The City of Karlovy Vary
Founded in the late 14th Century by Charles IV, Karlovy Vary (also known as Carlsbad) is a spa town located in western Bohemia near the German border. It is one of the most popular day trips from Prague. The city’s 13 major hot springs and 300 minor ones have drawn tourists and celebrities for centuries, and the waters can still be imbibed today.
The architecture of Karlovy Vary is as variegated as its water. From colonnades to Russian orthodox churches, the town’s eclectic architectural style reflects the diversity of its historic visitors.
For those that want to taste more than just the waters, Karlovy Vary is also famous for an herbal liqueur called Becherovka and delicious sugary spa wafers.
Moser Glass Factory
Address: Kpt. Jarose 46/19, 360 06, Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
For the shopper, the Moser Glass Factory is a must visit. Famous throughout the Czech Republic for its quality and craftsmanship, Moser makes beautiful vases, stemware, and other glass and crystal objects of art.
Becherovka Factory and Jan Becher Museum
Address: T. G. Masaryka 57, 360 76, Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
The giant Becherovka bottle out front makes this place hard to miss. Go in for a tour and tasting, and learn about the Czech Republic’s most famous alcoholic beverage (besides beer, of course).
Transportation from Prague to Karlovy Vary
Buses from Prague to Karlovy Vary: Buses to Karlovy Vary run regularly from Prague’s Florenc bus station. The bus journey takes roughly two hours each way.
Hotels in Karlovy Vary
If you want to turn your day trip into an overnight one, make sure to stay at the Grandhotel Pupp (Mirove namesti 2, Karlovy Vary). It is a beautiful historic hotel located in the heart of the city, and was used in the filming of the James Bond movie Casino Royale.