionable and progressive Renaissance style at that time. Subsequently, the temple was repeatedly destroyed during wars and fires, as a result, by the 18th century the building was almost destroyed. The restoration was completed by 1861.

The current Orthodox church, built in the 19th century according to the project of D. Ukhtomsky. It was the first Orthodox church on the territory of the Austrian Empire. Due to the war, the church was closed in 1916, services resumed only in the middle of the 20th century. A complete renovation took place in the 1980s. Since then, the building has been maintained in excellent condition thanks to the efforts of the local authorities.

The famous drink "Becherovka" in the Czech Republic is revered and loved, sometimes it is even called the "thirteenth source" of Karlovy Vary. It is used as a medicine and an ingredient in many cocktails. The company for the production of "Becherovka" was founded by a local pharmacist Jan Becher. The museum named after him was opened in Karlovy Vary in 1992. During the tour, visitors can taste a drink with different flavors, learn about its history and buy souvenirs.

IN museum complex three buildings are included, since a smaller number was not enough to accommodate an extensive exposition. Archaeological finds, objects of art and everyday life, documents, geological exhibits related to the history of Karlovy Vary are exhibited here. The museum was founded in 1865 on the initiative of the Austrian doctor and expert in the field of balneology J.V. von Loeschner.

The Moser glassworks was built in Karlovy Vary in 1875. He is engaged in the production of products from Bohemian glass - a famous brand that has become famous throughout the world due to its high quality. In the factory museum you can see an exposition made up of the most valuable and rare items produced in different time on Moser. You can also get acquainted with all stages of glass production.

The museum exhibits contemporary works of art created by Czech sculptors and artists in the second half of the 20th century. The permanent exhibition contains about 150 works in the style of cubism, expressionism and fauvism. Temporary exhibitions are often held on the territory of the gallery, as well as performances and concerts. The building was built in 1912 in neoclassical style.

The theater building was built in the 19th century according to the design of G. Gelmer and F. Felner. Previously, there was a wooden building in its place, which collapsed during a fire in 1787. The inspirer to raise funds for the construction of the theater was one of the founders of balneology in Karlovy Vary - D. Becher. The wonderful enchanting opera by W. A. Mozart "The Marriage of Figaro" was played as a premiere performance.

Heated swimming pool, open at any time of the year, which is located on the territory of the hotel "Termal". The water in it is not medicinal, but the most ordinary, so everyone can swim. The pool has a fitness club, sauna, solarium and massage room. The length of the pool from side to side is 50 meters, the depth is up to 4.5 meters. The pool offers a magnificent view of the buildings of the surrounding hotels and the surrounding hills.

The sanatorium is located in a building from the beginning of the 18th century, which is one of the most picturesque architectural structures in Karlovy Vary. The guests of the Pupp Hotel were famous musicians, royalty, representatives of aristocratic families, cultural figures and others. famous people. Every year, the hotel hosts an international film festival, which attracts world-class stars.

A four-star hotel built in the classical style at the beginning of the 20th century. The hotel is surrounded by a magnificent park with its own theater stage. The interior of the "Imperial" is dominated by discreet luxury and calm notes of Art Nouveau style. There is also a cinema, a concert hall and spacious auditoriums for seminars. The hotel's resort restaurant serves national and international cuisine, and you can also choose from 9 diet menu options.

The castle is located near Karlovy Vary. There is controversy over the date of its foundation, but experts point to the 13th century. The building is a harsh medieval fortress with thick walls and narrow loopholes. Presumably, Loket was built as a border fort, which demarcated the German and Czech possessions. The castle rises on the bank of the Ohře river.

An architectural structure of the 16th century, erected during the reign of Vladislav II. The castle changed owners many times. The greatest flourishing occurred in the period 1695 - 1733. The castle park was created under the influence of the traditions of the Italian landscape design. special attention deserves a church built in the 18th century according to the project of Giovanni Rossa. The last owner of Valech was Count Larisch-Mennich, then the property was transferred to the state.

A Czech baroque castle located on a rocky bank of the Teplá River. It is believed that the building was erected in the XIII century. Over the next two centuries, the castle was owned by different families, until it was captured by the Swedes during the Thirty Years' War. Major reconstructions were carried out in the second half of the 17th century and in the 19th century. Bečov nad Teploi became state property in 1945.

A picturesque city park, which was created at the end of the 19th century. Trees over 200 years old grow on its territory. The gardens were named after the Czech composer A. Dvořák; the maestro's monument adorns one of the alleys of the park. It should be noted that visitors are allowed not only to walk gracefully along the paths and sit on the benches, but also to walk on the lawns, which makes the park attractive to most residents and guests of Karlovy Vary.

A picturesque canyon in the Ohře river valley, where you can admire natural beauties around Karlovy Vary. This natural object included in the list of specially protected areas Czech Republic. Many legends are associated with the Svatoshki rocks. At one time, they inspired the brothers Grimm, Goethe, Kerner and Spiess to create poetic literary works.

A low rock, on top of which a statue of a chamois was placed in 1851. The metal sculpture was created by August Kiss. Unfortunately, in 1984 the figure was destroyed by vandals. Two years later, the sculptor J. Kotek created a bronze copy, which now crowns the top of the hill. "Reindeer lope" is one of the symbols of Karlovy Vary. Near the statue there is an observation deck, very popular with tourists.

Bristol is a complex of sanatoriums and hotels located in the center of Karlovy Vary, not far from the Mlynska Colonnade and the embankment of the Tepla River. There are a number of mineral springs here, thanks to which the sanatoriums offer a wide range of health and preventive programs for their visitors.

The hotel complex includes six institutions: five-star Libya and four-star: Kralovska Villa, Palace, Bristol, Teresa, Georgi House. Vacationers in the Bristol complex can enjoy nature in a magnificent cozy park Skalnikovy Gardens, which is located nearby.

theatre square

Theater Square is located in resort center in Karlovy Vary, so it is always full of tourists. The area is a small square, which was formed at the beginning of the 20th century by the demolition of several houses.

During the communist rule in the Czech Republic, the square was named after V.V. Lenin. Now the square is named after the old city theater. Vitezslav Nezval, which was built at the end of the 19th century. The theater building is the dominant attraction of the square, because. created in the spirit of the best Viennese architectural traditions.

Not far from the square is the main "Vrzhidelnaya Colonnade" and the famous "Geyser" spring.

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theatre square

Theater Square in Karlovy Vary is a popular tourist attraction, not so much because of its good location at the intersection of panoramic tourist routes around the city, how much because of the theater. Vitezslav Nezval, built in 1884-1886 on the site of the old city theater.

The theater, created in the spirit of the best architectural traditions of the Viennese masters of the building business. is the dominant of the square and sets the general concept of the resort's architecture. A small shady square laid out near the theater completes the architectural ensemble.

Another popular place, which often attracts the attention of tourists who are on the square in front of the theater, is the Central Hotel, built in the second half of the 20s with cubist ornaments on the facade, in which the writer Alexei Tolstoy stayed in 1936, who came to Karlovy Vary for treatment.

Also nearby is the "Geyser" spring and the main colonnade of Karlovy Vary - "Vrzhidelnaya Colonnade".

harsh fortress Loket is one of the oldest in the Czech Republic. And, although no one will say the exact date of the start of construction, we can safely say that the former residence of the kings and the masterpiece of the Middle Ages is already more than eight hundred years old.

The name Loket comes from the word "elbow". The fact is that the bend of the Ohře River, on which the castle stands, has the shape of a bent human hand. During its history, the castle had many functions - it was a border outpost, administrative center and even prison.

Since 1968 Loket Castle has been national monument. Everyone can wander through the cold stone dungeons of the castle, check the veracity of many legends, try themselves as a prisoner, and also become a witness to a staged public execution.

House of Peter I

The house of Peter the Great, completely restored according to the drawings of 1706, attracts all tourists with the fact that Peter the Great visited the city in 1712 when he visited the city.

The very building of the house of the Russian Tsar was built in the 18th century, and Peter the Great helped the masons, as evidenced by a memorial plaque mounted on the wall of the house.

Now the house is the hotel "Peter", which owns three buildings. The house is located on the banks of the Tepla River, in the center of the Karlovy Vary resort area, opposite the Mlynskaya colonnade with famous healing springs, for which many tourists, including famous personalities, come here.

The building also houses a restaurant with a capacity of 40 people, where all visitors can taste traditional Czech cuisine.

Monument to Peter I

In Karlovy Vary there is a monument to the Russian Tsar Peter I, which was erected in honor of the visit of the Russian Tsar to this resort town in 1711. The sculpture of the king is depicted as a bust proudly towering over the entire city.

The monument to the Russian Tsar was erected at this place because it was here that he often went to pray. From the Petrovsky mountain opens beautiful view on the city, and nearby is a fountain with the famous thermal spring. Not far from this place is the church in honor of Saints Peter and Paul, which was built on the initiative of Peter I. There is also a sanatorium in this area where Peter I was treated, and later nobles came here following his example.

You can climb the mountain, where the monument to the Russian Tsar is erected, by funicular or on foot.

City theater

The Karlovy Vary City Theater on Theater Square is a magnificent piece of architecture.

It was built in 1884 - 1886 according to the design of the Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Gelmer. In the facade and interior of the theater, the architects skillfully managed to combine elements of a completely different styles: neo-renaissance, neo-baroque, modern. Currently, the theater presents an extensive repertoire in the genres of opera, operetta, symphonic music and ballet. Performances and tours are regularly held in the theater building.

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Monument to Karl Marx

The monument to Karl Marx is located in the most fashionable area of Kalovy Vary and it was not installed here in vain: it was in Karlovy Vary that Marx was treated three times (in 1874, 1875 and 1876). Back in 1870, Friedrich Engels strongly, but in vain, recommended him to be treated here. The great theorist came here only after his daughter Eleanor fell seriously ill. Marx traveled and walked around the resort with great pleasure.

The monument to Marx is located in the shade of trees on Peter the Great Street. It is the place near the monument that is the meeting point for tourists who leave the upper part of the city for sightseeing tours.

Kard Marx is depicted on the sculpture in a sitting pose. His majestic look seems to cover the whole city and tells everyone about the presence of the great creator of Capital.

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Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic - detailed information about the city and the resort. Karlovy Vary travel guide: popular attractions with photos and descriptions

City of Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary - worldwide famous resort located in West Bohemia in historical region Bohemia. The city is spread out in a picturesque hilly terrain at the confluence of the Ohře, Rolava and Tepla rivers. Karlovy Vary has charming architecture and big amount health resorts and sanatoriums.

City Information

The population is over 49 thousand people.
Area - 59.1 km².
Currency - Czech crown.
The language is Czech.
Time - UTC+1, summer UTC+2.

Karlovy Vary - the most "Russian" resort

Historically, since Russian Empire Karlovy Vary was one of the most sought after resorts among the Russian intelligentsia, monarchs and nobles. Emperors, famous writers and poets rested and improved their health here. And now, the resort remains in demand among the Russian-speaking population. Russian speech is heard everywhere here, the signs are also mostly written in Russian. Merchants, waiters, hotel staff also speak Russian. Also, just a huge number of our compatriots live here. Therefore, it will not be difficult to explain here for the most part.

Story

In 1370, Emperor Charles IV visited Karlovy Vary and granted city rights and privileges to the settlement. royal city modeled on the neighboring Loket in 1370. Even then, Karlovy Vary enjoyed the fame of a resort. The city maintained a calm atmosphere and a ban on carrying weapons was in effect.
In 1401, King Wenceslas IV, in addition to city privileges, granted a rare right of asylum and status open city without city fortifications.
In 1582, Karlovy Vary suffered from a severe flood. The Tepla River burst its banks and damaged half of the city's buildings.
In 1640, the calm history of Karlovy Vary experienced the horrors of war. During the Thirty Years' War, the spa town was sacked by the Swedes.
In 1707, the resort received the status of a free city.

In 1711, Peter the Great arrived in Karlovy Vary. The city becomes very popular among the Russian ruling circles and intelligentsia. They often come here famous people: emperors, princes, nobles and military leaders, writers and poets.
Karlovy Vary was loved not only by Russians. Goethe also often came here, who visited the resort thirteen times.
In 1870 was built Railway, connecting the resort with the rest of Europe.
At the end of the 19th century, the architecture of the resort changed. Buildings began to be erected in the style of neoclassicism, neo-baroque, neo-renaissance.
In 1890, the city also suffered from severe flooding.
During the Second World War, the city was practically not damaged, only there was an outflow of the German-speaking population.

What to bring from Karlovy Vary:

Becherovka is the famous Karlovy Vary herbal liquor, which began to be produced in 1807 by the pharmacist Josef Wit Becher.

Karlovy Vary platters are traditional waffles with many flavors that have been produced since 1788.

How to get to Karlovy Vary?

You can get to Karlovy Vary by plane from many major cities: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Rostov-on-Don, Nizhny Novgorod, Krasnodar, etc. But it's cheaper to fly to Prague or Dresden. From Prague and Dresden to Karlovy Vary can be easily reached by bus in a couple of hours. See the bus schedule from Prague here - http://jizdnirady.idnes.cz/vlakyautobusymhdvse/spojeni/. Bus schedule from Dresden - https://www.busliniensuche.de/

Mineral springs of Karlovy Vary

Healing mineral springs are the main wealth of Karlovy Vary. There are 15 springs on the territory of the city, which are grouped in 7 colonnades (Geysernaya, Market, Zamkova, Mill, Svoboda, Sadovaya and Alois Klein) and differ in temperature and CO 2 content.

The resort treats patients with diseases of the stomach and intestines, liver and biliary tract, as well as metabolic disorders (diabetes, obesity, and others).

Mineral water is free to drink. It is enough to visit the colonnades. We recommend buying special mugs for mineral water, which are sold everywhere. It is very convenient to drink mineral water from these mugs, and it is also a great souvenir.

Temperature of all springs in Karlovy Vary

Geyser (Vrzhidlo) - 73°C
Source of Charles IV. - 64°C
Lower Castle Spring - 55°C
Upper Castle Spring - 55.9°C
Market source - 65.2°C
Mill spring - 56°C
Spring Mermaid - 60°C
Prince Wenceslas Spring - 65°C
Spring of Prince Wenceslas II - 64.3°C
Libuse spring - 63°C
Rock Spring - 46.9°C
Spring Liberty - 62.4°C
Garden Spring - 41.6°C
Stepanka Spring - 14.2 °C
Serpent Spring - 28.7°C

A modern glazed reinforced concrete colonnade in the style of functionalism was erected in 1975 above the Geyser (Vřídło), the most popular Karlovy Vary mineral spring. The Geyser Fountain, for which a separate pavilion is arranged, reaches a height of 12 meters. This is the third colonnade of the source.

The symbol of the resort is the unique Geyser fountain, which rises to a height of 12 meters due to the pressure of the water. For many patients, the mineral water of the Geyser is too hot, so it is specially cooled to a temperature of 50 and 30 ° C and diluted for drinking treatment in five vases of the spring, marked with the letters A, B and C. Part of the thermal water goes to sanatoriums and clinics, part is used for production of Karlovy Vary mineral salt and souvenirs. The dungeon of the Geyser Colonnade is interesting, in which an excursion route has been created.

How to get there: from the Tržnice stop (Tržnice - Market) to the Theater Square, city bus number 2 runs to the city center Distance from final stop Theater Square (Divadelní náměstí - Divadelni namesti) is only 150 m from the colonnade.

Colonnade opening hours: Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday - Sunday 10:00 - 17:00.

The Swiss-style carved wooden colonnade was built in 1882-1883. designed by famous Viennese architects Felner and Gelmer on the territory of the former market under the Castle Tower.

In the early 90s. In the 20th century, a complete reconstruction of the colonnade took place, into which three mineral springs are led - Charles IV, the Lower Castle Spring and the Market Spring:

the spring of Charles IV - there is a legend about how Emperor Charles IV treated his sore feet at this very source, the healing properties of which, apparently, influenced the decision to found a spa town.
market source - since its discovery in 1838, the source has gone underground several times and made its way again. Its name comes from the medieval market square that used to be at this location.

Opening hours: daily free access.

At the beginning of the 21st century, the modernist Castle Colonnade, built in 1910-1912. designed by the Viennese architect Johann Friedrich Ohmann, was rebuilt into the Castle Lazne.

Only the gazebo with the Upper Castle Spring remained freely accessible. The lower castle spring leads into the Market Colonnade, while the Castle Spa offers treatments for all spa guests.

upper castle spring - the castle spring is divided into the Upper and Lower springs, due to different height above sea level, the water in them is of different temperatures. The Upper Castle Spring was first discovered in 1912 during the construction of the colonnade.
lower castle spring - the castle spring is divided into the Upper and Lower springs, due to the different heights above sea level, the water in them is of different temperatures. The main outlet of the Lower Castle Spring is currently located on the territory of the Castle Spa and is used for the needs of this hydropathic. It is also brought to the Market Colonnade, where it is available to everyone.

How to get there: from the Tržnice stop (Tržnice - Market), by city bus number 2 to the final stop "Theatre Square" (Divadelní náměstí - Divadelni namesti), and from there, along the same road across the Jansky Bridge to the Market Square.

Opening hours: daily, partial access.

The pseudo-Renaissance stone colonnade was designed by the talented Czech architect Josef Zitek in 1871-1881. The attic of the colonnade is decorated with twelve allegorical sandstone sculptures depicting the months of the year. There are five mineral springs in the largest Karlovy Vary colonnade - the Mill Spring, the Rusalka Spring, the Prince Vaclav Spring, the Libuše Spring and the Rock Spring.

How to get there: from the Tržnice stop (Tržnice - Market), by city bus No. 1 or No. 4 to the final stop "Lázně III" (Lazne III), and from there 200 m on foot along the Kurortny Bridge over the Tepla River and along the Mill Embankment directly to the Mill colonnade.

Opening hours: daily, admission is free

Sources:

Prince Wenceslas Spring - This spring, formerly called Bernard's Spring, is displayed in two spring vases. At the end of the 18th century, a powerful fountain of a source, at that time comparable to a Geyser, rose to a height of more than four meters. Its water was previously used for the production of Karlovy Vary mineral salt.
Spring of Prince Wenceslas II - this spring, formerly called Bernard's Spring, is displayed in two spring vases. At the end of the 18th century, a powerful fountain of a source, at that time comparable to a Geyser, rose to a height of more than four meters. Its water was previously used for the production of Karlovy Vary mineral salt.
The Libuše Spring, formerly known as the Elizaveta Rose Spring, got its current name only in 1947. The Libuše Spring is one of the hot mineral springs that leads into the largest Karlovy Vary colonnade, which is why it is very popular with spa guests and city visitors.
Rusalka Spring - from the middle of the 18th century, the name "New Spring" was assigned to it, and in 1792-1793. a new wooden promenade was built over the New Spring, the first building of its kind in Karlovy Vary, and at the beginning of the 19th century it became the most popular spring in the spa.
The Mill Spring - a spring known already in the 16th century, belongs to the oldest captured Karlovy Vary thermal springs. In 1705, he was one of the first sources, the water of which was prescribed for drinking treatment. The mineral water of the spring was bottled in the past and exported all over the world.
Rocky spring - the source used to come to the surface of the earth right in the trough of the Tepla River. At that time, the swamp under the Bernard rock, in which the horses were bathed, was called the Horse Clinic. The source was first caught in 1845 after a part of the rock mass was broken off. At that time, a simple wooden canopy was built over the source.

The openwork cast-iron colonnade was left over from the Blanensky Pavilion concert restaurant, built in 1880-1881. designed by famous Viennese architects Felner and Gelmer. In 2001, on the one hand, the Serpent Spring was brought into it, and on the other hand, a passage was arranged to the basement of the Military Resort Hospital to the Garden Spring.

How to get there: from the stop Tržnice (Tržnice – Rynok), by city bus no. 1 or no. garden colonnade.

Opening hours: daily, free entry.

Sources:

Serpentine Spring - The Serpentine Spring became the last publicly available Karlovy Vary spring in 2001, when the reconstruction of the colonnade was completed. The snake spring contains less minerals than other springs, but more carbon dioxide.
Garden spring - the twelfth Karlovy Vary mineral spring taken to the courtyard of the Military sanatorium and not accessible to the public, but part of it was taken to the basement of the sanatorium, open daily from 6.00 to 18.30. You will get to the source from the Garden Colonnade, which is located in the Dvorak Gardens. The garden spring has become very popular with guests resort town due to the high content of carbon dioxide.

Sights of Karlovy Vary

There are few attractions in Karlovy Vary. The city has an interesting beautiful architecture, rich history, but in terms of cultural heritage, of course, it lags far behind Prague, Brno, Olomouc.

Orthodox church in Karlovy Vary. The first stone was laid in 1893. The temple was consecrated in 1897. The temple was built in the style of Russian churches of the 17th and 18th centuries. The length of the temple is 41 m, the width is 14 meters, the height of the temple under the dome is 21 meters, the height of the bell tower is 40 meters.

Address: Krale Jiřího 2c 360 01 Karlovy Vary
Opening hours: daily 9.00 - 18.00

Church of the 16th century, abandoned after the Second World War.

Address: Sokolovská 360 10 Karlovy Vary

Originally an Anglican church, built for the needs of Anglo-Saxon visitors to Karlovy Vary. Brick single-nave church with a tower in the style of romantic English Gothic of the late 19th century.

Address: Zamecký vrch 4 360 01 Karlovy Vary

Located in the very center of the spa area of Karlovy Vary. The Roman Catholic Church was built in the Baroque style. Belongs to the number of important Czech monuments. Church of St. Mary Magdalene is included in the list of cultural heritage.

Address: nam. Svobody 1 360 01 Karlovy Vary

Rock with a metal statue of a deer (1851). From here you have a great view of the city.

Address: Pod Jelením skokem 26/28 360 01 Karlovy Vary

Brick building of 1914 on a stone pedestal 35 m high. Equipped with an elevator.

Address: Vrch přátelství 5/1 360 01 Karlovy Vary
Working hours: from 9.15 to 18.45.

(Czech. Hrad Loket) - a stone castle in the Czech Republic, not far from Karlovy Vary. According to scientists, the castle was built as a border fortress. The castle stands at the bend of the river. An ogre that resembles an elbow. From here it got its name.

The castle was mentioned in 1234. It is not known exactly who its founder is - Prince Vladislav II, King Přemysl I or King Wenceslas I. In the Middle Ages, the castle had an important strategic value. It was a powerful fortress on the border with the German lands. But after the election of Charles 4 as Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Loket Castle lost its role as a frontier outpost. But under the son of Charles 4 - Wenceslas IV, Loket expanded and became an even more important fortress.

In the 15th century, Sigismund handed over Loket Castle to the noble family of Schlicks and the castle gradually fell into disrepair. From the beginning of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century, the castle was a prison.

Now Loket Castle is a cultural monument and is open to the public as a museum. We recommend climbing the castle tower, which offers stunning views of the surroundings. It is better to combine a trip to the castle with a visit to Karlovy Vary. From Prague, the castle is located about 120 km.

Address: Zamecka, Loket
Opening hours: 9.00 to 17.00
Cost: Without a guide: adults - 100 kroons, children, students, pensioners - 80 kroons, family (two adults + two children) - 300 kroons.)

Karlovy Vary or Karlsbad is amazing town, as if "hanging" with its cute houses and openwork colonnades with mineral water springs over the picturesque river Tepla. Therefore, the main attractions of Karlovy Vary are precisely the places associated with local mineral waters that are simply fantastic in terms of their healing data - the Geyser Colonnade, mill colonnade, Castle colonnade, Market and Garden colonnades. In general, the main attraction of Carlsbad is amazing springs, but there are many more interesting things!

Eg. the Grand Hotel PUPP or the Old Castle, the Museums of Moser and Jan Becher, an art gallery and the famous theater ... A lot of "interesting things" are located in the vicinity of relatively small Karlovy Vary - this is Loket Castle at 15 kilometers, Becov nad Teplou Castle at 25 km, the Svatosh Rocks and the famous beer restaurant "In the Rock", where you can take a beer bath and rejuvenate yourself by ten years...

1. Geyser colonnade

The main attraction of the city is the mineral water springs with unique healing properties, and among them stands out the most famous of them - the Geyser spring, around which this colonnade was built in the middle of the last century. But this source has been known to people since the 16th century, they already used it then, not even knowing that the Geyser spews water from a two-kilometer depth, and its temperature is 72-73 degrees. In the walking hall of the colonnade, you can taste water from individual fountains of different temperatures...

2. Mill colonnade

The mill colonnade is not only magnificent mineral water and the rich history of the source itself (and people have known it for over 400 years!), but also its remarkable architecture. The vaults of the large-scale structure are supported by 124 Corinthian columns, and the orchestra pit is decorated with sculptures by Vaclav Lokvenets. Above the balustrade of the gallery, you can see 12 allegorical sculptures symbolizing the different seasons. The colonnade was built in the power of late classicism in the middle of the 19th century.

However most of visitors rush here not at all for the beauty of lines and shapes, because there are 5 important Karlsbad springs at once - directly Melnichy (+56 °С), Rusalka (+60 °С), Libuše (+62 °С), Prince Wenceslas (+65 /58 °С) and Skalny (+53 °С). Each of the springs has different characteristics and properties, but all of them are very popular among holidaymakers...

3. Castle colonnade

The Castle Colonnade was erected in the very ancient place Karlovy Vary near powerful rock ledges and an old spa tower, but it is one of the youngest among the colonnades of the city, it was built in a wonderful Art Nouveau style at the beginning of the last century. One of the main highlights of the colonnade was the bas-relief "The Spirit of the Springs" by the sculptor Wenzel Heida, made of a rare mineral - argonite. Entrance inside the colonnade is available only to patients of the Zamkovy Lazne hospital, so you will most likely be able to admire this elegant masterpiece of the Viennese architect Johann Friedrich Ohmann only from the street...

4. Market Colonnade

The market colonnade was built in 1883, with its appearance clearly reminiscent of the architectural style of distant Swiss Alps. By the way, the landscape of Karlovy Vary with picturesque hills in some way it reminds these Alps, so this elegant building fits perfectly into the surrounding area. ..The structure is wooden building with columns crowned by a gable roof, the facade of the colonnade was richly and generously decorated with carved decorative elements, which gave the building elegance and festivity.

Inside the colonnade there are two springs: Market with a water temperature of about +62 degrees and the second, bearing the proud name of the emperor and king of the Czech Republic Charles the Fourth, and this is the oldest of all the wells found in Karlovy Vary. In addition, the Lower Castle Spring leads to the Market Colonnade, its other exit is available only to clients of the Castle Spa and is located in the Castle Colonnade.

5. Garden colonnade

The garden colonnade is located in a picturesque garden named after the great Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, who loved Karlovy Vary very much. The colonnade is an openwork light structure that fits perfectly into the garden landscape and creates an impression of lightness and festivity. Water from the Garden Spring, which is very unusual for thermal waters, has a pleasant sour taste, and its not the highest temperature (about +47 ° C) is very comfortable for drinking. It goes without saying that this water, as well as from other Karlovy Vary springs, has unique healing properties. In addition to the Garden Spring, in the colonnade from the mouth of a snake, the Serpent Spring beats (+30 ° С, slightly less mineral, but rich carbon dioxide), and next to it stands a gazebo with the Source of Freedom (+60 °C).

6. Goethe Tower

If you want to admire the most picturesque panorama of Karlovy Vary, then welcome to the oldest and most interesting observation deck in the city - the Goethe Tower, from where Karlsbad will be in full view. On the way, you will pass two more observation hills - Three Crosses and Ott Hill and, finally, you will come to this beautiful building, built in 1889 on the initiative of Princess Stephanie, wife of Prince Rudolf of Habsburg.

There is a tower where Johann Wolfgang Goethe so loved to climb, who gave his name to its name, on the Top of Eternal Youth at an altitude of 668 meters. Climbing there is not easy, and in order to climb to the top of the 42-meter tower itself, you need to overcome another 165 steps, so count your strength! On the other hand, the view that will open from where will reward all your efforts ... By the way, there is also a wonderful restaurant of Czech cuisine in the tower.

7. Church of St. Mary Magdalene

The construction of the Church of St. Mary Magdalene dates back to the 14th century, when the first Gothic church appeared next to the Vrzhidlo spring. But numerous wars and fires did not spare the temple, and what we see now belongs to the second half of the 18th century, its light walls, high vaults and the tops of the towers that have acquired a noble greenish color attract the eye of every guest of the city.

Despite the destruction he experienced, in general, the Church retains the style of the Renaissance. In the interior of the temple, painting and woodcarving are widely used, and the sculptures of the church, in particular those dedicated to St. Mary herself, deserve special attention. The ashes of those who once lay in the church cemetery, located near the temple, rest in the crypt of the cathedral. The church has a wonderful organ, concerts are held regularly, tickets can be purchased at the temple before the concert or at the information centers of Karlovy Vary in advance.

8. Peter and Paul Church

The Peter and Paul Church, erected at the very end of the 19th century on the initiative of Grand Duchess Elena Pavlovna, is located in one of the most beautiful places Karlovy Vary, right at the foot of the mountains. The temple was erected according to the drawings of K.A. Ukhtomsky, and the architect Widerman supervised the work. When creating the project, the artist Konstantin Andreevich Ukhtomsky was most likely inspired by Russian churches of the 17th century: the architecture contains all the elements characteristic of the style of that period - a high porch, a covered gallery, intricate decoration of the facade...

It is worth paying attention to the lower part of the eastern wall of the church - the bas-relief depicts Peter the Great surrounded by masons. The image was made in 1912, when the 200th anniversary of the emperor's stay in Carlsbad was celebrated. The interior decoration is also interesting: stained-glass windows depicting Jesus Christ, Saints John Chrysostom and Basil the Great, as well as the patrons of the Czech Republic - Saints Wenceslas and Ludmila.

9. Old Castle and Castle Tower in Karlovy Vary

The old castle in Karlovy Vary was built by the order of the great Czech Emperor Charles IV, to whom we owe the famous Charles Bridge in Prague and Karlštejn Castle. alas, the castle itself did not reach us, only the Castle Tower remained, which was built at the very beginning of the 17th century on the site of the very hunting lodge of Charles the Fourth, from which the history of the city begins as the center of miraculous springs mineral waters. It rises above the Market Colonnade - one of the most interesting colonnades of Karlovy Vary on a granite rock.

In the 17th century, baroque began to dominate everywhere, so the tower of the castle, which burned down in 1604, was rebuilt in this style. The Castle Tower now houses an excellent restaurant, stylized as the Middle Ages, be sure to include this institution in your stay in Karlovy Vary, because the prices here are quite moderate, and the surroundings are simply amazing!

10. Grand Hotel Pupp

how to do in such a famous resort as Carlsbad, without magnificent hotels! After all, famous guests come here from all over the world, great rulers, and famous artists, and philosophers, in particular Charles the Fourth and Peter the Great, Franz Kafka and Leo Tolstoy, have been here. And now the Grand Hotel Pupp is the most famous and beautiful hotel in Karlovy Vary, and, perhaps, in the whole of the Czech Republic and business card Karlovy Vary...

The opening of the hotel took place at the beginning of the distant 18th century, in 1701, by decree of the city authorities, it was decided to build the first hall of the future Grand Hotel. It was given a pompous name - "Saxon". Soon the "Czech Hall" appeared here, which today became part of the Grand Restaurant and received a new name - the "Mirror" Hall. And all these luxurious interiors have survived to this day!

Meets visitors luxury building, reminiscent of the most that neither is a palace - a rich decor of the facade, an abundance of stucco, high bright windows, wrought iron balconies, a fountain in the courtyard and well-trained staff. All this at once declares high status and the old traditions of the institution, inside which there are halls with high ceilings, gold finishes and a huge hall with gigantic mirrors. Prominent Czech artists took part in the design of the hotel, among them the great Alfons Mucha, who is the author of the exquisite stained glass for the ceiling. And there is also a chic cauldron, where they filmed the next episode of the James Bond movie "Casino Royale"...

11. Dvorak Gardens

Dvořákovy Sady is a very cozy and beautiful park in the central part of Karlovy Vary, named after Antonin Dvorak, the great Czech composer of the second half of the 19th century, who loved Karlovy Vary very much and visited them 8 times. The Dvorak Gardens, which appeared in the 19th century, are located in the central part of Karlovy Vary, this favorite place recreation local residents and a must-see attraction for tourists.

The Dvořakovy Gardens are home to some very remarkable trees that are over 200 years old. These are the Garden plane tree - a mighty tree 23 m high with a trunk diameter of 452 cm, as well as the Dvorak plane tree (22 m high and 472 cm in diameter). In the center of the park is small lake with a sculpture of a mermaid girl, and in addition to the monument to Dvorak, there is a monument to the poet Peter Bezruch and a small pedestal with a thermometer in the Art Nouveau style (1913), which is a national monument of the Czech Republic.

12. Karlovy Vary Art Gallery

The Karlovy Vary Art Gallery is dedicated to contemporary fine arts Czech Republic. The main building of the gallery is located on the embankment of the Teplá River on Getova-Stiezka Street. It houses a rich collection of works of art from the end of the 19th century to the present day, representing the most significant art movements of this period - cubism, expressionism, fauvism, surrealism and others.

Here is a rich collection of Czech paintings and sculptures from the late 19th and 20th centuries, plus more modern works by local authors. The permanent exhibition includes paintings by Jan Preisler, Jakub Schikaneder, Josef Capek, Bohumil Kubišta and other Czech masters of the 20th century. Within its walls there are frequent exhibitions of contemporary artists and sculptors, concerts, lectures and theatrical performances...

13. Karlovy Vary City Theater

Karlovy Vary City Theater is a real architectural gem neo-baroque style and was built at the very end of the 19th century. The luxury of the interior decoration is quite consistent with its appearance, because the decor of any room of the building is magnificent, but special attention attracts the curtain... The curtain painted by great artists with a plot on the theme of poetic inspiration and ancient Greek muses is a work of great artistic value. It is sewn from eight pieces of coarse canvas, and is constantly used.

The Karlovy Vary Theater is not only a historical and artistic monument, there are performances of various genres, creative groups from circuses to ballets constantly tour, there are also performances in Russian. But even if they are not there at the time of your stay in Carlsbad, be sure to visit this theater and admire its pompous exterior and luxurious interior decoration!

14. Funicular "Diana"

Funicular "Diana" was built at the beginning of the 20th century, but still serves as one of the main attractions of Karlovy Vary. No wonder, because the views that open up during this exciting mini-trip are simply amazing! Carriages leave every 15 minutes and start their journey from the lower station "Old Meadow", which is near the Pupp sanatorium. Approximately in the middle of the way there is an intermediate station "Deer Jump". A short three-minute journey ends at the upper station "Hill of Friendship", where the observation tower is located, the length of the entire path is 450 m, and the last station is located more than 150 m higher than the first.

During the trip, the funicular stops, it is possible to get out, take a walk, look around and sit in the next trailer. At the end station, you can have a bite to eat in a restaurant and climb the observation tower, whose height is about 40 m, and the observation deck is at a height of 35 m, it has a free elevator and spiral staircase. Experience these three minutes of real happiness!

15. Jan Becher Museum

16. Moser Glass Museum

The Moser Glass Museum is an amazing place, because here you can get acquainted with the history of the company, which has more than 150 years. This plant is famous all over the world for its products, it was supplied to the royal courts of Europe and is still used in organizing celebrations for top officials. different states. The museum exhibits a wide variety of products that the factory produced during these one and a half centuries, including the oldest, antique gizmos and elite newfangled crystal products...

IN museum exposition only about 1000 exhibits are presented, and those who wish to see the museum on a guided tour can choose several options, including a combined one, with a visit to the glass blowing shop. A visit to the glass blowing shop of the plant can leave a truly unforgettable experience: and today they blow beautiful products from glass mass. The visitors are shown separately the raw materials from which the glass mass is subsequently obtained, various tools and technologies used in its processing. Well, then in the store you can buy these original products, which are just an ideal gift!

17. Castle Bečov nad Teplou

Old castle and the city of Bečov nad Teplo is located in the town of the same name in the western part of the Czech Republic, about 25 km from Karlovy Vary. The complex of a romantic castle and an ancient fortress is a valuable historical monument and the only thing for which tourists go to the town, and the central attraction of the castle is the priceless reliquary of St. Maurus, a unique sarcophagus of stunning jewelry work, the value of which is comparable to the relics of the royal crown, the reliquary dates from the first third of the 13th century.

The Reliquary of St. Maurus is a rectangular sarcophagus 140 cm long and 65 cm high. The main structure was originally made of oak, but fell apart and was replaced by a walnut base. Outside, the entire reliquary is richly decorated with bas-reliefs and figures made of gilded silver, amazing chasing, carving, filigree work and ornaments, in which semi-precious stones and precious stones, as well as antique-style gems are embedded. The castle itself dates back to the 18th century, although its elements are much older, for example, there is a chapel, where amazing wall paintings made in the dry fresco technique have survived to this day, the painting dates back to about 1360...

18. Loket Castle

Just 15 kilometers from Karlovy Vary is the completely unique Loket Castle, the first mention of which in documents dates back to 1324! Approximately Loket began to be built in the 12th century, the castle served as a border fortress that protected the country from the German conquerors. That is why Loket was called "the key to the Czech kingdom." As you understand, it is impossible to pass by the inspection of this wonderful "key" during your stay in Karlovy Vary...

A magnificent exposition of the castle's porcelain, rare archaeological exhibits, a museum of weapons and much more will surely interest even an experienced tourist. lovers thrill they will be able to appreciate the premises of the former prison and the torture chamber, here you can even take a picture in a cage or shackle yourself. With the help of wax figures, visitors will be able to see the instruments of torture in action. In the courtyard of the castle, performances are arranged for spectators - an imitation of the death penalty. At the request of tourists, the actress can repeat the trick and "die" again. In addition, you can visit the hall of marriages and solemn ceremonies, in which there are a lot of paintings and frescoes...

19. Beer restaurant "In the rock"

Just 50 kilometers from Karlovy Vary is perhaps the most famous beer restaurant in the Czech Republic "In the rock" ... The name of the restaurant speaks for itself - it is really located in a granite rock. The restaurant opened in 2000 and immediately became the most favorite place for locals and visitors to relax. In the cave where the restaurant is now located, barrels of beer from the local family brewery "Chodovar" were once stored. Since the 16th century, the technology for making beer has changed, and a restaurant has been placed in this cellar. Inside the establishment there is a long corridor with monolithic stone walls, the ceiling in the restaurant is quite low and this is also unusual, and at the entrance there is a small museum of its history and several sculptures, the most famous of which are the figures of the hostess of the establishment and a belated visitor.

A separate "feature" of this restaurant is beer baths, after which you feel rejuvenated by 10 years, no less. Fans of a foamy drink can be reassured - in addition to the bath itself, they give a couple more glasses for oral administration. Therefore, if you have already decided to go here from Karlovy Vary, immediately plan about half a day to visit this wonderful restaurant, but you will get the most wonderful sensations. By the way, you can combine a visit to a restaurant with a trip to Marianske Lazne, 10 kilometers away...

20. City of Marianske Lazne

The city of Marianske Lazne is located only 50 kilometers from Karlovy Vary, and it is worth a visit, because this is the world's most famous spa resort with all the ensuing consequences. There is a Tepla monastery here, founded at the end of the 12th century, it is still working, it has preserved several very interesting buildings, both Gothic of the 12th century, and later built in the Baroque style.

In the city (more precisely, in the suburbs) there is big castle- Kunzhvart, preserved unchanged since the beginning of the 17th century. The level of preservation is amazing: not only the building survived, but also the interior decoration, furniture, personal belongings and much more. The most original group of buildings in Marianske Lazne are the buildings on the springs, and the most famous of them is the Colonnade, an original baroque building in the center of the spa area. This is the main city covered promenade, in front of it is the same famous Singing Fountain, there is also the Ferdinand Gallery.

There are many more beautiful and noteworthy churches in Marianske Lazne - the Evangelical Church, the Anglican Church with bright architecture, the very beautiful Orthodox Cathedral of St. Vladimir, built in a quaint neo-Byzantine style Catholic Church Virgin Mary and a few smaller churches and chapels... So this city is definitely worth a trip from Karlovy Vary!