The spa town of Poděbrady is a picturesque place to live, but just as pleasant for outings, recreation and last but not least spa therapies and wellness relaxation activities. The town lies in the central Polabi region just under 50 km from Prague.
It boasts a rich history, which reaches back to the depths of the Middle Ages. Apart from reminders of its most famous era – the rule of king George of Poděbrady – in the town itself or its immediate surroundings you can find traces of the famous Slavnik Dynasty, King Ottokar II of Bohemia, or empress Maria Theresa. The first thing to strike a visitor to the town is the castle, the oldest and most famous monument in Poděbrady, which looks down on the river Elbe and decorates George’s Square. It is impossible to overlook the monumental statue of King Geoirge atop a horse in front of the gates of the castle, created by the famous sculptor Bohuslav Schnirch. Another famous landmark is the Church of the Exalted Holy Cross, which was built in the 14th Century and houses the tomb of George of Poděbrady’s first wife - Kunigunde of Sternberg. The recent history of the town is closely associated with spa therapy. The discovery of the first mineral spring in 1905 transformed this sleepy little agricultural town into a popular health resort.
The health resort park, which was progressively built in several stages and is located in the very centre of the town, is now deservedly the pride of Poděbrady and is admired by hundreds of health resort guests and visitors to the town.
Poděbrady is also a synonym for the beautiful countryside of the Polabí lowlands, which was made for tourist outings and cycling trips. The ride along the well-maintained cycle paths around the town, either cycling or skating, attracts more and more visitors each year from all age groups. Visitors on foot will no doubt be pleased by the relaxing walks through the riparian forest along the river Elbe. To travelling to the junction of the Elbe and Cidlina, you can take the mini road train (a favourite among children) or the river tourboat King George. That not only goes to the junction, but also along the river to nearby Nymburk.
Each year new events occur in Poděbrady that enhance the tourist and spa season and attract the attention of its residents and visitors. One of the most significant is without a doubt the annual inauguration of spa season, inauguration of karting season, the historical celebrations of King George, the final of the national majorette championships or the Femad theatrical festival.
Welcome to Poděbrady and take your pick from the wide selection of attractions.