karlovy vary travel blog

A day trip to Karlovy Vary | The PERFECT one-day Itinerary

If you’re planning a day trip from Prague to Karlovy Vary, you’re in the right place. Karlovy Vary is a beautiful city, mostly known for its stunning architecture and for the film festival that takes place each year here.

When planning a trip to the Czech Republic, most tourists only think about Prague. Even though Prague is a beautiful city with a rich history, there are many smaller cities and villages in the Czech Republic that are worth to be visited and one of them is Karlovy Vary.

Every time I visit a new country, I aim to visit smaller cities too. Most of the time, I end up loving these destinations more than the touristy ones. The same happened with Karlovy Vary. I fell in love with Becherovka and this city’s architecture.

A world-renowned spa center, Karlovy Vary makes for the perfect day trip from Prague. Take the train or the bus and discover this stunning city and its incredible beauty. In this travel guide, I’ll share everything you need to know when planning a day trip to Karlovy Vary.

1. Is one day in Karlovy Vary enough?

Let’s put it this way, 24 hours in Karlovy Vary are enough to see what this city has to offer. However, if you’re visiting Karlovy Vary as a day trip from Prague, you’ll waste at least 5 hours on the road. You’ll be left with around 8 hours to explore the city (if you’re a morning person).

Even though the historical part of the city is not very big, there are many things to do in Karlovy Vary. There are several viewpoints, museums, churches and hot springs that are worth visiting.

If possible, I recommend traveling from Prague to Karlovy Vary in the evening. Book a night at a hotel in Karlovy Vary and start fresh the next morning. After a day of sightseeing, you can go back to Prague.

Also, to save some time, I recommend visiting Karlovy Vary in the summer, when days are longer. During winter, apart from the freezing temperatures, the sunset is pretty early.

2. Things to know before visiting Karlovy Vary

Here are a few things you should consider before visiting Karlovy Vary.

• Buy a ceramic sipping cup – you’ll see these ceramic cups in every souvenir shop. You can use them to drink water from the hot springs or you can buy them as souvenirs.
• Try the Karlovy Vary wafers – you can find these huge wafer disks in supermarkets or at local producers. They come in a variety of flavors and they’re simply delicious. A wafer costs around 0.5 EUR.
• Buy a bottle of Becherovka – one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the entire Czech Republic was first manufactured in Karlovy Vary.
• Avoid visiting Karlovy Vary during the International Film Festival – the festival takes place each year, usually in the first week of July. The city is extremely crowded during this time and prices are much higher.

3. How to get to Karlovy Vary from Prague

You have three transport options to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary. You can book a guided tour, take the train or the bus. When I visited Karlovy Vary, I chose the bus. It was fast, affordable and comfortable.

I’ll talk more about each of these options below.

Option 1 – Join a guided tour

If you want a hassle-free experience, I recommend booking a guided tour. Usually, these tours include transport from Prague to Karlovy Vary and back, an English-speaking guide and a predefined itinerary that all the tourists need to follow.

The downside is that you can’t decide the places you’ll visit or how much time you’ll spend at each of the tourist attractions on the itinerary. However, you won’t have to worry about researching things to do or booking transport.

Booking a guided tour is a good option for those who plan to spend only one day in Karlovy Vary. Here are some of the best tours, with excellent reviews:

• Karlovy Vary day trip from Prague – explore the historic town and enjoy a 3-course lunch
• Karlovy Vary day tour from Prague – includes stops at Moser Glass Shop, lunch, Marianske Lazne
• Day trip from Prague to Karlovy Vary – visit the colonnades, Moser Glass Factory and the historic town

Option 2 – Take the bus

If you don’t like guided tours and you’re looking for a DYI option to visit Karlovy Vary, I recommend taking the bus. There are several bus companies that operate the route Prague – Karlovy Vary with multiple buses per day.

The buses are very comfortable and reliable. Most of them have free WiFi and they all leave from Prague Florenc Bus Station, right next to the central railway station.

A one-way ticket costs around 6 EUR and the trip takes a little over 2 hours. Some companies that operate this route are Flixbus and Regiojet .

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Option 3 – Take the train

If I were you, I’d only choose the train if you get carsick. The trains are slower than buses and more expensive. The trip will take between 3 and 4 hours and a ticket can cost up to 12 EUR.

The first train departs from the Prague Main Railway Station at 05.18 am but for the latest schedule, check out this website .

4. Things to do in Karlovy Vary in one day – Itinerary

If you arrive early in the morning in Karlovy Vary, I recommend starting your day with a visit to the Moser Museum of Glass (open starting at 9 am). From the bus terminal, it’s a 30-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take the bus or a taxi.

If you arrive in Karlovy Vary later than 10 am, I recommend skipping the Museum of Glass and heading directly to the Becherovka Museum, located right near the bus terminal.

Moser Museum of Glass

One of the most insightful and entertaining places I visited during my Karlovy Vary day trip was the Moser Glass Museum. It gave me a deeper understanding of what goes on behind the closed doors of one of the most prestigious glass manufacturers in the world.

The visit comprised both the glassworks and the museum, offering a complete experience where I was completely absorbed by the craftsmanship and the talent needed to create such masterpieces. Inside the museum, there were hundreds of amazing examples of Moser crystal glass products.

• Opening hours – Sunday closed, Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm
• Entrance fee – 5 EUR

Becherovka Museum

Another place that you shouldn’t miss if you have one day in Karlovy Vary is the unusual Becherovka Museum, presenting the history of the prestigious herbal liquor, extremely well known in the Czech Republic. I had the chance to explore this small collection and learn more about the beginnings of the Becherovka, first created by a pharmacist in Karlovy Vary, all the way back into 1817.

The bittersweet liquor recipe is still a secret and only a few people know it. The old pharmacy was transformed into a modern museum. Once inside, I admired the old distillery and cellars, old bottles and other historical items. I also sampled the delicious liquor and I loved it. I have to admit, I also bought a few bottles for later.

• Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 12 pm and 12.30 pm to 5 pm
• Entrance fee – 7 EUR for adults, 5 EUR for children. More ticket options here .

Park Colonnade

As you make your way inside the Karlovy Vary old city center, you’ll pass by the beautiful Park Colonnade located in a beautiful park. During summer, the park is filled with stunning flowers and tourists looking for a place to find shade.

Park Colonnade is one of this city’s symbols and an important piece of history. I admired the Park Colonnade in all its glory and was impressed by the delicate and intricate cast iron architecture.

It’s a remnant of an old concert pavilion and restaurant hall (Blanensky Pavilion), opened at the end of the 19 th century. Today, it makes for a beautiful addition to the already spectacular town architecture.

• Opening hours – 24/7
• Entrance fee – free

Mill Colonnade

The colonnades of Karlovy Vary are definitely among its most interesting and beautiful characteristics. The Mill Colonnade was definitely my favorite, a beautiful example of late 19 th century architecture. It’s just a short walk away from Park Colonnade.

It was first built between 1871 and 1881, incorporating a few mineral springs and further expanded later on. Walking inside this over 130 meters-long masterpiece, I couldn’t help but notice the atmosphere created by the Corinthian columns and the beautiful reliefs on the walls.

If you want, you can drink water from one of the 5 springs inside Mill Colonnade. Be careful, the water is super-hot.

Market Colonnade

If you’re only spending one day in Karlovy Vary , I would recommend admiring all of the fabulous colonnades that adorn the elegant town. The delicate Market Colonnade was also built at the end of the 19 th century and restored several decades ago.

I was astonished by the rich details and the wood carvings inside this monument, with splendid Swiss-style architecture. The white colonnade stands on the site of the oldest spa in Karlovy Vary and houses three mineral springs inside.

Good to know – if you’re hungry, I recommend stopping at Promenada Restaurant , located right near the Market Colonnade. They serve delicious local dishes at decent prices.

St. Mary Magdalene’s Church

One of the most interesting attractions that you can visit in Karlovy Vary is the beautiful church of St. Mary Magdalene, located across the river from the Market Colonnade. Located in the center of town, close to the spa area, this high Baroque church features impressive architecture and prized works of art that can be admired inside, including the baroque altarpiece, statues and old furniture.

Built between 1733 and 1736, it’s considered one of the most important cultural sights in the country. If you can, I would also advise arranging a visit to the underground crypt, although it might not be an experience for everyone.

• Opening hours – click here

Grand Hotel Pupp

Follow the river for a few minutes until you reach the beautiful Grand Hotel Pupp. If you want a sweet snack, stop at Karlovarske trdlo and try their delicious chimney cakes. They have many varieties with lots of topping options.

A symbol of Karlovy Vary, Grand Hotel Pupp is one of the oldest establishments in town. The history of the hotel started in 1701, when it was built and known as the Saxon Hall, while the adjacent Czech Hall was built several years later. Along the centuries, the two were joined and expended, creating a legacy that stood the test of time.

The hotel itself started around the beginning of the 20 th century, later accommodating many movie stars and celebrities arriving in the city for the Karlovy Vary Film Festival. Nevertheless, its true international fame was brought by the movie Casino Royale from the James Bond saga.

Diana Observation Tower

For the best panorama of Karlovy Vary, I chose to take the funicular to the sensational Diana Observation Tower. The funicular is located right behind Grand Hotel Pupp. For more details about the schedule and ticket prices for the funicular, click here .

The tall tower sits on a hill near the center of town and can be reached by either following one of the walking paths uphill, or using the funicular. If you only have one day in Karlovy Vary, I recommend taking the funicular. It’s much faster.

The entrance to the observation tower is free. Once I got up, I was amazed by the superb views. The hill has been a popular hiking destination for centuries and after the tower and funicular were built, more travelers began to arrive and admire the unforgettable panorama.

• Opening hours – 9 am to 6 pm

When going back to the city, follow the path to the Deer Jump viewpoint. one of the oldest viewpoints in the city. The walk through the forest is super relaxing and once you reach the Chamois Statue, also known as the Leaping Stag, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

St. Peter and Paul Cathedral

When making your way back to the bus or train station, follow the road to St. Peter and Paul Cathedral. It’s the biggest and most important orthodox church in the entire Czech Republic.

Built at the end of 19 th century, this superb monument with Byzantine architecture was one of the highlights of my trip. Its elegant white silhouette is adorned with five golden plated cupolas, while the interior features beautiful oil-painted icons and a priceless wooden iconostasis.

The cathedral is located in a residential district, about 1 km away from the hot springs in the center of town. On the way, you’ll pass by stunning villas. I was amazed by their architecture and couldn’t resist photographing most of them.

5. Total budget for one day in Karlovy Vary

Below are the costs for one day in Karlovy Vary. They can vary depending on the season and transport options chosen.

• Bus from Prague and back – 12 EUR
• Moser Museum of Glass (optional) – 5 EUR
• Becherovka Museum – 7 EUR
• Funicular to Diana Observation Tower – 4 EUR
• Lunch & snacks – 20 EUR per person
• TOTAL (per person) – 48 EUR

6. Where to stay in Prague and Karlovy Vary

If you plan to visit Karlovy Vary as a day trip from Prague, I’ve shared the best hotels in the city below. Prague is a big city and finding a good hotel or guesthouse in a good area is very important. Below are a few options for every budget.

• Budget – Dream Hostel Prague – excellent location, modern design, great facilities, shared & private rooms, good amenities
• Mid-Range – Pytloun Boutique Hotel – excellent location, spacious & clean rooms, great amenities, breakfast included, friendly staff
• Luxury – The Grand Mark Prague – excellent location, luxurious rooms and details, fitness centre, excellent restaurant, excellent amenities

If you plan to spend one night in Karlovy Vary, to have more time to explore the city, here are the best hotels for every budget.

• Budget – Hotel Boston – good location, clean rooms, comfortable beds, friendly staff
• Mid-Range – Promenada Romantic Hotel – beautiful pool & sauna, excellent location, clean & spacious rooms, good amenities
• Luxury – Spa Hotel Imperial – excellent location, renowned spa facilities, sauna, fitness room, pool, breakfast included

7. Final thoughts

These are some of the top things to do in Karlovy Vary in one day. This city is simply stunning and the good part is that most of the tourist attractions are located within walking distance from each other.

Make sure to arrive in Karlovy Vary early in the morning and use your time wisely. Even though 2 days would be perfect to see all that Karlovy Vary has to offer, one day is enough to see the main sights.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below. May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

Lovely and helpful guide to Karlovy Vary! Thank you.

Did you think rent a car is a good idea?

yes, sure 🙂

Lovely itinerary for the day! Just one question: if we want to spend some time in one of the spas, which one is recommended? Thank you!

Four years ago, we missed KV on the drive from Prague to Munich for our fight back to USA. Not this time!!! Landing in Frankfurt and driving through Wurzburg, Nurenberg and staying overnight in Regensberg. Next day we will make the easy drive to KV and I have booked one night in an AirBNB. Modest, but very doable. Always thought this was a must-see city. If time permits, we would like to do a nice warm spa soak. That will knock out the soreness from the long flight. As with a previous poster, should you have a recommendation, that would be helpful.

You are living the dream. I am much, much older than you, but I’ve been blessed to visit about 20 countries around the world. I wish I had the time and money to visit another 20. But we will be spending 23 days in 6 countries on this trip. That is an easy travel pill to swallow. Thank you for what you do for fellow travelers. Frank

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18 Best things to do in Karlovy Vary: Travel Guide, History, Hotels & Restaurants

December 13, 2023 | Posted in: Czech Republic

Karlovy Vary, pronounced “kar-LOH-vee VAR-ee”, is a historically significant city in the western part of the Czech Republic. It is also known by its German name, “Karlsbad”, which translates to “Charles' Bath”, named after its founder, the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. Karlovy Vary has always been famous for its therapeutic hot springs and became a popular spa destination, especially during the 19th and 20th centuries. It was founded in the 14th century and then grew around its therapeutic springs, which have been sought after for their curative properties for centuries. As the city developed, it hosted numerous historical figures, including European royalty, artists and intellectuals. Today, the city's historic and cultural significance is evident in its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

The primary language spoken in Karlovy Vary is Czech. However, given the city's status as a top tourist destination, English and German are also commonly understood, especially in tourist areas. Visitors will often find that staff in hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions can communicate effectively in multiple languages, catering to the diverse range of tourists the city attracts annually. When it comes to transportation, Karlovy Vary is well-connected. While the city does not have a metro system, it has an efficient bus network, which makes it easy for visitors to navigate. Its layout is also conducive for walking, allowing tourists to explore its attractions on foot. For those seeking to venture beyond the city or arrive from afar, the Karlovy Vary Airport and well-maintained roadways offer convenient access.

Listed below are the things to do in Karlovy Vary.

• Diana Observation Tower. The Diana Observation Tower is a 40-meter brick observation tower built in 1914 atop Výšina přátelství (Friendship Height) in Karlovy Vary. It features a lookout platform at 35 meters, which can be reached by climbing stairs or an elevator. The complex includes a restaurant, mini zoo, trails and a funicular railway from the city center. From its outdoor observation deck, the tower offers 360-degree panoramic views over Karlovy Vary. There is no admission fee; visitors only pay for food, drinks, activities or the funicular railway.
• Goethe's Lookout Tower. Goethe's Lookout Tower is a 42-meter neo-Gothic brick observation tower atop Výšina věčného života (Height of Eternal Life). It offers panoramic views over Karlovy Vary from its 23.6-meter-high observation deck, which can be reached by climbing 165 interior steps. There is also a cafe and restaurant inside. The surrounding trails make it popular with hikers. There is no admission fee; visitors only pay for food and drinks.
• Mill Colonnade. The Mill Colonnade is a 142-meter neo-Renaissance colonnade built along the Teplá River in Karlovy Vary between 1871 and 1881. It features 124 Ionic columns and houses five mineral springs and a lookout tower. Visitors can taste the healing waters, admire the architecture, climb the tower for views and attend concerts/events. There is no admission fee, only charges for spring water mugs or events.
• Church of St. Mary Magdalene. A Roman Catholic church designed in Baroque style by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. The church features two steeples in the interior with monumental altarpieces, sculptures and frescoes. It also has an underground crypt ossuary. Visitors can tour the opulent interior and attend services. There is no admission fee; occasional concert tickets may have fees.
• Elizabeth's Spa. Elizabeth's Spa is a historic 112-meter colonnade and bath complex built in 1906 in neo-Renaissance style along the Teplá River. It contains five mineral water sources and features ornate corridors, a domed hall, treatment rooms and spring-fed pools. Visitors can walk through the elegant interiors and book spa treatments and baths. There are no admission fees, only charges for treatments, water or bathing services.
• Jan Becher Museum. The Jan Becher Museum sits in the building where Becherovka liqueur was first produced over 140 years ago in Karlovy Vary. Visitors can tour exhibits showcasing the history and production of the iconic Czech liquor. Guided tours include aging cellar views, a film and tastings. Tour ticket fees include tastings and bottle discounts.
• Grandhotel Pupp. The iconic luxury Grandhotel Pupp in Karlovy Vary was built 1896-1907 in neo-Baroque style. It has hosted royalty, celebrities and filmmakers in its 228 rooms and lavish interiors. Visitors can stay overnight, dine at restaurants, relax at the spa, attend events and explore the historic hotel. Visitors pay only if booking rooms, dining, using spa services or amenities.
• Moser Glass Museu. The Moser Glass Museum sits adjacent to the Moser Glassworks facility in Karlovy Vary. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the storied history of Moser lead-free crystal glassware and art. Highlights include watching glassblowers at work in the factory. Entry to the museum exhibit area costs €2 ($3, £1) per person.
• Dvořákovy Sady. Dvořákovy Sady is a scenic municipal park located in Karlovy Vary's spa zone, built 1877-1878. It features pathways, rose bushes, a pond, trees and a statue of Antonín Dvořák. Visitors can walk the paths, relax on the grass, enjoy the fountain, watch performers, etc. Entry and access to the park are free; visitors only pay for food/drinks.

1. Diana Observation Tower

The Diana Observation Tower is a 40-meter tall brick observation tower atop Výšina přátelství (Friendship Height) in the forests above Karlovy Vary. It was constructed between 1912 and 1914 according to plans by architect Anton Breinl and features a lookout platform at 35 meters high, reached by climbing 150 stairs or taking an elevator. The tower and surrounding complex include a restaurant, mini zoo, trails and a funicular railway leading up from the city center.

The Diana Observation Tower offers beautiful 360-degree panoramic views over Karlovy Vary and the surrounding landscapes from its viewing platform. Visitors can climb or take the elevator up the tower to reach the outdoor observation deck at 35 meters high and take in views spanning up to 70km on clear days. There is also a restaurant and mini zoo to visit. Visitors can additionally access the complex via a funicular railway from the city center or walk forested trails. The observation tower appeals to all visitors who can climb stairs or take the elevator. Families enjoy the mini zoo and restaurant. The trails cater to hikers and nature lovers. The views and history of the tower have broad appeal, making it a highlight for most tourists visiting Karlovy Vary. Entry to the Diana Observation Tower viewing platform is free. Visitors would only need to pay for food, drinks or activities like taking the funicular railway from the town.

2. Goethe's Lookout Tower

Goethe's Lookout Tower is a 42-meter-tall brick observation tower on Výšina věčného života (Height of Eternal Life) in the eastern part of Karlovy Vary. It sits at an elevation of 638 meters above sea level. The tower was constructed between 1888 and 1889 in a beautiful neo-Gothic style according to plans by famous Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer. It originally opened on July 21, 1889, as the Lookout Tower of Crown Princess Stephanie before being renamed. Since 1957 it has been called Goethe's Lookout Tower, named after German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who frequented the area for walks.

Goethe's Lookout Tower offers beautiful panoramic views over Karlovy Vary and the surrounding mountains from its observation platform, 23.6 meters above the ground. The tower is an impressive brick structure built in a neo-Gothic style. Visitors can climb the 165 steps inside the tower to reach the observation deck at the top and take in the views. There is also a cafe and restaurant inside for refreshments. Visitors can also walk on trails connecting to the tower through the surrounding spa forests. The tower is suitable for visitors of all ages who can manage the stairs. The surrounding trails also make it an excellent area for hikers. The views and cafe with desserts appeal to families and couples seeking sightseeing opportunities. Entrance to Goethe's Lookout Tower is free. Visitors only need to pay for any food or drinks purchased from the cafe/restaurant inside.

3. Mill Colonnade

The Mill Colonnade is an impressive neo-Renaissance colonnade along the Teplá River in the spa area of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. It was built between 1871 and 1881 by Czech architects Josef Zítek and Josef Schulz. It stretches 142 meters in length and is decorated with 124 Ionic columns. The colonnade houses five mineral springs and features a lookout tower at one end. Its roof is lined with 5,000 colorful glass tiles.

The Mill Colonnade is a neo-Renaissance architecture featuring 124 Ionic columns lining a promenade overlooking the river. Visitors to the Mill Colonnade can taste the healing waters from the five springs along the interior, take photos of the intricate architecture and climb the lookout tower for panoramic views over Karlovy Vary. The colonnade also hosts concerts and events. The colonnade appeals to all visitors, couples, families, tourists, etc. The springs and architecture make it an iconic landmark when visiting Karlovy Vary. There is no admission fee to walk through and access the Mill Colonnade. Visitors only pay if they purchase a mug to drink the healing spring waters. Concerts and events hosted at the colonnade may have ticket fees.

4. Church of Saint Mary Magdalene

The Church of Saint Mary Magdalene is a Roman Catholic church at the heart of the spa area of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. Designed by renowned Czech Baroque architect Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer, the impressive church was built between 1733 and 1736 on a former Gothic church site. It features two tall steeples and showcases an opulent Baroque style in its interior, including a monumental altarpiece. The church is also home to a unique underground crypt containing an ossuary with skeletal remains from an old cemetery.

The church is considered one of the most important Baroque monuments in the country. It displays the ornate styles of prominent Czech Baroque architect Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. The interior features a lavishly decorated altarpiece, sculptures and frescoes. Visitors can tour the church's opulent Baroque interior and view the altarpieces, sculptures and artwork. Guided tours of the underground crypt to see the ossuary are also available. Visitors can also attend Catholic mass services held regularly in the church. The church appeals to visitors interested in architecture, history and Baroque artwork. There is no admission fee to enter the main church area. Tickets for occasional concerts may have additional costs.

5. Elizabeth's Spa (Elisabethbad)

Elizabeth's Spa (Elisabethbad) is a historic colonnade and bath complex located along the Teplá River in the spa area of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. It was built in 1906 in an ornate neo-Renaissance style. The colonnade stretches 112 meters long and contains five different hot spring sources. The complex features beautiful arched corridors, an octagonal domed hall, treatment rooms and bathing pools fed by the springs. Elizabeth's Bath is named after Empress Elisabeth (“Sisi”) of Austria who frequented Karlovy Vary.

Elizabeth's Spa is renowned for its elegant colonnade architecture and the therapeutic hot springs housed inside. It contains five mineral water sources popular with historical aristocratic visitors. The complex also features beautifully preserved early 20th-century interiors. Visitors can walk through the ornate corridors and admire the architecture and decorative details. The complex houses treatment rooms where various spa therapies, massages and healing baths can be booked. The spa appeals to adult visitors seeking spa treatments or to see the historic building. There is no admission fee to enter and view Elizabeth's Spa colonnade. Visitors need to pay for spa treatments, massages or bathing services they book. There may also be charges for drinking the healing spring waters.

6. Jan Becher Museum

The Jan Becher Museum is located at T.G. Masaryka 282/57, 360 01 Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. It sits in the historic building where Becherovka liqueur was first distilled and manufactured for over 140 years in the heart of Karlovy Vary. The museum allows visitors to learn about the unique history and production of Becherovka, an herbal liquor that has become an iconic symbol of Czech culture.

Visitors can see the cellars where it was stored for aging, artifacts like historic bottles and labels and exhibits on its origins tied to Karlovy Vary. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the museum's exhibitions showcasing materials related to Becherovka's history and production. Tours allow you to view the aging cellars, see a film about the liqueur and end with a tasting of different Becherovka products at the bar. There is also a shop to buy bottles. The museum appeals to adults interested in Czech culture, food and spirits. The tasting aspect also draws culinary travelers. Guided tours have ticket fees ranging from basic tours to exclusive tours. Tour fees include tastings and discounts on bottle purchases.

7. Grandhotel Pupp

The Grandhotel Pupp is an iconic luxury hotel located in the heart of the spa area of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. It was built between 1896 and 1907 in the neo-Baroque style and has a long history of hosting aristocracy, celebrities and filmmakers. Its impressive facade overlooks tree-lined promenades, houses over 228 rooms, multiple restaurants, a cafe, a wellness center and conference spaces.

The Grandhotel Pupp is renowned for its historic architecture and elegant interiors in a prime location. It has welcomed famous guests like kings, aristocrats, artists and filmmakers over its 100+ year history. The 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale featured parts of the hotel. Visitors can stay overnight in the lavish rooms and suites, dine at the hotel's restaurants, enjoy afternoon tea or drinks at the cafe, relax at the spa and wellness center, attend events in the conference rooms and explore the historic interiors. The 5-star luxury hotel appeals primarily to solo travelers, families, couples seeking a romantic stay and those interested in history. There are no admission fees to enter the Grandhotel Pupp. Visitors would need to pay if booking a guest room, dining at one of the restaurants or cafes or using the spa services. Visitors can explore the public areas free of charge.

8. Moser Glass Museum

The Moser Glass Museum is located at Kapitána Jaroše 46/19, 360 06 Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. It sits adjacent to the active Moser glassworks facility on the outskirts of the town of Karlovy Vary, home to Moser since 1893.

Moser Glass Museum offers the opportunity to learn about the intricate craft of Bohemian lead-free crystal glassmaking. Visitors can discover the factory's history, view over 2,000 Moser glass pieces and even watch master glassmakers at work. Exhibits trace the development of glassmaking techniques and the Moser family's influence, from founder Ludwig Moser to today. The museum also showcases the company's collaborations with renowned designers that brought Moser worldwide acclaim. Visitors can take a self-guided audio tour to view the extensive galleries at their own pace. Tours of the adjacent glassworks are also available to observe glassblowers, engravers, cutters and other artisans practicing their craft on site. The museum complex includes a gift shop selling Moser crystal artworks, jewelry, tableware and more. Demonstrations, hands-on workshops and seasonal events offer visitors chances to engage with glassmaking firsthand. The museum appeals to varied audiences beyond typical museum-goers. Glass art enthusiasts appreciate the fine crystal pieces. Design lovers study the evolution of style over the decades. Aspiring artists discover inspiration. Families enjoy the craft demonstrations. Tourists seek an authentic local experience highlighting Bohemian heritage.

Entry to the Moser Glass Museum exhibit area costs €2 ($3, £1) per person. The museum is open daily 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours in summer. The Moser Glass Museum in Karlovy Vary offers a glimpse into the captivating world of Bohemian lead-free crystal.

9. Dvořákovy Sady

Dvořákovy Sady is a public municipal park located at the spa zone between the Thermal Hotel and the Park Colonnade in Karlovy Vary. It was built between 1877 and 1878 on the site of a former garden and designed by landscape architect Jan Hahmann. It features pathways, rose bushes, a pond and trees like plane, oak, maple and elm. It was renamed Dvořákovy Sady after famous Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, whose statue stands in the park.

Dvořákovy Sady has a landscape design featuring pathways, pyramid-shaped rose bushes, a pond and trees, providing a green oasis at the start of Karlovy Vary's spa zone. It also contains two protected centuries-old plane trees. Visitors can walk along the park's paths, view the statue of Antonín Dvořák, see the monumental plane trees, relax on the grass, enjoy the pond and fountain, play games like petanque or frisbee on the lawns and watch street performers and musicians near the park. The park appeals to all visitors, couples, families, tourists, etc. Its scenic setting and pathways are ideal for casual walks and relaxation. Its central location makes it a popular spot. Entry and access to Dvořákovy Sady Park is free. Visitors only need to pay for food or drinks from nearby cafes or restaurants.

10. Loket Castle

Loket Castle is a 13th-century Gothic castle perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the town of Loket and the Ohře River in the Karlovy Vary Region. The castle has a long and rich history, serving as a royal residence and later a prison before opening as a museum in 1956. The castle is renowned for its architecture of palaces, towers, fortifications and clifftop setting with panoramic views.

The castle is considered one of Central Europe's best-preserved and most beautiful medieval castles. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle's interior to see the various palaces, chambers, dungeons and museum exhibits of weapons/artifacts and admire views from the towers. The castle hosts concerts, theater performances, markets and medieval-themed events. There are also scenic trails along the cliffs. The castle appeals to history and architecture buffs of all ages. The cliffside setting and towers impress most visitors. Access to castle grounds and certain areas may be free, but full access requires paid guided tour tickets. Some events hosted at the castle may have additional fees.

11. Karlovy Vary City Theatre

The Karlovy Vary City Theatre is a beautiful neo-Baroque theater in the heart of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. It was built between 1884 and 1886 by renowned Austrian architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, the theater is renowned for its ornate interior decorations, including a monumental curtain painted by Gustav Klimt along with frescoes and sculptures. It houses over 700 seats and stages a wide repertoire of plays, musicals, operas and concerts.

The theater is considered an architectural and artistic masterpiece, renowned for its beautiful neo-Baroque facade and exceptionally ornate interior decorations by prominent artists like Gustav Klimt. The painted stage curtain is regarded as one of Klimt's early masterpieces. The frescoes, sculptures and chandeliers also showcase high-quality artistry. Visitors can admire the architecture and lavish artwork inside the theater, take a guided tour to learn more about the history and symbolism, attend a performance of plays, musical theater, opera or a concert, dine at the theater's restaurant or cafe and explore the rest of the historic spa district right nearby.

The theater appeals to visitors interested in architecture, art and culture. Its repertoire of dramas, comedies, musicals, operas and concerts draws a range of audiences from adults, couples and families. Ticket prices vary depending on the performance. Special cultural events hosted at the theater may have separate pricing.

12. Muzeum Karlovy Vary

The Muzeum Karlovy Vary is a museum in the spa town of Karlovy Vary. It is housed in a historic building from the 19th century. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions related to the history and development of Karlovy Vary as a world-famous spa destination. Exhibits showcase the importance of local mineral springs, spa culture and architecture over the centuries.

The Museum Karlovy Vary provides important insights into the evolution of the town into a popular spa resort frequented by royalty and celebrities over many centuries. Visitors can explore chronological exhibits related to the spa history of Karlovy Vary and the importance of its mineral springs. Artifacts, artwork, photos and models showcase landmarks, architecture and spa culture from various eras. The museum would appeal to visitors of regional history, art and culture. Adults interested in architecture, spa culture and local glassmaking history would find it engaging. Some interactive displays on school group tours could also interest older children. Entry to the permanent collection of the Karlovy Vary Museum costs €2 ($3, £1) per person. Guided tour packages are also available and children under 6 are free to enter.

13. Carlsbad Plaza Medical Spa & Wellness Hotel

The Carlsbad Plaza Medical Spa & Wellness Hotel is a luxury hotel and spa in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. The historic building was carefully renovated to offer modern amenities while retaining its 19th-century facade and many original details. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites, onsite dining options focused on healthy cuisine, along with conference facilities. The spa specializes in medical and wellness treatments utilizing the region's mineral waters.

The hotel combines upscale accommodations with extensive spa and wellness offerings focused on balneology, utilizing Karlovy Vary's mineral waters and natural resources. Its historic building was carefully modernized to retain original 19th-century details. The spa has a medical focus and specializes in treatment programs.

Visitors can stay in the stylish rooms and suites, dine at the hotel's healthy cuisine restaurants, enjoy spa treatments and therapies, use pools, saunas and relaxation areas, attend events/conferences and explore the historic building. Spa programs focus on medical care, detox, weight loss, beauty and relaxation. The caters primarily to adult travelers and couples, including those seeking specialized medical spa treatments. Its upscale accommodations and dining also attract leisure travelers. The small pets policy makes it family-friendly. There are no admission fees to enter the hotel. Guests must pay to stay in rooms, utilize spa services, dine in restaurants or attend events/conferences. Spa treatment prices vary widely based on medical consultations.

14. Market Colonnade

The Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda) is located in the town of Karlovy Vary. The richly decorated wooden colonnade was constructed between 1882 and 1883 in the Swiss chalet style. It was designed by renowned Austrian architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, who were behind many of the spa town’s iconic buildings.

Market Colonnade features intricate woodcarvings and lace-like motifs adorning the exterior. Inside, the colonnade houses three hot mineral springs – the Charles IV Spring, Lower Castle Spring and Market Spring. The Charles IV Spring is notable in legend for its purported healing properties that drew Bohemian King Charles IV there. A bronze relief sculpture depicting the story of the springs’ discovery hangs above it.

Visitors to the Market Colonnade can taste the thermal waters of the three springs inside or simply admire the decorative building from benches lining the walkway. The adjacent market square also offers shops, restaurants and people watching. Guided walking tours of Karlovy Vary often make a stop here to discuss the history and architectural significance of the site where some of the area's first baths were established. Market Colonnade appeals to a range of visitors to Karlovy Vary. Tour groups appreciate learning about its background and sampling the springs. Individual travelers enjoy its old-world charm. The central location makes it easy to incorporate into any itinerary. Even those not partaking of spa treatments find the landmark colonnade and lively square a highlight of this famous spa destination. Access to the Market Colonnade and its springs is free and open to the public year-round.

15. Columnata Thermal (Vřídelní kolonáda)

The Columnata Thermal (Vřídelní kolonáda) is a modern glass and reinforced concrete colonnade built in a Functionalistic style in 1975 that arches over the Hot Spring (Vřídlo) in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. The current colonnade structure is the third building on the site, replacing earlier colonnades from 1826 and 1878.

The Columnata Thermal features the famous Vřídlo Hot Spring, whose geyser shoots up to 12 meters high in water. The modern colonnade structure also arches over additional spring bowls for drinking cures. Its location in the heart of Karlovy Vary's spa district makes it an iconic landmark. Visitors can see the geyser fountain of the Hot Spring and drink from or fill bottles with the therapeutic mineral water from the labeled spring bowls inside the colonnade hall. The Columnata Thermal appeals to all visitors, tourists, families, couples, spa guests, etc. The central location of Coloumnata Thermal and its famous springs make it a must-see attraction. Drinking the water is also believed to have health benefits, drawing many visitors. There is no admission fee to enter the Columnata Thermal colonnade structure. Visitors can access the promenade area and see the springs at no cost. There are fees to purchase souvenir mugs for drinking the mineral waters.

16. Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral in Karlovy Vary

The Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral in Karlovy Vary is the largest and most important Russian Orthodox church in the Czech Republic. The ornate Byzantine-style church has five golden domes and was designed by architect Gustav Wiedermann. The opulent interior features a majolica iconostasis decorated with icons of saints, murals on the walls and other Russian Orthodox elements. It was constructed with funds from wealthy Russian visitors to Karlovy Vary.

Visitors can tour the ornate interior and see elements like the wooden iconostasis, saint murals and Russian Orthodox artwork. They can light candles, attend services when held or admire the architecture. Visiting provides insights into Karlovy Vary's spa history and Russian influence. The cathedral appeals to visitors interested in Russian architecture, Orthodox churches, Czech history and 19th-century spa culture tied to the aristocracy. Its ornate interior also draws those appreciating Byzantine styles and sacred artwork. There is no admission fee required to enter and view the cathedral. Visitors can access the church area at no cost daily during open hours. Any optional guided tour packages would have separate pricing. Visitors may pay small amounts in donation boxes or light candles inside.

17. Jeleni Skok Deer Leap

Jeleni Skok (Deer Leap) is a natural monument in Jelení vrch Nature Reserve at Karlovy Vary. It features a scenic outlook atop a sandstone rock wall towering 132 meters above the valley. The chasm was created when a deer escaped hunters by leaping across the rocks. The sandstone rock walls and scenic overlook have drawn visitors since the 19th century.

Jeleni Skok features dramatic natural sandstone formations towering over 130 meters above the Ploučnice River valley below. The cliffside location provides visitors with panoramic vistas over forests and rock formations. The site also has legendary ties to a deer said to have leaped across the rocks while being hunted. Visitors can walk out onto the observation decks extending over the cliff to admire views of the valley and forested landscape below. There is also a network of trails throughout the Jelení vrch Nature Reserve that can be hiked. The most popular trail leads from Diana Chata restaurant to the Deer Leap overlook. Jeleni Skok appeals to visitors of all ages who can safely access the deck/trails. The scenic views and interesting legend would interest families, hikers, nature lovers and anyone looking for an easy forested walk with a reward of dramatic vistas of the valley below. No admission fees are required to access Jeleni Skok and the overlook deck/trails. Visitors would only need to pay for food or drinks if visiting the nearby Diana Chata restaurant.

18. Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) is held annually in July in the spa town of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. The festival takes place at various venues around the town, with the Thermal Hotel serving as the main festival center. KVIFF rich history spanning more than half a century, andis one of the oldest film festivals in the world. First held in 1946 alongside the Moscow International Film Festival, KVIFF quickly established itself as a premier event promoting cinematic arts in Central and Eastern Europe during the Communist era. Today it continues to highlight both international and Czech filmmaking talent through competitive and non-competitive programming.

Visitors to KVIFF can attend screenings, premieres, press conferences and parties with VIP guests. There are competitions for feature films, documentaries and student shorts. The industry program facilitates networking and presentations for film professionals. There is also an accompanying market selling film rights. Fans may spot celebrities on the red carpet or around town. The picturesque spa setting and numerous special events create a glamorous atmosphere unique to KVIFF. KVIFF draws a relatively diverse audience given its small size. It attracts Czech and international filmmakers, critics, distributors and other industry members. Movie buffs and tourists come for screenings and celebrity sightings. Some attend gala parties and network over drinks at Thermal's bars. Students jump at opportunities to volunteer. Access to most festival events requires accreditation or tickets.

What are the best museums to visit in Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the best museums to visit in Karlovy Vary.

• Muzeum Karlovy Vary. The Muzeum Karlovy Vary is a museum in the spa town of Karlovy Vary. It is housed in a historic building from the 19th century. It features permanent and temporary exhibitions related to the history and development of Karlovy Vary as a world-famous spa destination. The museum provides important insights into the evolution of the town into a popular spa resort frequented by royalty and celebrities over many centuries.
• Loket Castle. Locket Castle is a 13th-century Gothic castle perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the town of Loket and the Ohře River in the Karlovy Vary Region. The castle has a long and rich history, serving as a royal residence and later a prison before opening as a museum in 1956. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle's interior to see the various palaces, chambers, dungeons and museum exhibits of weapons/artifacts and admire views from the towers.
• Moser Glass Museum. The Moser Glass Museum is located at Kapitána Jaroše 46/19, 360 06 Karlovy Vary. The museum allows visitors to learn about Moser's storied history of producing lead-free crystal glassware and art. Exhibits feature rare historic pieces, glassmaking methods and design evolution. Visitors can watch glassblowers at work through a window into the operational factory.
• Jan Becher Museum. Jan Becher Museum sits in the historic building where Becherovka liqueur was first distilled and manufactured for over 140 years in the heart of Karlovy Vary. The museum allows visitors to learn about the unique history and production of Becherovka, a herbal liquor that has become an iconic symbol of Czech culture. Visitors can see the cellars where it was stored for aging, artifacts like historic bottles and labels and exhibits on its origins tied to Karlovy Vary.

What are the best things to do in Karlovy Vary with kids?

Listed below are the best things to do in Karlovy Vary with kids.

• Diana Observation Tower. The Diana Observation Tower sits atop Výšina přátelství overlooking Karlovy Vary, built in 1914. Kids can ride the funicular railway up the hill and climb the tower's 150 stairs to reach the outdoor viewing deck at 35 meters high to enjoy panoramic views. Kids can explore the mini zoo to see small animals or play at the park and playground areas surrounding the complex before taking the railway back down. The restaurant also allows families to enjoy a meal with a view.
• Teplá River and Colonnades. Teplá River and Colonnades is a spa district along the Teplá River that features scenic paths bordered by historical colonnades like the impressive Mill Colonnade, which kids can walk through. Kids can taste mineral spring waters with alleged healing properties or peek inside the Mill Colonnade’s orange fountain as they explore the lively promenade. Families can climb the lookout tower, which provides views over red-roofed spa buildings along the river.
• Alžbětiny Lázně Aqua Park. Alžbětiny Lázně Aqua Park features waterslides, a river, bubble pools, a playground, indoor mini golf and dining, Alžbětiny Lázně Aqua Park offers 5500 meters of family fun. Kids can zigzag down thrilling slides before floating along the heated lazy river or battling mini golf holes while parents relax poolside. The huge complex provides hours of recreation suited for energetic kids and families.

What are the best activities for a business traveler in Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the best activities for a business traveler in Karlovy Vary.

• Attend conferences/events at facilities like the Grandhotel Pupp. The Grandhotel Pupp is an iconic luxury hotel in the heart of Karlovy Vary's spa district. Its elegant and historic setting makes it a prime venue for business conferences and events. Attending these allows business travelers to network, exchange ideas and conduct meetings with others in their industry from across the region or globally.
• Visit Moser Glassworks. Visit Moser Glassworks to see glassblowing demonstrations and learn about the storied local glassmaking industry. The Moser Glass Museum, located next to the active glass factory, provides an inside look at Karlovy Vary's tradition of glass production. Watching master artisans at work reshaping molten glass into fine crystalware gives business travelers a unique understanding of intricate Czech craftwork. The museum's exhibits on Moser's over 150-year history also showcase local culture.
• Play golf at one of Karlovy Vary's golf courses, such as the Cihelny Golf Resort. The Cihelny Golf Resort offers an 18-hole championship golf course in Karlovy Vary. Golfing allows business travelers to bond with colleagues over a shared passion or discuss opportunities in an informal outdoor setting. The relaxed atmosphere is conducive to relationship building.
• Tour local landmarks like the Hot Spring Colonnade. The Hot Spring Colonnade contains springs whose mineral-rich waters drew aristocracy to Karlovy Vary since the 14th century. Understanding this history by exploring the city's iconic landmarks provides business visitors with a nuanced appreciation of Karlovy Vary's role as a luxury wellness retreat.
• Book a treatment at a luxury spa, like the Carlsbad Medical Spa & Wellness Hotel. The Carlsbad Medical Spa & Wellness Hotel in Karlovy Vary provides a contemporary upscale setting for an array of specialized spa and medical therapies. Immersing in essential oil massages or mineral baths between business responsibilities enables visitors to achieve mental clarity and physical wellness.

Where is Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary is located approximately 106 kilometers (66 miles) west of Prague, Czech Republic. The name “Karlovy Vary” translates to “Charles' Baths” in English and it was informally referred to as “Warmbad”, signifying its hot spring baths. Karlovy Vary is positioned at the meeting of the Ohře River, which flows through it, along with the Teplá and Rolava rivers. The northern part of Karlovy Vary, where most of the urban development is located, rests in the flat terrain of the Sokolov Basin. On the other hand, the southern portion, encompassing the Teplá River valley, resides within the hilly landscape of the Slavkov Forest and the protected landscape area bearing the same name. The highest point in the area is Vítkův vrch Hill, which stands at an elevation of 642 meters (2,106 feet) above sea level.

What is the history of Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary has a history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of a late Bronze Age fortified settlement discovered in Drahovice. Slavic settlements existed in Tašovice and Sedlec during the 13th century, indicating early recognition of the therapeutic properties of its thermal springs. In the late 12th and early 13th centuries, German settlers arrived, contributing to the region's economic growth, eventually leading to the emergence of Karlovy Vary as a German-speaking town. Legend has it that Emperor Charles IV stumbled upon a hot spring during a forest expedition near Loket, leading to the establishment of a spa in 1349. The town received its name, “Karlovy Vary”, in honor of the emperor, with official town privileges granted in 1370.

During the 19th century, Karlovy Vary evolved into a popular spa destination, attracting European aristocracy and celebrities. The completion of railway lines from Prague to Cheb in 1870 boosted its popularity, with visitor numbers surging. However, World War I disrupted tourism significantly. After the war, in 1918, Karlovy Vary's German-speaking population was incorporated into Czechoslovakia, leading to protests and, in some instances, violent clashes. By 1930, Karlovy Vary had a diverse population, predominantly of German ethnicity.

The aftermath of World War II brought significant changes as the Sudetenland, including Karlovy Vary, became part of Nazi Germany in 1938. Post-war, the Potsdam Agreement led to the expulsion of most German-speaking inhabitants and the confiscation of their property. Karlovy Vary's history also saw the increasing presence of Russian businesses after the fall of Communism in Czechoslovakia in 1989 and the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, contributing to its evolving identity in more recent times.

What language is spoken in Karlovy Vary?

The primary language spoken in Karlovy Vary is Czech. As part of the Czech Republic, the country's official language is Czech and it is the most commonly used language for communication in Karlovy Vary and throughout the nation. Czech is the language of education, administration and daily life for most of Karlovy Vary's residents and visitors. Additionally, due to its history as a spa town and a popular tourist destination, some residents and service personnel may also speak English and German to cater to the needs of international tourists. These languages are often used in the hospitality and tourism industry to accommodate the diverse linguistic backgrounds of visitors, but Czech remains the dominant language in the city.

What timezone is Karlovy Vary on?

Karlovy Vary is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), UTC+1 (Coordinated Universal Time plus one hour). This timezone is standard for most of the Czech Republic during the non-daylight saving period. During daylight saving time, which typically starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October, Karlovy Vary and the rest of the Czech Republic move their clocks forward by one hour, shifting to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2. This adjustment aligns with the goal of maximizing daylight during the longer days of summer.

How many people live in Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary has a total population of 108,705 residents. This population is divided between 53,625 males and 55,080 females, showing a slight predominance of females over males in the city's demographic distribution. In terms of age groups, the city's younger population, aged between 0 to 14 years, accounts for 16,024 individuals. The largest age group falls in the 15 to 64 years range, comprising 68,387 people. Lastly, the senior segment, those aged 65 years and above, consists of 24,294 residents.

What are the neighborhoods of Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the neighborhoods of Karlovy Vary.

• Meierhöfen. Meierhöfen is on the northwest of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is primarily residential, known for its quiet atmosphere and proximity to natural areas, making it desirable for those seeking a peaceful living environment. Meierhöfen is approximately 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) from the city center and does not feature major tourist attractions.
• Sedlec. Sedlec is located northeast of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is known for the Sedlec Abbey, a historic monastery with a beautiful church. It's also home to the Sedlec Ossuary, which is a unique and somewhat frightening attraction featuring an interior filled with human bones. Sedlec has a mix of residential and tourist-oriented facilities and is about 3 kilometers (approximately 1.9 miles) from the city center.
• Stará Role. Stará Role is on the west of Karlovy Vary's city center. It offers a mix of residential areas and green spaces. It is home to the Golf Resort Karlovy Vary, which is a popular destination for golf lovers. Stará Role also has some historic buildings and churches and it is roughly 4 kilometers (approximately 2.5 miles) from the city center.
• Cihelny. Cihelny is located south of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is known for its Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort, which offers golfing facilities and wellness services. It's a peaceful neighborhood with some residential developments and recreational opportunities. Cihelny is around 7 kilometers (approximately 4.3 miles) from the city center.
• Hůrky. Hůrky is situated southwest of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is a primarily residential area with a quieter atmosphere compared to the city center. Hůrky does not have many notable tourist attractions but offers a peaceful living environment. Hůrky is approximately 5 kilometers (about 3.1 miles) from the city center.
• Čankov. Čankov is located north of Karlovy Vary's city center. It primarily consists of residential areas and offers a quieter living environment away from the City. Čankov is approximately 5 kilometers (about 3.1 miles) from the city center.
• Rybáře. Rybáře is situated to the north of Karlovy Vary's city center. It's a residential neighborhood with a mix of housing types. While it doesn't have prominent tourist attractions, it offers local amenities near the city center. Rybáře is roughly 3 kilometers (approximately 1.9 miles) from the city center.
• Bražec. Bražec is located northwest of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is primarily residential, with some local shops and services. It offers a peaceful living environment and easy access to the city center. Bražec is approximately 3 kilometers (about 1.9 miles) from the city center.
• Drahovice. Drahovice is situated north of Karlovy Vary's city center. It's a residential area with a mix of housing types and local amenities. Drahovice doesn't feature major tourist attractions but offers convenient living conditions. Drahovice is roughly 3 kilometers (approximately 1.9 miles) from the city center.
• Rosnice. Rosnice is located west of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is primarily residential and is known for its quiet living conditions. It does not have significant tourist attractions but is within reach of the city center. Rosnice is approximately 5 kilometers (about 3.1 miles) from the city center.
• Weheditz. Weheditz is situated west of Karlovy Vary's city center. It is a residential area with a tranquil atmosphere. While lacking major tourist sites, Weheditz offers a peaceful living environment and easy access to the city center. Weheditz is roughly 3 kilometers (approximately 1.9 miles) from the city center.

What are the most interesting facts of Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the most interesting facts of Karlovy Vary.

• Currency. Karlovy Vary uses the Czech koruna (CZK) as its official currency, like the rest of the Czech Republic. The koruna, often symbolized as “Kč”, has been in circulation since 1993, after the dissolution of Czechoslovakia. Notes and coins of various denominations are used, with coins known as “haléř” making up smaller amounts. The Czech koruna's design reflects the nation's rich history and culture, featuring prominent Czech personalities and symbols. Tourists are advised to exchange money at reputable places and avoid street exchanges due to potential scams.
• Timezone. Karlovy Vary is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), UTC+1. Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed, meaning clocks move an hour forward in late March and return in late October, switching to Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC+2. This adjustment maximizes daylight use during longer summer days. Tourists must account for this time difference when planning travel or communicating across time zones. Being centrally located in Europe, this timezone is shared with many neighboring countries, making regional travel relatively seamless.
• Language. The primary language spoken in Karlovy Vary is Czech. Although Czech is a West Slavic language and shares similarities with neighboring Slovak, they are distinct. In Karlovy Vary, due to its status as a prominent spa town, many locals in the tourism sector also speak English, German and Russian to cater to international visitors. The Czech language uses the Latin alphabet but contains special characters like č, š and ž. Understanding basic Czech phrases can be helpful for tourists, though many establishments will have English-speaking staff.
• Power Plugs. Karlovy Vary uses Type E power sockets like the rest of the Czech Republic. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. Type E sockets have two round pins with a hole for the socket's grounding pin and are compatible with Type C and Type F plugs. Visitors from countries with different socket types should carry a suitable adapter to charge their devices. It's essential to ensure electronic devices can handle the 230 V voltage to avoid damage or the need for a voltage converter.

What is Karlovy Vary famous for?

Karlovy Vary is famous for its natural hot springs and spa culture. It is known as a spa destination that stems from its centuries-old tradition of utilizing the curative properties of its thermal waters for relaxation and healing purposes. Visitors flock to Karlovy Vary to experience its mineral springs, which are believed to have therapeutic effects on various health conditions and to indulge in spa treatments. Its old-fashioned architecture, including ornate colonnades, historic spa buildings and elegant hotels, adds to its charm. Karlovy Vary also hosts the popular Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, attracting cinephiles and celebrities and further solidifying its cultural and wellness hub status.

What to do in Karlovy Vary for a day?

Listed below are the best things to do in Karlovy Vary for a day.

• Explore the Colonnades and Sample Hot Springs. Start the day by exploring the city's famous arcades, such as the Mill Colonnade and Park Colonnade. Sample the mineral-rich hot springs that Karlovy Vary is known for, as these waters are believed to have therapeutic properties. It's an ideal way to experience its spa culture and enjoy a relaxing morning in beautiful surroundings. Tourists can stroll along these elegant structures and savor the unique taste of the hot springs' waters while enjoying the architectural beauty. This activity provides an authentic immersion into Karlovy Vary's wellness tradition and serene ambiance.
• Visit the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Head to the Church of St. Mary Magdalene to explore its neo-Gothic architecture and intricate design. Explore the church's interior, featuring stunning stained glass windows and ornate decorations. Take a moment for reflection and appreciate its spiritual and cultural heritage. The church's peaceful atmosphere offers a serene break from the day's activities. It's a short visit that combines architecture, history and a sense of calm.
• Ascend the Diana Lookout Tower. Enjoy a scenic ride on the funicular railway or hike to reach the Diana Lookout Tower. Have a good time in breathtaking panoramic views of Karlovy Vary and its natural surroundings from the observation deck. Capture memorable photos and savor the beauty of the city and its landscapes. The tower offers an excellent vantage point, especially during sunset, for an unforgettable experience. It's an outdoor adventure that provides a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring vistas.
• Indulge in a Spa Experience. Treat oneself to a spa experience at one of Karlovy Vary's famous resorts, like the Grandhotel Pupp. Choose from various spa treatments, wellness programs and thermal baths. Relish the surroundings and luxurious amenities, immersing in relaxation. Spa visits are integral to Karlovy Vary's culture and offer a rejuvenating break. Whether it's a massage, mineral bath or wellness program, it's a pampering opportunity that defines the city's allure.
• Explore the City's Dining Scene. Wrap up the day by exploring Karlovy Vary's dining scene, offering a variety of culinary experiences. Enjoy a traditional Czech meal at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like goulash, schnitzel or trdelník pastries. Consider trying the local specialty, Becherovka liqueur, at a café or bar. Its dining options cater to diverse tastes, from international cuisine to traditional Czech flavors. It's a chance to indulge in delicious food and drinks while experiencing the city's vibrant atmosphere.

How many days to spend in Karlovy Vary?

A visit to Karlovy Vary typically ranges from 1 to 2 days, making it an ideal city break destination. The city's compact size allows travelers to explore its main attractions, including the iconic colonnades, thermal springs and historic architecture, in a relatively short time. In 1-2 days, visitors can immerse themselves in the spa culture, sample traditional Czech cuisine and enjoy strolls through the charming streets. This duration allows for a taste of the city's unique atmosphere, making it suitable for a quick getaway or as part of a broader Czech travel itinerary. However, a longer stay may be preferred for those wishing to delve deeper into the city's offerings or engage in additional outdoor activities in the surrounding region.

What to eat in Karlovy Vary?

In Karlovy Vary, visitors can savor a range of delicious dishes that reflect Czech culinary traditions and its unique offerings. One must-try item on the menu is the traditional Czech goulash, known locally as “guláš”. This hearty stew features tender pieces of beef or pork, slow-cooked with various spices, including paprika, onions and caraway seeds. It is typically served with dumplings (“knedlíky”) or bread, making it a comforting and flavorful choice. Goulash is a popular dish in Karlovy Vary, providing a taste of Czech comfort food that warms the soul, especially on cooler days.

Another must-experience culinary delight in Karlovy Vary is the famous “trdelník”. This sweet pastry, often found in street stalls and bakeries, consists of dough wrapped around a cylindrical mold, grilled until golden brown and then coated in sugar and cinnamon. The result is a crispy, caramelized exterior with a soft, doughy interior. Trdelník is a delicious treat and a delightful street food experience that complements a day of exploration in the city.

To complete the Karlovy Vary culinary experience, visitors should try Becherovka, a famous Czech herbal liqueur with a unique blend of herbs and spices. Often served as an aperitif or digestif, Becherovka has a distinctive and complex flavor profile, making it an intriguing choice for those looking to savor a taste of the city's culture. This herbal elixir can be enjoyed at local cafes and restaurants or as part of a tasting tour, providing a memorable and authentic journey in Karlovy Vary.

What are the top restaurants to eat and drink in Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the top restaurants to eat and drink in Karlovy Vary.

• Tandoor King – Indian Restaurant. Tandoor King is an Indian restaurant offering a diverse menu of traditional Indian cuisine. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, including aromatic curries, tandoori specialties, biryanis and vegetarian options. It provides a warm and inviting ambiance, attentive service and a selection of Indian beverages. Prices at Tandoor King are reasonable, with an average cost of around 15-20 euros per person for a meal. It is conveniently situated near the city center, making it an accessible choice for those looking to savor Indian flavors.
• Restaurant Embassy. Restaurant Embassy is in the heart of Karlovy Vary and offers a menu featuring Czech and international cuisine. Diners can taste Czech schnitzels, hearty stews and international classics like steaks and seafood. It has a cozy and elegant setting for casual dining and special occasions. Prices at Restaurant Embassy are moderate, with an average meal cost ranging from 20 to 30 euros per person.
• Restaurace Le Marché Karlovy Vary. Restaurace Le Marché specializes in European and Czech cuisine with a modern twist. Its menu includes creative dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Prices at Restaurace Le Marché are on the higher side, with an average meal cost of approximately 30 to 40 euros per person.
• Charleston restaurant Karlovy Vary. Charleston restaurant in Karlovy Vary is known for its upscale dining experience and cuisine. Its menu blends European and international flavors, focusing on fine dining presentations. It offers an elegant, sophisticated ambiance for special occasions and romantic dinners. Dining at Charleston comes at a higher price, with an average cost of 40 to 60 euros per person.
• Grandrestaurant Pupp. Grandrestaurant Pupp is an iconic dining establishment within the Grandhotel Pupp, a famous Karlovy Vary institution. It offers an extensive menu of international and Czech dishes, including classic Czech cuisine. Guests can dine in a luxury and historic setting with attentive service. Prices at Grand Restaurant Pupp are at the upper end, with an average meal cost of around 50 to 70 euros per person.

Where to stay in Karlovy Vary? (neighborhoods)

Listed below are the best neighborhoods to stay in Karlovy Vary.

• Meierhöfen. Meierhöfen is a peaceful neighborhood northwest of Karlovy Vary's city center. It offers a residential environment away from the city. It is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat or family-friendly accommodation. It provides proximity to natural areas and parks, making it suitable for nature lovers. While not as centrally located, it offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
• Sedlec. Sedlec is located northeast of the city center and is home to attractions like the Sedlec Abbey and Ossuary. It offers a blend of residential areas and tourist facilities. It provides proximity to these attractions, making it convenient for sightseeing. While quieter than the city center, it offers various accommodation options.
• Stará Role. Stará Role is a western neighborhood of Karlovy Vary featuring residential and green spaces. It's known for the Golf Resort Karlovy Vary, making it appealing to golf lovers. It is ideal for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and outdoor activities. Offers proximity to golf courses and natural surroundings. While not in the city center, it provides a peaceful environment and easy access to golf facilities.
• Cihelny. Cihelny is a southern neighborhood of Karlovy Vary known for the Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort. Suitable for golf lovers and those seeking spa and wellness experiences, it offers a serene environment and proximity to golf courses. It's ideal for those looking to combine outdoor activities with relaxation.

What are the best hotels in Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the best hotels in Karlovy Vary.

• Hotel Imperial. Hotel Imperial is a prestigious luxury hotel in Karlovy Vary's heart. Known for its rich architecture, it offers well-appointed rooms and suites with elegant décor. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, thermal baths and wellness services. It features fine dining options and a historic ambiance. It's an excellent choice for travelers seeking a grand and upscale experience in a central location.
• Luxury Spa Hotel OLYMPIC PALACE. Luxury Spa Hotel OLYMPIC PALACE is a top-tier wellness retreat in Karlovy Vary. It specializes in spa and wellness services, offering a range of treatments and therapies. Accommodations are luxurious, with well-designed rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy access to thermal pools, saunas and relaxation areas. It's a preferred choice for those seeking a wellness-focused stay on rejuvenation.
• Grandhotel Pupp. Grandhotel Pupp is an iconic hotel with a rich history and an esteemed reputation in Karlovy Vary. It features elegant rooms and suites, blending classic and modern amenities. Known for its fine dining restaurants, it offers exquisite culinary experiences. Guests can also explore the on-site wellness and spa facilities for relaxation. Grandhotel Pupp is a top choice for those seeking a blend of luxury, history and culinary delights.
• Retro Riverside Wellness Resort Karlovy Vary by Axxos Hotels. Retro Riverside is a wellness resort situated on the outskirts of Karlovy Vary that offers a relaxing retreat. It focuses on wellness, providing a variety of spa treatments, pools and relaxation areas. Accommodations are stylish and modern, with scenic views of the surroundings. It caters to those seeking a serene escape in a natural setting. While not in the city center, it provides a peaceful, relaxing environment.
• Carlsbad Plaza Medical Spa & Wellness Hotel. Carlsbad Plaza is a popular medical spa and wellness hotel in Karlovy Vary. It offers medical spa services, wellness treatments and a range of pools and saunas. Accommodations are comfortable and well-equipped, with options for various preferences. It's a preferred choice for those seeking wellness, relaxation and medical treatments.

What is the transportation like in Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary does not have a metro system. However, the city has an efficient bus network that allows locals and tourists to travel across the town and nearby regions easily. The buses are frequent, punctual and cover most of the city's attractions and neighborhoods, making it a reliable mode of transport for those exploring the city. The stops are well-indicated and information is available in multiple languages, ensuring convenience for international visitors. Additionally, the city is relatively compact, which makes it easy to navigate by foot or public transport. For those looking for more independence in their travel or wanting to explore beyond the city limits, car rental services are readily available in Karlovy Vary. Numerous agencies offer a range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury models, to suit varied preferences and budgets. Renting a car allows one to explore the landscapes and attractions in the surrounding areas at one's own pace. Lastly, the Karlovy Vary Card is a valuable purchase for travelers. This card offers free or discounted access to various attractions, museums and tours and more importantly, it provides unlimited use of the city's public transportation, making sightseeing and traveling within Karlovy Vary more economical and convenient.

How to get from Karlovy Vary airport to the city?

Visitors can take a bus, taxi and car rental from Karlovy Vary Airport to the City. Upon arrival at Karlovy Vary Airport, travelers can easily find bus services that connect the airport to the city center. The most common route is bus line 8, which directly links the airport to the main bus station in the heart of Karlovy Vary. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus or at ticket machines available at the airport. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The average price for a one-way bus ticket is approximately 40 Czech Koruna (about 1.5 euros). For those seeking a more direct and private mode of transportation, taxis are readily available at Karlovy Vary Airport. Taxi stands are prominently located outside the arrival terminals. It's advisable to either agree on a fare before the journey or ensure the meter is running to avoid overcharging. The ride from the airport to the city center usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. On average, a taxi fare might range from 20 to 30 euros, but prices can vary based on the time of day, traffic conditions and specific destinations within the city. Several car rental agencies operate at Karlovy Vary Airport for travelers who prefer to rent a car. Upon exiting the airport's main terminal, travelers can find car rental counters where they can select and book a vehicle of their choice. They will receive the car keys after completing the necessary paperwork and payment. Exiting the airport, follow the signs to the city center, which is a straightforward drive taking around 15 minutes under typical conditions. While the cost of renting a car varies based on the model and duration, a daily rental can range from 30 to 100 euros, depending on the vehicle type and the rental company.

How to get from Karlovy Vary to Prague?

There are several transportation options for getting from Karlovy Vary to Prague. These are bus, taxi and car rental. Travelers can conveniently journey from Karlovy Vary to Prague via bus. The first step is to reach the main bus station in Karlovy Vary, which is typically where buses to Prague depart. From there, passengers can purchase tickets at the station or online in advance, depending on the chosen bus company. Several bus operators provide this route, offering various departure times throughout the day. The bus journey from Karlovy Vary to Prague generally takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. The average price for a one-way bus ticket ranges from 250 to 400 Czech Koruna (approximately 10 to 15 euros), with discounts available for students and seniors. Travelers looking for a more private and direct mode of transportation can take a taxi to travel from Karlovy Vary to Prague. Taxis can typically be found at taxi stands in the city center or can be booked in advance through taxi companies. Passengers should negotiate the fare with the driver or ensure the meter is running before starting the journey to avoid overcharges. The drive from Karlovy Vary to Prague takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination in Prague. Taxi fares can range from 120 to 200 euros, though prices may vary based on the taxi service and additional services offered. Moreover, renting a car is an option for travelers who prefer flexibility and independence. They can pick a rental car from one of the car rental agencies in Karlovy Vary, ensuring they have the necessary documentation, including a valid driver's license and insurance. The drive to Prague involves following signs or a GPS route from Karlovy Vary to Prague, which is approximately 120 to 130 kilometers (75 to 81 miles) away. The journey typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Rental car prices vary based on the type of vehicle, rental duration and the rental agency, but daily rates can range from 30 to 100 euros, with additional costs for fuel and tolls.

How to get from Karlovy Vary to Vienna?

Travelers can make the journey from Karlovy Vary to Vienna by bus. The first step is to reach the main bus station in Karlovy Vary, where buses to Vienna typically depart. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online in advance, depending on the bus company. Several bus operators offer this route, with various departure times. The bus ride from Karlovy Vary to Vienna generally takes 4.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on the specific route and any stops. The average price for a one-way bus ticket ranges from 30 to 60 euros, although prices may vary based on the chosen operator and ticket class. Travelers who prefer a more direct and private mode of transportation can opt for a taxi to travel from Karlovy Vary to Vienna. Taxis can typically be found at taxi stands in the city center or can be booked in advance through taxi companies. Passengers should agree on the fare with the driver before the journey or ensure the meter is running to avoid surprises. The drive from Karlovy Vary to Vienna covers a distance of approximately 320 to 370 kilometers (199 to 230 miles) and typically takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the specific route and traffic conditions. Taxi fares can range from 300 to 500 euros, depending on the taxi service and additional services offered. For travelers seeking flexibility and independence, renting a car is an option. Rent a car from one of the car rental agencies in Karlovy Vary, ensuring they have the necessary documentation, including a valid driver's license and insurance. The journey to Vienna involves a distance of approximately 320 to 370 kilometers (199 to 230 miles). The drive typically takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the route and road conditions. Rental car prices vary based on the vehicle type, rental duration and rental agency, but daily rates can range from 40 to 120 euros, with additional costs for fuel and tolls.

Are Christmas markets crowded in Karlovy Vary?

Yes, Christmas markets in Karlovy Vary can be crowded, especially during the peak holiday season. The crowds are primarily due to the popularity of the city's Christmas markets, which attract both local residents and tourists. The markets offer a festive atmosphere with stalls selling seasonal gifts, decorations, crafts and traditional Czech holiday treats. Additionally, Karlovy Vary's setting, known for its spa culture and historic charm, adds to the appeal of its Christmas markets. As a result, visitors from various regions are drawn to the city, leading to the crowds as people gather to enjoy the holiday spirit and shop for unique items in this enchanting setting.

What are the best Christmas markets in Czechia?

Listed below are the best Christmas markets in Czechia.

• Prague Christmas Markets. The Christmas markets in Prague are among the most famous in Europe. The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square host enchanting markets with beautifully decorated stalls offering Czech crafts, festive treats and mulled wine. The backdrop of historic architecture and the towering Christmas tree creates a magical atmosphere.
• Brno Christmas Markets. Brno's Christmas markets, located in the city center, are known for their lively and festive feel. The markets feature various stalls offering handmade gifts, traditional Czech food and local wines. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances and the city's Christmas tree, filled with lights, is a stunning sight.
• Český Krumlov Christmas Markets. The town of Český Krumlov hosts Christmas markets in its medieval setting. The markets in the town square offer unique handicrafts, delicious pastries and hot drinks, where the medieval backdrop and the Vltava River add to the enchanting experience.

What are the best music festivals in Czechia?

Listed below are the best music festivals in Czechia.

• Prague Spring International Music Festival. The Prague Spring Festival is one of Europe's most prestigious classical music festivals. It has a rich history dating back to 1946 and is known for its exceptional orchestral performances, chamber music and soloists. It attracts top classical musicians and music lovers worldwide, offering a chance to experience world-class classical music in historic Prague venues.
• Transmission. Transmission is a prominent electronic dance music (EDM) festival in Prague. It is popular for its cutting-edge production, immersive stage designs and performances by some of the world's leading trance and EDM DJs. The festival offers a visually captivating, high-energy experience, drawing EDM fans across Europe and beyond.
• Bohemia JazzFest. Bohemia JazzFest is a well-regarded jazz festival in Czechia. It features a diverse lineup of jazz musicians and bands from various genres within the jazz spectrum. The festival is known for its free admission, making it accessible to a wide audience and contributing to the popularisation of jazz music in the region.

What is the weather like in Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. During the summer months, which typically span from June to August, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing and enjoying the city's parks and gardens. However, when rain occurs in Karlovy Vary, visitors have several indoor options to explore. One of the city's highlights is its spa culture and rainy days provide an excellent opportunity to indulge in wellness and spa treatments at popular establishments like Grandhotel Pupp. Additionally, visitors can explore the city's museums, such as the Moser Glass Museum or the Jan Becher Museum, to learn about the region's glassmaking and herbal liqueur history. For those interested in relaxation, spending a rainy day sipping on a warm cup of traditional Becherovka liqueur or enjoying a leisurely meal at local restaurants can be a cozy and enjoyable experience.

Is Czechia worth visiting?

Yes, Czechia is worth visiting. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with historic cities like Prague, Cesky Krumlov and Karlovy Vary offering stunning architecture, museums and a glimpse into its past. Czechia is known for its world-class beer and hearty cuisine, making it a food and drink expert's delight. Its natural beauty is equally impressive, with landscapes, national parks and the Bohemian and Moravian regions providing opportunities for outdoor activities.

Is Karlovy Vary expensive to visit?

No, Karlovy Vary, while not excessively expensive, is moderately priced compared to Western European cities and Czech destinations . The cost of basic goods in Karlovy Vary is reasonable, with affordable prices for items like milk, water and breakfast. A liter of milk may cost around 1 euro, while a bottle of water is typically less than 1 euro. Breakfast at a local cafe or restaurant can range from 3 to 8 euros per person, depending on the venue and menu. In terms of the cost of living and traveling, Karlovy Vary remains relatively budget-friendly for tourists. Accommodation, dining and transportation expenses are generally lower than in major European capitals. For example, a mid-range restaurant meal for one person can cost around 10 to 20 euros and public transportation fares are affordable. As for the price of a pint of beer, it is typically priced at around 1.50 to 2.50 euros, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to enjoy the local brew.

Is Karlovy Vary safe?

Yes, Karlovy Vary is a safe destination for travelers. It maintains a low crime rate and violent crimes are rare. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should exercise precautions such as safeguarding their belongings and being aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Staying alert to pickpocketing in crowded places and securing valuables when exploring the city is advisable.

Is Karlovy Vary easy to visit with kids?

Yes, Karlovy Vary is relatively easy to visit with kids. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with various activities and attractions for children. Families can explore the city's parks and gardens, such as Dvořák Park or the Butterfly House, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation. Additionally, its spa culture can be a unique educational experience for children to learn about thermal springs and wellness traditions. Karlovy Vary also has a range of dining options that cater to families, offering kid-friendly menus.

What are the most famous people of Czechia abroad?

Listed below are the most famous people of Czechia abroad.

• Gregor Johann Mendel (1822-1884). An Augustinian friar and scientist, Mendel is famous for his pioneering work in genetics. His experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for modern genetics, leading to the discovery of Mendelian inheritance, which explains how traits are passed from one generation to the next. Mendel's groundbreaking research in heredity revolutionized the field of biology and has had a profound impact on the understanding of genetics worldwide.
• Charles IV (1316-1378). Charles IV, born Wenceslaus, was the Holy Roman Emperor and the King of Bohemia. He is recognized for his significant contributions to Prague's cultural and architectural development, including the construction of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. His reign is often called the Golden Age of Czech history, as he promoted education, arts and sciences, leaving a lasting legacy through architectural landmarks and cultural achievements.
• Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904). Antonín Dvořák was a popular composer of the late Romantic period. His compositions, which include symphonies, operas and chamber music, are celebrated for their beauty and originality. Dvořák's works, such as the “New World Symphony” and “Slavonic Dances”, have gained international recognition and continue to be performed and appreciated worldwide. He is considered one of the most important composers of the 19th century, contributing significantly to the Czech and global classical music traditions.

Where to go shopping in Karlovy Vary?

There are several great places to go shopping in Karlovy Vary. These are Colonnades and Spa Area, OC Varyáda Shopping Mall, Moser Glass Store and Lázeňská Street. Firstly, the Colonnades and Spa area along the Teplá River has many shops, boutiques and market stalls selling local handicrafts, glassware, jewelry, souvenirs, art and food items. Secondly, OC Varyáda Shopping Mall is a modern shopping mall located in the spa district has over 40 shops and boutiques under one roof, including international brands like H&M and Reserved along with specialty stores. Thirdly, the Moser Glass Store located in the city center sells beautiful glass artworks, crystal ware and other glass products from the world-famous local brand. Lastly,

Lázeňská Street offers a mix of shops selling jewelry, arts and crafts, Bohemian antiques, traditional puppets and other locally made products popular with tourists.

What festivals or events are taking place in Karlovy Vary?

Listed below are the festivals or events taking place in Karlovy Vary.

• Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Karlovy Vary International Film Festival is one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious film festivals taking place every July. It screens over 200 films from around the world in multiple competition categories and attracts thousands of attendees plus celebrities and industry insiders for gala events, ceremonies and parties across this scenic spa town. Major events happen at the Hotel Thermal, with additional screenings and happenings hosted in theaters, hotels and public spaces around Karlovy Vary during the festival's nine-day run. It is one of the anticipated festivals in Karlovy Vary.
• Karlovy Vary Folklore Festival. Karlovy Vary Folklore Festival aims to celebrate and preserve the traditional music, dance, costumes and customs of the Karlovy Vary region and wider Bohemia, with performances and participatory events happening on outdoor stages erected in the parks and pedestrian areas of the spa district. Musicians, dancers and singing groups come from across the Czech Republic and abroad to perform in this festival that draws both locals and tourists.
• Becherovka Festival. Becherovka Festival offers tours and tastings at the Jan Becher Museum where Becherovka was originally produced, along with opportunities to sample cocktails and products from the company. The festival offers distilling workshops and a bartending competition judging creative concoctions incorporating this unique spirit.
• Food Festivals. Karlovy Vary has several festivals periodically held to celebrate beloved Czech cuisine. Food festivals such as the Soup Festival each May letting visitors sample a variety of creative soups from restaurateurs and the Dumpling Festival each September focused on traditional boiled and baked dough delights paired with meat and vegetable fillings. These events allow locals and tourists to experience the country's flavors.

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Karlovy Vary Day Trip from Prague: A One Day Itinerary

Last Updated on January 24, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

While countless visitors to the Czech capital set their sites on Cesky Krumlov or Kutna Hora as a day away from the city, fewer consider heading west to go on a Karlovy Vary day trip from Prague. Located in the western Czech Republic only about forty kilometres from the German border, Karlovy Vary is a beautiful spa town that has been famous the world over for decades.

Newly enshrined on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2021 as one of the “Great Spa Towns of Europe,” Karlovy Vary makes for the perfect destination on any Czech Republic itinerary, whether you go on a day trip or for a longer stay.

Surrounded by lovely nature, filled with gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture and home to “healing” hot springs, Karlovy Vary is a unique and beautiful place to visit in this lovely country.

Karlovy Vary is a small city and the main sites can easily be seen in the span of a day, but if you do want to enjoy a spa visit, it actually can be worth spending 2 days here to make sure you have enough time.

Table of Contents

Getting to Karlovy Vary from Prague

Depending on how you care to visit, there are many ways to visit Karlovy Vary from Prague. If you prefer not to go independently (it is very easy and straightforward if you do), you can opt to go on an organised tour. The other options include bus, train or even your vehicle.

If you want to take the guesswork out of visiting Karlovy Vary, then going on a guided tour is a great option. There are lots of tours to choose from, all offering different things.

If you’re looking for a great option, then this small-group tour could be a good choice. It includes pick-up and drop-off in Prague , a guided tour through Karlovy Vary and the option to visit the Jan Becher Museum or to head to a spa house.

Another option would be this full-day tour or this full-day tour which includes a guided tour of Karlovy Vary, lunch and then visits the town of Marianske Lazne, which is another UNESCO-listed Great Spa Town of Europe.

If you’re searching for another option, then this 10-hour tour will take you on a guided walking tour of Karlovy Vary, gives you free time to explore the town on your own and even includes lunch in the price!

You can also organise a private tour if you want to have more of a flexible schedule.

If you want to go on a Karlovy Vary day trip independently, then the easiest and quickest way to do that is by bus.

Countless buses depart from Prague and arrive in Karlovy Vary daily, however, it can be worth it to book as far in advance as possible in the more popular summer months.

RegioJet runs frequent buses that leave from Florenc bus station in Central Prague and arrive in Karlovy Vary about two hours later. If you can’t find a time that suits you here, FlixBus also offers the route frequently. You can book buses online in advance here.

Another popular option to get to Karlovy Vary is by train, however, this may not be the best choice if you’re going on a day trip

There aren’t as many direct trains as there are buses and the journey does take over 3 hours. Often, the only option is to take a route that requires a change – usually either in Pilsen or the town of Cheb.

Taking the train can be a good option if you want a bit more comfort and are planning more than a day trip, but if you want to travel to Karlovy Vary and back to Prague in the span of a day, your travel time is going to be in excess of six hours.

If you have your own vehicle, then getting to Karlovy Vary by car can be a great option as it is certainly the quickest and it will give you a lot of flexibility.

While you don’t need a car in Karlovy Vary itself (much of the city centre is pedestrianised, anyway), it can give you the option to leave whenever you want and maybe even visit a nearby town (for instance, Marianske Lazne or Frantiskovy Lazne) without having to deal with bus or train timetables and transfers.

The drive from Prague to Karlovy Vary is a bit under two hours if you manage to avoid traffic. Keep in mind that you will need to find and pay for parking while in the city.

If you want to rent a car, then we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to compare prices across several different car hire companies.

One Day in Karlovy Vary Itinerary

Now that you know how to get to Karlovy Vary, it’s time to figure out what to do on your day trip to this beautiful Czech spa city!

Start With a Caffeine Fix

Depending on when you arrive in Karlovy Vary, it can be a good way to start your day trip to Karlovy Vary with a coffee or even a snack! There are lots of cafes in the city centre, but if you’re after a great cup of coffee, we recommend popping into Kavárna Lékárna.

Lékárna actually means pharmacy in Czech, but this is an artisan coffee place that makes great espresso drinks.

They also have a tasty breakfast and lunch menu (and there are also cakes and croissants on offer) should you want something to eat as well. This makes for an excellent first stop to fuel up for a day of sightseeing.

Visit the Elisabeth Spa

The first historic stop on your Karlovy Vary day trip should be at the Elisabeth Spa, which is the first of the gorgeous early 20th-century spa buildings in the city.

Constructed in 1906 and named after the eponymous Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) of Austria-Hungary, this grand spa is a perfect example of the art nouveau architecture that Karlovy Vary is so famous for.

The Elisabeth Spa is still a functioning spa today and you can book a treatment here if that interests you. However, it is just as worth taking in the beautiful building and even sitting on one of the benches that line the walkway leading to it.

Very close to the spa, you will also find the main post office of Karlovy Vary. While the post office itself is the same as any other post office in the country, the building that it is located in is absolutely gorgeous and another perfect example of the grandeur of early 20th Century architecture.

Take in the Colonnades

From the Elisabeth Spa, follow the Tepla River and you will reach some of the most iconic spots of Karlovy Vary – the Colonnades.

These are grand porticos that sport geothermal taps of different temperatures. Locals and visitors alike love taking in the “healing” benefits of these waters by filling up a cup and drinking the salty, sulfuric water.

The main colonnades that you will come across on this walk are the Sadová Colonnade, the Mlynska (Mill) Colonnade and the Trzni Colonnade among many others.

You will find free-flowing taps at various points throughout these colonnades where the temperature of the water is marked. It can be good practice to check the temperature of the water before touching it to avoid surprises (I speak from experience after putting my hand under a 72°C (161°F) tap and being very surprised).

You will also notice souvenir stands set up close to the colonnades that hawk the traditional cup for sipping the mineral water. This can be a great, unique purchase in Karlovy Vary.

These ceramic cups (you can get one with a beautiful pattern of your choice!) have a straw moulded into the handle where you can sip the water you’ve filled from the tap. All you need to do after is feel the healing waters course through your body!

One of the unique colonnades to visit is the Vřídelní colonnade, a brutalist-style building that was erected in the 1970s. Inside, there is a small, steaming geyser that you can view for free.

See St Mary Magdelene’s Church

Not far from the Vřídelní colonnade is St Mary Magdelene’s Church – one of the most beautiful churches to take in in Karlovy Vary.

While visiting churches is a mainstay of visiting most Czech cities and towns, Karlovy Vary is more about the spas and colonnades. However, that doesn’t mean a pit stop at St Mary Magdelene’s Church is a bad idea!

This 18th-Century church is known for its lovely Baroque architecture and its twinned domed spires and is something a little bit different from the other architecture in the city.

If you want to see another beautiful and unique church in Karlovy Vary, consider making your way to the St Peter and Paul Cathedral. This Russian Orthodox Church has beautiful golden onion domes and is notable here as there is quite a large Ukrainian and Russian population in this city.

So far, you’ve taken in quite a lot of sites and it’s likely that you’ve worked up an appetite!

There are plenty of great restaurants to eat at in Karlovy Vary so it’s hard to make a bad decision, however, I would recommend eating away from the spas and colonnades where the restaurants can be a bit more expensive and tourist-centric. Instead, wander back to the city centre where you will find plenty of great options.

If you’re looking for a traditional Czech meal, then we recommend going to Restaurace Sklipek which has plenty of classic dishes at affordable prices.

Alternatively, consider heading to Hello Vietnam for fantastic Vietnamese food. The Czech Republic is home to one of the largest Vietnamese diasporas in Europe and there is a large community in the Karlovy Vary region, so it is a very appropriate cuisine to eat in this area.

Hike to the Peter the Great Monument

After lunch, it’s time to get moving again and enjoy some fantastic views of Karlovy Vary while working up a bit of a sweat! One of the best ways to do this is by hiking up to the Peter the Great Monument. From here, you can get some of the best views over the city and also enjoy the beautiful forest and hills that surround Karlovy Vary.

The hike is quite an easy one on a well-maintained and well-marked trail. No special shoes or equipment is needed – in fact, quite a lot of the hike is actually paved stairs.

Plan for the hike to take about 20-30 minutes depending on your fitness level. If you want to take a rest once you’ve made it to the top, there is a pub where you can get an affordable, cold and delicious beer!

If you have limited mobility or simply aren’t in it for a hike but would like a great view, then consider riding the funicular up to the Diana Monument. This is actually located a bit higher than the Peter the Great Monument and will result in plenty of spectacular vistas.

Stroll Along the Tepla

If you’re not too exhausted after your hike, consider wandering a bit more along the Tepla River.

If you choose to wind your way away from the main town, you will quickly find yourself in peaceful and tranquil forest before reaching the Stepanka Spring, which is the furthest spring from the colonnades and also quite cool at 14.2°C (58°F).

If you choose to walk the other way, it’s a good opportunity to mosy back to the city centre. Make sure to take in the Hotel Thermal – another example of Brutalist architecture and home to the world-renowned Karlovy Vary Film Festival.

Enjoy a Drink

No visit to Karlovy Vary is complete without taking the time to have a beverage, and you’ve got a few options in regard to this.

If you want your alcohol to come with a bit of education, then consider heading to the Jan Becher Museum. This museum will take you through the history and distilling process of the local, herbal liqueur Becherovka and also give you a chance to sample some.

Alternatively, find a pub and enjoy an ice-cold beer. If the weather is fine, it’s always a good idea to find somewhere with outdoor seating. You can pretty much choose anywhere that looks good to you Karlovy Vary – you are in the Czech Republic, after all, where it is almost impossible to find a bad beer!

For those who don’t want any kind of alcoholic beverage and would prefer to visit a museum, the Museum of Glass Moser is a popular option for those interested in Czech Crystal.

Where to Stay in Karlovy Vary

Imperial Hotel – If you want to stay in one of the most iconic hotels in Karlovy Vary, then this is a fantastic choice. This luxury hotel is situated on a hill overlooking the city and has numerous amenities to ensure you have a luxurious and relaxing stay. There is also a classic cafe on site and a spa offering numerous treatments.

Boutique Hotel Corso – Another plush option in Karlovy Vary, this centrally located hotel has a lot to offer guests. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer, a spa, wellness centre and swimming pool on site and there is even a restaurant on the premises.

Revelation Studios – If you’d like your own space in Karlovy Vary, then these fully furnished studios are a great option. Centrally located within easy walking distance of the main sites in the city, there are a range of different studios to choose from, all with a kitchen and comfortable amenities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Karlovy Vary hotels!

Located only about two hours from Prague, this small spa city is absolutely beautiful and packed with plenty of interesting things to do in Karlovy Vary

Are you planning to visit Karlovy Vary on a day trip? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 3 to 4 Days in Prague Itinerary

12 Best Things To Do in Olomouc: A One-Day Itinerary

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Day Czech Republic Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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20 Of The Best Things To Do In Karlovy Vary

When it comes to visiting the Czech Republic the town of Karlovy Vary may not be on the top of people’s itinerary. Yet, it should be.

When we were in the Czech Republic, we made our base in Prague. And, if you’ve been to Prague… then you’ll most likely have been gob-smacked by its beauty and history. 

Not only that, it sure is a vibrant and exciting place to visit.

Yet, you need to make time to explore outside of the city of Prague. And, as we were fortunate enough to spend a lot of time in the Czech Republic… we were able to discover  one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. 

Karlovy Vary truly is a picturesque place. And, it’s like you’re in a dream world because it feels so magical.

Plus, this quaint town was put on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021… marking it one of the greatest spa towns in Europe. Karlovy Vary happens to be the biggest spa town in Czechia… with a tradition of providing spa services for over 600 years! 

And, if taking spa treatments takes your fancy… you’ll be spoilt for choice, as there are hundreds of hot springs and spas to choose from.

Yet, there’s plenty more to do in Karlovy Vary as we found out.

So, in this We Drink Eat Travel blog… we’ll highlight 20 of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary. 

Now, we chose to take a bus from Prague to get to Karlovy Vary. And, after we got there around 9am, we took a stroll to this first landmark…

1. Smetana Orchards (Smetanova Sady) 

Only a few minutes walk from the Karlovy Vary Trznice bus stop… is the beautiful Smetana Orchards. And, this was a great landmark to start our exploration of Karlovy Vary. That’s because when looking down at the lush green manicured gardens, it was an amazing view…

It looks picture perfect. Plus, what makes the area look even more grand is this…

2. Elizabeth Spa (Alžbětiny Lázně)

As we said earlier, there are hundreds of hot springs and spas in Karlovy Vary. And, the first one that we saw was the Elizabeth Spa. This majestic building with its ornate detail is over 100 years old… where its name was chosen in honor of the Empress Elizabeth. 

There are over 50 health and wellness treatments available to choose from here… as well as a swimming pool area. Prices per person start from about 120 Koruna (4.90 Euros / USD $4.80 / GBP 4.20).

Now, one of the others things you can see in Karlovy Vary, for something different is this…

3. Karlovy Vary Flower Calendar

At the opposite end of the Smetana Orchards is this…

This is a floral calendar which is so bright, pretty and colorful. And, it’s said that around the Summer months… the date of this calendar changes every day! So, plan your trip to Karlovy Vary accordingly, if you want to witness this beautiful display.

So, when it comes to architecture in Karlovy Vary, this next incredible building stands opposite the Flower Calendar…

4. Karlovy Vary Main Post Office

Now, when first looking at it… it wouldn’t surprise us if you thought this building was a palace. Yet, no it isn’t! Instead it’s Karlovy Vary’s main post office. Built during the time of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire rule… the detail is truly magnificent.

If you look at the centre of the building beneath the clock… there are 4 large pillars with different figures atop of each. And, these statues are said to represent telegraph communications, railway transport… as well as ship transport, and mail communications.

So, when you’re standing in front of the post office, your eyes must be shut if you miss this next landmark…

5. Karlovy Vary Obelisk

This tall, shiny glass obelisk looks like it’s balancing on top of 3 huge metal balls. Yet, we were given assurance that it is sturdy! 

While a fountain surrounds the obelisk, when the sun is out… it helps to make this landmark glisten even more. Now, if you have a look back in our photo of the Smetana Orchards… you’ll see the Obelisk shimmering right at the end, in the centre!

6. Take a Stroll Up Zahradní Street

If it’s your first time in Karlovy Vary, you’ll discover that there are so many beautiful streets to wander down… to admire the architectural beauty in this place. And, after having seen the main post office… we made the decision to continue our journey along Zahradní Street. 

Along this cobblestone street, you’ll see a collection of many colorful buildings… with their uniform, multiple rows of tall rectangular windows. Yet, it’s so mesmerizing with each building a different pastel color… like, you’re a kid in a candy store trying to choose the different flavors of your lollies.

Then, towards the end of this street, is one of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary…

7. Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda)

Karlovy Vary is known for being the “spa capital” of the Czech Republic. And, there are many mineral springs that attract locals and tourists alike. So, when you’re near the end of Zahradní Street at Becher’s Park… you’ll see the Park Colonnade. 

Here, in this elegant cast iron colonnade built in the 1880’s, is the No. 15 Snake Spring. So, this is one of the places where you can taste the mineral water in Karlovy Vary. And yes, we did try the water at every spring that we went to!

Now, the taste is not for everyone. Some of the springs have a sharper earthier taste… as the mineral content differs, and can be more pungent.

TRAVEL TIP for tasting the water at the Karlovy Vary mineral springs:

Now, as you’re exploring the various mineral springs in Karlovy Vary… many of you will take the plunge to try the different tasting waters. 

And, as they are all thermal, the temperature of the water can be up to around 75 degrees Celsius… (about 167 degrees farenheit). So, if don’t have a suitable container, then there are stalls around Karlovy Vary selling these…

There are so many different styles and sizes to choose from. OK, it may seem touristy… but they do look charming. Yet, if you’re in need of a container… you can get one starting from around 50 Koruna (2.05 Euros / USD $2 / GBP 1.75). 

Plus, if size matters and you want one that looks more manly, there’s lots of options. In fact, there’s a style and size to suit everyone, even the kids… from rabbits, to cats, clowns, through to police cars!

8. Wander Along the Teplá River

Now, you need to take a stroll along the waterfront here… especially if you want some picturesque and memorable photos. And, the side where we believe it’s more remarkable… is on the Mlýnské nábřeží side of the river.

When you’re strolling along the waterfront, it felt like we were in a different. It’s hard to put it into context in a blog. But everywhere we would look… we would be blown away at how exquisite the buildings and environment were.

Plus, one of the most important landmarks in Karlovy Vary is here too…

9. Mill Colonnade

One of the most impressive colonnades in Karlovy Vary would have be this one… the Mill Colonnade.

Built in the 1870’s, this Neo-Renaissance architectural style colonnade is the biggest in Karlovy Vary… and houses several mineral springs. 

And, remember to look up as you see 12 large figures standing on the colonnade. These are said to represent each month of the year. Yet, once you’re within the Mill Colonnade it presents a truly spectacular views…

Now, for a completely different looking colonnade, you need to see this…

10. Market Colonnade

For us, this colonnade stood out in contrast to the others. With its striking Swiss style, and intricate detail that looks like lace… or even doilies! Yes, use your imagination here. 

This colonnade was built from wood in the 1880’s to cover the springs. Yet, one of the surprising things is that it was only supposed to be a temporary cover! Then, after more than a century of the structure still being there… it underwent re-construction in the 1990’s and became a permanent fixture.

Now, only metres away from the Market Colonnade is this prominent monument…

11. Holy Trinity Column

Like many cities in Europe, this Baroque-style monument was built following the plagues… that hit many of the countries and towns. Yet, the town of Karlovy Vary and its people were lucky… having not had the devastating impacts of the plague. Thus, the column represents the gratitude of the people… for protection from the disease. 

So, next up on our list of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary is to see this…

12. Hot Spring Colonnade

While there are several colonnades in Karlovy Vary to see… the Hot Spring Colonnade is popular. We had to patiently wait to take photos and videos… so that we didn’t have any people in them! 

This colonnade has a surround of floor to ceiling windows… allowing natural light to flow through. And, the room has a high ceiling, which it sure needs… as the height as the water shoots out with a blast, to about 12 metres high! 

You can feel the heat and moisture within the room encircling you. So, it’s a great place to be if you want some cosy warm comfort.

13. Relax and Recharge on the Riverfront

While you’re in Karlovy Vary, you’ll want to stop to relax to have some food and drinks. And, one area where you can enjoy amazing views in a wonderful environment… is on Stará Louka. 

This quaint street is lined with a variety of shops and restaurants on one side… and the Tepla River on the other. And, we recommend it as a place to chill out, before continuing on your adventures. We could’ve sat there all day people watching and soaking up the beauty… yet, we were only there for a day trip.

Now, for you James Bond fans, you’ll want to visit this place…

14. The Grandhotel Pupp in Karlovy Vary

The popular James Bond film, Casino Royale features the Grandhotel Pupp. So, for the fans, why not replay the scenes when here in Karlovy Vary!

The history of this majestic and luxurious 5-star hotel dates back to 1701. And, not only does this hotel look incredible it’s also unique. Did you know that each room in this hotel is different? 

That’s right, each hotel had its own unique style and character. Plus, with over 200 rooms, that’s a lot of work to put into each! Can you imagine staying in each room?

15. Witness Some of the Most Breathtaking Views of Karlovy Vary

From our point of view, one of the things you must do in Karlovy Vary is to take a hike! And, if you’re willing to walk up through the forest… you’ll see some spectacular views over Karlovy Vary. And, when you do you can get breathtaking views like this…

Now, in another travel blog… we’ll give you more details on hiking to the lookouts around Karlovy Vary. Make sure you check it out as we give some helpful hints and tips. 

16. Karlovy Vary Town Theatre (Karlovarské Městské Divadlo)

While there are so many architectural delights in Karlovy Vary… their theatre sure does stand out. Built in the 1880’s, this Neo-Baroque style theatre is a masterpiece… as designed by various Viennese architects and designers. Unfortunately, while we were there, the theatre wasn’t open. 

Yet, we have seen and heard that the interior is as magnificent on the inside… as it is on the outside. So, make sure you check it out if you have the opportunity. This is a functioning theatre, so why not see a performance if you have the time. Or mingle with the celebrities during the International Film Festival.

17. Church of St Mary Magdalene (Kostel Maří Magdalény)

If you want to see an example of a beautiful Baroque-style church in a quaint town…  then head on over to St Mary Magdelene’s Church. Although it was built in the 1730’s… the history of where this church is dates back to the 1300’s. 

Originally there was a gothic church here with a cemetery surrounding it. Yet, after undergoing a style upgrade in the 16 th  Century… the church suffered fire damage. And, rather than salvage it… the area was cleared to build the Church of St Mary Magdalene.

We recommend this as another area you should see in Karlovy Vary… especially if you want to view this town from a different perspective.

18. Jean de Carro Park (Sady Jeana de Carro)

Nearby St Mary Magdelene’s Church is Jean De Carro Park. This landmark had less tourists around, which isn’t a bad thing. Yet, you should take a walk uphill along the cute cobblestone street… which is nearby the Wellness Hotel Jean de Carro.

And, while you’re there, check out the amazing views…

Now, for more incredible architecture, you need to see this…

19. Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul

When wandering around Karlovy Vary… we were catching glimpses of gold in the sky, out the corners of our eyes. We thought we were going crazy in this dreamland, yet thankfully we weren’t! 

Instead, the gold that was glistening was from the Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul…

How magnificent is it? The church was built in the late 1800’s in a beautiful Byzantine-style, with incredible detail. Plus, when you go inside… you’ll be gob-smacked by its internal elegance too.

Whenever I look at photos of this church… it reminds me of something out of a fairytale.

And last, but not least on our best things to do in Karlovy Vary travel blog, is this…

20. Wander Through Masaryka Street

Masaryka Street is the main pedestrian walking street in Karlovy Vary. There are many pretty and bright colorful pastel buildings lining this street… where you can shop until you drop, or eat, drink and be merry.

And, while we didn’t do any shopping here… we did enjoy some beverages and food, while watching the world go by.

Plus, there are several other pedestrian only streets where you can experience similar vibes… such as

Wow, so that was 20 of the top things to do in Karlovy Vary, from our point of view. Now, there are plenty more things to do and places to see. 

This UNESCO Heritage Listed Site is such an amazing place to visit. It oozes so much charm and everywhere you look there’s beauty. Karlovy Vary is one of our favorite towns. It felt like the locals put a lot of effort in the upkeep of their town. And, that is refreshing.

From incredible architecture, to walking up hills to witness breathtaking views… through to relaxing in a gorgeous environment eating and drinking local cuisine. It sure was mesmerizing with everything Karlovy Vary has to offer… not to mention the health benefits from its hot springs!

Plus, even if you only have time for a day trip… it’s easily do-able, as it only takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to get here from Prague. So, make sure you put it on your list of places to visit when in the Czech Repbulic. And, we trust that you’ll have a great time too in Karlovy Vary.

And, if you’re looking at some unique experiences in Karlovy Vary… check out this guide .

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• Smetana Orchards (Smetanova Sady) 
• Elizabeth Spa (Alžbětiny Lázně)
• Karlovy Vary Flower Calendar
• Karlovy Vary Main Post Office
• Karlovy Vary Obelisk
• Take a Stroll Up Zahradní Street
• Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda)
• Wander Along the Teplá River
• Mill Colonnade
• Market Colonnade
• Holy Trinity Column
• Hot Spring Colonnade
• Relax and Recharge on the Riverfront
• The Grandhotel Pupp in Karlovy Vary
• Witness Some of the Most Breathtaking Views of Karlovy Vary
• Karlovy Vary Town Theatre (Karlovarské Městské Divadlo)
• Church of St Mary Magdalene (Kostel Maří Magdalény)
• Jean de Carro Park (Sady Jeana de Carro)
• Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul
• Wander Through Masaryka Street

10 Things to do in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Karlovy Vary is not just any ordinary city, it’s the spa city of the Czech Republic ! Part of the famous West Bohemia spa triangle, this spectacular city is renowned for its mineral hot springs, stunning pastel-colored houses, luxury hotels, and grand villas. Karlovy Vary is truly cinematic and worldwide known for its role in the film industry and, especially, for the international film festival held here. Spend 2 days with all the top things to do in Karlovy Vary.

Day 1 – Hot Springs and Colonnades

Spend your first day in Karlovy Vary wandering among the pretty streets of the city, following the hot spring route, and discovering the many beautiful colonnades built close by. Don’t forget to try the mineral water for yourself; it’s supposed to have beneficial healing properties.

1. Hot Springs of Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is most famous for its incredible hot springs that are dotted all over the city. The piping hot mineral water is what has attracted people to Karlovy Vary from all over the world. The strongest, most popular hot spring (Vridlo) sits within the ‘Hot Spring Colonnade’.

The 12-meter high fountain produces mineral water at a temp of 73 degrees! Because of this, the water has to be separated into five bowls to cool down slightly for people to drink it.

Here are all your hotel options in Karlovy Vary.

The first thing to do is to buy one of the typical Karlovy Vary mugs from one of the many shops on the street. Afterward, use this to try the water of the hot springs. The water has a very strong iron taste, as it comes from so far below the surface of the ground. However, the taste is worth it for its unique medicinal properties!

Tip: There are 15 hot springs in Karlovy Vary, all situated within or next to beautiful buildings. Most of the big springs look like fountains, whereas the small stone bowls are the drinkable ones.

2. St Mary Magdalene Church

St Mary Magdalene is not your regular church. It’s a breathtaking baroque church with a beautiful white facade, clock faces, and two striking green-domed towers. It’s iconic to Karlovy Vary, overlooking the city at all times, and located close to the main hot spring.

3. Mill Colonnade

This impressive structure is one of the absolute must-sees of Karlovy Vary. Stone columns (124 of them!) have stood here for over 100 years! Originally, it was created as a cover for locals to enjoy the hot springs in bad weather. The symmetry of the colonnades itself is incredibly picturesque!

Also visit: charming Cesky Krumlov

Tip: There are four other colonnades in Karlovy Vary to visit. These are Market Colonnade, Castle Colonnade, Hot Spring Colonnade, and Park Colonnade. The Park colonnade is particularly pretty to visit in the summer, with its white ironwork, and gorgeous orange, yellow, and white flowers.

4. Stara Louka 

Stara Louka is the main street along the river bank where you can wander along the grand pastel-colored townhouses sandwiched between the river bank and the dense forest behind. The best thing of all is that this street is completely traffic-free!

5. Grand Hotel Pupp, Karlovy Vary

The Grand Hotel Pupp is so much more than a hotel; it’s an emblem of Karlovy Vary! Every wall of its 228 rooms is rich in history and beauty. The hotel has been around since the 1700s, with everyone from Beethoven to Morgan Freeman having stayed here.

The fascinating history of the hotel has made it the setting for famous movies. For example, the James Bond film ‘Casino Royale’, and ‘The Last Holiday’. Not only that, it’s thought to be the inspiration behind Wes Anderson’s ‘‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’. Visit the hotel’s cafe for a drink and take the opportunity to breathe in the luxury and cinematic prestige, an absolute top thing to do in Karlovy Vary!

Book your stay at Grand Hotel Pupp

6. Diana Observation Tower

Soar above the clouds at the Diana Observation Tower! This is a stunning lookout that is located to the south of the city center. The journey to reach the tower is equally as impressive as the views and tower itself! Take the 100+-year-old funicular from the Grand Hotel Pupp to the top of the hill to reach the tower that sits 562 meters above sea level. Because of its height, visitors can see the entire city below, as well as stunning valleys, rivers, forests, and mountains.  

Day 2 – Castles and Panoramic Lookouts

Your second day is all about the beautiful outskirts of Karlovy Vary. Start your day slow, exploring districts full of grand villas and breathtaking churches. Use your afternoon to head out of town to discover a magical castle. 

Czech Republic

7. Westend Residential District 

Westend is the oldest residential neighborhood in Karlovy Vary. Here you’ll discover luxurious villas that were built to fulfill the needs of the rich visitors to the spa town. To do so, each grand house reflects the style of a different country.

Also visit:  Prague city trip in 3 days

The idea was to give visitors the feeling that they were traveling throughout Europe . For example, there are villas built in old English style (Villa Chopin), in the French style (the famous Savoy Westend hotel), Dutch-style (Villa Charlotte), and Italian style (Villa Koretz and Villa Shakespeare). There are even copies of popular German castles!

Because guests were visiting from all over the world, different religious places of worship were also built in the area. For example, the breathtaking Orthodox Church of Peter and Paul.

8. Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul

The incredible, dramatic architecture of the Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul is an amazing sight to behold. The church was built in the late 1800s on the west side of the glamorous Westend Residential District. Inspired by the Temple of the Holy Trinity in Ostankino, near Moscow. This is clear to see when viewing the classic Russian architecture and themes, particularly the sky blue roof and 5 stunning gold domes. 

9. Goethe’s Tower, Karlovy Vary

Goethe’s lookout tower is a fairy-tale come to life! The pseudo-gothic ‘castle’ was built in the late 1800s and is the oldest observation point in the city. Climb the 165 stairs to reach the top, where you will be rewarded with incredible panoramic views over mountains, forests, and the beautiful pastel colors of Karlovy Vary below. 

How to get there: Choose from a 3.5 or 1.5 km hike to reach the top. Note that the 1.5 km hike starts from the stop of bus number 8 in Hurky.

10. Loket 

If you have time, visit the picturesque town Loket, located 14km from Karlovy Vary. People mostly visit the 13th-century Loket castle, which sits above the town. The word ‘Loket’ means ‘elbow’ in Czech, as the fairytale castle was built at the elbow of the river. Because of Loket’s location on a bend of the Ohře River, it has the unique outlook of the river on 3 sides of the town.

How to get there: Take bus number 6 from Karlovy Vary. It’s also possible to travel by train in 25 minutes but most trains are not direct.

Where to Stay in Karlovy Vary

There are numerous hotels with spas to pick from in Karlovy Vary. Pick one of our favorites below or see all hotels .

Hotels in Karlovy Vary 😴

How to Get to & Around Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is under 2 hours driving distance from Prague , where most international flights come in.

The quickest way is by car and bus, with frequent buses leaving Prague throughout the day and taking just over 2 hours. The train is slightly slower (taking over 3 hours) with a few direct departures a day.

Find all bus and train options here

Getting Around

Once in Karlovy Vary, all the main sights are within walking distance of each other. This is definitely the best way to see the town. If venturing further afield, think about hiring a car for the perfect Czech road trip!

We recommend to rent a car in Czech Republic through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Karlovy Vary Best Places to Eat

Karlovy Vary is famous for its wafer. These are thin, sweet biscuits that used to be served to spa guests visiting the town. The secret ingredient, of course, is the famous thermal water. Outside of the wafer biscuits, these are the best places to eat in Karlovy Vary:

• Spunt & Knoflik Company
• Ristorante-Pizzeria Palermo

This trip was made possible by visitczechrepublic.com and karlovyvary.cz/en

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Karlovy Vary via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Brno, Czech Republic: 7 Best Things To Do

9 best things to do in cesky krumlov, 12 things to do in prague in 3 days.

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Karlovy Vary Itinerary. What to Do in Karlovy Vary in 3 Days

Karlovy Vary, one of the most popular European spa towns, is among the best places to visit in the Czech Republic that you can’t miss. It’s beautiful, interesting, chic and offers plenty of things to do. I was lucky to visit Karlovy Vary once, some 15 years ago, and I’ve been hoping to return ever since.

Fortunately, a fellow blogger Derek from Robe trotting has decided to share the best Karlovy Vary attractions here with us. If you are wondering what to do in Karlovy Vary this post is for you!

Karlovy Vary essentials

• Where to stay in Karlovy Vary: Ferdinandhof Apart-Hotel (9.2/10) / Boutique Hotel Corso (9.0/10)
• Best Karlovy Vary tour: A day in the life of Karlovy Vary – Private tour with a local
• Get insured for your trip to Czech Republic with SafetyWing

Since the 19th century, a tiny spa town in the hills of Western Bohemia has been attracting the wealthy and famous of Europe and beyond. In Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic (Carlsbad) the elite have flocked to receive spa treatments and relax in the healing thermal waters of the town.

Today, the beautiful destination of Karlovy Vary is accessible for all. Travelers with a curious sense visit Karlovy Vary to immerse themselves in the Bohemian Czech culture. Other visitors travel to the town seeking medicinal and spa treatments of all types. Hikers love walking the trails around Karlovy Vary and taking in the views from the lookouts in the hillside.

Because there are so many things to do in Karlovy Vary , this itinerary will provide a highlight of all the town has to offer in three days. It can be condensed for time or spread out over a few more days. The main draw of Karlovy Vary is the relaxation at some of Europe’s best thermal baths and spas – so a few extra days of relaxation is always welcomed.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Karlovy Vary

Most travelers reach Karlovy Vary from the city of Prague . For international travelers, flying into Prague is the first step before a three and a half hour train ride, a two hour long bus ride, or a 90-minute drive to Karlovy Vary.

Depending on your budget, preference, and time constraints, renting a car will cut down significantly on your travel time, but it is pricey. The bus trip will save you time over the train and is still an affordable option to reach Karlovy Vary. Travelers who opt for train travel get to enjoy a relaxing ride through beautiful landscapes and the price is under €7.

Keep in mind that the transportation center in Karlovy Vary is about a 10-minute walk to the hotel district or farther depending on where you stay. This can be challenging with luggage, but there is a transport bus that can take you to the center of town.

Where to stay in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a beautiful city built in a valley along a small river, the Tepla. The city has a wide range of hotels and spa hotels to fit any budget and desired level of pampering. There’s a picturesque riverside promenade lined with spa hotels and you can expect higher prices along this stretch of the city. Lodging becomes more affordable as you move out from the promenade and away from the spa district.

Here are the recommended places to stay in Karlovy Vary:

• Budget: A.Dalia (8.8/10)
• Mid-range: Hotel Boston (9.0/10)
• Luxury: Rubin Luxury Apartments (9.9/10)

The Best Time to Visit Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a gorgeous destination all year long, but the spa season opens in late May with a large annual celebration. Another exciting time to visit the city is the first week in July for the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. It’s one of the oldest and most lavish film festivals in the world, attracting visitors from around the globe.

The tourist season runs well into the autumn months when the forested hills surrounding Karlovy Vary display their fall foliage. During the winter months, Karlovy Vary tourism slows and almost seems to stop. However, you can take advantage of favorable pricing at the hotels and spas in town. There are also several Christmas events and Winter Balls in the town to entertain those who visit in the off-season.

What to do in Karlovy Vary

Day one: hiking and colonnades.

For your first day in Karlovy Vary, the focus will be on orienting to the town and its surroundings by walking the streets and getting a bird’s eye view. To do this we’ll walk around to all of the hot spring fountains and then climb to the lookouts and observation towers in the hills.

The perfect start to your Karlovy Vary trip is to visit the iconic colonnades of the town and try our “The Becher Drinking Cure”. It’s a great way to orient yourself with Karlovy Vary, learn a bit about the history, and take part in a must-do tradition.

The Becher Drinking Cure refers to the centuries-old practice of drinking from the 13 mineral springs around the town of Karlovy Vary. Each spring has a unique mineral composition believed to hold medicinal properties.

To get started, a porcelain sipping cup can be purchased at any number of stands, shops, and even spas in town. Tip: many stands only accept cash payment, so have some Czech Krona available.

The rest is simple, you simply visit the fountains of thermal water around the city, fill your cup, and sip. Each thermal spring flows at a different temperature and has a unique name which is displayed next to the fountain.

Start at the Market Colonnade, a Swiss-inspired structure built in 1883. There you’ll find the Charles IV spring and Castle spring, two of the most famous thermal springs in town. Next, move up the hill to the Market Colonnade, home of five additional thermal spring fountains. It’s composed of 124 Corinthian columns, two walkways, and a nave. Last, head to the Hot Springs Colonnade where you can watch a hot geyser shoot water 12 meters into the air.

The Becher Drinking Cure recommends walking during and after your water treatments, so an afternoon hike is next. On top of the hills around the city are several lookouts and observation towers. From these points, you can enjoy sweeping views of Karlovy Vary and get to see the town from above.

The first stop is the most famous, Diana Observation Tower. It takes about 35 minutes to hike to the brick structure above the city from the trail behind the Grandhotel Pupp. A funicular is also available in case you’re not up for the hike. The observation deck platform is 150 steps from the ground-level but does have a lift for those who prefer a ride to the top.

From the Diana Observation Tower, you can walk about 6 minutes to the Deer Jump Lookout. It’s a famous statue of a deer perched on a rocky outcrop. The legend of the statue dates back to the founding of Karlovy Vary. Allegedly there was a hunting party chasing a stag and their dog fell into a deep hole. The dog began howling because the hole was actually a hot spring and that’s how they were discovered.

After a long day of walking through the city, drinking the mineral waters and hiking to the scenic overlooks around town, make your way back to town and relax with dinner and an evening stroll. Make sure to walk past Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, the ornate Russian Orthodox Church.

Day Two: A Castle and Medicinal Liquor

For your second day in Karlovy Vary you’ll visit nearby Loket Castle for a half-day trip. Finally, you will finish the day with a trip to the Jan Becher Museum and enjoy a tasting of Becherovka, the medicinal elixir that originated in Karlovy Vary.

To reach Loket Castle you can take the intercity bus or take the train from the upper station and transfer at Chodov. It’s also possible to bike there using cycling route 204 and if you’re keen on a walk along the scenic Ohře River. It will take you a little over two hours to trek the 9.5 km.

Once you reach the town you can make your way to the Romanesque Loket Castle. It was built in the 13th century and by the 15th century, a fortified town had developed around the castle. During its history, the castle has served as a royal residence, a jail, and today it’s a museum that’s open to the public.

When looking at the castle, your eye is drawn to the massive square tower. From the top of the tower, you’ll have an incredible view of the town of Loket and the surrounding river valley. Below is the museum portion of the castle which features exhibits on medieval Loket, agriculture and there’s even a torture exhibit.

If you decide to linger in Loket, head to the late Gothic church of St. Wenceslas. You can admire the architecture of this church built in 1473. The Baroque Town Hall building is also a beautiful attraction and in the Town Hall Square, you’ll find a beautiful sculpture of the Holy Trinity. Before heading back to Karlovy Vary, stop for a bite to eat and a beer at the local brewery, Saint Florian.

Make sure to time your visit to be back in Karlovy Vary for a late afternoon visit to the Jan Becher Museum. There you’ll learn all about the traditional herbal liqueur, Becherovka. It was developed and produced on-site, and while the factory has been moved to a larger facility, you can tour the museum and learn about this medicinal herbal liqueur.

There are four options for your tour and three of them include a tasting at the conclusion of your visit. Whatever option you select, you’ll discover the history of Becherovka, the production process, and the secrets of the recipe.

Day Three: Relaxing Spa Day

During day three you’ll spend the day being pampered. The essence of Karlovy Vary is relaxation, so a spa day and low key final evening are the perfect way to close out a fabulous visit to this Czech spa destination.

For a day at the spa, you’ll have to first select which facility to visit. While there are numerous spa hotels, many visitors opt to also visit the stand-alone spas.

If you’re traveling with kids, the best option is Elizabeth Baths. It’s over 100 years old and includes pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, and a full list of medical spa treatments and therapies.

The Castle Spa is a better fit for adult visitors and they too have a full range of procedures and mineral baths.

After a relaxing day in the spa, you should have time to enjoy the city and shops for keepsakes and souvenirs from the trip. Revisit the thermal fountains and colonnades or simply relax at a cafe on the river and enjoy a meal or drink and do some people watching.

A romantic way to cap the trip is with an evening ride on a horse-drawn carriage. They’re easy to find carrying folks up and down the hillside of Karlovy Vary.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Karlovy Vary

In just a few days you can see the highlights of Karlovy Vary, one of Europe’s oldest spa towns. It’s full of history, charm, and glamor of a bygone era. This beautiful gem in the hills of Western Bohemia is a must-visit destination.

If you’re exploring the region or find yourself in Prague, make sure to carve out three days in your itinerary to see Karlovy Vary.

About the author: Derek Hartman is a Philadelphia native who now lives in Copenhagen, Denmark. He and his partner Mike create content about travel, expat life and LGBTQ+ travel on their blog Robe Trotting and YouTube Channel . They also run a destination site called Everything Copenhagen covering their new hometown. You can follow their adventures on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook .

Further reading

If you are planning a trip to the Czech Republic I have a few articles about the country that you might find useful or interesting:

• Visit Olomouc Czech Republic – a perfect alternative to Prague
• Liberec – the overlooked gem of Czech Republic
• Visit Brno – a perfect Central European city
• Trebic, Czech Republic – charming town with two UNESCO sites
• Beautiful and overlooked Jihlava, Czech Republic

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Karlovy Vary

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for the Czech Republic here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

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My visit to Karlovy Vary was only a half daytrip from Plzen. I loved the city. Would love to come back to enjoy more of caffees, spas, walkings. While traveling through Czechia, I collected some of postcards called Pidifrk. They are funny cartoon made postcards and every town has different motiv. Nearby Karlovy Vary I would recommend Plzen, Cheb, Bečov nad Teplou. If you search for spas not overcrowded with tourists, Marianske Lazne is a perfect alternative for relaxing.

I loved Marianske Lazne! I actually liked it a bit more than Karlovy Vary but both places are great. The Czech Republic has so much to offer, I love traveling there!

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30 Things to Do in Karlovy Vary, Hot Springs of Healing Water

Top things to do in karlovy vary czech republic.

If you are planning a day trip to Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place. Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic is a spa town two hours outside of Prague known for its 300+ hot springs of healing water and medical treatments. The city sits along the Teplá River and is full of cobblestone streets and pastel Art Nouveau buildings. Browse the list of must-see attractions, off-the-beaten-path experiences, outdoor activities, and museums to create your personal Karlovy Vary bucket list. Then, plan the itinerary for your Karlovy Vary day trip with these top things to do, see, and eat. Enjoy your time out of the office!

READ Complete Czech Republic Travel Guide, What You Need to Know READ 48 hours in Prague Czech Republic

Things to Do in and Around Karlovy Vary

Photograph the river from the Toskánská/Tuscany Footbridge

Take a selfie with the Karlovy Vary sign

Buy a ceramic mug and sample the town’s healing waters

Check out the five hot springs in the Mill Colonnade

See the geyser at the Hot Springs Colonnade

Learn about Becherovka herbal bitters and enjoy a tasting at the Jan Becher Museum

Soak in a thermal bath at the Windsor Hotel

Eat a Karlovarské oplatky (Karlovy Vary wafer)

Check out the 18th-century Baroque architecture of St Mary Magdalene’s Church

Browse the boutiques on Masaryka Street

Check out the sculptures and relax next to the pond in Dvořák-Park

Photograph the Byzantine Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral

Buy spa cosmetics as a souvenir

Taste the mineral water in the Market Colonnade or the Park Colonnade

Enjoy a spa treatment at the Elizabeth Spa

Go for a hike on the Lázeňské Lesy spa trails

Explore the Grandhotel Pupp, the filming location of Casino Royale

Ride the funicular by the Ore Mountains

Photograph the city from the Diana Tower Lookout

Take the Hot Spring Underground Tour at the Hot Spring Colonnade

Hike up to Goethe Tower or Charles IV Lookout for city views

Photograph the Hotel Imperial

Learn about the city’s healing waters at the Museum of Karlovy Vary

Take a walk along the Teplá River

Wander the streets admiring the Art Nouveau architecture

Enjoy a coffee at Café Elefant, a hangout of Beethoven’s

Tour the Vánoční Dům Christmas Mansion

Photograph the mountain goat sculpture (and city) at Deer Leap Lookout

Tour the 12th-century Gothic Loket Castle

Visit the Moser Museum and watch a glassblowing demonstration

Be sure to check the K arlovy Vary Czech Republic Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

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Wow! Never realized that there are a lot of things to see and do at Karlovy Vary. I would love to learn more about the Becherovka herbal bitters and try their local food. It would also be nice to explore the filming location of Casino Royal since I liked the movie.

I wish I had watched Casino Royal before my visit

Great list of things to do in Karlovy Vary, quite a detailed one. Spent 4 days in Prague but I wish I had more number of days there. Love this kind of natural spa experience. The funicular ride sounds exciting. And of course the castle visits too.

Prague is a great city and there are so many day trips that can be taken as well

Having read this post, I am now sorry I did not get to visit Karlov Vary when we were in the Czech Republic. A relaxing day at the hot springs and the spa would have been a perfect reason to visit. The architecture looks so pretty. I am sure it would be great to wander around town. A trip up to the Diana Tower Lookout would be perfect for a panoramic view. The list is long enough that we would definitely need more than a day trip.

It is difficult to decide how to spend one day, and their are some REALLY nice properties to stay in

Great post!! I didn’t know about the springs in Czech before actually visiting Czech a few years ago and it does do great to your body, can’t say a lot about whether it heals the body or not but it sure feels great during the winter, as Czech has some really freezing weather during the winters. I missed karlovy-vary during my last trip and I am saving this post for a future reference.

I love it you will be able to use it in the future!

This is a great list of things to do in Karlovy Vary. It sounds like an ideal place to visit for the day from Prague, which is a popular destination for a city break – possibly a nice alternative? I’d like to have a wander, ride the funicular and enjoy a coffee in Beethoven’s old haunt. A thermal bath sounds like a must here too.

I went for the day but could easily go back for a weekend

Ah! Too bad I didn’t know if this place when I visited Prague. I love natural thermal spas. The relaxation they give is just the best. I’ve been in Budapest & Belgium. Somehow I missed this. But that gives a reason for me to head there again. Riding funicular, eating local wafers and hiking spa trails are some more things I wouldn’t miss here.

Those wafers are really good!

You had me at spa town. I totally need to visit Karlovy Vary next year. Hitting the spa sounds like just the ticket after checking out the geyser, going on a hike, and riding the funicular.

The funicular is a bit expensive, don’t be shocked

Such great ideas on things to do in Karlovy Vary in Czech Republic! The fact that it is a spa town and there a still a bunch of other things to do like go for a hike on the Lázeňské Lesy spa trails or even take a photographic trail along the river, I am impressed! This looks like a really nice place to chill at one of the thermal baths after a long day backpacking around this region!

Absolutely! This is a great city to visit in the middle of a Europe trip for a moment to rejuvenate too

This is one place which has been on my list of Czech things to do for a long time and still haven’t got around to doing it. My top things I would like to do is explore the castles (I just got a thing for castles in central Europe) and also go to the spa (if I got time, but this is one thing I usually do for relaxing). I would love to get a view of the town from the hillside above, as this town looks very picturesque from the photos.

Castles are always a win!

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic)

15 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic)

In the 19th century the Bohemian spa resort Karlovy Vary was the place to be. The polymath Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once said it was one of only three cities in the world that he would like to live in.

Karlovy Vary was the height of fashion, and the Old Town today is testament to this old-world appeal, enriched with neo-renaissance and baroque promenades, colonnades and hotels, and of course, thermal springs.

It is still the most distinguished spa resort in the Czech Republic , a destination for high-end R&R that sits on the northern edge of the Slavkovský Les, a beautiful swathe of forest-covered highlands.

1. Mill Colonnade

There’s no better place to start than this emblematic landmark, a dignified, twin-aisled walkway flanked by 124 columns in the heart of the old town. Here the Spa Orchestra puts on free concerts throughout the year, and five of Karlovy Vary’s 13 hot springs emerge along the colonnade.

Each spring is labelled with a plaque detailing the waters’ temperatures and mineral contents, and the best thing is that you can bring your own cup to sample the waters as you stroll.

It’s completely free and open at any time of day. And if you don’t have a cup don’t worry because spa cups are sold everywhere in the Old Town.

2. Spa Treatments

Karlovy Vary abounds with day spas, hotels and wellness centres, and you’re sure to find the spa that suits your needs and budget. Most visitors opt for treatment courses that last a week or more.

People have been coming to Karlovy Vary for the water’s curative properties since the 14th century, and the story goes that the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV was the first to be treated here after finding a spring bubbling through the ground while on a hunt.

As you might figure, the list of treatments available is endless, but the most popular involve hydrotherapy, mineral water drinking cures and plenty of fresh air.

3. Moser Museum

Karlovy Vary was a centre of excellence for several trades, but none more prestigious than glassmaking. In 1893 Ludwig Moser established his glass workshop here, which remains a reference point  for the craft to this day.

At one point in the early-1900s Moser was the crystal supplier to the Emperor of Austro-Hungary, the Persian Shah and the King of Great Britain. You can come to the Moser Museum to get to know the process, from design to glassmaking, cutting and engraving.

And naturally there are large collections dating from the earliest pieces to the glassworks’ more recent items.

4. Hotel Thermal

This building really doesn’t fit in with the rest of Karlovy Vary, but that’s what makes it cool. It’s a 10-storey tower block from the 1970s, a Soviet artefact that contrasts with the delicate architecture of the Old Town. And although it was unpopular at first it has become accepted as a landmark.

For one thing, Hotel Thermal offers the only public outdoor pool to be found in the centre of the town. At the start of July the annual Karlovy Vary International Film Festival rolls up here – it’s the leading cinema event in the region and celebrated its half-century in 2015.

Recent festival guests include Harvey Keitel, Helen Mirren, Michel Gondry and Judi Dench.

5. Diana Tower Lookout

Getting to this sight at the summit of Friendship Hill depends on how intrepid you’re feeling. If you’ve got the energy you can make the climb along forest trails, and the most comfortable time to do this is in spring,  early-summer and autumn.

The other option is to jump on the scenic funicular, which departs Karlovy Vary every 15 minutes and takes three minutes to reach the top. The Diana Tower is from 1914 and offers views that extend 70 kilometres on a clear day, free of charge (apart from in January).

Accompanying the tower is a restaurant and mini-zoo, and you can also explore the lovely woodland up here.

6. Vrídelní Kolonáda

Vrídlo is the best-known of all of Karlovy Vary’s hot springs. At 72 °C it’s also the hottest, and bursts from the ground at such pressure that it reaches a height of 12 metres, kicking out 2000 litres every minute.

This geyser is contained inside Vrídelní Kolonáda, a functionalist building from the 70s, along with four other springs, all of which can be sampled for free. For newcomers the water can be pretty strange, so don’t worry about taking more than a sip!

Go underground for a tour of the spa’s inner workings and to see how the town’s famous aragonite crystals are formed.

7. Jan Becher Museum

Karlovy Vary is the hometown of another famous Bohemian artisan. Josef Becher was an early-19th-century pharmacist who developed his own medicinal tonics, and after gaining success his son Johann built the business up and began to produce one drink, Becherovka, on a larger scale.

Nowadays the Becherovka is the Czech Republic’s national liqueur. At the Jan Becher Museum you’ll see the original distillery and artefacts, and find out how Becherovka is brewed and stored.

Admission to the museum includes a tasting session, but beware: This stuff can take some getting used to! Pick up a bottle as a souvenir from the museum’s shop.

8. Church of St. Mary Magdalene

Right next to the Vrídelní Kolonáda is this grand church that goes back to 1737, and is one of the most valued pieces of high baroque heritage in the country. You can take a look inside during the summer months, and will get to see a spectacular altarpiece, a gothic statue of the Madonna and Baroque Eucharist sculptures.

In the crypt you can negotiate the church’s elaborate baroque foundations and another altarpiece carved from the aragonite that forms around Karlovy Vary’s thermal springs.

The church has superb acoustics, so try to get a seat at one of the regular concerts held here.

9. Grandhotel Pupp

On a hillside with a commanding view of Karlovy Vary is this stately 228-room hotel with a history that stretches back more than 300 years. It takes its name from Johann Georg Pupp, a local confectioner who came to own the building by marriage.

During a century of prosperity his descendants expanded the hotel, and by the early 20th century the building possessed the neo-baroque design you can see today.

Grandhotel Pupp is the last word in opulence in Karlovy Vary, welcoming the rich and famous from around the world, and was also a shooting location for the 2006 Bond movie Casino Royale.

10. Stará Louka

In a city known for its grand walkways, Stará Louka stands out as the esplanade of choice. This is one of the most photographed scenes in the city; a street of handsome old townhouses on the north bank of the Tepla River framed by the evergreen Slavkovský Les hills.

Along the street you’ll come across boutiques, cafes and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for friends and families to take a leisurely stroll on the weekend, and stop by a riverside terrace for a coffee.

On the opposite bank is the Nova Louka, where the palatial Nezval Theatre can be seen.

11. Church of St. Peter and Paul

With its five golden domes there’s no missing this imposing orthodox church, which is modelled on the Byzantine Church of the Holy Trinity in Moscow.

It dates back to 1897 and is unmistakable evidence of Karlovy Vary’s strong Russian influence, which continues to this day. The church’s interior is adorned by invaluable paintings, frescoes and other decorations.

The centrepiece here is a relief depicting the Russian Tsar, Peter the Great. Many of these works were sponsored by wealthy Russian patients seeking treatment in Karlovy Vary.

12. Exercise in the Hills

Connecting with Karlovy Vary are more than 180 kilometres of colour-coded trails for walks and bike rides that wind through the hills around the town.

On the way you’ll always find something interesting to see, as these paths have been used for centuries and various lodges, lookouts and resting points have been established in this time.

The Charles IV Lookout for example is a neo-gothic tower from 1877 that stands 514 metres above sea level, while the Deer Leap also offers a beautiful panoramic view and can be identified by the statue of a mountain goat that sits atop a large rock next to the platform.

13. Postal Court

Tucked in the hills just to the south of the town, the Postal Court was originally a stable for postal horses but because of its location became a staging post for tourists walking and riding through the scenery around Karlovy Vary.

After a while a restaurant was established here, and the venue eventually took on great importance as a place for the spa’s wealthier visitors and citizens to rub shoulders. Inside this neo-classical building are a variety of ceremonial halls, and in the French-style grounds you’ll see two spectacular pavilions.

The dance pavilion, with its covered terrace, is the standout.

14. Market Colonnade

A white and intricately-carved wooden building, the Market Colonnade was only meant to be a temporary structure, but has stood the test of 100 years. It was constructed by Fellner and Helmer, Viennese architects responsible for many of Karlovy Vary’s spa buildings and has a splendid pillared arcade at the front.

The Market Colonnade is home to two springs: The Market Spring and Charles IV Spring, which come out at 62 and 64°C respectively.

Within the colonnade is a relief that shows the famous and mythic discovery of Karlovy Vary by Charles IV in the 1300s.

True to its reputation as one of the region’s foremost destinations for the wealthy in the early-20th century, Karlovy Vary has welcomed golfers for well over a hundred years and offered the first courses anywhere in Bohemia.

Now there are three within a few minutes of Karlovy Vary, and another seven in the wider region. The oldest is Golf Resort Karlovy Vary, which is a plush 18-hole course set in upland forest.

Another local choice is the Golf & Racing Club, where the course actually sits within Karlovy Vary’s racing circuit that dates back to before the First World War.

15 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic):

• Mill Colonnade
• Spa Treatments
• Moser Museum
• Hotel Thermal
• Diana Tower Lookout
• Vrídelní Kolonáda
• Jan Becher Museum
• Church of St. Mary Magdalene
• Grandhotel Pupp
• Stará Louka
• Church of St. Peter and Paul
• Exercise in the Hills
• Postal Court
• Market Colonnade

• X (Twitter)

Things To Do in Karlovy Vary & The West Bohemian Spa Triangle

Last updated on September 16th, 2023 at 04:48 pm

Apart from being pampered at splendid spa hotels and wellness centres, there are many other amazing things to do in Karlovy Vary. This thorough guide on what to do in Karlovy Vary is here not only to help you plan the perfect trip to Karlovy Vary but also to introduce you to all the other charms of the West Bohemian Spa Triangle.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, this article contains sponsored content. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

Watch our YouTube video about what to do in Karlovy Vary & around

What Is The West Bohemian Spa Triangle

Before we go into detail about the best things to do in Karlovy Vary and around, we should make one thing clear. Karlovy Vary is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic. Yet there are many other wonders to discover in the so-called West Bohemian Spa Triangle.

Situated close to the Czech Republic’s western border with Germany, the West Bohemian Spa Triangle is comprised of three famous spa towns: Karlovy Vary , Marianske Lazne and Frantiskovy Lazne . All three towns are within short driving distance from each other, offering travellers the opportunity to effortlessly get to know all of them.

Forming part of The Great Spa Towns of Europe – a transnational UNESCO site that includes eleven spa towns in seven European countries – the three towns are renowned for their countless mineral springs that have been known for their healing properties for centuries.

During the 18th, and especially the 19th century when the railway made travelling a lot easier, people from all walks of life, such as scientists, royals, poets and artists, flocked to the three spa towns for medical treatments or simply to relax.

The West Bohemian Spa Triangle’s glory was halted during the two World Wars. Afterwards, the spas were nationalised. For the first time, the spas were available to the working class rather than just the elite of the time. The now re-privatised spa hotels attract people from all over the world, who enjoy the best spa vacation in the three picturesque towns.

Although the area’s main draw is its spa culture, there are several other cultural and natural treasures to explore there. Read on to find out more about the best things to see in Karlovy Vary and the West Bohemian Spa Triangle.

Is Karlovy Vary Worth Visiting on a Day Trip From Prague?

Located about two hours by bus from Prague , Karlovy Vary is one of the most popular day trips from the Czech capital. We understand that visiting this picture-perfect town on a day trip sounds tempting. However, we recommend spending at least a couple of nights in Karlovy Vary and not just because this is what any responsible traveller would do.

The reasons are simple. First of all, the town’s fantastic spa hotels offer plenty of treatments. That’s a reason in itself to spend a few days in a superb hotel, pampered to your heart’s content.

Another reason is that Karlovy Vary is infested with hordes of day trippers in the daytime. In the evening, though, when all the crowds are gone, you can have the dimly lit colonnades and spring fountains all to yourselves. And this is pure magic.

Last but not least, a day trip from Prague to Karlovy Vary can only give you a small taste of the town. Yet it won’t leave you enough time to explore the extended area of the West Bohemian Spa Triangle. That’s a huge shame if you ask us.

If you’re not convinced yet or if you’re on a seriously tight schedule, this day trip from Prague will give you a quick glimpse of this stunning town.

Karlovy Vary Travel Tips

• Best time to visit Karlovy Vary: Karlovy Vary is a year-round destination and that’s not just a saying. Whatever season you choose for your trip to Karlovy Vary, the town looks gorgeous and the spa hotels await. Of course, spring and autumn are ideal because the weather is perfect then. Summer is the best for anyone wishing to feel the unique vibe of the International Film Festival while winter can be a one-of-a-kind experience. Did someone say soaking in the hot water while it’s snowing outside?
• How many days in Karlovy Vary: If you’re visiting Karlovy Vary for medical purposes, the experts advise that you should spend at least two weeks there. However, if you’re there for the pampering and sightseeing instead, a minimum of two nights is a good start. That said, if you want to travel around the West Bohemian Spa Triangle – which you should – you’ll need at least five full days.
• How to get to Karlovy Vary: Prague Airport is the nearest airport to Karlovy Vary. The best way to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary is by Flixbus . The journey takes about two hours. However, if you plan to explore more than just the town of Karlovy Vary, it’s better to rent a car from Prague . Driving will give you the flexibility to easily tour the Spa Triangle and the fascinating mining region – more on that soon.
• How to get around Karlovy Vary: The town is very compact and walkable. You can go anywhere you want on foot.
• Where to stay in Karlovy Vary: Some of the best hotels in Karlovy Vary are in the town’s spa zone. Most hotels include spa packages with your stay. Our top three choices for accommodation in Karlovy Vary are Grandhotel Pupp , Hotel Prezident and Thermal Hotel .
• Languages spoken in Karlovy Vary: Czech, of course. But we’re pretty sure that’s not a helpful piece of information. What’s helpful to keep in mind is that – outside of Karlovy Vary where pretty much everyone speaks good English – you might struggle to communicate in English in less touristy places, such as Frantiskovy Lazne, the Ore Mountains and elsewhere. Or even find restaurant menus in English for that matter. Therefore, make sure you keep Google Translate handy at all times.

Travel Resources To Help You Plan Your Karlovy Vary Trip

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Top 17 Things To Do in Karlovy Vary & Around

Among the three spa towns of the West Bohemian Spa Triangle, Karlovy Vary, or Carlsbad/Karlsbad , is the most visited one. It’s also the largest spa complex in Europe.

The first people to discover the healing benefits of the hot springs in Karlovy Vary were German-speaking settlers in the 13th century.

The settlement was upgraded to a city in 1370. Then, according to the legend, Emperor Charles IV, the same Charles one of the most photogenic spots in Prague – Charles Bridge – was named after, healed his injured leg with water from a mineral spring. The city was then named Karlovy Vary, which is Czech for Charles’ Baths.

1. Learn About Karlovy Vary’s Hot Springs

Karlovy Vary sits in an area with volcanic activity at a depth of 2500 metres. This is causing the formation of several springs at the earth’s surface. All the springs contain dissolved minerals, beneficial for human health. Drinking water from the hot springs in Karlovy Vary helps cure several ailments. The water temperature varies from spring to spring and can reach up to 74°C.

The springs in Karlovy Vary produce 2000 litres of mineral water per minute. The impressive part is that 95% of this water is produced from Spring Number 1 in the Hot Spring Colonnade. The rest 5% of the water comes from the town’s other springs.

Almost all of the springs are situated in the colonnades that adorn the town. Each spring has a sign with its number, name and water temperature.

2. Buy a Spa Cup & Try The Water

From your first stroll around Karlovy Vary, you will notice people walking from spring to spring with a special cup in hand. That’s no other than the famous Karlovy Vary spa cup. You can find spa cups to buy in different sizes and with various decorations everywhere in the town.

The shape of the spa cup is pretty much the same. There is a handle to hold it like a cup and a spout like the one on a teapot but it’s for drinking, not pouring. This special design of the spa cup allows you to drink hot water straight from the spring without burning your tongue.

According to spa specialists, the benefits of mineral water have the best effect if you’re walking at a slow pace while drinking. Therefore, once you buy your spa cup, walk along the colonnades and try the thermal mineral water from the springs.

Be prepared for high temperatures and a metallic taste. The taste might not be that pleasant, but thermal water is beneficial for your health. However, you should consult a spa doctor before you randomly start drinking water from the springs. A spa expert can explain which springs are best for your health, which time of the day is the most appropriate to drink and how much water you can drink.

3. Stroll Along The Colonnades

Without a doubt, the colonnades of Karlovy Vary are the town’s most emblematic structures. Strolling around the peaceful colonnades in the evening, when the day trippers are long gone, is one of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary.

Market Colonnade

Undoubtedly the most elegant colonnade in the town, the Market Colonnade is a carved wooden structure built by Viennese architects in the Swiss style at the end of the 19th century.

Legend has it that Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV healed his legs with the water from the Charles IV Spring located in the Market Colonnade. Above this spring, you can see a bronze panel that commemorates the discovery of the thermal springs by Emperor Charles IV in 1370. The Market Colonnade houses two more springs: the Lower Castle Spring and the Market Spring .

Mill Colonnade

Built in Neo-Rennaisance style at the end of the 19th century, the Mill Colonnade is the largest colonnade in Karlovy Vary. It was named after an old mill that was standing on this site before the colonnade was constructed. The colonnade features 124 Corinthian columns. Above the portico, there are 12 statues that represent the 12 months of the year.

At the Mill Colonnade, there are five mineral springs with water temperatures that range from 53°C to 65°C. These are the Mill Spring , Nymph Spring , Prince Wenceslas Spring , Libuse Spring and Rock Spring .

If you hear music while walking near the Mill Colonnade, it’s probably the spa orchestra that gives free concerts at the colonnade’s special orchestra space.

Park Colonnade

Situated in the middle of a park, the Park Colonnade used to be part of the Blanensky Pavillion, a concert and restaurant hall that was built at the end of the 19th century and was demolished in the 1960s. The richly decorated cast-iron colonnade has two mineral springs, the Park Spring and the Snake Spring .

Castle Colonnade

Built in Art Nouveau style, this stone colonnade is no longer accessible to the general public as it’s incorporated into a spa hotel.

Freedom Spring Arbour

This isn’t a colonnade but a beautiful gazebo housing just one spring: the Freedom or Liberty Spring. This spring was discovered in the early 1860s. Spa experts recommend drinking a cup of water from this spring before dinner as it helps with digestion.

Hot Spring Colonnade

Unlike all the other elaborate colonnades, the austere Hot Spring Colonnade is a functionalistic building that was completed in 1975 to replace an earlier cast-iron colonnade.

Inside the Hot Spring Colonnade is the Vridlo Spring or Spring Number 1 , the most powerful and hottest spring in the town. The water comes to the surface from a depth of two kilometres and its temperature reaches 73.4°C.

The large amount of carbon dioxide along with the underground water cause a natural geyser that can reach a height of up to 12 metres. It can go even higher up but it’s regulated never to go beyond 12 metres for safety reasons.

From the Vridlo Spring, mineral water is transferred to the town’s spa hotels to be used for various treatments. Inside the building, you can see the geyzer and drink water from the five fountains where some of the thermal water from the Vridlo Spring is diverted and kept in cooler temperatures that are suitable for drinking.

4. Visit The Vridlo Underground

After you visit the Hot Spring Colonnade, you can continue to the historical underground part of the Vridlo Spring on a guided tour. The underground corridor was used as the technology basement of the cast-iron colonnade that stood there from 1879 to 1939.

The most impressive things you’ll see in the Vridlo Underground are the famous stone roses , probably the best souvenirs you can find in Karlovy Vary. These roses are initially made of paper. However, after spending a couple of weeks in the Vridlo Underground, soaking in the mineral water, they turn to stone.

5. Walk Along Stara Louka & Masaryka Streets

One of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary is to walk along Stara Louka and Masaryka streets. The starting point of Masaryka Street is the Jan Becher Museum. Masaryka Street is the main shopping street and ends where the town’s spa zone begins. From there, you can walk along the river and enter the spa zone with the colonnades.

A few steps from the Hot Spring Colonnade, don’t miss the Baroque Church of Saint Mary Magdalene . As you continue walking along the river, you will find the pedestrianised Stara Louka Street. This is probably the most beautiful street in Karlovy Vary, as it’s lined with pastel-coloured elegant buildings on both sides of the river.

6. Live The Experience of The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

Upon entering the town, a huge sign of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival welcomes you to this fairytale-like town. When planning our trip to Karlovy Vary, little did we know about the festival. However, we soon found out that it’s one of the oldest film festivals in the world. Not to mention the most important one in Central and Eastern Europe.

The International Film Festival is held in Karlovy Vary every year in early July. During the festival, cinephiles from all over the world flock to Karlovy Vary to indulge in daily binge-watching of countless films. Others are more interested in catching glimpses of their favourite film stars in the streets of Karlovy Vary.

Most film screenings take place at the Thermal Hotel. For more information about the festival, have a look here .

7. Stay at The Same Hotel as Your Favourite Movie Stars

Grandhotel Pupp , probably the most historic spa hotel in Karlovy Vary, has hosted many prominent foreign guests, such as Ornella Mouti, Michael Douglas and John Travolta, to name but a few. Moreover, the hotel has been a filming location for several films, among which Casino Royale is the most famous.

If you want to get a little bit of the glory of your favourite film stars, visit Karlovy Vary any time of the year and stay at the iconic Grandhotel Pupp.

Book here one of the 228 unique rooms for a luxury stay at one of the world’s first-class hotels.

8. Swim With a View at Thermal Hotel

Unlike Budapest , where you can find some of the best thermal baths in Europe, Karlovy Vary’s thermal water is more widely available for drinking rather than bathing.

However, one of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary is to plunge into the mineral water swimming pool at the rooftop terrace of Hotel Thermal which offers the best view of the town. You can visit the famous Thermal Hotel pool even if you’re not a guest of the hotel.

There are two outdoor pools on the rooftop terrace. The main swimming pool has four 25-metre swimming lanes and a water temperature of 32°C. The smaller one is a thermal pool with a water temperature of 38°C.

Click here for the price list and the opening hours.

9. Book Some Spa Treatments at Hotel Prezident

As we said before, the hot mineral water from the Vridlo Spring is distributed to the town’s spa hotels to be used for treatments. Among the best spa hotels in Karlovy Vary, the family-run Hotel Prezident stands out. A few steps from the Vridlo Spring, this Luxury Spa & Wellness Hotel is the best place to simply relax or cure several illnesses.

Apart from the friendly and homelike atmosphere, what makes Prezident Hotel unique is the valuable experience and knowledge of its founder, Milada Sarova, M.D. Among the countless people this passionate spa expert has looked after throughout the decades were celebrities from all over the world, such as Czech President Vaclav Havel, actors Ben Kingsley, Gerard Depardieu and many more.

Book your room at Hotel Prezident and have Ms Sarova and her team prepare a tailor-made spa treatment plan for you.

10. Have Dinner at The Best Restaurant in Karlovy Vary

Situated near the Park Colonnade, Tusculum is one of the best restaurants in Karlovy Vary. Featuring a tasting menu prepared with ingredients from the owners’ organic farm and paired with superb Czech wines, Tusculum Restaurant offers a unique culinary experience. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry. There are options on the menu for you.

11. Take The Funicular To The Diana Lookout Tower

Erected in 1914, the 40-metre-high Diana Lookout Tower is the most popular of all the watchtowers that are scattered across the hills over Karlovy Vary. The tower has a lift that will take you to the observation deck. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the spa town.

Right next to the Diana Observation Tower, you will find the historical Diana Restaurant which was built in the same period as the tower. It’s the ideal place for a delicious lunch amidst nature, with several veggie options.

The easiest way to get to the Diana Lookout Tower is to take the funicular from the heart of Karlovy Vary, near Grandhotel Pupp. We’d recommend riding the funicular up to the tower and walking back down to the town for a chance to enjoy a scenic hike with splendid views along the way.

12. Try Becherovka

Karlovy Vary is the birthplace of one of the most popular spirits in the Czech Republic . The world-famous Becherovka is a herbal digestive liqueur invented by Jan Becher at the beginning of the 19th century. Back then, it was used as a medicine for stomach ailments.

The liqueur is made with water from Karlovy Vary and the recipe is a well-kept secret that only two people in the company know. According to the locals, Becherovka is the 13th spring of Karlovy Vary.

To find out more about the history and the production of Becherovka, you can visit the Jan Becher Museum on a guided tour. Besides the original Becherovka, there are also other products with different recipes that you can taste during the tour. What’s more, Becherovka serves as the main ingredient in cocktails you can only find in Karlovy Vary. The most famous among them is the BeTon (Becherovka & Tonic).

13. Visit Loket Castle

A mere 20-minute drive from Karlovy Vary, Loket Castle is one of the best places to visit near the famous spa town. Perched on a rocky hill with the Ohre River flowing around it, Loket Castle looks as though it comes straight out of a fairy tale.

Completely different from other castles we’ve seen in the Czech Republic, like the massive Sychrov Castle in Liberec , Loket Castle reminded us a lot of Bran Castle in Romania instead.

Founded in the second half of the 12th century, Loket Castle was built in Gothic style. In 1319, Prince Wenceslas, the future Emperor Charles IV, was imprisoned in the castle at the age of three, when his mother, Queen Eliska Premyslova, tried unsuccessfully to hide from the quick-tempered King John Luxembourg.

Inside the castle, you can see exciting exhibits, like the meteorite that fell in Loket around 1400. Furthermore, there are unique Gothic murals and historical arms collections. For spectacular views, climb up the 26-metre-high Castle Tower.

Check out the official website for information about opening hours and entrance fees.

14 . Step Inside a Glassworks

Bohemia has been renowned for its high-quality glass and glassmaking craftsmanship throughout the centuries. Moser Glassworks was established in Karlovy Vary in 1857. With time, it became one of the most famous luxury crystal manufacturers in the world. Glass from the Moser Glassworks has been used to decorate palaces, create awards and craft many other invaluable objects.

Everything made in Moser Glassworks is lead-free and 100% handcrafted. Nowadays, the Moser Glass Factory is one of the best places to visit in Karlovy Vary. During a guided tour, you can see with your own eyes how glassmakers transform glass into masterpieces of art. On the same tour, you can also visit the Moser Museum.

Check out the official website for information about opening hours and admission fees.

15. Get in The Depths of a UNESCO-Listed Mine

A spa vacation may be one of the main reasons to visit Karlovy Vary and the West Bohemian Spa Triangle. However, the mining region of the Krusne Mountains in the north of Bohemia awaits the more adventurous among you.

The mining region of the so-called Ore Mountains is shared between northwestern Czechia and southeastern Germany. The whole area was listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 2019 as mining activity has been documented there for over 800 years. Besides silver, some of the metals extracted at the mines were tin, cobalt, copper, iron and uranium.

It’s no overstatement to say that Europe’s entire monetary system started in the Ore Mountains. The silver from these mines was minted into tolars, the coins used in the area and, more specifically, in the town of Jachymov . If the word tolar rings a bell, you’re right. The dollar is named after the silver tolar that was born once upon a time in this corner of Bohemia.

Some of these mines are now open to the public, offering insightful guided tours. Keep in mind that each of these mines has a different level of difficulty. For example, the Mauritius Mine is very easy to walk through, while the Johannes Mine is quite demanding as it requires – among other challenges – climbing steep staircases, not at all suited for people with a fear of heights.

The important thing is that there’s a mine for everyone. No matter which mine you choose to visit, though, make sure that there are tours available in English.

During our trip to Karlovy Vary, we visited the Johannes Mine . The largest mine in the area, it was almost constantly in operation since the 16th century. The two-hour tour in the depths of the Johannes Mine is an unparalleled journey that narrates 500 years of mining history through dark wet tunnels and large chambers, dug centuries ago in the bosom of the Krusne Mountains.

16. Stop For a Beer Tasting at a Microbrewery

Right after the adrenaline-filled experience of exploring a mine, what’s better than a glass of top-quality – and ice-cold – Czech beer?

Almost on the border with Germany, Bozi Dar is a small town in the Ore mining region of Karlovy Vary. The little town is ideal for a beer stop at the Pivovar Cerveny Vlk Microbrewery . Alternatively, you can overnight at one of the town’s hotels if you want to explore more of the region’s gems.

Pivovar Cerveny Vlk serves several kinds of beer brewed in-house with local hops and accompanied by burgers and fancy dishes. The passionate Canadian-Czech brewmaster puts all his love into making the best version of the Czech national drink. The ambience and beer are amazing there. However, we would love to see more vegetarian options on the menu next time we visit.

17. Hike To The Wolf Pits

Located near the village of Horni Blatna , the Wolf Pits is an otherworldly landscape that was formed after the collapse of the Wolfgang Mine. The latter was in operation from the 16th to the 18th century. The pit is about 120 metres long and the dramatic rocks go so deep that you can see ice at their base even in the summer. You can get there after a short uphill hike from Horni Blatna.

The Other Spa Towns of The West Bohemian Spa Triangle

Top 8 things to do in mariánské lázně.

The second-largest town of the West Bohemia Spa Triangle, Marianske Lazne gave us the impression of being in a Spa Disneyland of sorts, abundant in beautiful parks and stunning 19th-century architecture with fountains and colonnades.

1. Stand Before The Singing Fountain

One of the best things to do in Marianske Lazne is to experience one of the music shows that the Singing Fountain puts on. Classical music masterpieces engage in an enchanting dance with the colourful jets of water from the fountain, captivating onlookers. This unique performance takes place every odd hour from the morning until it gets dark and it’s something you shouldn’t miss.

2. Linger at The Colonnade

A few steps from the Singing Fountain, the neo-Baroque Maxim Gorky Colonnade stands in all its glory since 1889. Take a stroll along its 180-metre promenade to appreciate the beauty of this remarkable monument before you sit for a glass of wine at one of the elegant cafés that line the colonnade.

3. Wander Through The Parks

Marianske Lazne boasts several lush parks, like the one that adorns the very heart of the town. That said, the most visited park in Marianske Lazne is Park Boheminium , the fourth-largest miniature park in Europe. The latter features over 70 detailed models of historical buildings in the Czech Republic.

4. Discover The Royal Statues

Among several statues of prominent personalities – including those of Goethe and Chopin, both of whom were in love with Marianske Lazne – the royal statues of King Edward VII of England and Emperor Franz Joseph I stand out.

King Edward VII visited Marianske Lazne nine times in total. In 1904, he met the last Habsburg Emperor Franz Joseph I there, turning Marianske Lazne into an important European political centre.

You can read more about the Habsburgs’ capital in our 3-day Vienna Itinerary.

5. Devour a Spa Wafer

Spa wafers became an integral part of the spa culture around the 18th century. Most probably, spa wafers were inspired by communion bread. Originally, a spa wafer came in a single layer with sugar on top. However, over time, this changed. A spa wafer now consists of two pieces filled with sugar or even chocolate, hazelnuts and almonds.

The delicious dough is made with spring water and salt from the Karlovy Vary region. Don’t leave without trying at least one spa wafer from the Kolonada shop , the pioneer spa wafer brand, based in Marianske Lazne.

6. Walk To The Forest Spring

Even though there are about 100 mineral springs around Marianske Lazne, only 40 of them are in the town. Contrary to Karlovy Vary’s springs, those in Marianske Lazne have cold water.

If your time allows you to visit only one of the town’s springs, grab the opportunity to take a short walk to the Forest Spring . The water from the Forest Spring tastes funny but it’s beneficial for upper respiratory and gastrointestinal problems.

7. Be Pampered at Nove Lazne Hotel

Featuring 97 gorgeous rooms and suites, this historic 5-star spa hotel offers its guests complete premium spa services. With a renowned Roman bath area, several swimming pools, 40 treatment cabins, saunas and access to natural mineral springs, Nove Lazne is one of the best spa hotels in the West Bohemian Spa Triangle.

At Nove Lazne, you’ll have the opportunity to feel like royalty. King Edward VII was so fond of Marianske Lazne that he had his very own spa cabin inside Nove Lazne Hotel. Nowadays, you can have a spa treatment in this very room of the historic Neo-Rennaisance hotel if you like.

Book your room at Nove Lazne and indulge in luxurious spa treatments.

8. Have Dinner at Hotel Swiss House

Apart from being a splendid boutique hotel, Hotel Swiss House takes great pride in its exquisite restaurant. At the relaxing garden or the cosy indoor space, you can enjoy a delicious gourmet tasting menu with local ingredients that caters to vegetarians or people with any other dietary requirements. And you’ll be friends with the cutest cat.

Top 4 Things To Do in Františkovy Lázně

Named after the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I, Frantiskovy Lazne is the smallest of the three towns that comprise the West Bohemian Spa Triangle. The little spa town was founded in the 18th century. Since then, it has attracted famous guests like Goethe, Johan Strauss, Franz Kafka and many others.

With more than 20 mineral springs with cold water, Frantiskovy Lazne is famous for treatments of gynaecological problems and infertility.

1. Enjoy a Day at Aquaforum

For some water fun, especially if you’re travelling with kids, Aquaforum is the place to be in Frantiskovy Lazne. You will find indoor and outdoor swimming pools and water slides there, as well as fitness and wellness centres for a pure fun and relaxing experience.

2. Spend The Night at Hotel Pawlik

Hotel Pawlik is probably the best dining and accommodation option in Frantiskovy Lazne. Besides its direct access to Aquaforum and several top-quality spa facilities, Hotel Pawlik offers anything a guest would need for a memorable stay.

Seriously, name it and it’s there. From bicycles to rent, a library and a reading room to a game centre with billiards and a daycare room, the 4-star spa resort has something for everyone. On top of that, Hotel Pawlik is like a cultural centre of sorts as it organises several events, open to locals and visitors alike.

Book a room at Hotel Pawlik for the most relaxing stay.

3. Wander Around The Bijou Town

Frantiskovy Lazne may be a tiny town but it has no shortage of peaceful parks and elegant neo-classical buildings and colonnades. Take a stroll from Pawlik Hotel through the park with the Goethe Memorial and wander around the bijou centre of Frantiskovy Lazne.

4. Look For The Small Boy Statue

As we said, Frantiskovy Lazne specialises in the treatment of infertility problems. Therefore, the town’s symbol is the statue of a miraculous little boy, called Frantisek . See? It’s not only Brussels that has a small (naked) boy as a symbol. According to the legend, if a woman touches Frantisek, she’ll get pregnant before too long. We tend to believe that it’s the healing properties of the water that does the trick instead.

We hope that this list of the best things to do in Karlovy Vary and the West Bohemian Spa Triangle inspired you to consider this destination for your next Central Europe adventure. A spa vacation complemented by beautiful nature, stunning architecture and several cultural treasures is the best way to get acquainted with this very special part of the Czech Republic.

WORDS & IMAGES: Katerina EDITING: Maria

Disclosure:  We visited Karlovy Vary and the West Bohemian Spa Triangle on a press trip organised and sponsored by Visit Czechia and Karlovy Vary Region . This article about the best things to do in Karlovy Vary and around was sponsored by Visit Czechia , but all opinions are our own, as always.

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Top things to do in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary – a name that is associated with class and luxury, James Bond, Becherovka, wafer and thermal springs. A town so unique that would linger in your mind long after you have left it. I totally fell in love with this town and having visited in pretty much all seasons, winter, spring and summer, I am a huge fan of its uniqueness and charm.

Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it too. Hopefully!

I’ll throw in a few sound tips on what to buy and see, while I am at it, you know, just to spice it up.

Table of Contents

A brief history of Karlovy Vary

A little history is always a good thing, I believe. Helps you understand the whys and wherefores and the names of historical figures that might appear in the narration from time to time.

To begin with, Karlovy Vary (earlier Carlsbad) was founded in the Middle Ages by Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor during one of his hunting trips. He chanced upon the mineral-rich thermal waters and decided to make this valley into a major “spa-town” – which is what Karlovy Vary is famous for even today. There are about 70 or more springs here, 13 of which are used for drinking cures. In the 18th and 19th centuries Karlovy Vary was the preferred choice of Europe’s rich and famous, the aristocrats, musicians (Beethoven and Mozart), Tolstoy…you get the idea, who came here to spent long hour drinking and soaking up the thermal waters.

First things first…

Get yourself a porcelain cup with a spout. I’ll tell you why in a minute. Remember the hot springs that I just mentioned? Well, the water is scalding hot. I learnt it the hard way. On my first visit, I attempted to fill up my plastic bottle (yes, plastic) bottle with water from the spring. An old lady sipping from her fancy porcelain cup stopped me at once. “It will melt your bottle,” she said. “The water should heal you -you don’t want the chemicals in the plastic to poison you.”

I saw the sense in that and invested a few Euros in a fancy, let’s call it the spa cup, to drink from.

Back to the springs. The waters of Karlovy springs are nothing short of miraculous. Diabetes? Arthritis? Tummy trouble? The cure can be found just by stretching out your hands and filling your cup.  For centuries, health disorders have been known to vanish by merely sipping these waters.

Important Note No 1 : Karlovy Vary is teeming with springs – and most of them share the same mineral-makeup. The temperatures of the water vary – just saying.

Important Note No 2 : In your quest for cure, you might have the urge to overdo the drinking – but the recommended limit is about one liter a day. Also, you might want to pee often, but worry not. The town has thoughtfully installed toilets everywhere. The water is free to drink, but you have to pay to use the loo. Keep some change handy.

Czech these out!

Since Karlovy Vary is all about thermal spring waters, it is important to know just what you are photographing …and of course drinking from. Of all the lovely springs, these are a few where you will find people in large numbers, dipping their beaks and discussing the taste and temperature of water energetically .

The Hot Spring Colonnade : Right on Tepla River, the Hot Spring Colonnade (inside the ghastly-looking communist-styled concrete structure) has a number of fountains where you can drink from. Temperature of the waters vary at different fountains and just in case you have not bought your fancy drinking cup, there are plenty of kiosks right there to put you at ease. Right outside this is the majestic fountain, standing alone that shoots thermal waters high into the air and is the hottest spring in Karlovy Vary.

The Mill Colonnade : The next big colonnade is the Mill Colonnade. In fact, it is the traditional symbol of the town with about 124 Corinthian columns, is the largest of all the colonnades and naturally most visited. There is a special area for spa-concerts (of course free) which happens from time to time. The waters in the fountains here are extremely hot. Drink with caution.

The Market Colonnade : You can’t miss this white wooden building no matter how much you try- because it is right there, and also because after all this is where the original spring where Charles IV came for relief from aches and pains. There are five fountains here and every one of them crowded. Looking at the number of people photographing the white, decorative building or of themselves drinking water from the fountains I realized that I’d never get my moment – which I didn’t, so I gave up the effort altogether. Oh, I drank out of Charles IV’s spring alright.

Park Colonnade : A bit of 19 th century ornate Viennese ironwork catches your attention at first, till of course you stroll down till the end and there, right in front of you is the Snake Spring – a bit of a heart stopper alright, because hey, it takes a while to fall in with the idea of a sculpted snake spouting hot, curing waters. I will admit here that I did not drink from this spring – firstly because I had been drowning inside with all the waters from the earlier springs and secondly, I have a thing against snakes.

There are other things to do here…

You must be, by now drowning in the thermal waters, but the good news is that there is more to do and see in Karlovy Vary than what the guide books will have you think. It is unfortunate how this beautiful town gets type-casted as an “exclusive spa town” for the rich and famous (although you will agree that everything here is pricey). So, let’s have a look at what you can do for a little less.

• Diana Tower The highest point on the town with gorgeous views, Diana Tower is where you must go. To get up there, well there is a funicular right around the corner from Grand Hotel Pupp that whisks you uphill. Or if you feel particularly energetic (after all the spa water), you can hike uphill. To reach the top of the observation tower, you can choose to climb the stairs or ride the elevator. The views are amazing.
• Grand Hotel Pupp The name is a bit of a joke, especially if you knew the correct way to pronounce it – yes, its “poop” but the hotel is grand! This legendary hotel has been featured in several movies – Casino Royale and The Last Holiday to name a few, has a Walk of Fame and does some great dishes on the menu. You do feel like a royalty when you pass through its hallowed interiors with gleaming chandeliers.

Stroll all along River Tepla

Walk along the river (end to end of the pedestrian street should take you about twenty minutes or longer if you pause to admire the old rainbow coloured buildings). Browse in the boutiques selling high-end European clothing brands. In 2015 I was singularly lucky (thanks to a winter sale) so I could actually afford a buy a dress in Karlovy Vary that cost Euro 250 (the only time I got to wear it was at my book launch a year later).

The Church of St Mary Magdalene Across Hot Spring Colonnade, the Baroque Church of St Mary Magdalene built in 1737 appears out of the hill majestically. Take a look inside to see the ornate altar and a Gothic statue of Mary.

The Peter House Right across the Mill Colonnade, on the other side of the river you’ll see the Peter House, a half-timbered building which is now a pizza restaurant. A plaque outside is dedicated to Peter the Great.

Take a break – have some coffee

Now, there is a thing about Karlovy Vary that simply cannot be ignored and that is its magnetism. No amount of self-will can keep you away from its cafes or more importantly, it’s Becherovka. I’ll get to the wafers in a minute.

Becherovka is herbal liqueur produced in Karlovy Vary and is the cure for all ailments in town – it is often hard to tell what works more effectively – Becherovka or the thermal waters. But it is heartwarming to know that as long as a shot of this digestive is at hand, you can kiss goodbye to bad health.

A note on Becherovka: If you are really into this, take a walk down to the Jan Becher Museum (closer to the Park Colonnade). Why? Because not only can you learn about this elixir, tour the old cellars, but do a Becherovka tasting while you are at it.

For those who love coffee more than liqueurs and thermal waters but want to taste of everything, Karlovy Vary has a solution right there at the Hot Spring Colonnade. At Café Respirum , coffee is made of thermals waters with a shot of Becherovka.

Cost : Eur 5.60. too much of it will make you very spirited…go easy!

You have been warned.

Another coffee stop? I wholeheartedly recommend Café Elefant, a Beethoven favourite.

Now that you’ve had your caffeine, liqueur and waters all in one shot, it’s time to nibble on some spa wafers. In Karlovy Vary, wafers are a tradition and come in all flavours – chocolate, hazelnuts, cinnamon and what not. Grab as many as you can – you don’t want to regret not buying it.

Just so you know…

Glass making is a Karlovy tradition and Moser, the Kings of Glass-making have a boutique right here (and a factory some distance away, just saying).  In 1800’s Ludwig Moser opened his first glass shop right here in what was called Carlsbad and given the number of aristocrats and monarchs that passed this way, his products became hot property. Even today, Moser Glass finds a place of pride in the homes of royalty and the rich and famous.

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Karlovy Vary or Carlsbad

Written by Sam Van den Haute aka CheckOutSam

Karlovy Vary, or Carlsbad, is located in the west of the Czech Republic near the border with Germany. The city is best known for its hot springs and spas. The first mention of Carlsbad as a spa already descends from 1522, and so I thought it was time for me to also immerse myself in the healing powers of the hot spring water!

Hi, I'm Sam , the blogger behind CheckOutSam !

What will you read in this blog?

The bus from Prague to Karlovy Vary takes a bit longer than two hours and costs 120 Czech crowns one way.

Prague to Karlovy Vary

From one of the smaller stations in Prague (Praha Florenc) I managed to hop on the bus about five minutes before it left. The Student Agency bus lines have a great service around Prague and I can definitely recommend their busses. The very comfortable bus took me 160 Czech crowns, or about six euros / 7 dollars. With excellent internet connection I even had a sea of time to search for what I absolutely had to see and do in Karlovy Vary. Once that was done, I put away my phone and I watched a movie on the built-in TV-screen in the seats.

The Carlsbad bus station is very centrally located and actually brings you to the center in only two minutes. Please note: the bus makes two stops. The first stop is the easiest to get off, because this one is closest to the city. But the second stop is where you must go back and you should buy your tickets if you want to return to Prague. The second stop is about five hundred meters away. You basically can’t miss the big building where all busses come and leave.

The healing water of Karlsbad is supposed to do wonders for your health! Everywhere in the city you can see faucets with this ‘magical’ water.

Karlovy Vary sights and must do’s

Personally, I think you just should walk through Karlovy Vary instead of taking a bus or car. In my opinion this is the only way to really get the best view over the gorgeous city. Because it already is november, it’s already quite cold in the Czech Republic. This also means that the air is not as blue anymore, but rather gray and overcast. That color is in stark contrast with the bright colors of the lovely houses throughout the city. It seems that the inhabitants of this city wanted to give a permanent cozy atmosphere to heir spa city by painting the houses.

If you go further through the city, you’ll soon meet some of the ‘kolonadas’. These metal pavilions show the (past?) Grandeur of the city in the best possible way. They are already beautiful in winter, but I think the Vridelni kolonada  must be at its best when the surrounding park is in bloom.

When you walk a little further you’ll see some picturesque walkways. Again, while passing next to some exceptionally beautiful kolonada’s. While strolling through the city you’ll see many more of the colorful houses and beautiful churches which are definitely worth some short stops for taking pictures of them.

Almost at the end of the city, there is a fountain permanently spouting water from the hot springs. The warm mist feels good when you walk along, but it’s especially nice to see this natural spectacle in the middle of the city.

Definitely keep walking until the end of the town and there turn right into one of the small roads. Here you’ll find a small station where you can buy a ticket (80 crowns go and return) to be hoisted towards the Diana tower with the help of a funicular. Once you get there, you’ll get an incredibly beautiful view of the city and the surrounding nature. When you climb up (or take the lift) to the Diana tower, you’ll get the best view, however.

From this tower, I saw a monument that I had not seen in any other guidebooks or websites. The Orhtodox St. Peter and Paul church. With its bright blue hues and golden domes, it is hard not to miss, and if I’m honest I found this one of the most beautiful churches I had seen yet.

Once I took the funicular back down, I went in search of this mysterious church to inspect it a little closer. And after about thirty minutes, I let out several ‘wows’ when I saw the majestic building appear. Hidden behind a few hotels and houses the phenomenal building started rising slowly. Inside, you can’t take pictures, but the sober interior is absolutely not comparable to the lush exterior of this beautiful church.

The fountain of Karlovy Vary spouts warm spring water all day long!

The view from the Diana Tower over the surrounding nature of Karlovy Vary.

Healing water

Nearly four hours later, I had seen the small Carlsbad. Small but beautiful! When I returned to the bus I filled my bottle with a little bit of healing spring water, because well… You can’t leave Karlsbad without at least trying out the magical water, can you?! During my brief visit, I found it quite funny that people constantly walked around with a small, porcelain jug, which they constantly filled with the water from one of the fountains and then sipped it slowly like it was some kind of magical elixer. In my opinion it was nothing more than salty, slightly acidic water. But perhaps… I’ll feel reborn in a couple of hours? Who knows!

The porcelain tools that visitors use to drink the healing spring water.

The Orthodox St. Peter and Paul Church in Karlovy Vary is truly gorgeous!

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2-Day Excursion Through Stunning Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

About Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Discover the enchanting city of Karlovy Vary, nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic. Renowned for its thermal springs, this picturesque spa town offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Marvel at the colorful baroque architecture, stroll along the Teplá River, or hike through the dense forests surrounding the city. Visit the iconic Mill Colonnade, housing five of the city's thirteen springs, or the stunning Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul. Don't miss the chance to taste traditional Czech delicacies and the locally produced Becherovka herbal liqueur. Whether you're seeking tranquility, adventure, or a taste of history, Karlovy Vary promises a memorable experience.

2 -Day Itinerary

Exploring the city center and sampling local delicacies.

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Teplá River , taking in the beautiful Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture of the city. Don't forget to sample the healing mineral waters from one of the many hot springs.

Enjoy a traditional Czech lunch at a local restaurant. Try some of the local specialties like goulash, dumplings or trdelník, a delicious pastry.

Visit the Jan Becher Museum , where you can learn about the history of Becherovka, a traditional Czech herbal liqueur. Take a guided tour and enjoy a tasting session.

Have dinner at a restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a meal of Czech or international cuisine while watching the sun set over the city.

Take a relaxing evening walk through the Dvořák Park , a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautifully lit fountains.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks and Enjoying Breathtaking Views

Start your second day with a visit to the iconic Mill Colonnade , a stunning piece of architecture housing several hot springs. Take a walk around and sample the healing waters.

Have lunch at a cozy café in the city center. Try some traditional Czech pastries and a cup of locally roasted coffee.

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Diana Lookout Tower . Take the funicular up to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Enjoy a hearty Czech dinner at a local restaurant. Try some svíčková, a traditional Czech dish made with marinated beef and creamy sauce.

End your day with a visit to the Karlovy Vary Theatre . Enjoy a performance or simply admire the beautiful Neo-Baroque architecture of the building.

Attractions in Itinerary ( 6 )

1 Teplá River

A picturesque river that flows through the city of Karlovy Vary. It's a popular spot for leisurely walks and picnics.

2 Jan Becher Museum

A museum dedicated to the history and production of Becherovka, a traditional Czech herbal liqueur.

3 Dvořák Park

A beautiful park named after the famous Czech composer Antonín Dvořák.

4 Mill Colonnade

A stunning architectural structure housing several hot springs.

5 Diana Lookout Tower

A historic tower offering panoramic views of Karlovy Vary and the surrounding countryside.

6 Karlovy Vary Theatre

A beautiful historic theatre offering a variety of performances in a stunning architectural setting.

Local Food and Drinks ( 12 )

Ovocné knedlíky

These are fruit dumplings, a popular Czech dessert. They are made from dough filled with fruit (usually strawberries or plums), boiled, and then topped with melted butter, sugar, and crushed farmer cheese. A must-try when in Karlovy Vary.

Svíčková na smetaně

This is marinated sirloin, a traditional Czech dish. It consists of marinated beef sirloin that is roasted and served with a creamy sauce and bread dumplings. It's a staple in Karlovy Vary.

Karlovarské oplatky

These are Karlovy Vary wafers, a local specialty. They are thin, crispy wafers that come in various flavors, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They are synonymous with the city of Karlovy Vary.

This is a herbal bitters, often drunk as a digestive aid. It is produced in Karlovy Vary and is one of the city's most famous products.

This is a type of sausage, a common dish in Czech cuisine. It's typically made from pork and seasoned with garlic, pepper, and other spices. It's a popular food choice in Karlovy Vary.

These are Czech pancakes, thinner than American pancakes and filled with jam, fruit, cream, or nuts. They are a popular dessert in Karlovy Vary.

This is a traditional Czech pastry, made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, then grilled and topped with sugar and walnut mix. It's a popular street food in Karlovy Vary.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

This is a traditional Czech dish consisting of roast pork, bread dumplings, and stewed cabbage. It's a common dish in Karlovy Vary and a must-try for visitors.

This is Czech goulash, a hearty stew made with meat, onions, and spices, typically served with bread dumplings. It's a popular dish in Karlovy Vary.

This is a traditional Czech soup made from sour cabbage, potatoes, bacon, and sausage. It's a common dish in Karlovy Vary and a must-try for visitors.

This is Czech beer, renowned worldwide for its quality and tradition. Karlovy Vary has several local breweries, making it a great place to sample this national drink.

This is honey wine, a traditional Czech drink. It's made by fermenting honey with water, and sometimes fruits, spices, grains, or hops are added. It's a popular drink in Karlovy Vary, especially during the winter months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's beautiful architecture, parks, and thermal springs. Additionally, the renowned Karlovy Vary International Film Festival takes place in July, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world. However, if you prefer a quieter visit, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are also lovely, with fewer tourists and mild weather.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

How to get around

Karlovy Vary is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to take in the city's beautiful architecture and natural surroundings.

Public buses are a reliable and efficient way to get around Karlovy Vary. They connect the city center with the surrounding areas. Bus stops are clearly marked and schedules are easy to understand.

Taxis are readily available in Karlovy Vary. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi ranks located in key areas around the city.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Karlovy Vary. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

If you plan to explore the wider region around Karlovy Vary, renting a car could be a good option. There are several car rental companies in the city.

Bicycle Rental

Karlovy Vary is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycle paths. Renting a bicycle can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Funicular Railway

The funicular railway in Karlovy Vary is not only a means of transport but also a tourist attraction. It provides a scenic route up to the Diana Lookout Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.

Important information

Currency Kč CZK

Time zone UTC+1

Driving side Right

Emergency phone Emergency (urgent help from Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Assistance): 112, 155; Fire: 150; Police: 158

Drinking water Yes

Power sockets

Voltage 230 V

Things to know about Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic as a first time visitor

Karlovy Vary is a spa town, so pack accordingly. Bring comfortable clothing and footwear for walking and relaxing.

The official language is Czech, but English, German and Russian are also widely spoken.

The local currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). While some places accept Euros, it's best to have some local currency on hand.

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

Public transportation is reliable and efficient. You can easily get around the town by bus or on foot.

Tipping is customary in the Czech Republic. A tip of 10-15% is standard in restaurants and for taxi drivers.

The town is known for its thermal springs. Drinking the thermal water is a common practice and is believed to have healing properties.

The tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.

The Czech Republic is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

The electrical voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. The plug type is Type E, which is a two-pin plug.

Karlovy Vary is a safe town, but like any tourist destination, it's always wise to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

The climate is temperate, with warm summers (average 60-75°F/15-24°C) and cold winters (average 25-35°F/-4-2°C).

If you're planning to visit the spas, remember to bring a swimsuit. Most spas also require a cap for hygienic reasons.

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including restaurants and bars.

Pharmacies are widely available for any health needs. Look for the green cross sign.

Emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency), 155 (ambulance), 158 (police), 150 (fire).

The town is pedestrian-friendly, but be aware that it's built on steep hills, so be prepared for some uphill walking.

If you're planning to buy local products or souvenirs, the most popular items are Bohemian glass, Becherovka (a local herbal liqueur), and spa wafers.

The post office is usually open from 8am to 6pm on weekdays and until 1pm on Saturdays.

Public restrooms are available throughout the town, but some may charge a small fee.

Basic Czech to know as a first time visitor

Packing list.

Pants/Jeans

Comfortable walking shoes

Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)

Swimwear (if you plan to visit the spa)

Accessories (hat, sunglasses, etc.)

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Shampoo and conditioner

Body wash or soap

Razor and shaving cream

Makeup and makeup remover

Hairbrush or comb

Prescription medications

First aid kit

Travel documents and essentials

Passport/ID

Visa (if required)

Travel insurance documents

Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

Emergency contacts and important addresses

Cash and credit cards

Guidebook or map

Electronics and gadgets

Charger for your phone

Camera (if you don't use your phone for photos)

Adapter (if needed)

Miscellaneous items

Snacks for the journey

Travel pillow and blanket

Reusable water bottle

Books or magazines for the journey

Umbrella or raincoat (depending on the season)

Hand sanitizer

Weather Conditions

Karlovy Vary, a beautiful spa town in the Czech Republic, experiences a moderate continental climate. This means that the weather can be quite variable, so it's essential to be prepared for different conditions when planning your visit. The warmest months in Karlovy Vary are typically July and August, with average high temperatures around 22°C (72°F). These months are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the town's famous hot springs. However, summer can also bring occasional showers, so don't forget to pack a light raincoat or umbrella. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are also lovely times to visit. Temperatures during these seasons range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and the town is less crowded than in summer. Remember to bring layers as mornings and evenings can be chilly. Winter in Karlovy Vary, from December to February, can be quite cold with average temperatures dropping to around -1°C (30°F) and highs around 2°C (36°F). Snow is common, making the town look like a winter wonderland. If you're planning a winter visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that the weather can change quickly in Karlovy Vary. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to this charming Czech town!

Did you know?

Did you know that the city has been a popular filming location for international films, including the James Bond film 'Casino Royale'?

Did you know that Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is the most visited spa town in the Czech Republic?

Did you know that Karlovy Vary is famous for its hot springs, with 13 main springs, about 300 smaller springs, and the warm-water Teplá River?

Did you know that the city was founded in the 14th century by Charles IV, the King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor?

Did you know that Karlovy Vary is known for the International Film Festival, which is one of the oldest in the world and one of Europe's major film events?

Did you know that the city is also famous for the Karlovy Vary wafer, a locally produced food item that has been made there since the 1800s?

Did you know that the city's architecture is a mix of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles?

Did you know that Karlovy Vary is the site of the Moser Glass Museum, dedicated to the history of Moser Glass, a luxury crystal company established in Karlovy Vary in 1857?

Did you know that the city is surrounded by forested hills, which offer numerous hiking, biking, and sightseeing opportunities?

Did you know that Karlovy Vary is home to the Becherovka herbal liqueur, a traditional Czech drink made from a secret recipe of more than 20 herbs and spices?

Places near by Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Prague Castle

One of the largest and oldest castles in the world, it is the official office of the President of the Czech Republic.

Charles Bridge

Historic bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague, Czech Republic.

The oldest and the most visited zoo in the Czech Republic.

Karlstejn Castle

Large Gothic castle founded 1348 CE by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor-elect and King of Bohemia.

Dresden Frauenkirche

Lutheran church in Dresden, the capital of the German state of Saxony.

Dresden Zwinger

A palace in Dresden, eastern Germany, built in Rococo style.

Konopiste Castle

A four-winged three storey château located in the Czech Republic.

A city east of Prague known for the Gothic St. Barbara's Church with medieval frescoes and flying buttresses.

Český Krumlov Castle

A castle located in the city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic.

České Budějovice

A city in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, known for the Budweiser Budvar Brewery.

Other trips in Karlovy Vary

4-Day Exciting Adventure Itinerary to Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

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4-Day Thrilling Nightlife and Outdoor Adventure in Karlovy Vary

2-Day Relaxing Couples Retreat in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

3-Day Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic Exploration Itinerary

Explore Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic in a Day Itinerary

Other destinations in czech republic.

Red White Adventures

The best ways to get from prague to karlovy vary.

Karlovy Vary is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic. Its famous spas attract people from all around the world come to visit the thermal baths, historic centre, and the beautiful city that Karlovy Vary is.

And if you’re living in Prague, Karlovy Vary is a perfect weekend trip from Prague if you want to go explore someplace new.

There are so many different ways to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary so let’s explore the different options below to see which one works best for you.  

One thing we love about Prague and the Czech Republic is how great public transport is and how easy it is to travel between cities in the country. It’s also not too expensive which is nice.

The convenience and the price make it possible to go to Karlovy Vary just for a day trip. We recommend staying for a weekend in Karlovy Vary though because there’s just so much to do.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links which means that if you decide to use them we get a small commission from the platform at no additional cost to you. Thank you <3

Table of Contents

4 best ways to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary

This is quite a common trip to take for locals, tourists, and expats who want to visit the natural thermal springs. Since it’s a popular route, there are plenty of different options to get between the two cities.

Lots of people do this commute weekly and some people even travel between the two on the daily. Below you can find the different options and select your mode of transport based on how much time and the amount of money you want to spend, as well as the convenience of your trip.

Let’s get right into all the different options on how to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary. In this post, you will find the different options, ticket prices, links to sites where you can book from, and reasons why we recommend each option.

Prague to Karlovy Vary by bus

Average price: $8-9 one way Average time: Just under 2 hours Convenience: 5/5 Where to book: Omio

Taking the bus from Prague to Karlovy Varys is definitely one of the more convenient options if you want to get there quickly. The ride is quite smooth and the main highway from Prague to Karlovy Vary is really good. There usually isn’t much traffic that delays the trip so the 1 hour 45 to get to Karlovy Vary is pretty accurate.

The bus stop in Prague where the bus leaves from is quite easy to get to as it’s right next to the Hradcanska metro stop. In Karlovy Vary, you will get dropped off right next to the centre so it’s super convenient.

One other thing we wanted to mention is that busses run roughly every hour. If you miss a bus there will be one shortly after. We do recommend booking in advance though to guarantee a seat!

Book your bus ticket to Karlovy Vary here.

Prague to Karlovy Vary by Train

Average price: $12-18 one way Average time: 3:30 hours Convenience: 3/5 Where to book: Rome2Rio

Most of the time we actually prefer to take trains. We love relaxing inside the train carriage, getting work done, and looking outside as the train rolls through different areas of the country.

But because of the route the train takes from Prague to Karlovy Vary, it’s a bit longer and more expensive to take the train compared to taking the bus. So the convenience and value go down a bit on this one.

The trip leaves from Prague’s main train station and drops you off close to downtown Karlovy Vary. Double-check before buying your train ticket and try and book a ticket where you don’t have to transfer. Every second train that leaves from Prague goes directly to Karlovy Vary. It’s way more convenient than having to transfer halfway. Plus the direct train is about 30 minutes shorter.

Book your train ticket to Karlovy Vary here .

Prague to Karlovy Vary by rideshare

Average price: $4-8 one way (prices vary depending on the driver) Average time: Just under 2 hours Convenience: 4/5 Where to book: Blablacar

If you’re in the mood to make a new friend or if want someone to chat with then a rideshare is a good option. We’ve used Blablacar a few times just on day trips from Prague but haven’t taken one to Karlovy Vary before. It’s quite inconsistent with drivers from Prague to Karlovy Vary but it doesn’t hurt to check.

You can always search on the app/website to see if anyone is driving on the day you’re looking to go. One of the benefits of a rideshare is that it’s quite cheap and you can usually meet friendly people. 

If you’re a little adventurous and comfortable driving with a stranger then give it a go.  

Search for a BlaBlaCar driver here .

Prague to Karlovy Vary by rental car

Average price: Anywhere from $25-50 a day + gas Average time: Just under 2 hours by car Convenience: 4.5/5 Where to book: DiscoverCars

If there are 2 or more of you then renting a car may be your best option for the price and convenience. You can decide when you want to leave and if you want to make some stops along the way.

The countryside in the Czech Republic is beautiful, especially near Karlovy Vary. Renting a car is definitely the most expensive option out of the 4 but if there are a few of you heading to Karlovy Vary together this is a good option as it gives you the freedom to stop along the way.

We recommend renting a car through DiscoverCars and then picking it up from the Prague Airport since it’s usually the cheapest option. We like using DiscoverCars because it compares the different rental companies and shows you the cheapest and best options!

Another good tip is that the further you book the car rental in advance the more likely you are to get a better discount!

Book your rental car from Prague Airport here.

You may also like…

• Prague to Brno – A Beautiful Weekend Trip
• 35 Exciting Things to Do in Prague on a Budget
• 11 Must Do Weekend Trips from Prague
• 7 Awesome Day Trips From Prague You Need to Do
• Move to Prague to Teach English

Recap of how to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary

We hope you have the best trip from Prague and enjoy all the fun attractions and activities you do. We love how close Karlovy Vary is to Prague and how easily you can get there. This is just one of the many reasons why we love living in Prague .

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Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad), or simply 'Vary' to Czechs, has stepped up its game in recent years, thanks largely to a property boom spurred by wealthy Russian investors. Indeed, the first thing you'll notice is the high number of Russian visitors, all following in the footsteps of Tsar Peter the Great, who stayed here for treatments in the early 18th century. Day trippers come to admire the grand 19th-century spa architecture and to stroll the impressive colonnades, sipping on the supposedly health-restoring sulphurous waters from spouted ceramic drinking cups.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hot Spring Colonnade

The Hot Spring Colonnade is in an incongruous concrete-and-glass functionalist structure built in 1975 and once dedicated to Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin…

Mill Colonnade

The most impressive piece of architecture in Karlovy Vary is the neo-Renaissance Mill Colonnade (built 1871–81), with five different springs, rooftop…

Diana Lookout Tower

This hilltop lookout tower affords fine views across Karlovy Vary and the surrounding forested hills, and is the starting point for waymarked hikes…

Church of Mary Magdalene

Karlovy Vary's most important Catholic church and one of its grandest baroque buildings, this imposing, twin-steepled structure in the heart of the spa…

Park Colonnade

Also known as the Garden Colonnade, this elegant wrought-iron structure dates from 1880 and is the first of the main colonnades that you reach as you…

Market Colonnade

The only one of the town's colonnades to be crafted from wood, this beautiful neoclassical structure dates from the 1880s and was the work of the fabled…

Moser Glass Museum

The Moser Glass Museum on the western edge of town has more than 2000 items on display. Tours in English of the adjacent glassworks are also available…

Diana Funicular Railway

Just beside (to the north of) the Grandhotel Pupp, a narrow alley leads to the bottom station of the Diana Funicular Railway, which climbs 166m to great…

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Karlovy Vary: A Winter Wonderland Full of Hot Springs

Indulge yourselves in the frozen beauty of spa colonnades, get pampered like empress sissi .

Advent in Karlovy Vary – when the whole town and luxurious hotels compete with their Christmas decorations – kicks off with a Christmas market that starts at the end of November and goes on until 6 January, the day known as Three Kings’ Day. The venue is near Elizabeth’s Bath named after Empress Sissi – Elizabeth of Bavaria. She also enjoyed the therapeutic effects of the local thermal springs.  

Bon Appetit! Cheers! 

It doesn’t have to be Christmas for this most important spa in Czechia, inscribed by UNESCO, to charm you with its beauty. Enjoy a traditional hot spa wafer , warm up with the famous local herbal liquor Becherovka (you can also visit the Home of Becherovka museum) and go explore the beauty of the winter spa wonderland, veiled by steam clouds from the hot springs. 

To the Land of Glass through Colonnades 

Karlovy Vary

Events nearby.

Smetana Days in Plzeň

Pilsen Liberation Festival

The ceremonial opening of the spa season in Karlovy Vary

The ceremonial opening of the spa season in Mariánské Lázně

Mattoni Karlovy Vary 1/2 Marathon

CIOFF – Pilsen International Folklore Festival (June 8 – 12)

International Film Festival in Karlovy Vary

Klatovy International Folklore Festival

Chodsko festivities and St. Lawrence Faire

Porcelain Festival Karlovy Vary

City Triathlon Karlovy Vary

Roudnice vintage at the château

Microbrewery Festival Sun in a Glass Pilsen

St. Wenceslas vintage Kadaň

Pilsner Fest Pilsen

Nearby accommodation and restaurants.

Hotel Romance

Tusculum Restaurant

Dvořák Spa & Wellness Hotel in Carlsbad

Savoy Westend Hotel

Embassy Restaurant

Spa & wellness hotel St. Joseph Royal Regent in Karlovy Vary

Hotel Imperial

Carlsbad Plaza Medical Spa & Wellness hotel 5* Superior

Grandhotel Pupp

Spa Resort Sanssouci

Humboldt Park Hotel & Spa

Parkhotel Richmond in Karlovy Vary

Charleston Restaurant

Rêvelton Suites

Hipodrom Holoubek - horse racing, golf, hotel, camp and restaurant in Karlovy Vary

Art Hotel Royal Golf

Švejk Restaurant Loket

Hotel Císař Ferdinand in Loket

Hotel Honour and Grace

Na Statku Restaurant in Vojkovice

Restaurace Statek Bernard

Kamenný Dvůr Chateau

Harmonie Spa & Wellness Hotel

St. Moritz Spa & Wellness Hotel

Villa Savoy Spa Park Hotel

Esplanade Spa and Golf Resort

Reitenberger Spa Medical in Mariánské Lázně

Hotel Flora

U Zlaté Koule Restaurant

Rübezahl Marienbad Luxury Historical Castle Hotel and Golf

Hotel Krakonoš

Ensana Health Spa Hotels Mariánské Lázně

Anglický Dvůr Orea Hotel

Gourmet Hotel & Restaurant Villa Patriot

Bohemia Orea Spa Hotel

Excelsior Hotel

Restaurant Česká hospůdka

Falkensteiner Spa Resort Marienbad

Hotel Cristal Palace

Hotel Villa Regent

Holistic Hotel La Passionaria

Spa Hotel Děvín in Mariánské Lázně

Chateau Monty Spa Resort

Agricola Hotel

Rodinný pivovar Chodovar Brewery

Spa Hotel Erika in Františkovy Lázně

Hotel Francis Palace in Františkovy Lázně

Darovanský dvůr Complex

Restaurant Švejk - U pětatřicátníků