Where is Karlovy Vary located?

Karlovy Vary's Old Town with magnificent facades, colonnades and a view of the castle.

Karlovy Vary is located in the west of the Czech Republic, in the administrative district of Karlovarský kraj (German: Karlsbader Region). The town is located close to the border with Germany, around 130 kilometers west of Prague, at the confluence of the Teplá and Eger rivers. With its location in a wooded valley, it is one of the most scenic spa towns in Europe. Karlovy Vary is known above all for its healing thermal springs, which have been used since the 14th century. Today, around 15 springs with different temperatures and mineral contents bubble up, making Karlovy Vary a center for drinking cures, medical treatments and relaxation.

What's going on in Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary thrives on a unique combination of wellness, history, culture and sophisticated elegance. The city is one of the most important spa towns in Europe and was included in the UNESCO World Heritage "Great Spa Towns of Europe" together with ten other cities in 2021. Magnificent colonnades, nostalgic hotels, the Kaiserbad, the Sprudel and the classicist spa facilities characterize the cityscape. Every year, the International Film Festival in Karlovy Vary attracts stars from all over the world and brings glitz and glamor to the spa town. The town is also famous for local specialties such as the herbal liqueur Becherovka and Karlovy Vary wafers.

What can you do in Karlovy Vary?

View of the medieval Loket Castle and the colorful old town surrounded by greenery near Karlovy Vary

In addition to the spa facilities, Karlovy Vary invites you to take long walks and hikes through the surrounding forests. A ride on the funicular to the Diana observation tower offers an unforgettable view of the town and countryside. The old town with its boutiques, cafés and thermal fountains is perfect for a stroll, while museums such as the Becherovka Museum or the Gallery of Contemporary Art will delight culture vultures. A trip to nearby Loket Castle or Mariánské Lázně (Mariánské Lázně) is also worthwhile. Those who prefer to relax can enjoy soothing treatments in one of the many thermal baths or spa hotels - from classic baths to modern wellness treatments.

What is the weather like in Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary is located in a temperate climate zone with four distinct seasons. Summers are pleasantly warm, with average temperatures of around 22 °C, while winters are cool to cold, often accompanied by snowfall. Spring and fall are particularly picturesque - ideal for walks through the parks and spa facilities. With the webcam at the Hotel Thermal, you can always keep an eye on the weather in Karlovy Vary. The live images help you to better plan your stay - be it for a visit to the thermal baths, a hike or your next stroll through the town.