Karlovy Vary

Czechia, Europe

Karlovy Vary, famous for its rejuvenating thermal springs, boasts stunning architecture, peaceful parks, and vibrant cultural festivals. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque colonnades, sip mineral water from ornate fountains, and indulge in spa treatments. The town’s rich history is showcased in buildings like the Grand Hotel Pupp and the Moser Glass Museum. With its annual film festival and nearby hiking trails in the beautiful Bohemia Forest, Karlovy Vary is an alluring blend of relaxation and cultural richness.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Karlovy Vary

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a healing mineral bath

Relax and rejuvenate in Karlovy Vary's famous thermal waters.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the colonnades

Stroll through stunning colonnades showcasing unique architecture.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Jan Becher Museum

Discover the history of Becherovka, a herbal liqueur.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Hike to Diana Observation Tower

Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample local cuisine at a restaurant

Indulge in traditional Czech dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
6

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Attend the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

Experience one of the oldest film festivals in the world.

Booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Church of St. Mary Magdalene

Marvel at the baroque architecture and serene atmosphere.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy a drink at the Grandhotel Pupp

Sip cocktails at the luxurious hotel featured in James Bond.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop for souvenirs

Find unique Czech souvenirs and traditional crafts.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Spa Hotel Thermal

Treat yourself to luxury spa treatments and wellness.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

1 (#49 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Czech Koruna

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Czech

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Roast Pork with Dumplings

Pork served with bread dumplings. (National dish)

Svíčková na Smetaně

Creamy sauce with marinated beef.

Goulash

Hearty meat stew with spices.

Trdelník

V

Sweet pastry rolled with sugar.

Kulajda

V

Mushroom and dill soup with potatoes.

Phrases to learn

English

Czech

Hello

Ahoj

(Ah-hoy)

Yes/No

Ano / Ne

(Ah-no / Neh)

Thank you

Děkuji

(Dyeh-koo-yee)

Excuse me

Promiňte

(Proh-meen-teh)

How much?

Kolik?

(Koh-leek)