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11 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Karlovy Vary

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Diana Bocco Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Still commonly referred to by its German name, Karlsbad (or Carlsbad), the spa resort town of Karlovy Vary is rich with history and well worth adding to any Czech Republic travel itinerary. Founded in 1358, the town has welcomed such illustrious visitors as Peter the Great, Beethoven, Chopin, Schiller, Karl Marx, and Goethe.

The main attraction is undoubtedly Karlovy Vary's superb hot springs, which literally burst into the Tepla River as it flows through the city, with tremendous jets of water shooting upward to heights of up to 14 meters, shrouding the riverbanks in a seemingly constant cloud of steam.

All told, the city boasts 13 main springs (and up to 300 smaller ones), with numerous opportunities for visitors to steam, soak, and drink the waters for its many curative attributes. The city's spa-influenced architecture is another big draw, with many beautiful examples of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's also a cultural hot spot boasting a performing arts center, art galleries, and a number of museums.

One of the top events here is the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the longest running such events in Europe. Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in Karlovy Vary.

See also: Where to Stay in Karlovy Vary

1. Hot Springs and Colonnades

2. museum of glass moser, 3. the church of st. mary magdalene, 4. the diana lookout tower, 5. spa town: grand resorts and hotels, 6. the orthodox church of st. peter and paul, 7. the museum karlovy vary and art gallery, 8. tour loket castle, 9. karlovy vary international film festival, 10. historical motorcycle museum of karlovy vary, 11. spot wildlife at st. linhart game reserve, where to stay in karlovy vary for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to karlovy vary.

References to Karlovy Vary's stature as a leading European spa destination are everywhere. The connection to the town's copious hot springs is especially apparent in its many splendid colonnades. One of the most attractive is the Mill Colonnade . Built in 1881, it measures 132 meters in length and boasts 124 Corinthian columns supporting a roof under which there are five springs and numerous sculptures, including 12 along the rooftop balustrades representing the months of the year (there's even an orchestra pit).

Other colonnades of note are the Hot Spring Colonnade , a modern structure built in the 1960s housing a geyser that shoots some 2,000 liters of mineral water into the air every minute. One of the top things to do here is join a fascinating Hot Spring Underground tour, which takes you deep into the heart of the complex and provides a look at how this incredible force of nature is harnessed.

Also worth seeing is the beautiful white wooden Market Colonnade , built in 1883 in Swiss style and decorated with intricate lace motifs, and the Castle Colonnade, which consists of the Upper and Lower Spring Colonnades, the latter with a splendid relief of the famous "springs ghost."

Many of the springs have special taps that allow you to collect water for free. Just bring your own bottle or buy a special spa cup (a traditional little porcelain cup with a spout that makes for a great souvenir). Water temperature - from warm to boiling hot - is different at each tap, so make note of the degrees posted at each stop before you take a sip.

Karlovy Vary has, for more than 160 years, been one of eastern Europe's most important glassmaking towns, and the craftsmanship and skills of local glassmakers are celebrated in the excellent Museum of Glass MOSER.

Part of the Moser glassworks (established in 1857), this fascinating museum offers a look at the history of the company's glass-making with more than 2,000 fine examples of the craftsmanship that led to the company's worldwide reputation, as well as tours of the factory to see the glassblowers at work. English language guided tours are available, as is the opportunity to purchase these exquisite creations for yourself.

Address: Kpt. Jarose 46/19, 360 06 Karlovy Vary

Official site: www.moser-glass.com/en/

Considered one of the most important Baroque structures in the Czech Republic, the lovely Church of St. Mary Magdalene was built in 1737 to serve the city's Roman Catholic population and visitors. Located in the very heart of the city's spa area, it's easy to find, thanks to its twin onion-shaped spires, and is well worth visiting for its splendid interior.

Highlights include a fine altarpiece, a variety of exquisite Baroque Eucharist sculptures, and a Gothic statue of the Madonna, along with a number of important religious artifacts.

Other features of note include fine paintings of biblical scenes and a superb crypt with a funeral chapel containing the remains of locals once buried in the long-gone church cemetery. English language tours (which include a visit to the crypt) are available, and one of the top things to do in Karlovy Vary at night is to book an evening tour during the city's famous film festival.

Address: nám. Svobody 1, 360 01 Karlovy Vary

High above the old town, the 35-meter-tall Diana Lookout Tower (Dianaturm) was built in 1914 and provides fantastic views from Friendship Hill over Karlovy Vary and its surroundings (on a clear day the views extend up to 70 kilometers). If you're up to it, take the well-marked trails from the town center to the base of the tower, a 30-minute walk that's well worth it, as you'll pass numerous historical buildings.

Alternatively, a short funicular railway ride will deposit you at the base of the tower, from where there's a five-story, 150-step climb to the top (there's also an elevator that goes as high as the 25-meter observation deck). Highlights here include a terraced restaurant, a mini-zoo for the kids, a butterfly house, and a number of great walks with stops at quaint pavilions along the way.

Other observation towers worth visiting for their interesting architecture and great views are the Goethe Tower , built in 1889; the Charles IV Lookout from 1877; and Deer Leap Lookout (Jelení skok), with its fun sculpture of a mountain goat overlooking the town.

Address: Vrch prátelství 5/1 , 360 01 Karlovy Vary

Official site: http://dianakv.cz/en

For those seeking a longer spa experience, Karlovy Vary is home to a number of first-rate facilities, the largest being the Neo-Baroque Elizabeth Spa . Built in 1906 to meet the huge demand for spa treatments, the resort was named after the much-adored Austrian Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) and remains the largest spa facility in the country. For day-trippers looking for just a quick visit to this historic resort, its pools and treatment facilities are open to the public (check out their wonderful couples' massages).

Perhaps the best known of Karlovy Vary's spas, however, is the wonderful Grandhotel Pupp, built in 1781 and famous for its starring role in the James Bond movie, Casino Royale . Also worth a visit is the Neo-Gothic Spa III , built in 1867 on the banks of the River Teplá and notable as a venue for cultural events and concerts. Equally impressive is the massive Hotel Imperial , perched high above the old town and regularly voted one of the best spa resorts in the Czech Republic.

Built in 1898, the lovely Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul is well worth a visit. Despite being in an area of Karlovy Vary known for its beautiful Art Nouveau villas, this splendid old church manages to stand out thanks to its tall golden domes and rich blue roof.

Based on the design of a Byzantine church in Moscow and built with funds provided by wealthy Russians visiting the spas, the church's interior - laid out in the shape of a Greek cross - is as attractive as its façade and includes such notable features as a relief of Czar Peter the Great, numerous murals, and a large wooden wall of icons and paintings.

Address: Krále Jirího 2c, 360 01 Karlovy Vary

A good place to learn more about the history of the town and the surrounding region is the Museum Karlovy Vary. Highlights of the museum's permanent collection include an in-depth look at Karlovy Vary's rise as an important spa town, as well as the waters themselves and their many therapeutic uses and qualities, including their mineral compositions. Also notable are the museum's interactive displays relating to native wildlife.

The facility also houses an important library, with many books related not just to balneology (the study of spa waters), but also to the history of art, along with lectures and educational workshops.

Also worth visiting is the Art Gallery Karlovy Vary , with its collection of fine paintings and statues by leading Czech artists, along with regular concerts and theatrical performances.

Address: Pod Jelením skokem 30, Karlovy Vary

Just 13 kilometers from the center of Karlovy Vary is the quaint riverside community of Loket nad Ohri, where the prime tourist attraction is the splendid old castle perched high above the village. Built in the 12th century, Loket Castle (Hrad Loket) is remarkably well preserved and has endured with few alterations.

Used as a prison from the 18th to the 20th centuries, the castle's thick stone walls earned it a reputation as the most impregnable fortress in Bohemia (the torture chambers offer a chilling look at the shocking treatment of enemies and prisoners).

English-language guided tours of the interior are available to take in such highlights as the extensive porcelain and weapons collections and interiors that have remained relatively untouched since medieval times (audioguides are also available).

If possible, try to time your visit to coincide with the annual opera festival held each July, when the castle plays a starring role by providing a stunning backdrop as the Czech National Opera plays in the town's outdoor amphitheater.

Address: Zámecká 67, 357 33 Loket

Official site: www.hradloket.cz/en/

Running almost continuously since 1946, the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival is one of the most important stops on the world's film festival circuit today. Attracting stars and crowds from far and wide, the town swells in population by upwards of 130,000 filmgoers each year in August, who come here to watch (or promote) some 200 or more films.

The five-day festival is a good time to visit if you're able to get tickets, or even if you're simply interested in doing a little stargazing alongside your spa going - Hollywood stars such as Morgan Freeman, Judi Dench, and Jude Law have been guests of honor at the festival in the past. Accommodation books up early, so plan accordingly.

Official site: https://www.kviff.com/en/homepage

A fun diversion for fans of motorbikes, the Historical Motorcycle Museum (Muzeum historických motocyklu) is just a short drive from Karlovy Vary in the small village of Becov nad Teplou. Highlights of a visit include more than 40 well-preserved machines and numerous related artifacts, including engines and motorbike paraphernalia, all housed in an old 13th-century building.

Also of interest is a small toy museum featuring examples from across Bohemia, as well as exhibits of cutlery and weaponry. Afterwards, be sure to wander the streets of this quiet little village, home to a number of fine old buildings (including a castle) as well as pleasant river walks.

Address: nám 5 kvetna 2, 364 64 Becov nad Teplou

Located behind the Grandhotel Pupp, the 70-acre Linhart Game Reserve is a great place to observe wild boar, spotted fallow deer, and the large Dybowski's sika deer in their natural habitat. You can hike to the observatory area from the top of the Diana cable car, or catch a pleasant train ride to the Březová u Karlovy Vary railway station to get there.

To avoid intruding into the animals' space, visitors can observe the animals from suspension bridges several meters up in the air. The wooden walkways also take you across the meadow, along ponds, and through a forest. Smaller educational pathways take you through a different field and to a covered observatory.

The 13th-century ruins of the Church of St. Linhart are also located nearby.

We recommend these highly rated hotels for those exploring the top things to do in Karlovy Vary, each of them located near the city's top cultural attractions and famous hot springs:

Luxury Hotels :

• The historic luxury hotel Grandhotel Pupp is located in an exquisite neo-Baroque building boasting elegant décor throughout, along with an illuminated indoor pool and a wellness center with saunas.
• Another high-end hotel that's popular with the stars during the city's film festival is the Luxury Spa Hotel OLYMPIC PALACE , an easy walk to the colonnades and other popular places to visit.
• The modern, chic Prezident is another luxury accommodation option that also taps into the towns thermal springs and offers spa treatments and on-site dining in its restaurant (and rooms).

Mid-Range Hotels :

• An excellent choice for those wanting to be near the hot springs is Hotel Romance Puskin, which boasts helpful staff, traditional décor, and a lovely terrace restaurant.
• Those wanting an upscale experience at a good rate should book into Spa Hotel Schlosspark , popular for its breakfast buffet and elegantly decorated rooms. Spa Resort Sanssouci is another good choice and comes with a great wellness program and comfortable rooms.

Budget Hotels :

• Of Karlovy Vary's top budget hotels, Revelton Suites is a great choice for its affordable apartment-style accommodations, its central location, bright décor, homey feel, and very handy fully-equipped kitchens.
• Hotel Boston is another great budget hotel and offers larger family rooms with breakfast included (airport shuttles are also available for guests). Also worth a look is Hotel Marttel , which offers great rates with clean, comfortable rooms.
• Day Trip from Prague : One of the top things to do for those wanting to visit the town's top tourist attractions for a day is to join a Karlovy Vary day trip from Prague . Highlights of this popular excursion include visiting the town's colonnades and hot springs, along with the Museum of Glass MOSER. In addition to transportation from Prague, you'll benefit from the knowledge of a professional English-language tour guide.

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Visit Prague : Few cities in Europe can match the architectural splendor of magnificent Prague . Top things to do here include visiting Prague Castle and the historic Charles Bridge, as well as using the city as a jumping-off point to explore the surrounding attractions during fun day trips .

Czech Republic Vacation Ideas : Karlovy Vary makes an excellent base to explore top Czech tourist destinations, including the delightful medieval walled city of Ceský Krumlov , with its well-preserved castle and many old churches. Brno , too, is another popular vacation destination in Czechia, especially for its lovely hilltop Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.

Love Thy Neighbor : Just a short journey away by car or train, and you'll find yourself in Germany , a country that's bursting with fun things to see and do for vacationers. The easiest of the country's cities to get to is historic Dresden , known the world over for the restoration of its fine Baroque architecture, most notably the magnificent Frauenkirche cathedral. Also worth visiting is Leipzig , a comfortable three-hour journey away by rail and a popular tourist destination for its charming pedestrian-friendly Old Town with many public squares.

More on Czech Republic

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

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.

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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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

Karlovy Vary

• 1.2 Tourist information
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3 By plane
• 3 Get around
• 5.2 Festivals
• 7.1 Mid-range
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Karlovy_Vary\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Karlovy Vary (also known as Karlsbad , its German name or Carlsbad , its English name) is a historic spa town in West Bohemia , in the western Czech Republic . It's famous for its mineral springs and its gorgeous Belle Epoque architecture.

Karlovy Vary, meaning "Charles' Bath", was named after Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor, who founded the city in 1370. It is famous for its hot springs and its colorful and whimsical architecture. For these reasons, it was a popular tourist destination starting in the 18th century with guests including Tsar Peter the Great, Emperor Franz Josef I, Beethoven, Goethe, Wagner, Brahms, Leo Tolstoy, and Karl Marx. Tourism ground to a halt during World War I and the city never fully regained its former glory. After World War II, the largely German-speaking city was cleared of its inhabitants and replaced with Czech settlers. Czech remains the major language today but the signs of German culture and heritage are still very evident. The three spa towns in West Bohemia – Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně and Františkovy Lázně – are known as the West Bohemian Spa Triangle , and all three are part of the "Great Spa Towns of Europe" UNESCO world heritage site shared with eight other cities around the continent.

The town, along with Prague , was the filming location of many scenes identified as being in Montenegro in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale .

Tourist information

• Karlovy Vary Tourism website

Student Agency operates hourly buses from Prague 's Florenc and Dejvicka stations 05:00-20:00. The trip takes 2 hours and costs 155 Kč for adults. FlixBus also offers near hourly service, for roughly €10.

Other bus companies also run services from Prague's Florenc station but they are more expensive and not as comfortable as Student Agency's buses. Czechshuttle.com offers daily transport between Karlovy Vary and Cesky Krumlov, among other places.

Karlovy Vary is well connected to the regional and long-distance train network. The vast majority of trains in Karlovy Vary Region are modern and very comfortable. Also, some of the railways are quite scenic. When planning your journey, use journey planner IDOS . For more details see Rail travel in the Czech Republic .

• Prague : 3 hr 10 min, long-distance Rx trains on line   R5   leave Prague Main Train Station every 2 hours, 7 times a day, trains on this route are slower than buses, however, you can experience the diverse character of the Czech Republic: industrial areas in North Bohemia and scenic sections like Lovosice - Ústí nad Labem or Kadaň - Karlovy Vary. SuperAction ticket costs from 159 Kč, Ordinary ticket costs 331 Kč.
• Nuremberg : 2 hr 40 min, 1 change, regional RE trains on line   R29   depart from Nuremberg Main Train Station every 2 hours, in Cheb you have to change to long-distance Rx train on line   R5   , 5 times a day. First Minute Europe ticket costs from 235 Kč, Basic international fare ticket costs 981 Kč.
• Dresden : 3 hr 30 min, 1 change, long-distance EC trains on line   Ex3   leave Dresden Main Train Station every 2 hours, in Ústí nad Labem you have to change to long-distance Rx train on line   R5   , 6 times a day. Includes scenic sections like Dresden - Ústí nad Labem or Kadaň - Karlovy Vary. First Minute Europe ticket costs from 235 Kč, Basic international fare ticket costs 746 Kč.

Also, regional trains operate on railway lines nr. 140 (Klášterec n/O - Karlovy Vary - Cheb ), 141 (Merklín - Karlovy Vary), 142 (Johanngeorgenstadt - Karlovy Vary) and 149 ( Mariánské Lázně - Karlovy Vary). Railway routes to Johanngeorgenstadt and Mariánské Lázně are pretty scenic as line 142 leads through Ore Mountains and line 149 through Slavkov Forest.

If you're arriving from a place not connected to KLV, it will likely make more sense to fly into Prague ( PRG   IATA ). Other airports in reasonable geographic proximity include Nuremberg ( NUE   IATA ), Leipzig /Halle ( LEJ   IATA ) and Dresden ( DRS   IATA ). Out of all of these, Prague offers the most comprehensive selection of destinations, and is the hub of Czech flag carrier Czech Airlines.

The town can comfortably be covered on foot, but a car or motorcycle is useful for exploring the surrounding areas.

Bus travel is very cheap. A week ticket for 220 Kč also gives you a trip on the Diana funicular. A ticket can be useful if you need to make trips up and down the river for whatever reason.

• 50.225278 12.881944 1 Mill Colonade ( Mlýnská kolonáda ). Popular gathering place. Bands play here in the summer.  
• 50.22546 12.8816 2 Rock Spring ( Skalní Pramen ). Spurts 1.3 litres of water per minute.  
• 50.21898 12.87228 6 Diana Lookout Tower ( Rozhledna Diana ). You can take the funicular railway or take a beautiful walk through the forest to get here. The funicular costs 100 Kč to the top station, or 150 Kč for a round trip ticket. There is a café and hunting lodge-style restaurant serving Czech cuisine as well as a small zoo. Animals including piglets and peacocks roam adjacent to the building. Free . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 50.223864 12.876163 7 Karl Marx Monument . Very close to the Russian embassy and the Orthodox Church and at the start of some woodland walks. ( updated Aug 2016 )
• 50.23024 12.867 11 Jan Becher Museum , Masaryka 57 . Daily 09:00–17:00 . Dedicated to the local inventor of Becherovka. Adult 100 Kč; child 50 Kč .  
• 50.23232 12.87199 12 Street art . If you're walking between old town and the upper train station, don't miss the fantastic murals while taking the underpass below the big bridge roundabout crossing the Teplá .  
• 50.23034 12.867243 13 Home of Becherovka Tour , T. G. Masaryka 282/57 . Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 – 17:00 . A local liquor that is produced in Karlovy Vary, there are a variety of tours available.  
• 50.2236 12.88302 1 Castle Spa ( Zámecké lázně ). Daily 07:30-19:30 . Modern spa center. €20 for 1 hour, €80 for 4 hours including massage . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 50.23015 12.87224 2 Elizabeth Baths ( Spa 5 ), Smetanovy sady 1145/1 ( main entrance is in the flower gardens ), ☏ +420 353 222 536-7 , [email protected] . Daily 09:00-21:00 . Somewhat old-school publicly accessible state owned spa and baths, with Communist-era baths downstairs, and early twentieth-century therapeutic rooms. Cheap and worth a visit just for the retro feel. 85-900 Kč . ( updated Aug 2016 )
• Food Festival Karlovy Vary , in the front of the Thermal Hotel . 1st May.  
• Karlovy Vary International Film Festival . Early July.  
• International Student Film Festival . Late August.  
• Karlovy Vary Folklore Festival . Early September.  
• Jazzfest Karlovy Vary . Early September.  
• Dvorak Autumn . September. Classical music.  
• Golf Resort Karlovy Vary , Pražská 219 , ☏ +420 353 331 001 , fax : +420 353 331 001 , [email protected] . March-October . The course has been renovated, including a new clubhouse, an irrigation system, and new tees.  
• FC Slavia Karlovy Vary . Third tier football.
• HC Energie Karlovy Vary . Top tier ice hockey.

Karlovy Vary is famous for its spa wafers . They come in various flavors and are best when warm. The wafers are sold at street stands in Karlovy Vary, and can also be purchased at grocery stores throughout the Czech Republic .

• Cafe Pizzeria Venetia , Zahradni 43 , ☏ +420 353 729 221 . Looks out on the Tepla River. Pizza: 120 Kč .  
• Jean De Carro . Spacious. Dishes are of a low quality, despite being high priced.  
• Parlament , Zeyerova 5 . closed on Sun . Outdoor tables. Good food.  
• Steakhouse Sklipek , Zeyerova 1 , ☏ +420 353 229 197 . Huge steaks. Steaks: 180 Kč .  
• 50.222 12.88142 1 Goethe's Beer House , Stara Louka 2150/22 , ☏ +420 737 307 906 , [email protected] . daily 11:00–23:00 . Touristy establishment serving a variety of draught beers, decent Czech meals with lots of meat and salads. Outdoor seating by the river. Service is not the friendliest but quite fast. From 165 Kč (mains) . ( updated Sep 2022 )

Jan Becher invented the liquor that bears his name (Becherovka) in Karlovy Vary. However, it is an acquired taste.

Some establishments on the river charge twice the price of places 20 m or more off the main drag, so shop around for a place to drink.

• Cafe Elephant , Stara Louka 30 . Coffee and cake. Coffee: 45 Kč .  
• Pizza Mamma Mia , Bulharska 9 . In spite of the name, serves soda fountain type drinks and interesting smoothies. Juice & smoothies: 20-37 Kč .  
• 50.19593 12.868886 1 [ dead link ] Camping Březový Háj , 3 km south of town , ☏ +420 777 944 252 , [email protected] . Open Apr-Oct. Tent: 90 Kč; bed: 250 Kč .  
• 50.22821 12.87491 2 Hotel Cordoba , Zahradni 37 , [email protected] . From 1,800 Kč .  
• 50.22439 12.88278 3 Hotel Garni Palatin , Lázeňská 10 . Very nice place to stay, it is ideal if you take a mineral water drinking course, because the range from this hotel to the closest spring is roughly 20 m. The hotel is modern furnished, and despite being given only 3 stars looks like a typical four stars hotel. The only disadvantage is absence of a restaurant (breakfast is possible though).  
• 50.22999 12.86854 4 Hotel Kavalrie , T. G. Masaryka 43 ( above a cafe, near bus and train stations ), ☏ +420 353 229 613 . Single: 950 Kč; double: 1,225 Kč .  
• 50.24404 12.86323 5 [ formerly dead link ] Pension Rainbow , Šeříkova 92 ( approx. 15 min. walk from centre. ), ☏ +420 353 560 366 , [email protected] . Family-run guesthouse offering accommodation in conveniently furnished rooms, each including a bathroom and a TV-SAT set, in quiet environment. from 690 Kč .  
• 50.24132 12.8784 6 Pension Fan , U Trati 57/5 , ☏ +420 774 289 153 , [email protected] . Opened in May 2004, is a two-storey building in the district Bohatice. Friendly atmosphere, lot of programmes available: cycling with or without a cycling guide, golf, golf-school, wellness and relax programmes.  
• 50.22887 12.87417 7 Pension Romania , Zahradní 948/49 . Spacious rooms. From 735 Kč .  
• 50.22316 12.88349 8 Sanatorium Astoria , Vřídelní 92 ( Opposite the Mill Colonnade ). Single: €40; double: €80 .  
• Hotel Carlsbad Plaza ( in the vicinity of the spa facility Lázně I ). Deluxe hotel opened in December 2005. €133 and up .  
• Hyalit Aparthotel , Stari Luka 62 . 5 stylish apartments. From 1,900 Kč .  
• Hotel Bristol Palace , Zámecký vrch 918/34 . Hotel set in an aristocratic manor dating back to the 19th century.  

As of Sep 2021, Karlovy Vary has 4G from O2 and T-Mobile, and 5G from Vodafone. Wifi is widely available in public places.

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

Last Updated on 15/05/2024 by kami

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

I published many articles about the Czech Republic that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 2 Days in Prague Itinerary
• Holesovice – a mini guide to Prague’s coolest district
• 17 Great Things to Do in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
• 13 Amazing Things to Do in Pilsen, Czech Republic
• 20 Great Things to Do in Brno, Czech Republic
• What to See in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
• Visit Kromeriz, Czech Republic – the UNESCO Castle and More
• Visit Marianske Lazne, Czech Republic – the UNESCO spa town

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and ask your questions there.

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 .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to the Czech Republic too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? That would mean so much to me! Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin !

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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11 Unique things to do in Karlovy Vary – Czech Republic

by Sabine | Jul 2, 2017 | World | 16 comments

Are you visiting Karlovy Vary on a day trip from Prague or while visiting the Czech Republic? And are you wondering about what to do in Karlovy Vary in 1 day? We have you covered.

Karlovy Vary was a very pleasant surprise to us when we stopped for a visit. We had absolutely no idea what to expect or what there was to know about Karlovy Vary, the things to do in Karlovy Vary or the things there were to see. When we drove in and saw a first glimpse of the beautiful and colourful architecture, we immediately decided to stay over for two days and take time to explore the city. Karlovy Vary is also often called Carlsbad, or Karlsbad in German.

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We visited Karlovy Vary as part of our road trip from Belgium . We drove from Karlovy Vary to Prague and afterwards we went from Prague to Budapest via Vienna. Karlovy Vary was like nothing we had seen before. The amount of elegant buildings housing the legendary spas, all in various pastel colours and almost countless.

A brief history of Karlovy Vary Czech Republic

Karlovy Vary is named after Emperor Charles IV. The story goes that he had the town built at the end of the 14th century after the discovery of a hot spring of which the healing water had cured his injured leg. Carlsbad and its spas boomed in the 17th century when it was mainly visited by rich aristocrats from Russia, Poland and Saxony. The most prestigious visitor to Karlovy Vary was Peter The Great. Over the centuries, the town has been privileged to receive many famous visitors like, Goethe, Ludwig von Beethoven and Chopin.

So, what is there to do in Karlovy Vary? A lot. This is just a short list.

Table of Contents

11 Top things to do in Karlovy Vary Czech Republic

Visit the natural thermal hot springs

The main attraction for tourists to visit Karlovy Vary are without doubt the various mineral springs. The healing water of the thermal springs is accessible to the public via 15 hot springs all around the city. What is so special about this mineral water is that it has healing effects when drinking from it. The water contains many elements and minerals and should have a positive effect on the entire digestive body system when drinking it. Furthermore, the various hot springs range in temperatures from 30º up to 72º C and have different gas levels to which they therefore also have different curative effects.

To visit all 15 mineral springs is a great way to get to know and get around the city, since they are all located in the most beautiful buildings and it is definitely a very unique thing to do in Karlovy Vary.

Buy a ceramic cup and drink the healing waters

We visited Karlovy Vary during the weekend on a nice hot summer day. A lot of locals were having their walk in town, with a funny looking cup all drinking water from the thermal springs. This cup appeared to be a traditionally shaped ceramic cup made especially for drinking the hot thermal water, since it preserves the temperature and CO2 levels. It has a little pipe which works like a straw. These cups are available everywhere in town so we bought a small one. It did not really look good to fill up a water bottle while everyone was having these beautiful ceramic cups. They have beautiful paintings on them and make a great souvenir, which also does not take up too much space in your luggage.

When you get your cup you can start your tour of the city to find all 15 springs and have a taste of this healing water. It is said that before doing treatment you should consult a medical doctor because of the specific curative effects. Nonetheless, you should at least try this water. It does have a very specific sulphurous flavour and it feels weird drinking hot water out of a straw. All in all, drinking the healing water with a traditional cup is a great thing to do in Karlovy Vary.

TIP: Join this tasting tour to discover each of the 12 hot springs and its secret. And this tasting tour also includes a guided walk through the city center.

Walk the famous hot spring colonnades in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is often pictured by its beautiful and elegant colonnades . All five of the imposing colonnades have their own unique architecture and style and all of them host some of the thermal hot springs.

The Mill Colonnade of Karlovy Vary is the most popular as well as the most impressive one. Finished in 1881, it is 132 metres long with 124 Corinthian columns over its length. It has in total five mineral springs under its roof and makes a spectacular promenade from one side to the other while sipping from a cup of healthy water. A 4 metres tall sand statue of Emperor Charles IV is standing proud at one end of the colonnade.

The other colonnades are the Park Colonnade, the Castle Colonnade, the Hot Springs colonnade and the Market colonnade. The Hot Spring Colonnade, a modern structure, houses the highest and hottest spring. Due to the pressure the spring rises up to a mere 12 metres.

Visit the Becherovka museum and buy a bottle

Becherovka, previously known as Karlsbader Becherbitter is often referred to as an additional ‘spring’. It is the typical alcoholic drink from the Czech Republic. Becherovka is made based on a secret recipe containing over 20 different herbs. The company says that only two people know the secret recipe and once a week, one of them makes the secret herbal mixture.

The museum is open to visit and provides various tours. It will take you through 200 years of history. We unfortunately arrived after closing time but luckily the shop was still open. So we just settled with a small bottle of the herbal bitter. It actually has a very nice taste and is worth trying. More information about the museum here .

Indulge yourself in the legendary spas of Karlovy Vary

Something you should do when in Karlovy Vary, but that we unfortunately did not (so we have to go back for it) is let yourself be indulged in one of the legendary spas. I believe it is one of the better spa experiences you can have. Many of the hotels offer spa treatments and other spa facilities. A whole treatment can last from 1 up to 3 weeks. The main ingredient for the spa treatments is the healing geothermal water. You can check if your hotel offers spa packages, which would be a great deal.

Visit the Grandhotel Pupp

Karlovy Vary has a wide range of hotels, but there is one hotel that stands out, the Grandhotel Pupp. The hotel was built back in 1701, but was named the Saxony Hall. The eminent Hotel Pupp hosts yearly one of the oldest film festivals in the world, the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival . The Grandhotel Pupp was also a major inspiration for Wes Anderson’s 2014 movie ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’. It’s one of my favourite movies, so I was really excited to see the inspiration for the hotel in this great movie.

The hotel was also used as a filming location in the James Bond movie ‘Casino Royale’ and ‘Last Holiday’ starring Queen Latifah. The movie ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ is one of my favourite movies of all time. If you haven’t seen it yet, don’t wait. It’s good, funny and unique.

Discover the elegant architecture

Walking through Carlsbad I was so astonished by the beautiful architecture, by the elegance of the buildings and pretty surprised by the variation of colours of the buildings. A whole rainbow of colours catches your eye, from blue to yellow, red and even pink. One cannot get enough of admiring the grandeur of the architecture. It is so picturesque I felt like I was walking in a fairy tale.

The best way to explore is to walk around, look around, get lost in the multitude of streets of which after every corner you discover a new gem.

Eat a local meal

One reason why we travel is to try out local dishes and discover new recipes. So the one thing we had to do was have a traditional Czech meal in a local restaurant. There are plenty of great looking restaurants in Karlovy Vary so lots of opportunities for a local meal. Some of the things you should try that are typically Czech cuisine are potato dumplings, cabbage, pork, meat goulash, schnitzel and much more. We also found out that they serve each meal with a lot of tasty sauce.

Finish your meals with a delicious local treat, the Karlovy Vary wafers. It is a very popular snack and can be found all over town. The are also called “spa wafers” since they are eaten as a snack in between water drinking sessions. They are large round paper thin wafers, like obladen.

Discover the local beers

The Czech Republic is the country that consumes the most beer in the world per capita, a mere 142 litres per person, per year. That also means that the beer must be good. Coming from Belgium, we love to taste a good and special beer, so beer tasting was on our list of things to do in Carlsbad. Brands like Pilsner Urquell, Gambrinus, Kruzovice and Kozel are actually very nice beers. In Karlovy Vary we tried the Velkopopovicky Kozel and we can recommend it.

Visit the famous Moser glass museum

Moser is a luxury glass manufacturer famous for making decorative glassware and beautiful glass engravings. For over 150 years they have been making glass with so much craftmanship and all by hand that it is one of the most collected decorative glass from the 20th century. You can find the beautiful glass in many shops in the Czech Republic. If you would like to see more, the Moser museum is located in Karlovy Vary. More information about the museum can be found here .

Admire the town from one of the upper viewpoints

The city of Carlsbad or Karlovy Vary is built along the river Teplá and is surrounded by forests and hills. It’s worthwhile to have a view from the top overlooking this beautiful city.

The Diana observation tower is one of those viewpoints. It can either be reached by taking a funicular or via various walking trails. When you have time, the walking trails are really nice through the deep forest. The station of the funicular can be found next to the Grandhotel Pupp.

Another great viewpoint is by the Vítkova Hora hotel. This can also be reached by walking trails leading up to the hotel. Or if you have a car you can drive via the road Na Vyhlídce up to the hotel. Take a few stops along this road, there are some great viewpoints overlooking the city. If you don’t have a car, you can take the public bus, which we did. It drops you off right by the hotel. And from there you could walk back down to town via the forest walking trails. The hotel can provide you with a map.

Where to stay in Karlovy Vary

There are over 150 hotels to choose from in Karlovy Vary. Plenty of choices for all budgets.

Vitkova Hora – We stayed at this hotel, which is easy reachable when you visit Karlovy Vary by car. It is located on top of one of the hills and gives great views over the surrounding area and the town itself. The place is nice and quiet. The restaurant offers breakfast and dinner, which we can recommend.

• Address: Olšová Vrata 59

GrandHotel Pupp – If you want a luxury stay then the GrandHotel Pupp might just be that place. Elegant, beautiful and historical is what the GrandHotel Pupp will offer you.

• Address: Mírové náměstí 2

Hotel Imperial – If there is one hotel in town that you cannot miss it is the Hotel Imperial. Standing high up on a hill overlooking Karlovy Vary, it’s elegant and beautiful and one of the landmarks of town. Their spa therapies are famous.

• Address: Libušina 18

How to get from Prague to Karlovy Vary

Most people visit Karlovy Vary as a day trip from Prague, after they have seen the highlights of Prague. You can see most of the highlights in one day. However if you would like to indulge yourself in the spa treatments or to fully enjoy all Carlsbad has to offer, we recommend to stay at least 2 days.

By public transport: you can get to Karlovy Vary from Prague either by bus or by train. Tickets for the train can be bought at the Prague Main Railway station or for the bus at the Florenc Prague station. If you go for 1 day, it’s better to take the bus, since it is faster. The train will take you around 3,5 hours and by bus just over 2 hours.

We arrived by car as part of our road trip to Prague and Budapest. Coming from Germany, you pass Karlovy Vary on your way to Prague.

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16 Comments

Hey. We have also visited Carlsbad but just on our walk from this hotel ‘Honour and Grace’. And i can highly recommend staying somewhere in nature also, because Czech nature is amazing.

Gorgeous! So bad I didn’t have time to visit when I stop by the country (we choose to visit Prague and Cesky Krumlov). Next time, I will not miss it.

What a beautiful compilation. I would love to check out the natural thermal hot springs, as I haven’t done that before. Looking at your post, I guess everything in the list is worth a try. :) Cheers!!

It indeed is. And when you visit, take a few days in order to fully indulge to all the town has to offer :)

Ah, the architecture would get me excited too – I loved the buildings and bridges in Prague too, although I believe that nowadays the city is overcrowded with tourists.

Loved that movie! And the architecture in the town looks so elegant. I’m not a spa person but I could visit for the architecture alone. We didn’t go beyond Prague, which is beautiful too, but I believe heavily crowded nowadays.

I’ve briefly read about Karlovy Vary before, and was really intrigued. Thank you for writing such an informative and detailed post about the city! I like how the thermal springs were #1…they are definitely the first thing I would want to experience. I noticed that your visit to the city was part of your road trip to Budapest. Did you visit the thermal baths there?

We drove from Belgium to Prague and made our way down via Vienna and Budapest. We love thermal baths so we did visit the large one in Budapest. Unfortunately we did not have enough time to go to a few, so we will be back in Budapest :)

What a lovely looking city! Your post has inspired me to check it out if I am every in that part of Europe.

I would love to have such a weekend there now! I think the history and the beer combination is one of my favourites. ;)

I would definitely get one of the quaint cups. I can’t help wondering if the water is really good for health. You did mention that it had a sulfurous taste to it. I guess people with sulfur allergies need to stay clear of it. :) Just saying. Then again that’s probably the nurse in me talking. :p

I guess it will be good for your health, but they do recommend to consult a medical doctor before doing for a treatment with this healing water.

Love the shots! You catch almost every shot with a perfect light! I love the Czech food just I find it a bit sweet sometimes haha, like sweetened meat sauce. :D

Thanks a lot! The food is great indeed. I did not really notice the sweetness in there. Maybe it depends on the type of meat and which sauce goes well with it?

Such a picturesque town! I’ve been in a lot of ‘spa cities’ but I rarely go for the spa — maybe this would be a good place to escape for a little relaxation!

It will definitely be great for a little relaxation, and a good health :)

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We're Sean and Sabine. Life partners, world nomads & food lovers. It is with The Travelling Chilli that we'd love to inspire anyone to pack their bags and to go explore the world, but particularly Africa!

For the record: Unless explicitly stated otherwise, we have in fact personally visited all the places written about.

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a town in Bohemia , in the west of Czechia. In English, it is sometimes called also Carlsbad (after the German name Karlsbad ). It is a very famous spa resort, visited by many celebrities from all over the world. It is also known for the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, held there every year. Karlovy Vary is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Czechia.

History in a Nutshell

The history of Karlovy Vary dates back to the 14th century, when Charles IV founded a spa there, named Horké Lázně u Lokte , which means "hot spas at Loket ". Charles IV was the same king after whom the famous Charles Bridge in Prague was named. The settlement was renamed to Karlovy Vary later and was granted town privileges in 1370. Karl is the Czech version of the name "Charles" and vary is the plural of var  meaning "boiling". The name of the town may be therefore understood more or less as "Charles's Hot Springs".

Karlovy Vary owes its development into one of Europe's most popular spa towns to the publications of David Becher and Josef von Löschner in the late 18th and the 19th century. The number of visitors grew steadily and before the outbreak of World War I, around 70,000 people visited the spa town yearly. Among them were many aristocrats, politicians, artists and very affluent people.

In 1918, after World War I, the town was incorporated into the independent Czechoslovak state. In 1929, Karlovy Vary Airport was opened. The majority of the town's population in the interwar period was German-speaking. In 1938, the town was incorporated into Nazi Germany as part of the Sudetenland according the terms of the Munich Agreement.

After World War II, most of the German population was expelled. In 1946, the first edition of Karlovy Vary International Film Festival was organized in the town. Between 1948 and 1989 all spa establishments and resorts were nationalized and controlled by the communist state.

Since the collapse of communism in 1989, the town has been gradually restored to its former glory. Its center is bustling with life and visitors can enjoy a very wide variety of spa treatments.

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6 Great Reasons to Visit Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

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Of the most popular places to visit in the Czech Republic , the town of Karlovy Vary certainly stands out as being a little different. The largest of Bohemia’s spa towns, it is a place that exists purely to host visitors. Where once aristocrats would visit for their health, now tourists flock to see this exceptionally grandiose place. Visiting Karlovy Vary feels like nowhere else in the Czech Republic, which is why it’s such a good idea if you have the chance.

Despite the size of the town, Karlovy Vary is just a day trip from Prague for so many tourists. Given that attitude and the town’s history, the criticisms levelled against it aren’t surprising. Some write off this famous spa town as being overly touristy with not much to really do.

As a first impression, I can certainly understand that, but I feel like there is more depth to Karlovy Vary than people give it credit. So allow me to share my thoughts on sightseeing in Karlovy Vary and the reasons why I think you should definitely visit.

Table of Contents

Historic Spa Town

First and foremost Karlovy Vary is known for being a spa town and resort getaway. Home to 13 large hot springs and many smaller ones, people have sought out the restorative waters there for centuries.

It was actually founded by Emperor Charles IV who visited the springs in the 14th century from Loket, an awesome castle nearby. Ever since, Karlovy Vary has been known as a grand and popular spa destination.

To find mineral springs in Karlovy Vary, you need to look for the elaborate colonnades around town that house their fountains. Each is quite a special sight and feature different designs from the huge stone pillars of the Mill Colonnade to the ornate woodwork of the Market Colonnade and Park Colonnade .

The other unique part of Karlovy Vary’s hot springs is the special spa cups that people use. Made from porcelain and designed with a long spout, these cups are unique to this part of Bohemia. Their shape is specifically suited for drinking water from the hot springs and as such have become the town’s number one souvenir.

Grandiose Architecture

Besides its hot springs, the other main to visit Karlovy Vary is for its stunning architecture. The centre of town runs through one long river valley, with a long run of grand buildings on either side.

Since people believed the thermal waters had great medicinal properties, Karlovy Vary attracted quite a lot of wealthy and noble clients over the years. With that kind of money splashed about, it’s little wonder the town is home to so many monumental buildings.

With so many luxurious and palatial buildings to notice, there’s no point in singling out particular buildings. The architecture in Karlovy Vary is mostly a mix of neo-Baroque and neo-Renaissance styles, with no two buildings ever alike.

Given its purpose as a spa town, it makes sense that most buildings in the town centre are hotels and spas. Without a doubt the most impressive hotel in town is the Hotel Imperial up on a hill, a massive building that looks like a royal palace.

The best way to see all of Karlovy Vary’s best architecture, simply take a walk up along the Tepla river, stopping at whatever buildings take your fancy.

Springtime Blossom

Karlovy Vary may be one of Europe’s best places to visit once spring rolls around. While the city is full of parks and gardens, it’s the many cherry blossom trees that really bring spring to life here.

For anyone who visits Karlovy Vary around then, the trees bursting with pink flowers are impossible to ignore. Considering how picturesque the town is already, it’s hard to describe just how pretty the cherry blossoms make everything.

Admittedly, the cherry blossoms are not right throughout the town. To see them, head for either Theatre Square Park by the riverfront or to Moskevská street downtown. Even though it’s an incredibly popular spot, there weren’t any cherry blossoms at the Dvorakov’s Gardens .

Still, there’s more than enough trees for it to have an enchanting effect on Karlovy Vary. Basically, if you’re considering a Karlovy Vary trip, then spring is an excellent time to go.

Hillside Villas

Of the things to do in Karlovy Vary, one that I highly recommend is exploring the backstreets of the town. Many tourists simply stick to the central thoroughfare of town, but the residential areas up the hillside shouldn’t be missed.

Karlovy Vary has always attracted the wealthy and clearly many people choose to build extravagant houses here. Unlike in the town centre, these houses and villas take on many forms, all of which deserve to be seen.

Krále Jiřího is one of the best streets for this, but it’s best to explore as well. It’s on Krále Jiřího that you’ll also spy the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, a colourful Russian Orthodox church that somehow just belongs among this exquisite jumble. While it could just as easily host foreign embassies up here, these villas of Karlovy Vary are mostly hotels it seems. Really, it’s just another level of grandeur to this already opulent destination.

Superb City Views

The way that Karlovy Vary is laid out, with the town stretched out along a valley, makes it a destination made for views. With the river valley wiggling its way through the hills, it’s the perfect recipe for one viewpoint after the next.

Sure, reaching those viewpoints means a bit of a walk up, but there’s no denying it’s worth the effort. Karlovy Vary’s viewpoints are mostly on the western side of town and each offer sublime views of this gorgeous town.

Among the various viewpoints, two in particular stand out. The first is the Diana Observation Tower , a 40 metre high tower out in the forest. There’s actually a funicular that runs up to the tower on its hill top, but there are also walking routes that lead there. From the tower you’ll get to look out right over the treetops to the town.

However your other option is the Deer Jump Lookout much closer by. Sitting right at the forest’s edge, this viewpoint is easier to reach and lets you look right down on Karlovy Vary. Oh plus it’s free, which the Diana Observation Tower is not. Below the cute deer statue by the lookout sits a little gazebo that itself has great views, but I think is even better as part of the scenery.

Quiet Hiking Trails

So much focus of a Karlovy Vary visit is the city centre that people overlook the incredible forest found around town. Sure you may skirt the fringes of the woods to reach the viewpoints but there is much more than that to explore.

Simply look at a map of Karlovy Vary and you can’t miss the huge green sections that almost swallow the town up. Whether you head into the forest from the riverfront or downtown, you’re in store for some gorgeous, peaceful forest.

When you’re close to the town centre or the Diana Observation Tower, you’re likely to see other walkers occasionally. But once you start wandering to the west and southwest, the trails become much quieter. Karlovy Vary is meant to be a place of rest and relaxation and for some people like me, that means taking a stroll surrounded by nature.

Surprisingly, I actually spent hours walking through the forests of Karlovy Vary simply because I had no real destination in mind. The Czech Republic is home to some really beautiful places to walk and hike, just look at the Adrspach Rocks , and this is surely another one.

Visiting Karlovy Vary

Now that we’ve covered all the reasons why Karlovy Vary is worth visiting, here’s a little on how. The obvious first question you have to ask yourself is whether you go as a day trip or spend a little more time there.

For an overnight visit, working out where to stay won’t be hard with the town’s many hotels, resorts and guesthouses . This is a tourist town after all. Karlovy Vary is not exactly an affordable destination but some places are good value for money. I found the Hotel Adria to be not too expensive and a reasonable option. Other highly-rated places to stay include:

• Grandhotel Pupp
• Madonna Apartments
• Boutique Hotel Corso

The other matter is how you get to Karlovy Vary. The town’s public transport connections are decent, with both trains and buses an option. While there are train connections to places like Prague, the train route is wildly indirect and slow.

A much easier approach is to simply reach Karlovy Vary with Flixbus . If you don’t have time to spend a day or two in town, you may want to consider taking a tour to Karlovy Vary from Prague for the day.

What has been your experience like visiting Karlovy Vary? Is Karlovy Vary worth visiting as a day trip in your opinion? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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Oh, that place looks so much prettier in sunshine and with some green trees. I visited on a dreary April afternoon and was a bit disappointed.

I got Loket Castle in the sun, though. A fine addition to my castle collection. 🙂

Yeh weather can make a huge difference, can’t it! Loket is fantastic though no matter the weather, one of my all time favourites!

[…] Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. […]

I’m thinking of visiting in November, good idea or not? Self guided day trip out of Prague.

Hi Cindy, I’ve heard that Karlovy Vary can be beautiful when the leaves change colour, but I don’t know how long into November they’d last. I think it would still be worth doing at that time of year. Doing a day trip is a good way to see the city centre, and I don’t think you need a guide really. If you don’t have a car, go by bus, as the train journey isn’t fast. Enjoy!

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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.

Stars by Tono Stano

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

International Film Festival in Karlovy Vary

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 / Restaurant Farmhouse 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

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U Zlaté Koule Restaurant

Rübezahl Marienbad Luxury Historical Castle Hotel and Golf

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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

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Spa Hotel Děvín in Mariánské Lázně

Chateau Monty Spa Resort

Agricola Hotel

Rodinný pivovar Chodovar Brewery

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Hotel Francis Palace in Františkovy Lázně

Darovanský dvůr Complex

Restaurant Švejk - U pětatřicátníků