The world famous spa town of Karlovy Vary, also known by its German name of Karlsbad (or Carlsbad in English), was founded in 1350 by the Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. The town’s visitors over the years have included Casanova, Ludwig van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Kafka, Alphonse Mucha, and many representatives of the world film industry who come to Karlovy Vary as guests of the International Film Festival held every year in July.
Karlovy Vary lies in a green valley of the river Teplá (meaning “Warm”) and its setting alone gives it an atmosphere of beauty and peace. The town recaptured its former glory after its Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings were restored, and people have been rediscovering all the town has to offer.
Whether you go to Karlovy Vary to relax your mind, find a cure or admire the architecture, you will not regret visiting this elegant city.
Visit the Karlovy Vary Tourist Information Office for useful sightseeing tips, maps and assistance during your stay.
Infocentrum Karlovy Vary
Lázeňská 14 & T. G. Masaryka 53
karlovyvary.cz
Karlovy Vary sister cities: Carlsbad, California; Baden-Baden, Germany; Locarno, Switzerland; Eilat, Israel
Getting There from Prague
A bus from Prague will get you to Karlovy Vary in a little over two hours. It is about a 20-minute walk from the bus station to the colonnades. Driving is about half an hour quicker than the bus. There are no convenient trains from Prague to Karlovy Vary.
Find bus connections
What to See and Do in Karlovy Vary
Karlovy Vary Colonnades | Sampling the Hot Springs | Spa Treatments | Diana Observation Tower | Grandhotel Pupp | Moser Glass Factory | Becherovka & Jan Becher Museum
Karlovy Vary Souvenirs
Karlovy Vary is known not only for its spas, promenades, thermal springs and film festival, but also for several products that originate here, many of which have brought the city worldwide recognition and fame.
Depending on your interests, tastes and the size of your wallet, below are some ideas for Carlsbad gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.
Becherovka Herbal Liquor | Carlsbad Spa Wafers | Moser Glass and Crystal | Spa Drinking Cups | Thun Porcelain