Karlovy Vary

"Relax in Karlovy Varyโ€™s tranquil beauty, where healing springs and art nouveau grace combine in a serene escape."

๐Ÿ’ง๐Ÿž๏ธโ™จ๏ธ

Currency

Czech Koruna (CZK) Kฤ

Best Time

May โ€“ Oct

Population

50,000

Weather ยฐC

9.3ยฐC

TWYS โ€” The Best Travel Guides for Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

Karlovy Vary is a picturesque spa town famous for its healing waters and elegant architecture. The town attracts visitors from around the world to relax and rejuvenate in its luxurious spas, while the International Film Festival draws celebrities and filmmakers each year. With its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful parks, and historical sites, Karlovy Vary offers an unforgettable escape into nature, culture, and relaxation.
State

Karlovy Vary

Year

1370 AD Medieval era, founded around hot springs discovered by Charles IV.

Airport

Karlovy Vary Airport (KLV)

Cost of Living (10)

6๏ธโƒฃ Low cost of living, especially in terms of housing and public services.

boutique shopping

Minimal List TL;DR

TWYS curates the best places to SEE, EAT, DRINK, SHOP & MORE โ€” uncover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, top restaurants, unique bars, boutique shops, luxury stays, and networking spots.

Shop
Boutique
๐Ÿ‘•

Allegro boutique

4.6
Chic boutique with a focus on fashion
Shop
Women's Fashion
๐Ÿ‘š

Butik ALTA Karlovy Vary

4.5
Trendy womenโ€™s clothing store
Shop
Boutique
๐Ÿ‘•

Gabriela Accessories

4.4
Boutique with trendy accessories and handbags
Shop
Glass Museum
๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ

Museum of Glass MOSER

4.4
Museum for the noted glassmaker, with glassblowing demonstrations & displays of historic pieces.
Shop
Clothing Store
๐Ÿ‘•

Iris Boutique Karlovy Vary

4.3
Fashionable clothing store
See
Tropical Garden
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Butterfly House Diana Karlovy Vary

4.7
A unique tropical experience
See
Historic Tower
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Diana Observation Tower

4.7
Offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
See
Natural Landmark
๐Ÿงผ

Vล™รญdelnรญ kolonรกda

4.7
Concrete structure above a natural hot spring with bathing and a geyser.
See
Scenic View
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Tower - View of Charles IV.

4.6
Iconic view of Karlovy Vary's skyline
See
Natural Landmark
๐Ÿ›๏ธ

Park Colonnade

4.6
A beautiful park with natural springs and gardens.
See
Historical Museum
๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ

Jan Becher Museum

4.6
Taste the most famous of Czech herbal liqueurs and find out more about its history.
See
Scenic Viewpoint
๐ŸฆŒ

Deer Jump

4.5
The wooden arbour on a rock bill near Jelenรญ skok (Deer Jump) directly above the spa centre.
Eat
Fine Dining
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Maison Lameloise

4.8
Elegant hotel with fine dining.
Eat
Wine & Oyster Bar
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Oysterium Wine & Oyster Bar

4.7
A chic spot for oysters and fine wines.
Eat
Traditional Cuisine
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Tusculum

4.6
A cozy restaurant serving traditional Czech dishes.
Eat
Vietnamese Cuisine
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Nhรขt Bรฅo Restaurant

4.5
Offers a taste of Vietnam in the heart of Karlovy Vary.
Eat
Traditional Czech Bar
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ

Plzeลˆskรก Restaurace Palackรฝ

4.4
A traditional Czech beer restaurant.
Drink
Hot Spring
โ›ฒ

Vล™รญdlo - vodotrysk

4.8
The Vล™รญdlo (Hot Spring) is the largest and warmest source of thermal water in Karlovy Vary.

Places to See

Discover breathtaking landmarks, hidden gems, and offbeat sights that make every destination unforgettable.

๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ
Jan Becher Museum
Historical Museum
T. G. Masaryka 282/57, 360 01 Karlovy Vary, Czechia
4.6
$$
9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
Taste the most famous of Czech herbal liqueurs and find out more about its history.
http://www.becherovka.com/
๐ŸฆŒ
Deer Jump
Scenic Viewpoint
Pod Jelenรญm skokem 395/26, 360 01 Karlovy Vary, Czechia
4.5
Free
Open 24 hours
Oldest lookout structure in Karlovy Vary.
Vibe:
Natural, Peaceful
Tip:
Scenic views
Get:
Oldest lookout structure in Karlovy Vary.Oldest lookout structure in Karlovy Vary.Deer Jump
The wooden arbour on a rock bill near Jelenรญ skok (Deer Jump) directly above the spa centre.
Must Visit:

Hot Springs, International Film Festival, Buda Castle, Parliament Building, and St. Stephenโ€™s Basilica. Budapestโ€™s thermal baths, vibrant cultural festivals, and historic landmarks make it a major cultural center in Central Europe.

Known for its hot springs, Karlovy Vary is one of Europeโ€™s most famous spa towns, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and healing therapies for centuries. The town boasts a rich history as a popular destination for royalty and celebrities. The annual Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, held every summer, is one of the oldest in Europe and brings global filmmakers to this picturesque Czech town, which also hosts over a dozen mineral springs.

local places to eat

Places to Eat

Savor the best local flavors, street food gems, and must-try dining spots curated for true food lovers.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ
Oysterium Wine & Oyster Bar
Wine & Oyster Bar
Mariรกnskolรกzeลˆskรก 580/31
4.7
$$$
Opens 12.00 pm
A chic spot for oysters and fine wines.
Must Try:

๐Ÿธ Becherovka (Herbal liqueur made with over 30 herbs and spices) ๐Ÿช Spa Wafers (Thin wafers filled with vanilla or chocolate cream) ๐Ÿฅง Kolรกฤe (Sweet pastries filled with fruit or cheese) ๐Ÿฅฉ Roasted Duck (Duck roasted with aromatic herbs) ๐Ÿฎ Trdelnรญk (Sweet pastry often sprinkled with sugar and nuts)

Places to Drink

Unwind at vibrant bars, cozy cafรฉs, and craft breweries, handpicked for the best drinks and atmosphere.
Music & Dance:

๐ŸŽถ Classical (famous for its classical music festivals) ๐ŸŽท Jazz (Karlovy Vary International Jazz Festival) ๐ŸŽญ Opera (Czech National Opera performances) ๐ŸŽป Czech Folk (traditional instruments like bagpipes and fiddles) ๐ŸŽผ An excellent mix for classical and jazz lovers.

places to network

Places to Network

Connect with like-minded travelers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs at the best networking spots.
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

๐Ÿ–๏ธ Tourism (spa town known for its healing waters and cultural festivals), ๐Ÿงถ Crafts (well-known for traditional Czech glassware and handmade crafts), ๐Ÿฐ History (famous for its historical spa buildings and festivals) - Karlovy Vary offers incredible opportunities in wellness tourism and craftsmanship. The city's historical significance as a spa resort also offers ample networking opportunities for those in hospitality and traditional crafts sectors.

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a spa town renowned for its healing thermal springs; a picturesque destination where lush green hills meet historic architecture. The charm of its colonnades and tranquil atmosphere invites you to unwind and rejuvenate in a stunning natural setting. Find serenity in mineral springs, surrounded by the quiet grace of art nouveau beauty.
local places to shop

Places to Shop

Explore local markets, unique boutiques, and artisanal stores for one-of-a-kind finds.

๐Ÿ‘•
Allegro boutique
Boutique
Trลพiลกtฤ› 30/11
4.6
700-1700 CZK
Opens 10.00 am
Offers a selection of designer pieces and accessories
Vibe:
Chic
Get:
Close to city center
Tip:
Fashion items
Offers a selection of designer pieces and accessoriesOffers a selection of designer pieces and accessoriesAllegro boutique
Chic boutique with a focus on fashion
๐Ÿ‘•
Gabriela Accessories
Boutique
Starรก Louka 371/18
4.4
400-1200 CZK
Opens 10.00 am
Gabriela Accessories specializes in unique handbags and jewelry, providing shoppers with stylish options. The boutique's cozy ambiance makes it a delightful stop for fashion lovers.
Vibe:
Chic
Get:
Close to city center
Tip:
Handbags, Jewelry
Gabriela Accessories specializes in unique handbags and jewelry, providing shoppers with stylish options. The boutique's cozy ambiance makes it a delightful stop for fashion lovers.Gabriela Accessories specializes in unique handbags and jewelry, providing shoppers with stylish options. The boutique's cozy ambiance makes it a delightful stop for fashion lovers.Gabriela Accessories
Boutique with trendy accessories and handbags
๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ
Museum of Glass MOSER
Glass Museum
19, Kpt. Jaroลกe 46, Dvory, 360 06 Karlovy Vary, Czechia
4.4
$$
9:00 a.m. โ€“ 2:00 p.m.
Museum for the noted glassmaker, with glassblowing demonstrations & displays of historic pieces.
https://www.moser.cz/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=local-marketing&utm_campaign=omg-local-marketing&utm_content=organic
luxury experiences

Luxury

Indulge in high-end experiences, exclusive stays, and premium services tailored for refined travelers.
For More Tips Read Further

Karlovy Vary Spa Retreats

Spa culture, thermal springs, film festival, picturesque town, and lush landscapes.

Karlovy Vary is famous for its mineral springs and the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the world. The city is renowned for its stunning spa architecture and rich cultural history. Visitors can relax in the thermal baths, explore the picturesque colonnades, and enjoy the cityโ€™s beautiful surrounding landscapes. Karlovy Vary is also known for its distinctive Becherovka herbal liquor, and the townโ€™s festive atmosphere during the film festival makes it a prime destination for film lovers and wellness tourists alike.

Karlovy Vary, known for its thermal springs and healing waters, is a luxurious spa town located in the Czech Republic. Famous for its stunning architecture, the town offers visitors a glimpse into its past, with grand colonnades and majestic spa houses that date back centuries. Founded in the 14th century, Karlovy Vary has long been a popular destination for royalty, celebrities, and those seeking wellness. The town is famous for its annual International Film Festival, which attracts the crรจme de la crรจme of the film industry. Visitors flock to Karlovy Vary for its rejuvenating atmosphere, where they can relax in the therapeutic waters that have been famous for centuries. With 12 hot springs and various wellness treatments available, the town offers a serene escape, making it a top destination for relaxation. Apart from the wellness experiences, Karlovy Vary boasts a thriving cultural scene. The town's scenic parks and beautiful gardens offer peaceful retreats, while its luxurious hotels and spas make it an ideal place to unwind. The townโ€™s beautiful views and well-maintained walking paths allow visitors to take in the natural beauty of the region. A visit to the Moser Glass Museum offers a chance to see exquisite Czech glass craftsmanship, a significant part of the region's rich heritage. Karlovy Varyโ€™s central location in Western Bohemia makes it easy to explore nearby towns and castles, adding to its appeal as a destination for those interested in culture, wellness, and history. The townโ€™s festivals, cultural events, and overall charm make it a must-visit destination for those seeking luxury and relaxation.

watch out for these things

Watch Out

Watchย out for Crowded Areas

Avoid overrated tourist traps and discover alternative experiences worth your time.

Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Karlovy Vary

Transportation

๐Ÿš† Trains connect Karlovy Vary to major cities like Prague. ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™‚๏ธ The town is walkable, with spa resorts and shops easily accessible on foot. ๐ŸšŒ Local buses are available for traveling to nearby areas. ๐Ÿš– Taxis are available for a more comfortable journey.

travel around within the city

City Overview

Karlovy Vary: Czech Republicโ€™s Spa Paradise Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is a world-famous spa town in the Czech Republic renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, elegant architecture, and vibrant cultural events. Nestled in a valley surrounded by lush hills, the town exudes charm and tranquility. Its colonnades, such as the Mill Colonnade and the Hot Spring Colonnade, are iconic landmarks where visitors can sample the mineral-rich waters said to have healing properties. Beyond the spas, Karlovy Vary offers cultural attractions like the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival and the historic Grandhotel Pupp, which has hosted royalty, celebrities, and film enthusiasts. The townโ€™s stunning architecture is exemplified in its colorful villas, Baroque churches, and the majestic Church of St. Mary Magdalene. For outdoor lovers, nearby trails like Diana Observation Tower provide panoramic views of the town and surrounding forests. Whether youโ€™re indulging in wellness treatments, exploring historical landmarks, or savoring traditional spa wafers, Karlovy Vary promises a rejuvenating and unforgettable experience.

Karlovy Vary

3 Day City Guide

๐ŸŒ… Day 1: 9:00 AM: Stroll along the Teplรก River ๐ŸŒŠ. ๐Ÿ•› 12:00 PM: Visit the Mill Colonnade ๐Ÿ›๏ธ. ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ 7:00 PM: Dinner at a traditional restaurant ๐Ÿฒ. ๐Ÿž๏ธ Day 2: 9:00 AM: Visit the Diana Observation Tower ๐ŸŒ„. ๐Ÿ•› 12:00 PM: Relax at one of the famous spas ๐Ÿง–. ๐Ÿท 7:00 PM: Classical music concert ๐ŸŽถ. ๐Ÿฐ Day 3: 9:00 AM: Take a day trip to Loket Castle ๐Ÿฐ. ๐Ÿ•› 12:00 PM: Explore local art galleries ๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ. ๐Ÿธ 7:00 PM: Becherovka tasting ๐Ÿถ.

Current Trends

๐ŸŒฟ Health tourism: Increasing interest in wellness and spa treatments, with more travelers seeking rejuvenation. ๐Ÿฒ Culinary trends: Emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes, such as Czech pastries and spa water. ๐ŸŽญ Art and culture: Growth in contemporary art exhibitions and festivals, showcasing both Czech and international artists. ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Wellness retreats: A rise in wellness retreats focused on mindfulness, yoga, and nature walks. ๐Ÿž๏ธ Natural beauty: Visitors are drawn to the area's scenic nature and healing springs, promoting overall well-being.

Local Events Guide

๐ŸŽฅ Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July): This prestigious festival attracts filmmakers, stars, and cinephiles from around the world. ๐ŸŽ„ Easter and Christmas Markets (December): The markets are filled with local crafts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations. ๐ŸŽท International Jazz Festival (September): A popular jazz festival with performances from international and local artists in a charming spa town setting. ๐Ÿž๏ธ Karlovy Vary Wellness Week (June): A celebration of the region's wellness traditions, with activities focusing on health, relaxation, and spa treatments. ๐ŸŽญ Karlovy Vary Theatre Festival (August): A festival featuring innovative performances and theater companies from across Europe.

Local Insider Tips

โ™จ๏ธ Colonnades: Explore the grand colonnades and sample the healing mineral waters. ๐Ÿง–โ€โ™€๏ธ Spas: Indulge in a traditional spa treatment at one of the cityโ€™s historic spas. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Jan Becher Museum: Learn about the famous Becherovka herbal liqueur at this museum. ๐ŸŒฒ Nature Walks: Enjoy the peaceful forest trails surrounding the town. ๐ŸŽญ Theatre: Visit the Karlovy Vary Theatre for a night of cultural performances.

Sustainable Travel

โ™จ๏ธ Eco-friendly spa practices: The city emphasizes sustainable practices in its world-famous spas, focusing on eco-friendly treatments. ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Community support: The city encourages locals and visitors to support local artisans, boosting sustainability. ๐ŸŒฑ Preservation efforts: The hot springs are protected through eco-conscious practices to maintain their natural integrity. ๐ŸŒณ Eco-friendly transport: Efforts are made to promote sustainable modes of travel, including biking and walking. ๐Ÿจ Sustainable accommodations: Many hotels have adopted green certifications, ensuring that their operations are environmentally friendly.

Karlovy Vary

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