A Quick Look at Becherovka History

Before you start your tour, it helps to know the basics. The drink was first sold as a stomach tonic. Jan Becher turned his father's recipe into a successful business. He built the first large factory in the mid-19th century. His descendants continued the work for generations.

Here are some quick picks for your Becherovka-themed trip:

• Best Overall: Jan Becher Museum
• Best for Families: Diana Lookout Tower
• Best Rainy-Day: Moser Glassworks
• Best Free Sight: The Mill Colonnade

The recipe remains a closely guarded secret today. Only two people in the world know the exact blend of herbs. This mystery adds to the allure of the brand. You can taste the history in every glass you pour.

Top 10 Sights for Becherovka Fans

To truly understand the history of Jan Becher and Becherovka liqueur, you must visit these locations. Each spot reveals a different piece of the puzzle. From the original factory to the grand hotels, the brand is everywhere. Make sure to check Becherovka tasting tour prices and reservations before you go. Most of these sites are within walking distance of the city center.

1. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: This is the most important site for fans. It is located in the original factory building. You can see the old cellars and production equipment. Best for: History lovers. Where: T. G. Masaryka Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the bus station. Tip: The gift shop sells exclusive bottle sizes you cannot find elsewhere.
2. Name: Becher's Villa Type: Iconic sight Why go: This beautiful building was the family home. It showcases the wealth and influence the Becher family gained. It is an architectural gem of the late 19th century. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Westend district. Time: 30 minutes (exterior view). Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Take a local bus to the Westend stop. Tip: The surrounding neighborhood is perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll.
3. Name: The "13th Spring" Fountain Type: Experience Why go: This modern fountain celebrates the liqueur's nickname. It is a popular photo spot for tourists. It symbolizes the drink's status alongside the city's natural springs. Best for: Quick photos. Where: Near the museum entrance. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right outside the Jan Becher Museum. Tip: Visit at night when the fountain is often lit up.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. While it focuses on mineral water, it is part of the spa culture Becherovka serves. Many people drink Becherovka here after their spa treatments. Best for: Relaxing. Where: City center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the Tepla river. Tip: Read the Karlovy Vary colonnades guide to learn about the springs.
5. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Experience Why go: This hotel has served Becherovka to celebrities for over a century. It represents the high-society history of the drink. The Becher's Bar inside is legendary. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1-2 hours for a drink. Cost: High. Getting there: Walk or take a taxi to the end of the promenade. Tip: Dress smartly if you plan to visit the historic bar.
6. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Becherovka is often served in specific Moser glass. The two brands share a long history of craftsmanship. You can see how the famous green bottles were influenced by local glassmaking. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Check the blowing room schedule to see glassmakers in action.
7. Name: Diana Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best view of the city where Becherovka was born. You can see the entire valley from the top. It provides perspective on the city's layout. Best for: Nature and views. Where: Friendship Heights. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the funicular from behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths to see hidden monuments.
8. Name: T. G. Masaryka Street Type: Neighborhood Why go: This is the main shopping street. It is where Jan Becher first expanded his commercial reach. You will find many shops dedicated to the liqueur here. Best for: Shopping. Where: Commercial center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: It connects the spa zone to the residential area. Tip: Look for the "Becherplatz" area for a traditional Czech meal.
9. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: This medieval castle is just 15 minutes away. The Becher family often hosted guests in this scenic town. It shows the regional history beyond the spa center. Best for: History buffs. Where: Loket town. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local train or bus from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Try the local beer in Loket to compare it with the herbal liqueur.
10. Name: Svatoš Rocks Type: Nature Why go: These granite formations are a local natural wonder. It is a great place to see the herbs that might go into the secret recipe. The area is peaceful and beautiful. Best for: Hikers. Where: Along the Ohře river. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cycle or hike from the Doubí district. Tip: There is a small restaurant nearby for a traditional lunch.

Tips for Exploring Jan Becher's Legacy

Planning your trip is easy with a few simple tips. Most people visit Karlovy Vary in the summer. However, the museum is a great indoor activity for winter. You should always buy Becherovka from official shops to ensure quality. The original flavor is the most famous, but try the Lemond version too.

The city is very walkable for most visitors. If you arrive by train, the Karlovy Vary railway station is nearby. Public transport is reliable and affordable for longer trips. Always carry a small amount of local currency for small shops. Most people in the tourism industry speak English well.

Respect the local spa rules when visiting colonnades. Do not use the herbal liqueur to replace the medicinal waters. Both have their place in the city's culture. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historic Bohemian destination.