Mariánské Lázně (Marienbad) is one of the great West Bohemian spa towns, set among forested hills, with elegant 19th-century architecture, colonnades and parks. It is a quieter, calmer alternative to Karlovy Vary, and the two towns are part of the same UNESCO listing for the Great Spa Towns of Europe.

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What to see

The colonnade: an ornate cast-iron structure where visitors traditionally drink spa waters from the springs.
The singing fountain: an evening show of water and music in the town centre, usually in season. Check the current schedule.
Park paths: well-kept walking routes through the surrounding woods.

Spa visits

You can visit for the day and walk, drink the spring water and sit in a café, or book a treatment at one of the spa houses. For a broader overview of Czech spas, see our guide to the top spas in the Czech Republic. Check what treatments are available and whether you need to book ahead.

Getting there

The journey from Prague is typically around three hours by train or bus, sometimes with a change. Check current timetables. Many visitors combine it with Karlovy Vary and stay overnight rather than visiting both in one day.

Practical tips

The spa towns are hilly. Bring comfortable shoes.
Check opening hours for individual attractions, since some close or shorten outside the main season.
Spa water has a distinct taste. Sip small amounts first.