Karlovy Vary

World Famous Spa Town

Grand streets lined with colonnades and beautifully restored baroque and art noveau buildings characterize this elegant and peaceful city known for its thermal springs.

Karlovy Vary also known as Carlsbad by many is the largest and most renowned spa town in the Czech Republic. It is located in the west of the Czech Republic near the border of Germany about a two hour drive from Prague. It is situated in a green valley of the Tepla River adding to its peaceful atmosphere. The rich and famous have been coming here for hundreds of years to enjoy the famous natural springs. In the area there are about 30 smaller spa towns with the most notable being Marianske Lazne or Marienbad a 45 minute drive away so worth the trip if you are in the area.

Visitors can treat themselves to relaxing massages, whirlpool baths, warm wraps and other beauty and wellness treatments. The city is also known for its glassware by the famous Moser company and its production of the Czech Republic's most famous liquor, Becherovka. Karlovy Vary is also famous in the film industry as its host an international film festival every year in the first week of July which attracts Hollywood's big names. Not to be missed are a cable car ride to the Diana tower offering beautiful views over the city and a sampling of the famous spring water from a unique souvenir glass.