Do I need to drink the spa water from specific springs in a certain order?

Yes, some springs are hotter and more mineral-dense than others, so locals usually start with **cooler springs like Sadová** before moving to **hotter ones such as Vřídlo** in small sips.

How many days do you actually need in Karlovy Vary?

**One full day is enough to see the colonnades and viewpoints**, but two nights allow time for spa treatments and forest walks without rushing.

Are spa wafers sold fresh, or are they packaged souvenirs?

Fresh spa wafers are **pressed warm on the street** or in small shops near the colonnades and taste noticeably different from boxed versions sold in supermarkets.

Is the Diana funicular the only way to reach the viewpoints?

No, marked forest paths lead to Diana and other viewpoints, but they **involve steep climbs** that many visitors prefer to avoid by taking the funicular up.

Can you bring thermal spring water back home?

You can **fill bottles at springs for short-term use**, but the water loses its mineral balance quickly and is not intended for long storage.

Do shops and cafés close during the spa off-season?

Yes, outside summer and major festivals, some businesses **reduce hours or close entirely**, especially in the evenings.

Is Karlovy Vary suitable for travelers who do not plan to use the spa?

Yes, **forest trails**, **viewpoints**, **museums**, and **architecture** offer plenty to do even if you skip spa treatments altogether.

Karlovy Vary Spa Town Guide | What to Know Before You Go

Karlovy Vary is a historic spa town set along a narrow river valley, known for its colonnades, thermal springs, and hillside viewpoints. On a day trip, you’ll move between the flat spa promenade, steep hillside paths, and lookout points, with the pace of your visit shaped by how much walking, spa time, and sightseeing you plan to fit in.

Travel logistics

The easiest way to reach Karlovy Vary is on a guided day tour from Prague, which simplifies transport and allows you to focus on the town itself. If you travel independently, direct buses from Prague’s Florenc station are the fastest and most reliable option, while trains take longer and usually involve a transfer. Driving offers flexibility, but parking is limited near the spa center. Once in town, most sights line the river promenade, though viewpoints and observation towers require uphill walks or short funicular rides.

Plan your day

Quick visit (2 to 3 hours): Main colonnades, a few thermal spring tastings, and views along the Teplá River.
Half day (4 to 5 hours): Colonnades and springs, a funicular ride to Diana Observation Tower, lunch or café stop, and time to explore side streets above the spa zone.
Full day (6+ hours): Colonnades and springs, hillside viewpoints, Observation Tower, spa visit or museum stop, relaxed meal, and a late-afternoon stroll when the promenade quiets down.

Handy tips

Arrive before 10am for a quieter walk along the colonnades, or stay into the early evening once day-trippers leave.
Start your visit at higher viewpoints first, then work downhill to the colonnades to avoid repeated uphill walks.
Thermal water is hot and mineral-heavy; sip small amounts and follow posted guidance at each spring.

Must-see attractions in Karlovy Vary

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Mill Colonnade

The Mill Colonnade stretches along the Teplá River with 124 Corinthian columns sheltering several of the town’s most famous mineral springs. As you walk beneath its arches, you can sample the warm waters while admiring statues that symbolize the months of the year and the spa rituals tied to them.

Market Colonnade

The Market Colonnade features delicate white wooden lacework inspired by Swiss architecture, creating a lighter contrast to the town’s grand stone structures. Here, you can taste mineral water directly from springs long associated with digestive treatments and local spa traditions.

Hot Spring Vřídlo

Vřídlo rises dramatically from the ground as the hottest and most powerful spring in Karlovy Vary, sending jets of mineral rich water several meters into the air. Inside the surrounding pavilion, you can observe how this spring feeds the town’s spa system and even powers historic heating mechanisms.

St. Mary Magdalene Church

St. Mary Magdalene Church stands near the thermal springs with a richly decorated Baroque interior shaped by the town’s religious and spa history. Step inside to see ornate altars and underground crypt spaces that reveal how faith and healing once existed side by side.

Diana Observation Tower

The Diana Observation Tower rises above the surrounding forests, marking one of the most popular viewpoints in the spa town. From the platform, you can trace the valley’s layout and understand how Karlovy Vary developed along the river below.

Grandhotel Pupp

Grandhotel Pupp represents centuries of spa culture, hosting royalty, artists, and international film festival guests within its elegant halls. Walking through its public areas reveals historic interiors that reflect the town’s role as a meeting point for European high society.

Teplá River

The Teplá River winds through the heart of Karlovy Vary, guiding you past colonnades, pastel facades, and spa buildings clustered along its banks. Following its path offers a natural way to explore how the town’s architecture and daily life align with the water.

Jan Becher Museum

The Jan Becher Museum explores the origins of Becherovka, the herbal liqueur closely tied to Karlovy Vary’s identity. Inside the former factory, you can learn about the guarded recipe and see how spa culture influenced its creation and global reputation.

Things to know before booking a Karlovy Vary day tour

Skip the stress of planning long-distance travel by choosing a day tour from Prague, which includes round-trip transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. Tours depart from a central Prague meeting point, allowing you to focus on the spa town experience rather than logistics.

When selecting a tour, the main decision is how guided you want the day to be. Some options include a fully guided walking tour led by a local expert, while others offer a self-guided experience supported by a mobile audio guide, giving you more flexibility to explore Karlovy Vary at your own pace.

Entry to the Diana Observation Tower and the funicular ride up Diana Hill are only included on select options; however, all tours include visits to key spa landmarks such as colonnades, thermal springs, and historic buildings, followed by free time to sample mineral waters, walk along the river, or explore shops and cafes on your own.

Getting to Karlovy Vary

Traveling from Prague to Karlovy Vary takes you west into one of the country’s most famous spa regions. While the route is well connected, the experience differs noticeably depending on whether you prefer convenience, independence, or flexibility.

Woman drinking from hot mineral spring in Karlovy Vary with special mug.

Guided day tours offer the most straightforward way to visit Karlovy Vary in one day. Tours run directly from central Prague meeting points such as Na Příkopě, combining round-trip transport with guided or self-guided sightseeing through the spa town, often including colonnades, thermal springs, and viewpoints like the Diana Observation Tower.

Time: Around 9.5 hours round trip
Cost: €70 to €120, depending on guiding format and inclusions
Pros: No transport planning, guided context, balanced itinerary with free time
Cons: Fixed schedule, limited flexibility
Best for: First-time visitors and travelers wanting a relaxed, all-in-one experience

Trains to Karlovy Vary depart from Praha hlavní nádraží or Praha-Smíchov Station, usually with a transfer at Cheb. The journey ends at Karlovy Vary Station, which sits uphill from the historic center and requires a short bus or taxi ride.

Time: 3 to 3.5 hours one way
Cost: €15 to €25 one way
Pros: Scenic route, comfortable seating, flexible return times
Cons: One transfer required, station not centrally located
Best for: Independent travelers staying overnight or comfortable arranging local transport

Buses are the fastest and most practical independent option, with direct services operated by RegioJet and FlixBus. Departures leave from Florenc Bus Station and Na Knížecí Bus Station, arriving at Karlovy Vary Bus Terminal, within walking distance of the spa center.

Time: 2.25 to 2.75 hours one way
Cost: €8 to €15 one way
Pros: Direct route, frequent departures, central arrival point
Cons: Limited luggage space, popular departures sell out in peak season (June to August)
Best for: Budget travelers and independent day trippers

Driving from Prague to Karlovy Vary follows the D6 highway toward western Bohemia and is generally straightforward. Parking is available in designated garages near the spa center, though access to the historic core is restricted.

Time: About 2 to 2.5 hours one way
Cost: Rental €40+ per day plus fuel and parking
Pros: Flexible timing, door-to-door travel, easy for small groups
Cons: Parking management required, no guided context
Best for: Families, groups, and travelers planning stops along the way

Getting around Karlovy Vary made easy

Once you arrive in Karlovy Vary, getting around is straightforward, but the town’s steep hills influence how comfortable each option feels. Most spa landmarks line the river valley, while viewpoints and residential areas sit higher above the center.

Walking is the primary way to explore Karlovy Vary, especially along the Teplá River where colonnades, springs, and spa buildings cluster closely together. The valley floor is flat and pedestrian friendly, but routes to viewpoints involve steep climbs.

Time: 5 to 10 minutes between colonnades and major spa buildings
Cost: Free
Best for: First-time visitors, spa focused itineraries, budget travelers
Cons: Steep uphill sections, longer climbs to viewpoints, tiring for some travelers

Tip: Walk the spa district on foot, then use public transport for uphill viewpoints instead of climbing.

Karlovy Vary has a reliable local bus network connecting the spa center with hills, residential areas, and transport hubs. Lines such as Bus 1, 2, and 6 are commonly used by visitors to reach areas above the river valley or return from viewpoints.

Time: 5 to 15 minutes between the spa center and the hillside stops
Cost: Around €1 to €2 per ride
Pros: Covers steep routes, frequent service, and budget-friendly
Cons: Can be crowded, less useful within the flat spa core

Tip: Use buses to save energy on uphill routes rather than for short trips along the river.

The funicular offers the easiest way to reach the Diana Observation Tower and the surrounding forest trails. It departs from near the Grandhotel Pupp and runs frequently throughout the day.

Time: About 3 minutes per ride
Cost: €3 to €5 round trip
Best for: Viewpoints, families, avoiding steep climbs
Cons: Short queues during peak hours

Tip: Ride the funicular up, then walk downhill back into town for a relaxed route.

Taxis are widely available and useful for short trips, especially to hotels, hilltop areas, or transport hubs. Ride-hailing apps operate, but local taxis are often faster to arrange.

Time: 5 to 10 minutes per ride
Cost: €6 to €12 for short distances
Best for: Families, limited mobility, saving time
Cons: More expensive than buses, unnecessary for short spa walks

Tip: Save taxis for late evenings or hotel transfers uphill, when bus frequency drops, and walking becomes tiring.

Bike and e-scooter use is limited by steep terrain and pedestrian zones. Cycling works better on forest roads or longer routes outside the spa valley rather than within the historic spa area.

Time: 10 to 20 minutes to reach the outer trails
Cost: €15 to €25 per day
Best for: Active travelers exploring beyond the town center
Cons: Hills, narrow streets, limited bike lanes

Tip: Skip cycling inside the spa zone and start rides from the edge of town toward forest roads or longer scenic routes.

More things to do in Karlovy Vary

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Taste the spa waters like locals do

Sampling mineral water is part ritual, part curiosity, and each spring tastes noticeably different due to its temperature and mineral content. Pick up a traditional porcelain spa cup and move between springs such as Mlýnská Colonnade and Sadová Colonnade, sipping slowly and following posted recommendations.

Walk the forest trails above the spa district

Well-marked forest paths rise gently from the town into wooded hills dotted with viewpoints, pavilions, and quiet benches. Routes around Diana Hill and the surrounding forests let you escape the crowds while still staying close to town, with loops that range from short strolls to longer, scenic walks.

Visit the Jan Becher Museum

The Jan Becher Museum explores the origins of Becherovka, the herbal liqueur closely tied to Karlovy Vary’s identity. Exhibits trace how the drink evolved from a medicinal tonic into an international export, ending with a tasting that connects spa culture with local tradition.

Indulge in a spa treatment or wellness ritual

Beyond public springs, many hotels and wellness centers offer treatments based on thermal water, mud wraps, and traditional spa therapies. Booking even a short session gives insight into why people have traveled here for health and recovery for centuries.

Browse porcelain, glass, and spa products

Karlovy Vary is known for porcelain spa cups, glassware, and herbal products inspired by its springs. Browsing local shops introduces you to designs and materials tied directly to the town’s spa heritage rather than generic souvenirs.

Time your visit with the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

If you visit in early summer (June to July), the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival transforms the town with screenings, events, and a lively evening scene. Even without tickets, the atmosphere adds a contemporary layer to the historic spa setting.

Explore nearby lookout points beyond Diana

While Diana Observation Tower draws most visitors, smaller viewpoints such as Goethe’s Lookout or Deer Leap offer quieter perspectives over the valley. Reaching these spots often involves short uphill walks that reward you with unobstructed views and fewer crowds.

Sit down for traditional Czech cuisine

Many restaurants in Karlovy Vary focus on lighter spa friendly menus, but you can still find classic Czech dishes in quieter side streets. Look for seasonal soups, roasted meats, and dumplings, then linger rather than rushing, matching the town’s unhurried pace.

Popular dining spots in the city

The Thomas Restaurant - Carlsbad

An elegant fine-dining restaurant known for polished service and carefully plated European dishes in a refined setting.

Where it is: Zeyerova 934/3, 360 01 Karlovy Vary 1, Czechia (Find on maps)
Cuisine: European / Fine dining
Rating: 4.4/5
Price point: €25 to €45 per person
Must-try: Beef tenderloin, duck breast, seasonal tasting menus

Restaurace La Hospoda

A rustic Czech tavern that focuses on traditional recipes, hearty portions, and a relaxed, local atmosphere.

Where it is: nábř. J. Palacha 1024/26, 360 01 Karlovy Vary 1, Czechia (Find on maps)
Cuisine: Traditional Czech
Rating: 4.7/5
Price point: €12 to €22 per person
Must-try: Roast pork with dumplings, svíčková, Czech potato soup

Jack Daniel’s Grill Restaurant

A popular grill restaurant specializing in steaks, ribs, and American-style comfort food with a lively vibe.

Where it is: Zeyerova 952/1, 360 01 Karlovy Vary 1, Czechia (Find on maps)
Cuisine: Grill / American
Rating: 4.8/5
Price point: €18 to €30 per person
Must-try: Pork ribs, ribeye steak, burgers with house sauces

Restaurace Le Marché

A small, reservation-focused restaurant offering modern European cuisine with seasonal ingredients and thoughtful wine pairings.

Where it is: Mariánskolázeňská 4, 360 01 Karlovy Vary 1, Czechia (Find on maps)
Cuisine: Modern European / Fine dining
Rating: 4.7/5
Price point: €30 to €50 per person
Must-try: Chef’s tasting menu, fresh fish dishes, seasonal desserts

Georgian Restaurant "Cha-Cha"

A standout option for something different, serving rich Georgian flavors influenced by Eastern European and Caucasus traditions.

Where it is: ul, Závodu míru 62/116, 360 17 Karlovy Vary, Czechia (Find on maps)
Cuisine: Georgian / Eastern European
Rating: 4.7/5
Price point: €15 to €28 per person
Must-try: Khachapuri, khinkali dumplings, grilled meats with herbs

Plzeňka Carlsbad

A classic Czech beer hall celebrating Pilsner brewing culture with straightforward dishes and a lively, social atmosphere.

Where it is: Mlýnské nábř. 5, 360 01 Karlovy Vary 1, Czechia (Find on maps)
Cuisine: Czech / Pub food
Rating: 4.6/5
Price point: €10 to €20 per person
Must-try: Pork schnitzel, beer goulash, fresh Pilsner Urquell

Hidden shopping gems in Karlovy Vary

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The Art of Chocolate

A boutique chocolate shop offering beautifully presented artisanal chocolates and sweets, perfect as a gift or a delicious memory of your visit.

Highlights: Handmade chocolate assortments, seasonal specialties
Best for: Foodie gifts and classy edible souvenirs

DÁRky Souvenir

A charming souvenir shop with a curated selection of local keepsakes, postcards, and spa-themed gifts.

Highlights: Spa town souvenirs, postcards, small gifts
Best for: Classic mementos with a polished presentation

Pokamenělé Předměty

This niche store specializes in spring stones, mineral formations unique to Karlovy Vary, shaped by the same geology that creates its thermal springs.

Highlights: Fossilized mineral stones, unique geological souvenirs
Best for: Visitors interested in natural history and geology

Minerály J&R

A well-liked gemstone and mineral shop offering a wide range of polished crystals and stone products, including Czech garnet pieces.

Highlights: Gemstones, Czech garnet jewelry, mineral specimens
Best for: Jewelry lovers and collectors

Suvenyry Verona

A very popular souvenir store with a broad range of Karlovy Vary-themed gifts, from spa cups to local ceramics and decorative items.

Highlights: Spa gifts, decorative ceramics, postcards
Best for: Comprehensive souvenir shopping

Starožitnosti - Antik - Antonín Rybář

A beloved antique store offering vintage and collectible items ranging from old postcards to decorative curios that tell a story about the region.

Highlights: Antiques, collectibles, vintage finds
Best for: Collectors and history buffs

Bohemia Crystal Gallery

A highly rated crystal boutique showcasing traditional Bohemian glass and crystal pieces, including decorative bowls, glasses, and vases that reflect Czech craftsmanship.

Highlights: Bohemian crystal glassware, decorative pieces
Best for: Quality gifts and classic Czech souvenirs

Tips from locals

Plan your visit between April and June or September and early October, when the spa town is less crowded, and accommodation prices are lower than during peak summer and festival periods.
If you want a quieter experience, explore the colonnades early in the morning or after 6pm, when the spa district becomes noticeably calmer.
Bring a small, reusable cup or purchase a traditional porcelain spa cup, as mineral springs are designed for sipping rather than drinking from standard bottles.
Follow posted guidance when tasting thermal waters, since each spring differs in temperature and mineral content, and some are intended for small sips only.
Expect steep hills surrounding the spa center, so plan to use buses, the Diana funicular, or taxis for viewpoints instead of walking uphill repeatedly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as spa promenades and side streets can be slippery after rain or near hot spring runoff.
Reserve restaurants and wellness treatments in advance during weekends and the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, when demand increases sharply.
Many shops and cafés close earlier than in Prague, especially outside summer, so plan dinners and shopping before 8pm.
Carry some cash in Czech koruna for buses, small bakeries, and spring cup purchases, as card payment is not universal.
Avoid driving into the spa center, as access is restricted and parking garages fill quickly during busy periods.
If you plan to visit multiple viewpoints, space them out across the day to avoid fatigue, as even short climbs can feel demanding.
Check funicular operating hours in advance, since service may pause during maintenance or poor weather.
If visiting in winter, dress warmly even during the day, as shaded valley areas stay cold and damp near the river.