Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary, also known by its German name, Carlsbad, is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic. King Charles IV discovered the thermal springs in 1358 when one of his hunting dogs was scalded by the water. During the 19th century, the town was a favorite of wealthy Europeans. Beethoven, Chopin, Bach, and Peter the Great were just a few of the famous personalities that enjoyed the healing waters. You can stroll along the colonnade and sip from the springs as you take in the stunning Art Nouveau architecture that graces the facades of this wonderfully restored town. You might also like to sample Becherovka here, as this is where the herbal liquor was invented in 1805.