Why Mariánské Lázně is a World-Class Wellness Hub

This town is a proud UNESCO World Heritage site. It earned this title for its incredible spa architecture and traditions. Over 100 mineral springs rise in and around the town. Each spring has a unique chemical mix for different health needs. The air here is also incredibly clean and fresh.

The local treatments use natural resources found right in the ground. This includes mineral water, peat, and natural carbon dioxide gas. These elements help with heart, lung, and joint health. Doctors often oversee the programs to ensure safety and results. You can feel the history in every grand hotel and bathhouse.

10 Best Spa Treatments in Mariánské Lázně to Experience

Finding the best spa treatments in Mariánské Lázně is easy with this list. These experiences are the highlights of any wellness itinerary. They combine historic charm with modern medical knowledge. Here are the top picks for 2026.

• Best overall: Royal Mineral Bath
• Best for families: Salt Cave Session
• Best unique experience: Maria’s Gas Pool
• Best for budget: The Drinking Cure

1. Name: Royal Mineral Bath at Nové Lázně Type: Iconic sight/experience Why go: You can bathe in the original private cabin of King Edward VII. The water is rich in CO2 and minerals. It helps with circulation and deep relaxation. Best for: Luxury and history lovers. Where: Nové Lázně Health Spa Hotel. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: High (approx. 1,200 CZK). Getting there: Walk from the main colonnade. Tip: Book this specific cabin weeks in advance as it is very popular.
2. Name: Maria’s Gas Pool with Oxygen Therapy Type: Unique local experience Why go: This is a pool filled with natural CO2 gas rather than water. You sit comfortably while the gas improves your blood pressure. It is a rare treatment only found here. Best for: Heart health and circulation. Where: Maria Spa Courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the Central Spa building. Tip: Keep your head above the gas line as instructed by staff.
3. Name: Natural Peat Bath Type: Indoor therapy Why go: Local peat is heated and mixed with mineral water. It creates a warm, thick bath that heals joints and muscles. The heat stays in your body for a long time. Best for: Back pain and arthritis. Where: Centrální Lázně (Central Spa). Time: 20 minutes plus wrap. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from the town center. Tip: Drink plenty of water after this treatment to stay hydrated.
4. Name: The Drinking Cure Type: Neighborhood/market experience Why go: This is the most traditional way to experience the springs. You walk the beautiful colonnades and sip mineral water from special cups. Each spring tastes different and has different minerals. Best for: Digestion and kidney health. Where: Cross Spring Colonnade. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free (just buy a cup). Getting there: The main promenade area. Tip: Check the Singing Fountain schedule to enjoy music while you sip.
5. Name: Dry Carbon Gas Bag Type: Unique local experience Why go: You lie in a plastic bag filled with natural CO2 gas. Your skin absorbs the gas, which helps heal wounds and improves sexual health. It is very relaxing and requires no undressing. Best for: Skin health and stamina. Where: Most Ensana Health Spa Hotels. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Available at major hotels. Tip: Wear comfortable, light clothing for this session.
6. Name: Inhalation Therapy at Forest Spring Type: Viewpoint/nature experience Why go: The Lesní pramen (Forest Spring) is used for inhaling mineral vapors. It helps clear the lungs and treat allergies. The setting is peaceful and surrounded by greenery. Best for: Respiratory issues. Where: Forest Spring Pavilion. Time: 15-20 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: A short, uphill walk from the center. Tip: Take a deep breath of the forest air while walking there.
7. Name: Salt Cave Session Type: Indoor experience Why go: The cave is built from natural sea and rock salt. The air is saturated with iodine and magnesium. It is like spending a day at the seaside. Best for: Stress relief and families. Where: Danubius Health Spa Resort Hvězda. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the upper part of the town. Tip: This is a great activity for a rainy afternoon.
8. Name: Underwater Massage Type: Hydrotherapy Why go: A therapist uses a powerful water jet to massage your muscles in a warm bath. It is much deeper than a standard hand massage. It helps with muscle tension and lymphatic drainage. Best for: Athletes and active travelers. Where: Hotel Pacifik. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Main street near the park. Tip: Let the therapist know your preferred pressure level early on.
9. Name: Paraffin Hand Wrap Type: Beauty/wellness Why go: Your hands are dipped into warm, liquid wax. This softens the skin and warms the small joints in the fingers. It is a quick and very soothing treatment. Best for: Dry skin and stiff hands. Where: Most hotel spa centers. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Easily found in the spa district. Tip: Do this before a manicure for the best results.
10. Name: Gas Injections (Pneumopuncture) Type: Medical wellness Why go: Small amounts of natural CO2 are injected under the skin at acupuncture points. It sounds scary but is very effective for pain relief. It is a signature Czech spa treatment. Best for: Chronic pain and headaches. Where: Professional medical spa hotels. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Consult a spa doctor first. Tip: Relax your muscles to make the process completely painless.

Planning Your Visit from Karlovy Vary

Many people visit Mariánské Lázně as a day trip from Karlovy Vary. The two towns are very close to each other. You can easily take a train from Karlovy Vary to Mariánské Lázně. The journey takes about 30 to 50 minutes. Check the Czech Railways site for the latest times.

If you drive, the trip is even faster. The roads wind through the beautiful Slavkov Forest. This area is perfect for nature lovers. You can see many small villages along the way. Parking in the spa center can be limited, so use public lots.

Plan to arrive early in the morning. Most spa treatments happen before 3:00 PM. You can spend the morning at the spa and the afternoon walking. The parks in Mariánské Lázně are some of the best in the country. They are flat and very easy to walk through.