Tracing the History of Becherovka Production in Karlovy Vary

The story began in 1807 with Josef Becher. He was a pharmacist who loved experimenting with herbs. He worked with a British doctor named Christian Frobrig. Together, they created a unique herbal mixture. This "English Bitter" was meant to aid digestion. It soon became a popular drink across Europe. You can learn more about the city from the official tourism board website.

Production grew rapidly during the 19th century. The Becher family built a dedicated factory in the town center. They used local spring water and secret spices. Only two people know the full recipe today. They mix the herbs in a private room once a week. This mystery is part of the brand's charm. The town remains the only place where the authentic spirit is made.

Karlovy Vary is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The liqueur played a huge role in this recognition. It served the elite visitors who came for spa treatments. Emperors and artists all enjoyed a glass of Becherovka. It is often called the "thirteenth spring" of the city. No trip to West Bohemia is complete without exploring this history.

10 Iconic Sites for Becherovka and History Lovers

To understand the brand, you must walk the city streets. Many buildings tell the story of the Becher family. Use this list to find the best historical places in Karlovy Vary. These spots offer a mix of museums, views, and tastings. Here are the top 10 sites to visit in 2026.

• Best overall: Jan Becher Museum
• Best for families: Diana Lookout Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glass Museum
• Best free: Market Colonnade

1. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: This is the heart of the brand's history. You can see the original cellars and production equipment. It offers a detailed Jan Becher Museum tour guide experience. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: T. G. Masaryka 57. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Tip: Book your English tour at least two days in advance.
2. Name: The House at the Three Moors Type: Historical Building Why go: This was the site of the original Becher pharmacy. Josef Becher sold his first bottles here in 1807. It is a key landmark in the town center. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Tip: Look for the plaque commemorating the Becher family.
3. Name: Becher Villa Type: Gallery/Experience Why go: This beautiful villa belonged to Gustav Becher. It now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. The architecture reflects the wealth of the liqueur dynasty. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: King George Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Tip: Check the local schedule for evening workshops.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Architecture Why go: This white wooden structure is located near the original production sites. It represents the spa culture that helped the brand grow. Best for: Photos. Where: Old Town. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Drink from the Charles IV Spring while you are there.
5. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. Exploring the Mill Colonnade history shows how the elite lived. They would often sip herbal spirits after their water treatments. Best for: Morning walks. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid large tour groups.
6. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Unique Experience Why go: This hotel has served Becherovka to celebrities for decades. It is the height of luxury in the Czech Republic. The bar offers expert cocktails using the liqueur. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: End of the spa zone. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: High. Tip: Try a "BeTon" cocktail at the Becher's Bar inside.
7. Name: Diana Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the city. You can see the entire valley where the production happens. It is a great way to see the town's layout. Best for: Nature and views. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate (funicular fee). Tip: Take the funicular up and walk back down through the woods.
8. Name: The New Factory in Bohatice Type: Industrial Site Why go: While you cannot enter the secret rooms, this is where modern bottling happens. It shows the scale of the business today. Best for: Industrial interest. Where: Bohatice district. Time: 10 minutes (drive by). Cost: Free. Tip: It is best seen from the road on your way into town.
9. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: Museum Why go: Becherovka is traditionally served in specific glass. Moser is the royal glassmaker of Karlovy Vary. The two brands have a long shared history. Best for: Craftsmanship fans. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: The museum shop has beautiful souvenir glasses.
10. Name: Thermal Spring Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This modern building houses the hottest spring in town. The water here is similar to what was originally used in production. Best for: Quick stops. Where: Near the church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Watch the water geyser reach 12 meters high.

Practical Tips for Your Jan Becher Museum Tour

Visiting the museum is the highlight of any trip. You should check the Visit Czechia site for seasonal events. Most tours include a film about the brand's origins. You will also see the ancient oak barrels used for aging. The smell of herbs in the cellars is amazing. It is a sensory journey through time.

The tasting session usually features four different products. You can try the original, Lemond, Cordial, and KV 14. Lemond is great for those who prefer citrus flavors. Cordial is sweeter and uses lime blossom. KV 14 is a very bitter aperitif with red wine. Always drink responsibly while exploring the town.

Getting around the city is very easy on foot. Most historical sites are in the pedestrian zone. For longer trips, use the local bus system. The town is also well-connected by train. You can check schedules on the official transport sites. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many cobblestone streets.