Insider’s Guide to Karlovy Vary
Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is a picturesque spa town in the western part of the Czech Republic. It is renowned for its hot springs, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Here is an extensive guide to help you explore Karlovy Vary
History
Karlovy Vary was founded in the 14th century by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, who allegedly discovered the hot springs while hunting. The town quickly became a popular destination for European aristocracy and has maintained its reputation as a luxurious spa resort.
A Walking Guide of Karlovy Vary
Karlovy Vary is a very walkable city. If you arrive by bus or by train to the lower station, head to the Jan Becher Museum—a large orange building with a Becherovka sign. If you arrive by car, this area offers cheaper parking options, and you may even find free street parking.
From there, look for the large Becher bottle, a notable landmark, and start your walking tour.
Begin by strolling along T.G. Masaryka Street toward the Grandhotel Ambassador. This street is lined with restaurants and shops, offering a great opportunity to explore local cuisine and browse various stores.
Once you reach the River Teplá, cross it and turn right. You’ll pass Hotel Thermal, a prominent venue for the annual Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. This area is especially lively during the festival, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world.
If you prefer a more central parking option and don’t mind paying extra, you can park directly at Hotel Thermal for €2 per hour and start your tour here. They also offer parking for electric cars.
Continue your walk, and you will soon reach Dvořák’s Park. Adjacent to the park is the Park Colonnade, a beautiful cast-iron structure where you can sample some of Karlovy Vary’s famous mineral springs. The colonnades are an essential part of the town’s spa culture, offering visitors a chance to taste the healing waters.
Following the Park Colonnade, you’ll arrive at the Mill Colonnade, another iconic structure featuring several hot springs. This colonnade is larger and boasts a grand architectural style, making it a picturesque spot for photos.
Next, you’ll pass the Castle Colonnade and Market Colonnade, both stunning wooden structures with three mineral springs.
Keep walking, and you’ll reach the Hot Spring Colonnade, home to the biggest geyser in Karlovy Vary. The geyser shoots hot mineral water high into the air, creating a spectacular sight and serving as one of the town’s main highlights.
If you’d like to continue exploring, head toward the Grandhotel Pupp, one of Karlovy Vary’s most luxurious and historic hotels. From here, you can either cross the nearby bridge and start making your way back or visit the Diana Observation Tower for breathtaking views.
Right next to Grandhotel Pupp, you’ll find the funicular railway that takes you up to Diana Tower. The ride offers a scenic ascent, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with the best panoramic view of Karlovy Vary. You can either take the funicular back down or enjoy a leisurely walk downhill.
Please note that the walk down is not suitable for strollers.
This interactive map features two layers—the blue line marks the main route, which you can walk multiple times without ever getting tired of the views. The second layer highlights key landmarks along your path.
Start at Hotel Thermal and follow the route all the way to Grandhotel Pupp. From here, you can either take the funicular to Diana Tower for breathtaking views or cross the bridge and begin your return journey.
Along the way, you’ll pass iconic landmarks such as the Park Colonnade, Mill Colonnade, Market Colonnade, and the Hot Spring Colonnade, home to the famous geyser.
When you reach the Hot Spring Colonnade, consider walking up toward Mozart Park, which was once a graveyard. From here, you’ll get a unique view of Karlovy Vary overlooking the Thermal Pool.
You can also enter the Thermal Hotel and take the elevator to the main lobby, where you’ll find a coffee shop and restrooms.
Hot Springs and Spas
Thermal Spring Colonnades
- Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda): Features five springs, each with different mineral content and temperature.
- Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda): A beautiful wooden colonnade with three springs.
- Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda): Elegant structure housing the Snake Spring.
- Castle Colonnade (Zámecká kolonáda): Was converted into the Zámecké lázně (Castle Spa)
- The Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda): The most famous mineral spring (geyser)
For more detailed guide to Hot Srings in Karlovy Vary CLICK HERE
Spa Hotels
- Grandhotel Pupp: A historic luxury hotel offering a range of spa treatments.
- Hotel Imperial: Known for its hilltop location and comprehensive spa services.
- Thermal Hotel: Features a unique outdoor thermal pool.
More Things to Do
Explore the Architecture
- Diana Lookout Tower: Offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding forests. Accessible by funicular or a scenic hike.
- Church of St. Mary Magdalene: A baroque church near the town center.
- Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul: Known for its colorful onion domes.
Cultural Experiences
- Karlovy Vary International Film Festival: One of the oldest film festivals in the world, held annually in July.
- Moser Glass Factory: Tour the factory and see the famous Bohemian crystal being made.
- Christmas House: In Karlovy Vary, you can pack up the decorations at home and still get your Christmas fix whenever you want!
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking and Walking: Numerous trails through the surrounding forests and hills.
- Golf: The Karlovy Vary Golf Resort is one of the oldest in the Czech Republic.
Museums
- Karlovy Vary Museum: Offers insights into the history of the town and its spa culture.
- Jan Becher Museum: Dedicated to the famous Becherovka herbal liqueur, including tastings.
Do You Need a Car in Karlovy Vary
No, you don’t need a car in Karlovy Vary. The town is relatively small and most attractions are within walking distance. Additionally, Karlovy Vary has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis, which are convenient and affordable for getting around. Many of the scenic spots, spa facilities, and cultural sites are easily accessible on foot or by public transport. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside or nearby towns, renting a car might be beneficial.
Practical Tips
- Language: Czech is the official language, but English and German are widely understood in tourist areas.
- Currency: The Czech koruna (CZK) is the local currency. (in many stores, you can pay with Euros)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The film festival in July is a major draw, but it can get busy.
- Etiquette: Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 10%).
Charming Towns Close to Karlovy Vary
Karlovy Vary is part of the renowned Spa Triangle, which also includes Františkovy Lázně and Mariánské Lázně. Each of these towns boasts stunning architecture and healing spring waters that attract visitors from around the globe.
Františkovy Lázně (Franzensbad):
- Architecture: Enjoy the well-preserved neoclassical and Empire-style buildings.
- Healing Waters: Known for its mineral springs, which are believed to help with various ailments.
Mariánské Lázně (Marienbad):
- Architecture: Admire the elegant, eclectic architecture and beautifully landscaped parks.
- Healing Springs: Famous for its diverse mineral springs, each with unique therapeutic properties.
Loket:
- Beauty and Romance: One of the most beautiful and romantic towns in the Czech Republic.
- Loket Castle: A medieval fortress offering stunning views and rich history.
Karlovy Vary on the Big Screen
- Casino Royale: The iconic Bond movie with Daniel Craig and Eva Green. Grandhotel Pupp was featured, and guests were excited to see James Bond in action during filming.
- The Last Holiday: A remake starring Queen Latifah and Gérard Depardieu.
- Hvězda padá vzhůru (A Star Is Falling Upwards): A film featuring Karel Gott in the lead role.
- Prsten (The Ring): A film with Nastassja Kinski and Michael York.
- Náhrdelník (The Necklace): A TV series starring Libuše Šafránková.
- Smrt krásných srnců (Death of Beautiful Roebucks): Based on the novel by Ota Pavel.
- Vrchní, prchni (Waiter, Scarper!): A comedy with a famous waiter run, which is still held today as part of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
Karlovy Vary is part of the renowned Spa Triangle, which also includes Františkovy Lázně and Mariánské Lázně. Each of these towns boasts stunning architecture and healing spring waters that attract visitors from around the globe.
Vegan Guide to Karlovy Vary
Although Karlovy Vary doesn’t have fully vegan restaurants, there are several vegan-friendly spots to check out:
- Dobra Cajovna (Pan-Asian): Curries, pho, sushi, rice, and noodle dishes.
- Jaffa (Middle Eastern): Falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, and salads.
- Pizzeria Cappone (Italian): Vegan pizza options.
- Quan Que (Vietnamese): Vegan “meat” and tofu dishes.
- Saffron (Indian): A variety of vegan-friendly Indian dishes.
- Tandoor King (Indian): Another great option for vegan Indian food.
I recommend using the HappyCow app for up-to-date details on these spots.
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