Located in the heart of the Czech Republic lies a hidden gem that’s been soothing souls and calming minds for centuries. One of the best Czech spa towns is where you’ll find it – Karlovy Vary.
The spa town of Karlovy Vary boasts stunning colourful architecture, picturesque streets and an array of natural hot springs with healing properties. It’s the perfect destination to unwind and rejuvenate.
I was curious about its healing powers, so I made sure it found its way onto my Czech Republic itinerary. As the first of many destinations in the Czech Republic, it helped with the enviable jet lag and set up the rest of my holiday in the Czech Republic perfectly.
Of all the spa towns in the Czech Republic, Karlovy Vary stands out as being the best! Whether soaking up the mineral-rich waters or strolling through its charming streets, this quaint town offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
But there are others too! This article will focus on the best spas in Karlovy Vary and cover a couple more destinations to add to your list too.
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About the Czech Spa Town of Karlovy Vary
Karlovy Vary, also known as Karlsbad translates as “Charles Bath” and was named for Charles IV, King of Bohemia who founded the city in 1370.
The 13 mineral springs found here have been used for medicinal purposes since the 14th century.
In the 18th century, is when this spa town near Prague’s Old Town became a very popular destination for both the elites and creatives. When the Grandhotel Pupp opened in 1701, it drew high-profile guests including Beethoven, Wagner, Brahms, Tolstoy, Karl Marx and Tsar Peter the Great to experience the health benefits.
Of the 13 main springs, about 300 smaller springs exist and all use the warm water of the Teplá River. The mineral water is formed 2,500 m below the ground level and drinking it is said to have a positive effect on your digestive system.
Take part in a local tradition with the Becher Drinking Cure. It’s a centuries-old practice of sipping mineral water from a small porcelain cup, believed to have medicinal properties.
As I wandered through town, little kiosks sold these unique cups—shaped like tiny teapots—so I could fill them up and sip while strolling from one colonnade to another.
The cure isn’t just about drinking the water; walking during and after is recommended to get the full digestive benefits.
Fair warning—this stuff doesn’t exactly taste great. I could barely stomach it. But it’s worth a try, if only for the experience (and to take home one of those quirky little cups as a souvenir).
Spas to Visit in Karlovy Vary
No visit to Karlovy Vary is complete without visiting the Colonnades. These elaborate Colonnades can be found throughout the town. Each with its own unique design and mineral water of varying temperatures.
Mill Colonnade
The Mill Colonnade is the most impressive one in Karlovy Vary. The architecture is the Neo-Renaissance and was built in 1881. It’s also the largest as it holds five different springs, all at varying temperatures. At the centre of the Colonnade, there are rooftop statues, each depicting the months of the year.
Park Colonnade
The Park Colonnade features an intricate wrought-iron structure dating back to 1880. Surrounding this Colonnade is a lovely park which is full of magnolia blooms in springtime.
Market Colonnade
The Market Colonnade is the only one to be crafted entirely of wood. This neo-classical structure dates from the 1880s. It is a long colonnade that is located next to shops, hence the name ‘market.’
Hot Springs Colonnade
The Hot Spring Colonnade is located in a more modern concrete-and-glass structure built in 1975, and it houses an impressive geyser which spurts water 12 meters into the air.
Spa Treatments
From traditional spa treatments to intensive wellness programs—even quirky beer spa experiences—there’s no shortage of options for every budget.
It’s best to book in advance through your hotel or a wellness center, but trust me, these spa treatments are on another level. They’re nothing like what you’ve experienced before.
I booked mine through my hotel (Quisisana, which has since closed) and treated myself to a warm chocolate wrap. It was incredibly soothing and smelled absolutely divine!
After checking out a few other spas, like Castle Spa and Elizabeth Spa, I’d recommend Elizabeth Spa. It’s housed in an impressive Communist-era building, and the prices were surprisingly reasonable.
More Czech Spa Towns Worth Visiting Beyond Karlovy Vary
Brno
Brno, the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, offers a vibrant cultural scene and historic landmarks like the UNESCO Heritage site of Špilberk Castle and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.
Beyond its rich history, Brno is known for modern wellness centers like Infiniti Maximus, located on the city’s outskirts. This well-equipped thermal spa features indoor and outdoor baths, unique saunas, and various massages, including the recommended anti-stress massage.
Experienced by Adri of Traveltipzone
The sauna world includes unique experiences like the honey sauna, citrus sauna, salt sauna, and Turkish steam bath. For enthusiasts of spa treatments, various massages are available, such as the honey detox massage, infinity massage, or anti-stress massage.
I highly recommend the anti-stress massage, especially when enjoyed as a couple’s treatment.
Spend at least a full day in Brno, providing enough time for relaxation, but add additional days if you wish to explore the city’s landmarks
Marianske Lazne
The spa experience in Marianske Lazne, renowned for therapeutic spas, features notable establishments like Ensana’s prestigious spa hotels.
The five-star Nove Lazne stands out, offering diverse medical treatments utilizing local spring waters, natural gases, and mud. The hotel includes a wellness area with amenities like a Roman bath, saunas, jacuzzi, and a rejuvenating vortex spa.
Experienced by Joanna of The World in My Pocket
Set amidst pine forests, it provides a tranquil spa experience in a Neo-Baroque architectural backdrop. The town’s charm is enhanced by statues adorning buildings. A nightly highlight is the singing fountain’s performance at 9 PM, located near the elegant Colonnade adorned with intricate ironwork.
The Pavilion, adjacent to the fountain, serves as a hub where various springs converge. Here, visitors can purchase a unique spa mug designed for a healthful experience—drinking spring water through its handle like a ceramic straw.
I enjoyed a relaxation spa package at Nove Lazne, which included different treatments such as massages, bubble baths and air wraps.
Chodová Planá
Chodová Planá, a charming spa town a short drive from the German border, is renowned for introducing the world to “Beer Baths.” Home to the historic Chodovar Brewery since the 1500s, the town offers a unique spa experience at the Chodová Planá Beer Spa.
Experienced by LeAnna of Wander in Germany
At the Chodová Planá Beer Spa, immerse yourself in a vat of water infused with hops, yeast, and their signature Pilsner Beer. The combination of local mineral water and beer ingredients is believed to be excellent for your skin and body.
Enjoy a popular spa treatment, a full-body massage using the same ingredients that create their delicious beer. The carbonated bubbles provide a gentle exfoliation, leaving your skin soft and revitalized.
The experience of soaking in a beer bath followed by a beer massage is both memorable and amusing. Afterward, wrap yourself in a warm blanket for relaxation in a quiet beer cave, accompanied by more beer, of course!
Final Thoughts
My few days spent in Karlovy Vary were a highlight of my overall trip! Not just because I love a good spa experience, but because it was the combination of a picturesque town, stunning architecture and elegant charm.
Looking for another delightful day trip from Prague, I recommend the fairytale town of Český Krumlov. Get more travel inspiration for Prague by visiting here.
