Explore Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic in a Day Itinerary

Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

1 days

Tourist

Goethe square with statue, hotel buildings and fountain in the spa park of the town Marianske Lazne (Marienbad)

Cityscape of medieval Loket nad Ohri town with Loket Castle gothic style on massive rock

About Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Discover the enchanting city of Karlovy Vary, nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic. Renowned for its thermal springs, this picturesque spa town offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Marvel at the colorful baroque architecture, stroll along the Teplá River, or hike through the dense forests surrounding the city. Visit the iconic Mill Colonnade, housing five of the city's thirteen springs, or the stunning Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul. Don't miss the chance to taste traditional Czech delicacies and the locally produced Becherovka herbal liqueur. Whether you're seeking tranquility, adventure, or a taste of history, Karlovy Vary promises a memorable experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Charm of Karlovy Vary

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Teplá River, taking in the beautiful Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture of the city. Don't forget to sample the healing mineral waters from one of the many Hot Springs.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Czech lunch at a local restaurant. Try some of the local specialties like goulash, dumplings, and trdelník.

Afternoon

Visit the Jan Becher Museum to learn about the history of Becherovka, a traditional Czech herbal liqueur. Afterwards, take a cable car up to the Diana Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Dinner

Have dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can enjoy Czech cuisine while watching the sunset over the city.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Karlovy Vary Theatre for a performance. The theatre offers a variety of shows, from classical music concerts to plays and ballets.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

1
Teplá River

A picturesque river that flows through the city of Karlovy Vary. It's a popular spot for leisurely walks and picnics.

Attractions

Nature

2
Hot Springs

Karlovy Vary is famous for its hot springs. There are about 300 springs in the city.

Attractions

Landmarks

3
Jan Becher Museum

A museum dedicated to the history and production of Becherovka, a traditional Czech herbal liqueur.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

4
Diana Lookout Tower

A historic tower offering panoramic views of Karlovy Vary and the surrounding countryside.

Attractions

Landmarks

5
Karlovy Vary Theatre

A beautiful historic theatre offering a variety of performances in a stunning architectural setting.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ovocné knedlíky

These are fruit dumplings, a popular Czech dessert. They are made from dough filled with fruit (usually strawberries or plums), boiled, and then topped with melted butter, sugar, and crushed farmer cheese. A must-try when in Karlovy Vary.

Svíčková na smetaně

This is marinated sirloin, a traditional Czech dish. It consists of marinated beef sirloin that is roasted and served with a creamy sauce and bread dumplings. It's a staple in Karlovy Vary.

Karlovarské oplatky

These are Karlovy Vary wafers, a local specialty. They are thin, crispy wafers that come in various flavors, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They are synonymous with the city of Karlovy Vary.

Becherovka

This is a herbal bitters, often drunk as a digestive aid. It is produced in Karlovy Vary and is one of the city's most famous products.

Klobása

This is a type of sausage, a common dish in Czech cuisine. It's typically made from pork and seasoned with garlic, pepper, and other spices. It's a popular food choice in Karlovy Vary.

Palačinky

These are Czech pancakes, thinner than American pancakes and filled with jam, fruit, cream, or nuts. They are a popular dessert in Karlovy Vary.

Trdelník

This is a traditional Czech pastry, made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, then grilled and topped with sugar and walnut mix. It's a popular street food in Karlovy Vary.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

This is a traditional Czech dish consisting of roast pork, bread dumplings, and stewed cabbage. It's a common dish in Karlovy Vary and a must-try for visitors.

Guláš

This is Czech goulash, a hearty stew made with meat, onions, and spices, typically served with bread dumplings. It's a popular dish in Karlovy Vary.

Kyselica

This is a traditional Czech soup made from sour cabbage, potatoes, bacon, and sausage. It's a common dish in Karlovy Vary and a must-try for visitors.

Pivo

This is Czech beer, renowned worldwide for its quality and tradition. Karlovy Vary has several local breweries, making it a great place to sample this national drink.

Medovina

This is honey wine, a traditional Czech drink. It's made by fermenting honey with water, and sometimes fruits, spices, grains, or hops are added. It's a popular drink in Karlovy Vary, especially during the winter months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's beautiful architecture, parks, and thermal springs. Additionally, the renowned Karlovy Vary International Film Festival takes place in July, attracting film enthusiasts from around the world. However, if you prefer a quieter visit, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are also lovely, with fewer tourists and mild weather.

How to get around

Walk

Karlovy Vary is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to take in the city's beautiful architecture and natural surroundings.

Public Bus

Public buses are a reliable and efficient way to get around Karlovy Vary. They connect the city center with the surrounding areas. Bus stops are clearly marked and schedules are easy to understand.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Karlovy Vary. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi ranks located in key areas around the city.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Karlovy Vary. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Car Rental

If you plan to explore the wider region around Karlovy Vary, renting a car could be a good option. There are several car rental companies in the city.

Bicycle Rental

Karlovy Vary is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycle paths. Renting a bicycle can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Funicular Railway

The funicular railway in Karlovy Vary is not only a means of transport but also a tourist attraction. It provides a scenic route up to the Diana Lookout Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyKč CZK

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneEmergency (urgent help from Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Assistance): 112, 155; Fire: 150; Police: 158

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic as a first time visitor

1

Karlovy Vary is a spa town, so pack accordingly. Bring comfortable clothing and footwear for walking and relaxing.

2

The official language is Czech, but English, German and Russian are also widely spoken.

3

The local currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). While some places accept Euros, it's best to have some local currency on hand.

4

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

Public transportation is reliable and efficient. You can easily get around the town by bus or on foot.

6

Tipping is customary in the Czech Republic. A tip of 10-15% is standard in restaurants and for taxi drivers.

7

The town is known for its thermal springs. Drinking the thermal water is a common practice and is believed to have healing properties.

8

The tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.

9

The Czech Republic is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

10

The electrical voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. The plug type is Type E, which is a two-pin plug.

11

Karlovy Vary is a safe town, but like any tourist destination, it's always wise to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

12

The climate is temperate, with warm summers (average 60-75°F/15-24°C) and cold winters (average 25-35°F/-4-2°C).

13

If you're planning to visit the spas, remember to bring a swimsuit. Most spas also require a cap for hygienic reasons.

14

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including restaurants and bars.

15

Pharmacies are widely available for any health needs. Look for the green cross sign.

16

Emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency), 155 (ambulance), 158 (police), 150 (fire).

17

The town is pedestrian-friendly, but be aware that it's built on steep hills, so be prepared for some uphill walking.

18

If you're planning to buy local products or souvenirs, the most popular items are Bohemian glass, Becherovka (a local herbal liqueur), and spa wafers.

19

The post office is usually open from 8am to 6pm on weekdays and until 1pm on Saturdays.

20

Public restrooms are available throughout the town, but some may charge a small fee.

Basic Czech to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Ahoj	ahoy	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Sbohem	sbohem	Saying goodbye to someone
Please	Prosím	proseem	Asking for something
Thank you	Děkuji	dyekooyi	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Ano	ano	Agreeing with someone
No	Ne	ne	Disagreeing with someone
Excuse me	Promiňte	prominyte	Getting someone's attention
I'm sorry	Omlouvám se	omloovam se	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Mluvíte anglicky?	mlooveete anglitskee?	Trying to communicate
I don't understand	Nerozumím	nerozumim	When you don't understand what's being said
Where is...?	Kde je...?	kde ye...?	Asking for directions
Bathroom	Toaleta	toaleta	Looking for a bathroom
Help	Pomoc	pomots	In case of emergency
Food	Jídlo	yeedlo	Looking for a place to eat
Water	Voda	voda	Asking for water
Beer	Pivo	peevo	Ordering a beer
Cheers	Na zdraví	na zdravi	Toasting
How much does it cost?	Kolik to stojí?	kolik to stoyee?	Asking for the price
I would like...	Chtěl bych...	khtel bykh...	Making a request
Good night	Dobrou noc	dobroo nots	Saying goodnight

Packing List

Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing
Warm sweater or jacket
Raincoat or umbrella
Sunglasses
Hat or cap

Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo
Travel-size body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer

Travel documents and essentials
Passport or ID
Health insurance card
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Hotel reservation confirmation
Map and guidebook

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter

Miscellaneous items
Snacks and water bottle
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
First aid kit
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Karlovy Vary, a beautiful spa town in the Czech Republic, experiences a moderate continental climate. This means that the weather can be quite variable, so it's essential to be prepared for different conditions when planning your visit. The warmest months in Karlovy Vary are typically July and August, with average high temperatures around 22°C (72°F). These months are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the town's famous hot springs. However, summer can also bring occasional showers, so don't forget to pack a light raincoat or umbrella. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are also lovely times to visit. Temperatures during these seasons range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and the town is less crowded than in summer. Remember to bring layers as mornings and evenings can be chilly. Winter in Karlovy Vary, from December to February, can be quite cold with average temperatures dropping to around -1°C (30°F) and highs around 2°C (36°F). Snow is common, making the town look like a winter wonderland. If you're planning a winter visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that the weather can change quickly in Karlovy Vary. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to this charming Czech town!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	4° / -3°	January is the coldest month in Karlovy Vary, with snowfall being quite common. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter scenery.
February	5° / -3°	February is still quite cold, with occasional snow. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts.
March	10° / 0°	March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. However, it's still chilly, so pack some warm clothes.
April	15° / 3°	April brings more warmth and the start of the tourist season. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.
May	20° / 7°	May offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with spring colors.
June	24° / 10°	June is warm and sunny, marking the start of summer. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.
July	26° / 12°	July is the hottest month in Karlovy Vary. It's perfect for enjoying the city's thermal springs and outdoor activities.
August	25° / 12°	August is still quite warm, but with more rainfall. It's a good time to visit the city's indoor attractions.
September	20° / 9°	September brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to enjoy the city's parks and gardens.
October	14° / 5°	October sees the arrival of autumn, with beautiful fall colors. It's a bit chilly, so pack some warm clothes.
November	8° / 1°	November is quite cold, with the first signs of winter. It's a quiet time in the city, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
December	4° / -2°	December is cold and snowy, with the city beautifully decorated for Christmas. It's a magical time to visit Karlovy Vary.