In the hills of western Bohemia lies Karlovy Vary, Czechia’s most iconic spa town. Known for its healing hot springs, pastel-colored facades, and celebrity-studded film festival, this 14th-century town is a blend of wellness, history, and luxury.
With ornate colonnades, thermal fountains, and luxury boutiques, Karlovy Vary feels like stepping into a 19th-century postcard — only with better food and Wi-Fi.
There are 13 main springs and over 300 smaller ones
Grab a signature porcelain spa cup and taste water from each spring (warning: it's healthy, not tasty!)
Most popular? Vřídlo (Hot Spring), spouting up to 12 meters high!
Karlovy Vary’s colonnades are like open-air cathedrals for spa-goers:
Mill Colonnade: Grand columns, fountains, and street musicians
Park Colonnade: Cast-iron beauty in a leafy park
Hot Spring Colonnade: Modern glass and steel over the geyser
Held every July, it’s Central Europe’s biggest film event
Celebs, red carpets, and premieres in a small, charming setting
Past guests include Johnny Depp, Helen Mirren, Jude Law
Book a session at Elisabeth Spa or the historic Hotel Thermal
Enjoy mud wraps, hydrotherapy, massage, and mineral baths
Spa culture here is 100% authentic, not a tourist gimmick
Moser Glass Museum: Legendary hand-blown Czech crystal
Jan Becher Museum: Home of the herbal liqueur Becherovka
Take a funicular ride to Diana Lookout Tower for a panoramic view
Pair elegant cuisine with local specialties.
Don’t miss:
Becherovka (herbal liquor) – served ice cold, it’s the pride of Karlovy Vary
Spa wafers – thin, crispy, sweet, and sold all over town
Venison goulash, trout, or roast duck with dumplings
Dine at Le Marché, Villa Patriot, or Restaurace Charleston for an upscale experience
Karlovy Vary offers a classy mix of historic and modern stays:
Luxury: Grandhotel Pupp – A legend, featured in James Bond's Casino Royale
Mid-range: Hotel Romance – charming and central
Budget: Penzion Fan – affordable and clean, a bit out of town
Spring & Fall (May–June, Sept–Oct): Perfect weather and fewer crowds
Summer (July): Peak season with film festival excitement
Winter: Quiet and beautiful with snow — magical if you want peace
From Prague:
🚗 Drive (~2 hours)
🚌 Bus from Florenc or Roztyly stations (~2.5 hours)
🚆 Train is available but slower (~3.5 hours)
Town is walkable; most attractions are close together.
Wellness seekers – mineral baths & peaceful ambiance
Luxury travelers – elegant hotels, boutique spas, classy cafes
Film lovers – Hollywood meets Bohemia
Couples – romantic strolls, fountains, and Art Nouveau vibes
Culture lovers – architecture, music, history, and glass art
Karlovy Vary is where elegance meets tranquility.
Whether you’re sipping healing waters, relaxing in a spa, or spotting celebrities at the film festival, this stunning town offers a refined yet soulful escape unlike anywhere else in Czechia.