Best Public Thermal Pools and Baths in Karlovy Vary

The city offers a variety of bathing experiences. Some are modern resorts while others are historic landmarks. Most facilities are easy to reach on foot from the city center. You should check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for seasonal updates.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Saunia Thermal Resort
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Elizabeth Baths
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Mill Colonnade
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - KV Arena Pool Center

1. Name: Saunia Thermal Resort Type: activity Why go: It features a large year-round outdoor thermal pool with city views. Best for: Modern wellness fans. Where: Near Hotel Thermal. Time: 3 hours. Cost: 600-900 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the main colonnade. Tip: Visit at night to see the city lights from the water.
2. Name: Elizabeth Baths Type: sight Why go: This is one of the largest public bath houses in the country. Best for: Traditional treatments. Where: Smetana Park. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 300-700 CZK. Getting there: Take a bus to the Smetanovy sady stop. Tip: Review the Karlovy Vary spa treatments guide before booking.
3. Name: Castle Spa (Zámecké lázně) Type: experience Why go: It offers a unique pool filled with thermal mineral water. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Near the Market Colonnade. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 1,200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: This spa requires a reservation in advance.
4. Name: Imperial Spa (Císařské lázně) Type: museum Why go: Recently renovated, this building is an architectural masterpiece of the spa era. Best for: History buffs. Where: Southern edge of the spa zone. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300 CZK. Getting there: Bus 2 or 13 from the center. Tip: Visit the stunning Zander Hall inside.
5. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Spa Type: experience Why go: Experience the world-class wellness center of this iconic hotel. Best for: A splurge. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 3 hours. Cost: 1,500+ CZK. Getting there: Walk to the end of the riverside path. Tip: Check where to stay in Karlovy Vary for guest discounts.
6. Name: KV Arena Pool Center Type: activity Why go: A modern sports complex with indoor and outdoor pools. Best for: Families and kids. Where: West of the city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 150-250 CZK. Getting there: Bus 2 or 3 to the KV Arena stop. Tip: There is a great sauna world for adults.

Drinking Springs and Historic Colonnades

Karlovy Vary is unique because much of its thermal water is for drinking. The city features several beautiful colonnades that house various springs. These springs range in temperature from 30 to 72 degrees Celsius. Sampling the water is one of the best free things to do.

1. Name: Vřídlo (Hot Spring Colonnade) Type: sight Why go: It is the hottest and most powerful spring in the city. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: In the heart of the spa zone. Time: 30 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river toward the center. Tip: Buy a traditional porcelain cup to drink the water properly.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This massive stone structure houses five different springs. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Along the Teplá River. Time: 45 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the main pedestrian area. Tip: Look for the statues representing the twelve months.
3. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A beautiful wooden structure built in the Swiss style. Best for: Quick stops. Where: Below the Castle Tower. Time: 20 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just steps from the Vřídlo. Tip: Try the Charles IV spring located here.

Wellness Day Trips Near Karlovy Vary

If you have extra time, explore the surrounding region. The West Bohemian Spa Triangle includes other famous towns. These locations offer a different atmosphere but the same high-quality wellness. You can easily reach them by public transport.

1. Name: Mariánské Lázně Type: day trip Why go: It is famous for its Singing Fountain and grand parks. Best for: A full day of exploration. Where: 45 minutes south of the city. Time: 8 hours. Cost: 500 CZK (transport and food). Getting there: Use the Karlovy Vary railway station official site for trains. Tip: Visit the Roman Baths for a stunning indoor soak.
2. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A medieval fortress located on a granite rock. Best for: History and views. Where: 15 minutes by bus. Time: 4 hours. Cost: 200 CZK. Getting there: Take a local bus from the Tržnice station. Tip: The town is great for a riverside walk and local beer.

Practical Tips for Your Spa Visit

Visiting public thermal pools and baths in Karlovy Vary requires some planning. Most public baths provide towels for a small fee. However, bringing your own towel can save money. Always carry some cash in Czech Koruna for small lockers.

Public transport in the city is very efficient. You can buy tickets at yellow machines or via mobile apps. Walking is the best way to see the spa zone. Most attractions are within a 20-minute walk of each other.

Respect the local spa etiquette when drinking from the springs. Do not touch the spring nozzles with your hands or mouth. Use the designated cups to collect the water. Sip slowly while walking to help with digestion.