In Podebrady, spa town history, culture and waterside experiences come together. Poděbradka is a natural mineral water and a natural healing spring used by the town’s spa facilities. Lázeňský Park is at the heart of the spa facilities and invites visitors to take a stroll. This offers several ways to plan your visit: the spa park and mineral springs, the castle and museum, or the lake and activities along the Elbe.
Spa town, park and water
Lázeňský Park is a specific place to start a stroll in the spa town. Another mineral spring, Boček, is located in the Libenského Colonnade. At Poděbrady Lake, water takes on a different character: the sandy lake, with its grassy areas, is close to the town centre. Rowboats and pedal boats are available to rent there.
Stand-up paddleboarding is also possible on the lake: the paddleboard rental service offers a wide selection of boards for beginners and experienced paddlers. Availability and selection may vary by season, so check in advance if you plan to rent a board. Visitors can also take a trip on the “Král Jiří” excursion boat for a scenic ride. As schedules may change, it is advisable to check the latest departure times.
The lake, boat rentals and excursion boat offer different ways to experience the water. The spa park, in contrast, is a place for a peaceful stroll. When planning your trip, you can decide whether to focus more on waterside activities or on the spa town atmosphere.
Castle, museum and local history
Poděbrady Castle originated as an early Gothic castle built in the second half of the 13th century. The Památník krále Jiřího z Poděbrad is located in the oldest part of the medieval castle. The castle complex also includes a memorial to King George of Poděbrady and exhibitions about his life and legacy. The castle, memorial and exhibitions offer different ways to explore the town’s history.
At the Polabské Museum, the permanent exhibition “Příběh Polabí” explores life in the Elbe region during the Bronze Age, Roman period and Migration Period. The visit also includes hands-on activities: visitors can mint a souvenir denarius and try grinding with prehistoric querns and drilling into the head of a stone axe in the play area. The exhibition thus combines historical topics with opportunities to try things out for yourself.
Another glimpse of the town’s history is offered by the Poděbrady floral clock, which dates from 1936. Using seedlings, it displays the current date as well as the time. The Film Legends Museum is located right in the town centre. If you plan to visit, check its current opening status in advance.
The Ludvík Kuba Gallery offers art exhibitions and the guided tour “Na Rozcestí” with Adam Jílek. Exhibition titles and event dates may change, so check the latest schedule if you are planning a visit. This makes it possible to explore art and the historical themes of the castle and museum as distinct cultural highlights.
Cycling route and accommodation options
The Elbe Cycle Route from Kolín to Podebrady follows the Elbe and the Cidlina and ends at the spa promenade in Podebrady. This named route gives cyclists a specific point of reference for planning: it follows two rivers and ends at a clearly designated destination in town. Those who prefer to plan their stay around culture can focus on the castle, memorial and museum, while the lake, rental options and a ride on the “Král Jiří” appeal to different interests.
Discover more destinations: Lysa Nad Labem, Semice, Sany, Mcely, Odřepsy, Rozdalovice, Chrást, Třebestovice
See the broader travel overview: Okres Nymburk.
