A Day in Karlovy Vary: A Spa Town Escape

Karlovy Vary, nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic, is a world-renowned spa center that beckons travelers seeking relaxation, stunning architecture, and a taste of mineral water.

Is One Day Enough?

Depend how stressed you are and how many spa treatments you need. No, just kidding! The city center in Karlovy Vary is not big, you can easily walk throughout it and not miss anything important. Remember to stop by the mineral water springs and taste all of them!

UNESCO

The city, along with Mariánské Lázně and Františkovy Lázně was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 as part of the “Great Spa Towns of Europe”. This prestigious recognition highlights the town’s historical and cultural significance, particularly its development around natural mineral springs.

Karlovy Vary, along with ten other spa towns across seven countries, represents an exceptional example of the European spa tradition. These towns were developed around mineral springs and became centers for health, leisure, and social life from the 18thth to the early 20th centuries. The architecture of Karlovy Vary, with its grand colonnades, elegant hotels, and therapeutic facilities, reflects this rich heritage.

Things to Know Before Visiting

1. Cups: If you’re going on a budget trip, take one with you, so you can taste the hot springs water. But if you want to bring a souvenir with you – the cup with the colonnade picture on it, is just perfect. It has a special shape and you can buy them all over the city.
2. Karlovy Vary Wafers: These large wafer disks, available in various flavors, are a delightful treat. Grab one from a local supermarket or producer.
3. Becherovka: Don’t miss out on this popular Czech alcoholic drink. Karlovy Vary is where Becherovka was first manufactured, and you can purchase a bottle to savor its herbal goodness.

Exploring Karlovy Vary by day

Begin your day by wandering through the historical part of the city. Go along the Teplá River, enjoying the picturesque views and the charming architecture of the town. Explore the hot springs around the city. Don’t worry, you will not miss them, as this is where most people gather. Each spring has its own unique properties and very specific taste. They say healing water, I say hmmmm, kind of a smelly one 🙂

Explore the Mill Colonnade, one of the most famous colonnades in Karlovy Vary. You can taste the mineral waters from the springs and admire the beautiful neo-Renaissance architecture.

Take the funicular to the Diana Observation Tower for panoramic views of Karlovy Vary and the surrounding countryside.

Spa Treatments in the Evening

Indulge in a spa treatment at one of the luxurious wellness centers. Whether it’s a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating soak, Karlovy Vary’s healing waters will leave you refreshed. The choice is really huge. Don’t be overwhelmed. Pick what’s the closest to you. We choose the Saunia Thermal Resort with two outside pools and many different saunas inside. remember to get along with the sauna rules before you enter, because “locals” are really sensitive about it.

Staying a night

Consider booking a night at one of Karlovy Vary’s charming hotels. Wake up to another day of exploration before returning. Check out the Golden Key Hotel, which ideally fit the atmosphere of the city. Or wake up to this view at the Dvorak Spa & Wellness Hotel. I’d be speechless.

In this soothing spa town, time slows down, and worries melt away. Karlovy Vary invites you to experience its magic—one day at a time.