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.”

🇨🇿

Currency

Czech Koruna (CZK) Kč

Best Time

May to October

Population

50,000

Weather °C

9.3

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

Airport

Karlovy Vary Airport (KLV)

Cost of Living (10)

6

Minimal List TL;DR

👕
Boutique
Allegro boutique
Chic boutique with a focus on fashion
👚
Women's Fashion
Butik ALTA Karlovy Vary
Trendy women’s clothing store
👕
Clothing Store
Boutique Eleganza
Stylish clothing boutique
🖼️
Glass Museum
Museum of Glass MOSER
Museum for the noted glassmaker, with glassblowing demonstrations & displays of historic pieces.
👚
Dress Store
1&ONLY Woman's Fashion
Elegant dress store
👕
Boutique
Gabriela Accessories
Boutique with trendy accessories and handbags
👕
Clothing Store
Iris Boutique Karlovy Vary
Fashionable clothing store
🧼
Natural Landmark
Vřídelní kolonáda
Concrete structure above a natural hot spring with bathing and a geyser.
🏛️
Historic Tower
Diana Observation Tower
Offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
🏛️
Tropical Garden
Butterfly House Diana Karlovy Vary
A unique tropical experience
🖼️
Historical Museum
Jan Becher Museum
Taste the most famous of Czech herbal liqueurs and find out more about its history.
🏛️
Natural Landmark
Park Colonnade
A beautiful park with natural springs and gardens.
🏛️
Scenic View
Tower - View of Charles IV.
Iconic view of Karlovy Vary's skyline
🦌
Scenic Viewpoint
Deer Jump
The wooden arbour on a rock bill near Jelení skok (Deer Jump) directly above the spa centre.
🍽️
Fine Dining
Maison Lameloise
Elegant hotel with fine dining.
🍽️
Traditional Cuisine
Tusculum
A cozy restaurant serving traditional Czech dishes.
🍽️
Vietnamese Cuisine
Nhât Båo Restaurant
Offers a taste of Vietnam in the heart of Karlovy Vary.
🍽️
Wine & Oyster Bar
Oysterium Wine & Oyster Bar
A chic spot for oysters and fine wines.
🍽️
Mediterranean Cuisine
Jaffa restaurant KV
A delightful spot for Mediterranean flavors.
🍽️
Traditional Czech Bar
Plzeňská Restaurace Palacký
A traditional Czech beer restaurant.

Places to See

🧼
Vřídelní kolonáda
Natural Landmark
Divadelní nám. 2036, 360 01 Karlovy Vary, Czechia
4.7
Free
6.30 a.m. – 7.00 p.m.
Concrete structure above a natural hot spring with bathing and a geyser.
https://www.karlovyvary.cz/cs/vridelni-kolonada-0
🖼️
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/
🦌
Deer Jump
Scenic Viewpoint
Pod Jelením 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 To:
The wooden arbour on a rock bill near Jelení skok (Deer Jump) directly above the spa centre.
Must Visit:

Hot Springs, International Film Festival

Known for its hot springs and international film festival.

Places to Eat

🍽️
Tusculum
Traditional Cuisine
Sadová 836 /31
4.8
$$
Opens 12.00 pm
Features a rustic interior and friendly service.
Vibe:
Traditional
Get To:
Nearby public transport
Tip:
Goulash
A cozy restaurant serving traditional Czech dishes.
🍽️
Oysterium Wine & Oyster Bar
Wine & Oyster Bar
Mariánskolázeňská 580/31
4.6
$$$
Opens 12.00 pm
A chic spot for oysters and fine wines.
Must Try:

Becherovka, Spa Wafers, Koláče, Trdelník, Roasted Duck

Places to Drink

Music / Dance:

Classical, Jazz, Opera, Czech Folk

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Tourism, Crafts, History

Karlovy Vary

"Find serenity in mineral springs, surrounded by the quiet grace of art nouveau beauty."

Places to Shop

👕
Allegro boutique
Boutique
Tržiště 30/11
4.6
700-1700 CZK
Opens 10.00 am
Offers a selection of designer pieces and accessories
Vibe:
Chic
Get To:
Close to city center
Tip:
Fashion items
Chic boutique with a focus on fashion
🖼️
Museum of Glass MOSER
Glass Museum
19, Kpt. Jaroše 46, Dvory, 360 06 Karlovy Vary, Czechia
4.4
$$
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Museum for the noted glassmaker, with glassblowing demonstrations & displays of historic pieces.
Stará 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 To:
Close to city center
Tip:
Handbags, Jewelry
Boutique with trendy accessories and handbags

Luxury

For More Tips Read Further

Karlovy Vary Guide

Spa culture, thermal springs, and film festival.

Karlovy Vary hosts the famous Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the world.

A spa town famous for its thermal springs and stunning architecture, Karlovy Vary is a popular destination for wellness and relaxation. The annual International Film Festival attracts many visitors, as do the region’s peaceful parks and luxurious hotels. Known for its rejuvenating atmosphere, Karlovy Vary is perfect for those seeking relaxation, culture, and a dose of glamour. The charming city offers visitors a variety of wellness and cultural experiences.

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Karlovy Vary

Transportation

Trains to Madrid, walkable

City Overview

Karlovy Vary, known as Carlsbad, is a famous spa town in the Czech Republic, renowned for its hot springs, stunning architecture, and cultural events. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Karlovy Vary

3 Day City Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Stroll along the Teplá River. Afternoon: Visit the Mill Colonnade. Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Explore the Diana Observation Tower. Afternoon: Relax at a spa. Evening: Attend a classical music concert. - Day 3: Morning: Take a day trip to Loket Castle. Afternoon: Visit local art galleries. Evening: Enjoy a tasting of local Becherovka.

Current Trends

- Health tourism: Increasing interest in wellness and spa treatments. - Culinary trends: Emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes. - Art and culture: Growth in contemporary art exhibitions and festivals.

Local Events Guide

- Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July): Showcasing international films and hosting celebrity guests. - Easter and Christmas markets (December): Celebrating local crafts and seasonal foods. - International Jazz Festival (September): Featuring local and international artists.

Local Insider Tips

- Explore the colonnades and sample the healing mineral waters. - Visit local spas for traditional treatments. - Discover the rich history at the Jan Becher Museum.

Sustainable Travel

- Sustainable initiatives: Focus on eco-friendly spa practices and treatments. - Community support: Encouraging local artisans and businesses. - Preservation efforts: Protecting the natural hot springs.

Karlovy Vary

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

Sign below for Fresh Updates

We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Join us to stay connected. Read our updates

Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

More Cities to Visit:

🇨🇿
Prague
Prague Unveiled
9.6
6
Czech Koruna (CZK) Kč
Prague Unveiled
Vibe:
The Charles Bridge, a historic stone bridge, is adorned with 30 statues, many of which are replicas.
Tip:
Prague enchants visitors with its magical blend of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy. Stroll through the historic Old Town, explore the winding streets, and discover the city’s rich cultural heritage. The music scene in Prague features a variety of genres, from classical to traditional folk. The city is also known for its stunning castles, including the Prague Castle, and its cozy beer halls, making it a must-visit destination for those who appreciate history, culture, and great food.
🇮🇳
Delhi
Crowded
12-32
$
Indian Rupee (INR) ₹
Crowded
Vibe:
Home to Qutub Minar, Red Fort
Tip:
Delhi is a city where the ancient world meets the modern, a metropolis that pulses with life at every corner. The city is home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments, like the Red Fort, and offers visitors a chance to experience the energy of India’s capital. From the lively street markets of Chandni Chowk to the spiritual peace of the Lotus Temple, Delhi provides a diverse array of experiences. It’s a city where history and modernity intertwine, providing a dynamic cultural experience.
🇨🇳
Shanghai
Urban Shanghai
17.1
9
Chinese Yuan (CNY) ¥
Urban Shanghai
Vibe:
The Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, standing at 632 meters.
Tip:
Shanghai is China’s shining star, where East meets West in an eclectic blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient temples. The city’s fusion of global culture is felt in its bustling markets, innovative technology, and stunning architecture. A food lover’s paradise, Shanghai offers delectable street foods alongside haute cuisine. Its nightlife scene is dynamic, and the city’s vast energy is infectious, making it an unforgettable destination.
🇳🇱
Amsterdam
Amsterdam Views
10.2
7
Euro (EUR) €
Amsterdam Views
Vibe:
Amsterdam has more than 1,500 bridges and is often referred to as the "Venice of the North."
Tip:
Amsterdam is a city that captivates with its artistic legacy and laid-back energy. The city’s free-spirited vibe is reflected in its iconic coffee shops, bike-friendly streets, and progressive culture. Whether you’re visiting the Anne Frank House, exploring the Van Gogh Museum, or enjoying a leisurely boat ride through its canals, Amsterdam offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its multicultural influence can be seen in the diverse food offerings and music genres that permeate the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
🇺🇸
Louisville
Southern Charm
12-25
$$
US Dollar (USD) $
Southern Charm
Vibe:
Birthplace of Muhammad Ali
Tip:
Louisville is a city that blends Southern tradition with modern innovation. Known for its iconic Kentucky Derby, historic bourbon distilleries, and vibrant cultural events, Louisville is a celebration of everything Kentucky. The city’s historic neighborhoods feature some of the largest collections of Victorian homes in the U.S., and its world-class bourbon tours offer a deep dive into the art of whiskey-making. Louisville is a city where history, sports, and culture converge to create a welcoming Southern experience.