Karlovy Vary Guide

Karlovy Vary Thermal Spring Tasting Tours

Explore the unique mineral springs of Karlovy Vary with guided tasting tours, uncovering local wellness traditions and geological wonders.

18+ tours
From $$30
1.5-3 hours

Karlovy Vary, often called Carlsbad, is a Bohemian spa town world-renowned for its effervescent mineral springs. These aren't just for bathing; the very waters are a key element in the town's rich history and therapeutic traditions. Thermal spring tasting tours offer a unique opportunity to delve into this fascinating aspect of Karlovy Vary. Led by knowledgeable guides, these excursions go beyond simply pointing out the colonnades; they illuminate the history, geology, and the specific health benefits attributed to each distinct spring. You'll learn about the centuries-old practice of 'spring drinking' and how locals and visitors alike have harnessed the power of these naturally carbonated, mineral-rich waters for wellness. Imagine wandering through the elegant colonnades, sipping from delicate porcelain cups, and discerning the subtle differences in taste and temperature between waters like Vřídlo, the mighty geyser, and the more gentle Moser spring. These tours are an immersive sensory experience, connecting you directly to the natural bounty of the region. You'll not only taste the waters but also understand the science and folklore behind their therapeutic properties. It’s a chance to appreciate the delicate balance of minerals and gases that create each spring's unique character, and to understand why Karlovy Vary has been a celebrated spa destination for over 600 years. Whether you're a health enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about local traditions, a thermal spring tasting tour provides an insightful and enjoyable exploration of what makes Karlovy Vary so special.

Featured Thermal Spring Tasting Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for thermal spring tasting tours in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary Full Day Tour from Prague
From $98.43
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Walk during this day trip along the world-famous spa. Karlovy Vary is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic, the history of the city dates back to the 14th century, the time of Charles IV. The curative effects of the local mineral springs were used as treatments on greats such a Tsar Peter the Great and the writer Goethe. One of the most famous attraction is the Hot Spring that spews boiling healing water up to a height of 12 m. In the city you can look forward to a wide range of historical and modern colonnades and taste water from several natural mineral springs. We recommended to taste delicious wafers and traditional liqueur Becherovka, made from a unique blend of herbs and spices. Tour could be operated bilingual.

3.8(42)
9h
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Karlovy Vary Hot Springs Tasting Tour
From $41.51
Free Cancellation

Karlovy Vary is one of the most famous spa cities in the world due to its healing mineral hot springs. Discover secrets of each of 12 hot springs and learn about the city history along the way. Join our one-hour tasting session and try magical effects of the hot springs on your own. Led by expert guide, discover the rich history of each spring, surrounded by the picturesque charm of cobblestone streets and elegant spa architecture. Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation, sipping on the finest mineral elixirs and soaking in the timeless ambiance of Karlovy Vary.

4.3(3)
1h 15m
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Karlovy Vary Day Trip from Prague
From $99.62
Free Cancellation

Take a day trip through the picturesque West Bohemian countryside to the world-famous spa town of Karlovy Vary. Better known by its German name, Karlsbad (or Carlsbad), this spa town is situated in a beautiful forested valley known for its 12 thermal springs.

4.0(147)
10h
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Karlovy Vary - Premiant eGuide APP
From $69.97
Free Cancellation

Walk through Karlovy Vary and find out important information about the most interesting places using the app. This app will guide you along the most famous and the most known colonnades, churches and hotels of the most popular Czech spa town, about which you will be able to listen to or read interesting information. Become your own guide for one day and experience a day in Karlovy Vary on your own. The tour includes a return trip to Karlovy Vary and an app which you will get at the meeting point before your departure. Don’t forget to take your headphones and powerbank.

4.8(4)
9h 30m
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Czech Spas of Karlovy Vary and Marianske Lazne from Prague
From $124.53
Free Cancellation

During this tour you’ll have the opportunity to visit the largest, most well known Czech Spa. The founding of this town has been linked to Emperor Charles IV since 1358, when he built a hunting lodge here. There are 12 famous springs with a temperature of about 72°C, the most famous being Vridlo. During your walk along the Tepla River and the majestic Neo-Rennaissance colonnades, you will have a chance to taste different mineral waters and purchase souvenirs .Karlovy Vary is also famous for its local china and glass manufacturing industry. These products are on display at a special exhibition and are sold at specialized shops. The spa was visited by many rulers and artists including Goethe, Chateaubriand, Chopin, Beethoven, Brahms and Dvorak. After lunch (included), visit the Moser glass factory and shop. Next you will come to the famous Marianske Lazne, with its curative springs.

3.4(46)
10h
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From Prague One Day Trip to Karlovy Vary
From $46.25
Free Cancellation

Karlovy Vary is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and its history dates back to the 14th century and the reign of Charles IV. The healing power of the local springs attracted such personalities as the Russian Emperor Peter the Great or the German poet Goethe. On this full-day trip from Prague and under the guidance of an expert guide, discover the rich history of the thermal springs surrounded by the picturesque charm of cobbled streets and elegant spa architecture. Treat yourself to a day full of relaxation and rejuvenation, sip the best mineral elixirs and let yourself be absorbed by the timeless atmosphere of Karlovy Vary.

10h
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Private Day Trip to Karlovy Vary from Prague
From $220.78
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Explore the magnificent countryside and let your local driver show you Karlovy Vary in a fully customizable tour! Admire the most popular attractions from the comfort of your own private car. Your guide will share historical facts, information about the sights and will immerse you into the Czech lifestyle. Wander around this picturesque town of the Bohemia region which is famous for its numerous thermal springs, shop souvenirs at the small local stores and take pictures of the massive Grandhotel Pupp that was used as a setting to a James Bond film. Walk to the Diana Tower that offers an amazing view of the city. Discover the art of glassmaking at the Moser Glass Factory, as well. Our drivers are not licensed to accompany you into the sights but are very knowledgeable of the places visited and will provide all the necessary historical information and their local perspective. At the end of the tour, your driver will drop you off at your accommodation in Prague.

3.7(3)
8h
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Karlovy Vary All-Inclusive from Prague: Springs, Views & Culture
From $219.4
Free CancellationNew

Join us for a relaxing yet enriching day trip from Prague to the legendary spa town of Karlovy Vary — home to healing springs, elegant colonnades, and centuries of culture and craftsmanship. This all-inclusive, small-group tour blends guided exploration, local cuisine, scenic viewpoints, and immersive Czech traditions. Stroll through Karlovy Vary’s iconic colonnades on a guided walking tour and taste mineral-rich spring waters straight from the source. Take a scenic funicular ride to the Diana Observation Tower for sweeping views of the town and lush forests. In the afternoon, choose your own experience: - Unwind at a thermal spa - Discover Czech craftsmanship at the Becherovka and Moser museum - Or enjoy free time to shop, stroll, and soak up the spa-town atmosphere Small group experience (max 8 guests) Funicular ride & entry to Diana Tower with panoramic views Ala Carte Czech lunch at a local restaurant with snacks&water Modern round-trip transport with Free pickup & drop-off

5.0(10)
10h
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Private Karlovy Vary with Royal Brewery or Mozer Full Day Trip
From $296.49
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Carlsbad was founded in the 14th century by Charles IV. He noticed thermal springs while hunting in this area. After he tried their magic effect, he decided to build a city, which was named in honor of the Emperor. This was the starting point of Karlovy Vary's​ history. The fame of its resorts spread all over the world very fast. They establish a unique approach to every tour in order to make it as exciting and memorable as possible.

5.0(6)
10h
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Karlovy Vary - The town of spas, mineral springs and relaxation
From $355.79
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Karlovy Vary is the most famous spa town in the Czech Republic. It was founded around 1350 by the Holy Roman Emperor and Czech king Charles IV. The city center is situated along the narrow valley of the Tepla River and is overlooked by high green hills. The colonnade and pedestrian zone are lined with breathtaking architecture of spa hotels. The most famous is the Grand Hotel Pupp featured in the movie Last Holiday; another well known hotel is the Hotel Thermal, which hosts the world-famous Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Karlovy Vary acquired international fame, thanks to the healing powers of the local mineral springs, of which there are around a hundred, going down to various depths with their temperatures varying from 30 to 73 degrees Celsius. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the spa town was a popular place of stay for the nobility as well as poets, writers, and musicians.

4.5(6)
9h
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Full-Day Private Karlovy Vary Tour from Prague
From $343.93
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Visit the biggest spa town in the Czech Republic during this 8-hour privately guided tour. Discover Karlovy Vary’s marvelous architecture and romantic atmosphere. Walk through the same streets as the German poet Johann Wolfgang Goethe, who met his last love while relaxing in the bohemian spas and the Russian Czar Peter I, who visited Karlovy Vary three times. Admire the place where Antonin Dvorak performed his symphony from the New World for the first time or feel like James Bond while walking down the halls of Grand Hotel Pupp, which is where the 2006 movie Casino Royale was filmed. Hot springs, amazing colonnades, and so much more awaits you. Transportation is provided via car or van depending on group size.

4.4(9)
8h
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Private Tour: Karlovy Vary And Loket Castle Day Trip from Prague
From $576.38
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Take this private 10-hour day trip from Prague to the Czech Republic's most famous spa town Karlovy Vary. Enjoy the quiet walks at the Colonnades while tasting the healing mineral waters of the hot springs. Marvel at the skill of the masters and artists during the tour of the Moser glassworks. Then we will visit the fascinating medieval Gothic-style Loket Castle built in the 12th-century. It's perched on top of the hill circled by a horseshoe of a river bend, overseeing a cute fairy-tale town of Loket, where old Goethe once planned his dates with 18 years old Ulrike. Loket is similar to Cesky Krumlov in many aspects but much less touristy.

3.0(1)
10h
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Day Trip to Karlovy Vary: Spa City, Glassworks & Architecture
From $373.58
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Explore the enchanting spa city of Karlovy Vary, renowned for its thermal springs and stunning architecture. This private day trip from Prague invites you to walk along the historic colonnades, sample the curative waters, and indulge in traditional Czech cuisine during a leisurely lunch (not included in the price of the tour). You'll also have the option to visit the famous Moser Glassworks to witness exquisite craftsmanship. Enjoy ample free time for shopping or optional wellness visit to rejuvenate your senses. Ideal for families and history buffs, this tour combines culture, wellness, and architecture in a perfect getaway. - Travel in comfort with private transportation and a knowledgeable driver-guide - Soak up the town’s charm with a riverside walk lined by art nouveau facades - Visit iconic landmarks, including spa colonnades and the Moser Glassworks - Stop for a hearty Czech lunch at a charming local restaurant - Enjoy free time for boutique shopping or relaxing spa experiences

10h
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Small group Karlovy Vary and Krusovice Brewery tour
From $296.49
Free Cancellation

Full day tour in small group with professional guide. Combination on City tour, Beer tasting and museum of Bohemian tradition.

10h
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Private Karlovy Vary trip from Prague with glassworks All-Incl.
From $332.07
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

The world-famous spa in the western countryside of Czechia hosted kings, caesars, composers (W. A. Mozart) but also movie stars such as M. Freeman, A. Banderas and M. Gibson. You can also become one of the guests who has walked on the colonnades and tasted healing mineral water springs. Enjoy also local wafers, herbal liqueur Becherovka or visit world-known Moser glassworks on a comfortable private countryside trip ALL-INCLUSIVE with lunch and admission.

5.0(4)
8h
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Why Choose Thermal Spring Tasting Tours in Karlovy Vary?

Unique Wellness Tradition

Experience the centuries-old practice of 'spring drinking' and learn about the traditional health benefits of Karlovy Vary's mineral waters.

Geological Wonders

Gain insights into the geological formations and natural processes that create these therapeutic mineral springs.

Historical Context

Understand the rich history of Karlovy Vary as a spa town and the role of its springs in its development and fame.

Sensory Exploration

Engage your senses by tasting the distinct flavors and appreciating the temperature variations of different mineral springs.

Expert Local Insights

Benefit from the knowledge of local guides who share in-depth information about the springs and their traditions.

Explore Iconic Colonnades

Discover the stunning architectural marvels of the spa town's colonnades while learning about the springs located within them.

Types of Thermal Spring Tasting Tours in Karlovy Vary

Classic Spring Tasting Walks

These tours typically focus on visiting the most famous springs within the town's colonnades, including the Vřídlo geyser. Guides explain the history, composition, and recommended drinking methods for each spring.

Visit 3-5 major springsHistorical background of Karlovy VaryExplanation of mineral contentLearn about 'spring drinking' etiquetteUsually includes a porcelain tasting cup

Culinary & Spring Experiences

Combining the natural wonders of the springs with the culinary heritage of the region. These tours might incorporate tasting local spa wafers or dishes prepared with spring water.

Spring tasting sessionsSampling of traditional spa wafers (oplatky)Introduction to local cuisineOften includes a visit to a local spa hotel kitchen or cafeFocus on the intersection of water and gastronomy

Wellness and Health Focused Tours

These tours delve deeper into the therapeutic aspects of the mineral waters, explaining their potential health benefits for digestion, metabolism, and overall well-being. They might also touch upon spa treatments available in Karlovy Vary.

Detailed health benefits of each springInformation on spa treatments and hydrotherapyGuidance on proper consumption for health purposesMay include a brief overview of local spa resortsFocus on the healing properties of the waters

Photography & Discovery Tours

For those who want to capture the beauty of Karlovy Vary while learning about its springs. These tours combine sightseeing with informative commentary on the spring locations and their unique settings.

Focus on picturesque spring locations and colonnadesInformative commentary on springs and town historyOpportunities for stunning photographsMay visit less-crowded spring locationsIdeal for visually-oriented travelers

What to Expect on Karlovy Vary Thermal Spring Tasting Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the itinerary and the number of springs visited.

Weather

Karlovy Vary experiences four distinct seasons. Tours are generally conducted year-round, but visitors should dress appropriately for the prevailing weather conditions, especially if walking between outdoor spring locations.

Group Size

Group sizes can vary significantly. Some tours are intimate private affairs, while others might have up to 15-20 participants. Smaller groups often allow for more personalized interaction with the guide.

What's Included

Typically includes the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide and the use of a porcelain tasting cup for sampling the waters. Some tours may include entry fees to specific facilities or tasting portions of spa wafers. Always check the tour details.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually conveniently located in the town center, often near a prominent colonnade or a well-known landmark. Specific instructions will be provided upon booking.

Additional Costs

While the tour covers the guided experience and often the tasting cup, visitors may wish to purchase additional spa wafers, local souvenirs, or extra mineral water. Meals and transportation to the meeting point are generally not included.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Bring a reusable water bottle, even though you'll be sampling small amounts; you might want to fill up later.

2

Familiarize yourself with the common Karlovy Vary springs (like Vřídlo, Pramen Karoliny, Libuše, Rusalčin, Knížete Václava, etc.) before your tour to enhance your understanding.

3

Pace yourself when tasting. The mineral content can be intense, and drinking too much at once might be overwhelming.

4

Listen carefully to your guide's instructions on how and when to drink from each spring for maximum benefit and enjoyment.

5

Consider wearing comfortable walking shoes, as these tours often involve significant exploration of the spa town's pedestrian areas.

6

Don't be shy to ask your guide questions. They are there to share their expertise and local knowledge.

7

The water temperature varies significantly; some are quite warm, so be cautious when sampling.

8

Many springs have specific health recommendations; pay attention to these as your guide explains them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is 'thermal spring tasting' in Karlovy Vary?

A: It refers to guided tours where you visit the town's natural mineral springs and sample the waters directly from their sources within the colonnades. Guides explain the unique properties and historical uses of each spring.

Q:Do I really drink from the springs?

A: Yes, that's the core of the experience! You'll typically be provided with a special porcelain cup designed for sipping the mineral water directly from the spouts in the colonnades.

Q:Are the mineral waters safe to drink?

A: The mineral waters in Karlovy Vary have been consumed for centuries and are considered safe and beneficial when drunk in moderation as advised by health professionals and your tour guide. They are rich in minerals and naturally carbonated.

Q:What does the water taste like?

A: The taste can vary greatly from spring to spring. Some are quite salty, others have a metallic tang, and some are relatively neutral but with a distinct mineral effervescence. It's an acquired taste for some, but part of the unique experience.

Q:Can children participate in these tours?

A: Children can certainly join, but they may not find the taste of the mineral water appealing. The historical and geological information can still be engaging, and they can observe others tasting.

Q:What should I wear on a thermal spring tasting tour?

A: Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be exploring the town on foot. Dress in layers according to the weather, as you might be walking both indoors in colonnades and outdoors.

Q:Is it possible to buy the mineral water to take home?

A: While you can taste the springs directly, you can also purchase bottled versions of Karlovy Vary mineral water in local shops and supermarkets. Some tours might even include a small bottle as a souvenir.

Q:How much mineral water should I drink?

A: It's best to follow your guide's advice and your own body's cues. Generally, small sips from multiple springs throughout the day are recommended rather than drinking large quantities of one spring at a time.

Don't Miss the Perfect Karlovy Vary Experience

Book your thermal spring tasting tours today - 18+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Karlovy Vary?

Experience therapeutic mineral springs and elegant spa architecture in the heart of Bohemia.

Discover the historic spa town of Karlovy Vary, famed for its healing waters.

Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or take home unique Czech spa wafers.

Step back in time exploring Belle Époque buildings and colonnades.

Sip directly from thermal springs and stroll through picturesque parklands.

Karlovy Vary offers a unique blend of wellness, history, and stunning natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Check local weather forecasts for the best time to visit.

Best Months

Spring and fall offer the best weather for most destinations.

Peak Season

Summer months are typically the peak season with higher prices and crowds.

Off Season

Winter months offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather may be less ideal.

Plan Your Karlovy Vary Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Karlovy Vary is quite manageable. The town center is very walkable, allowing you to easily access most attractions on foot. For longer distances or to reach the outskirts, local buses are frequent and affordable. Taxis are also available, though slightly more expensive. Consider purchasing a day pass for the local public transport if you plan on using buses extensively. Many visitors find walking to be the most enjoyable way to discover the charm of Karlovy Vary.

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Where to Stay

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