2-Day Excursion Through Stunning Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

2 days

City park with floral decorations
The Kolonada
Karlovy Vary
Architecture of Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad)
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.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City Center and Sampling Local Delicacies

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 or trdelník, a delicious pastry.

Afternoon

Visit the Jan Becher Museum, where you can learn about the history of Becherovka, a traditional Czech herbal liqueur. Take a guided tour and enjoy a tasting session.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a meal of Czech or international cuisine while watching the sun set over the city.

Evening

Take a relaxing evening walk through the Dvořák Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautifully lit fountains.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the iconic Mill Colonnade, a stunning piece of architecture housing several hot springs. Take a walk around and sample the healing waters.

Lunch

Have lunch at a cozy café in the city center. Try some traditional Czech pastries and a cup of locally roasted coffee.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Diana Lookout Tower. Take the funicular up to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty Czech dinner at a local restaurant. Try some svíčková, a traditional Czech dish made with marinated beef and creamy sauce.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Karlovy Vary Theatre. Enjoy a performance or simply admire the beautiful Neo-Baroque architecture of the building.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Teplá River

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
Jan Becher Museum

2
Jan Becher Museum

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

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Dvořák Park

3
Dvořák Park

A beautiful park named after the famous Czech composer Antonín Dvořák.

Parks
Nature
Mill Colonnade

4
Mill Colonnade

A stunning architectural structure housing several hot springs.

Attractions
Architecture
Landmarks
Diana Lookout Tower

5
Diana Lookout Tower

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

Attractions
Landmarks
Karlovy Vary Theatre

6
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 1

Mon

Restoration of the Czech Independence Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 8

Wed

Victory in Europe Day

July 5

Fri

Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius

July 6

Sat

Jan Hus Day

September 28

Sat

St. Wenceslas Day

October 28

Mon

Independent Czechoslovak State Day

November 17

Sun

Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

Power socket type CPower socket type E

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

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimwear (if you plan to visit the spa)

  • Accessories (hat, sunglasses, etc.)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Visa (if required)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Cash and credit cards

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for your phone

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if you don't use your phone for photos)

  • Adapter (if needed)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or magazines for the journey

  • Umbrella or raincoat (depending on the season)

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face masks

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!

MonthHi / 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.

Did you know?

Did you know that Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is the most visited spa town in the Czech Republic?

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