In the heart of Europe is a wonderful corner, which is visited annually by hundreds of thousands of vacationers. The spa resort in the Czech Republic is world famous for its thermal springs. The history of this city dates back several centuries, therefore, on the territory of a beautiful place there are many interesting objects for tourists, and entertainment in Karlovy Vary will appeal to everyone.
There could be much more architectural monuments, however, the main attractions of the resort died in the fires that raged in the XVII and XVIII centuries, and the pearl of the Czech Republic acquired its modern look more than 100 years ago.
Geyser colonnades
Tourists who arrived at the resort are often lost and do not know what to see in Karlovy Vary in the first place, so in our article we will try to help them.
Of course, the main attractions of the charming city are mineral springs, and it is simply impossible not to visit them. Geyser colonnades are unique places where you can not only drink medicinal water, but also enjoy the incredible spectacle of a powerful jet beating from a source. In the very center of the city, above the Teplá River, is Vřídelní kolonáda, the first mention of which dates back to the 16th century.
Mineral spring in the heart of the city
The geyser colonnade, located near the Theater Square, will also surprise you with an unusual architectural solution, and tourists thinking about where to go in Karlovy Vary will not be disappointed. Initially, a 12-meter fountain, open until 17.00, was protected by light awnings, and later a baroque hall was erected near it. The rusted cast-iron colonnade was replaced by a modern glazed structure, covering a hot and powerful spring. In a spacious room, through which transparent light is pouring through the transparent walls, there is not only a geyser; here you can have a bite to eat in a restaurant, shop at local stores and buy souvenirs with resort attributes.
The remaining four colonnades are nearby, and if you wish, you can familiarize yourself with them. However, what to see in Karlovy Vary, everyone decides for himself.
Popular church
The resort's architecture certainly deserves special attention, and next to the geyser is the baroque-style church of St. Mary Magdalene - the largest monument in the Czech Republic. Those who don’t know where to go on a tour in Karlovy Vary are recommended to visit not only the most beautiful church, but also its dungeon, and tickets can be bought inside the colonnade.
Tourists are breathtaking from the sight of the burial chapel, where the remains of the now closed cemetery (which surrounded the church until the end of the 18th century), the altar of the Lord, made of aragonite mineral, are of interesting geological exposure. For city guests, evening excursion trails around the temple are also organized, starting after 20.00.
Castle tower
History buffs familiar with the events that took place during the reign of King Charles IV will not think long about where to go in Karlovy Vary, but will go to the Castle Tower - the only building preserved from the ruler’s Gothic castle. In the residence of the king, his numerous courtyard also stopped, and the founder of the city himself watched places dear to his heart from a high tower.
After a terrible fire at the beginning of the XVII century, which destroyed the castle to the foundation, it was decided not to restore the architectural ensemble. But the tower was an important strategic point from which they watched the enemy, so the observation deck was restored, but in the Baroque style. Now you can go upstairs with a special elevator, and from above you can enjoy amazing views of the picturesque city.
Where to go in Karlovy Vary, when you want to eat tasty food?
Tourists note a huge number of establishments offering delicious dishes and drinks. Each hotel or sanatorium has its own restaurants, and prices depend on their "star rating" and location. For example, in the status restaurant “Pupp” located in the Grandhotel Pupp, visitors will be offered not just dishes, but real culinary fantasies from the chef, which will give wonderful gastronomic sensations. For the pleasure of enjoying local and exotic cuisine, you will have to pay more than 100 euros.
Restaurants in Karlovy Vary are distinguished by a variety of menus and prices. Near the Teply embankment there is a small institution called Bernard. Here they will serve beer of the same brand, which does not need advertising. A small room for five tables will appeal to couples in love, and the restaurant's cuisine will appeal to all gourmets. The average bill will be one thousand rubles, and this is a very reasonable price for the opportunity to try fried cheese, lamb knee, pork ribs, meat soups.
Among inexpensive restaurants, such as Venezia, Male Versailles, Charlston, Karel IV stand out with average prices due to 350-500 crowns (600-1000 rubles).
City museums
Museums in Karlovy Vary are of particular interest to art lovers. The main symbols of the country are Bohemian crystal and Czech glass, and you can get acquainted with them in the exhibition halls. 30 kilometers from the city is the Klashterets nad Ohří Palace, and it gained fame after the largest porcelain museum opened its doors to visitors under its roof.
At the Moser glass factory, tours are provided for everyone, and themed exhibitions with samples of crystal products will surprise you with extraordinary beauty. Tourists are given the opportunity to see the complex work of glassblowers, and in the store you can buy a souvenir that will delight relatives.
The Becherovka Museum is a favorite place for tourists who have tasted liquor, the recipe of which is kept secret. Here you can not only taste it, but also purchase all five types of drink.
Things to do in Karlovy Vary
Where should a tourist who has already visited balneological complexes, museums, architectural sights go? Adults and children choose Dinopark, dedicated to the prehistoric era of our planet, and interactive dinosaur models will delight city guests.
Aquaforum is a huge water park where fascinating attractions and wellness procedures await everyone. Numerous nightclubs and bars with a diverse program will appeal to young people who want to relax for glory.
Karlovy Vary is not only a wonderful resort, but also a place where you can get acquainted with interesting sights, and the memory of the trip will remain with you forever.