Prague to Karlstejn and Karlovy Vary: Guided day tour

Czech King and Roman Emperor Charles IV ordered the construction of Karlstejn Cast in 1348 as a place to store royal treasures, holy relics, and the crown jewels. After its completion in the 14th century, the castle received a Renaissance make-over, and its current neo-Gothic look comes courtesy of a renovation in the 18th century. Today, the castle stands as one of the finest and most fascinating in the Czech Republic for both its impressive architecture and captivating history. The centerpiece is the Chapel of the Holy Cross, said to have been designed by Charles IV himself. The gilded walls are inlaid with countless semi-precious stones, with the 129 panel paintings depicting popes, bishops, knights, and mentors of the Czech Republic. Housed within is a replica of the St. Wenceslas Crown - made of pure gold and studded with emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls. To reach the castle, visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk up the hill, or take a romantic carriage ride. The castle offers a variety of different tours in different languages. For more information, please visit www.hrad-karlstejn.cz/en

One of the best-known spa towns in the world where some of the most famous figures in European artistic and cultural life, such as Beethoven, Mozart and Casanova have all enjoyed treatment. Today, due to its distinctive architecture, hot springs and popularity with Hollywood celebrities, it is ranked among Europe’s elite spa towns. Absorb the atmosphere and the distinct fragrance of a spa town with a walk through the historical center where you can sample water from the healing springs that stand in the shadows of the exquisite colonnades. No visitor should miss the prestigious Grand Hotel Pupp with its world famous façade and regarded as one of the world’s best hotels. If you think you’ve seen it somewhere before then you most likely have — it features in the James Bond film, Casino Royale, among others, and hosts cultural festivals and award shows broadcast across the world.