Nestled in the hills of the Slavkov Forest (Kaiserwald) lies the spa town of Marienbad (Czech: Mariánské Lázně). It is a place that tells tales of the glorious past of the European aristocracy—of emperors, kings, artists, and thinkers who once strolled along its promenades.
t is for good reason that in 2021, Marienbad was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the “Great Spas of Europe,” alongside ten other European spa towns. We took the time to drift through its streets, and one thing is certain: Marienbad is not a place to simply tick off a list, but a place to truly experience. Join us on our walk along the sights of Marienbad.
At a Glance
- What: A short walk along the sights of Marienbad, including additional tips off the beaten path.
- Where: Marienbad, Czech Republic.
- Highlight: The Singing Fountain.
- Ideal for: All visitors to Marienbad.
Sights in Marienbad – A City Stroll
Our leisurely discovery tour took us into the heart of the spa town. This route is a relaxed walk connecting the most important landmarks in Marienbad.
Station 1: Monument to Franz Joseph I and Edward VII
Our tour begins with a royal encounter. This monument, often referred to as the “Statue of the Monarchs,” is a life-sized bronze sculpture depicting the two rulers during their meeting in this famous Bohemian spa town.
The well-known monument commemorates the historic meeting between the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I and the British King Edward VII in 1904. It was erected on the occasion of the 110th anniversary of their meeting, created by sculptor Albert Králíček.
Station 2: Hotel Ensana Nové Lázně Marienbad
Just a few steps away, we immerse ourselves in the golden era of spa architecture. This tradition-rich house is known for its combination of historical ambiance and a comprehensive range of spa and wellness treatments. The original building was erected in 1828 and bore the fitting name “New Bath” (Nové Lázně). Marienbad’s “Golden Age” at the end of the 19th century demanded even more luxury. Under the direction of architect Josef Schaffer, the building received its current, magnificent Neo-Renaissance appearance and became the leading spa facility.
We spent a short break at this hotel. In our post “A Royal Spa Break: Our Experiences at the Hotel Ensana Nové Lázně in Marienbad,” you can find more detailed insights into the famous Roman Bath and the Royal Cabin.
Station 3: Casino Cultural Center (Gesellschaftshaus Casino)
Even from the outside, the Neoclassical building of the Casino is a sight to behold. The name “Casino” can be slightly misleading here, because contrary to the modern meaning, this house was never a public gambling hall. Rather, it was the undisputed social and cultural center of glamorous spa life.
Completed around 1900, the building still serves as a magnificent setting for the city’s most important events. Here, the European high nobility met for elegant balls, listened to concerts in the splendid Mirror Hall, or strolled through the imposing Marble Hall. One can vividly imagine how the fates of Europe were negotiated here amidst the sounds of waltzes and conversation.
We were able to take a look at the indescribably beautiful rooms. Anyone who wants to know more about it can read our post “Casino in Marienbad: Where Culture Meets Imperial History.“
Station 4: Ambrose Spring (Ambrosius Quelle)
Slightly more inconspicuous, but all the more important for the spa tradition, we come across the pavilion of the Ambrose Spring. The slightly metallic taste might not be for everyone, but tasting it is simply part of the authentic Marienbad experience.
Station 5: Hotel Central (Ensana Centrální Lázně)
Opposite the Casino, the imposing building of the former Hotel Central fits seamlessly into the ensemble of magnificent structures. Built in 1892, it was also a central location for spa activities.
Today, together with the Nové Lázně and the Maria Spa, it forms a connected hotel complex, allowing guests to move between the historic bathhouses without getting their feet wet. Its elegant facade is a perfect example of Belle Époque spa architecture.
Station 6: Hotel Maria Spa (Ensana Maria Spa)
This is, in a sense, the historical heart of the spa town. Opened in 1821, the Maria Spa is the oldest preserved bathhouse in Marienbad. Its Classicist style seems almost modest compared to the later Neo-Renaissance buildings, but this is exactly where Marienbad’s success story began. The house is named after the Mary’s Spring (Marienquelle), which rises inside the building.
Station 7: Goethe Square (Goetheplatz)
Goethe Square is surrounded by magnificent hotels, the church, and the city museum. It forms the center of Marienbad. Here, you can linger on a bench, watch the hustle and bustle, and let the impressive architecture sink in. Its namesake is, of course, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited Marienbad several times and met his late love here.
Station 8: Roman Catholic Deanery Church of the Assumption
The Roman Catholic Deanery Church of the Assumption dominates Goethe Square (Goethovo náměstí). It was built between 1844 and 1848 according to plans by Johann Gottfried Gutensohn in a Neo-Byzantine style, which is unusual for the region. Its architectural specialty is the octagonal floor plan, which creates a unique spatial effect inside.
Station 9: Colonnade of the Caroline and Rudolph Springs
I must confess, this smaller, elegant colonnade is my personal favorite spot.
Built in 1870 in an “antiquizing” (Neoclassical) style, it radiates quiet dignity. Here, spa guests have access to two important springs: the Caroline Spring, which rises directly in the pavilion, and a separate outlet for the Rudolph Spring. This allowed guests to taste different waters with varying mineral compositions as part of their treatment.
It is the perfect place to pause for a moment before turning toward the hustle and bustle of the main promenade.
Station 10: The Singing Fountain: A Symphony of Water, Light, and Music
In the heart of the promenade, directly in front of the Main Colonnade, is one of Marienbad’s most popular attractions: the Singing Fountain.
It is a modern masterpiece built between 1982 and 1986 according to the plans of architect Pavel Mikšík. The fountain operates seasonally. The festive opening takes place every year on April 30th at 9:00 PM, and the season ends with the last performances on October 31st.
During the season, an indescribable spectacle is offered daily every odd hour. Water jets shoot into the air from more than 250 nozzles, “dancing” in sync with classical and modern melodies. The musical repertoire is diverse, ranging from “Music for the Fountain” (composed specifically for the site by Petr Hapka) to world-famous classical works by Dvořák, Mozart, and Beethoven, as well as modern pieces by Ennio Morricone or Celine Dion. The evening performances at 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM are particularly impressive, when the water display is complemented by a colorful light projection.
Station 11: The Main Colonnade: A Cathedral of Iron and Glass
The Main Colonnade is the city’s landmark and a masterpiece of late 19th-century engineering. Built in 1889, it replaced an older, simpler predecessor to meet the increased demands of the sophisticated spa public. It was designed by Viennese architects Hans Miksch and Julian Niedzielski in the magnificent Neo-Baroque style.
The entire structure is made of cast iron. With a length of 119 meters, it is the longest colonnade in the Czech Republic. Stroll under its artistic ceiling with magnificent frescoes and feel like the spa guests of yesteryear. It provided guests with a weather-protected space to promenade between their drinking cures. This was the catwalk of high society—a place to see and be seen.
Station 12: Pavilion of the Cross Spring (Křížový pramen)
Our tour ends at the imposing Pavilion of the Cross Spring.
The current building was erected in 1912/13 and is a detailed reproduction of an earlier 19th-century Classicist temple. The Cross Spring itself is one of the oldest and most famous in the city; its use as a “sour spring” has been documented since 1750. But be careful: it is rich in Glauber’s salts, and its effect is… let’s say, powerful. A small sip, enjoyed with caution, is the crowning conclusion of our tour through the healing springs of Marienbad.
The pavilion is open to the public daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Other Sights in Marienbad
Colonnade of the Ferdinand Spring
Located slightly away from the bustling center in a quiet park is the Colonnade of the Ferdinand Spring. Architecturally, it is a magnificent example of spa architecture. The Classicist walkway invites you to linger. The spring itself is one of the oldest in Marienbad and is known for its highly mineralized, salty taste.
However, the real charm lies not in the taste of the water, but in the atmosphere. Even as we walked toward the magnificent building, I could imagine how spa guests once strolled there.
Park Boheminium
Situated on a hill on the edge of town, Park Boheminium allows visitors to embark on a journey through the Czech Republic in miniature. More than 70 detail-accurate models of significant Czech architectural and technical monuments, built to a scale of 1:25, are on display in the park. It is impressive to see the precision with which structures like Prague Castle or Karlštejn Castle have been recreated.
Russian Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir
The diversity of church buildings in Marienbad reflects the international composition of its spa guests. Particularly impressive is the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir. Built between 1900 and 1902 in the Russian-Byzantine style, it served the wealthy Russian aristocracy, who were among the spa’s most loyal guests.
Even from the outside, the building is an eye-catcher. The church’s floor plan is designed in the shape of a Greek cross. The magnificent interior features richly decorated iconostases and murals.
Anglican Church “Christ Church”
Another important place of worship is the Anglican Church “Christ Church,” dating from 1879. Built in the style of a romantic English country church using red brick, it radiates a warm and inviting tranquility. It was built on the initiative and with the funds of British spa guests. A memorial plaque commemorates the church visits of Edward VII between 1897 and 1909.
City Museum
The City Museum is located in the oldest surviving building in the spa district, the former “Golden Grape” inn, where Johann Wolfgang von Goethe stayed during his visits. T
he exhibitions are dedicated to city history, the development of balneology (spa medicine), and the many famous personalities who visited Marienbad. In addition to Goethe’s rooms, which have been preserved in their original state, the exhibits from the glamorous era of the spa industry—including a collection of spa cups and historical medical instruments—are particularly fascinating. A separate exhibition is dedicated to King Edward VII.
Fryderyk Chopin Monument
In the “Chopin House,” where the Polish composer stayed in 1836, there is now a memorial dedicated to his life and work. The exhibition provides information about Chopin’s stay in Bohemia and his ill-fated love for Maria Wodzińska.
Cable Car
Fancy a change of perspective? Float over the rooftops of the city in the nostalgic cable car! The ride is a small adventure in itself, and the view from above is simply breathtaking. The cable car itself is a technical curiosity and a relic from another time. Instead of individual gondolas, blocks of five coupled cabins operate here.
Monument to K. K. Reitenberger
Take a moment on the promenade to bow to the man who created this dream from a swamp: Karl Kaspar Reitenberger, Abbot of Tepl Monastery. Without his vision and energy, this marshy valley would likely never have become a world-famous spa resort.
The monument, created in 1879 by the Viennese sculptor Carl Kundmann, shows the abbot in a dignified pose, his gaze fixed upon his life’s work.
Our Liquid Insider Tip: When You Don’t Want Healing Water
or those who want to enjoy more than just the healthy, mineral-rich spring water in Marienbad, we recommend a visit to the Kronl Family Brewery. A small, cozy brewery taproom practically invites you to try one of the freshly brewed beers. These are produced directly on-site and, of course, served there as well.
When the weather is nice, you can sit at several tables in front of the pub. We found ourselves a shady spot and enjoyed the relaxation after a long walk.
During our visit, there were three different beers fresh from the tap. I chose a refreshing Sour Beer, which was perfect for the warm weather. The fruity red beer had a pleasant freshness and a note that wasn’t too acidic, and I really enjoyed it. Patrick chose a “Helles” (Lager). This beer had a pleasant, rounded, and not overly hoppy taste. It was wonderfully drinkable and excellent for quenching our thirst after the walk.
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