Quick Guide to Karlovy Vary Spa Wafers

Finding the perfect snack should be easy. Karlovy Vary has dozens of kiosks, but some stand out. Here are our quick picks for your visit.

• Best Overall: The kiosk at the Mill Colonnade.
• Best for Families: Diana Funicular base station.
• Best for Rainy Days: Thermal Spring Colonnade (indoor).
• Best for Gifts: The official Kolonáda brand shop.

Most kiosks sell single warm wafers for about 15 to 25 CZK. They are a great addition to your Karlovy Vary colonnades walking route. Always carry a little cash, as some small stands do not take cards.

Where to Buy Fresh Warm Spa Wafers: Top 10 Spots

Explore these specific locations to find the freshest treats in the city. Each spot offers a slightly different atmosphere and view.

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Kiosk (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: This is the most iconic spot in the city. You can watch the staff warm the wafers on a circular iron. Best for: Classic atmosphere. Where: Central spa area. Time: 5-10 minutes. Cost: ~20 CZK per wafer. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá River. Tip: Try the cinnamon flavor here; it is exceptionally fragrant.
2. Name: Market Colonnade Kiosk (Tržní kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: This beautiful white wooden structure is a UNESCO-listed site. The kiosk here is very popular with locals. Best for: Quick snacks. Where: Near the Plague Column. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: ~20 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Check the UNESCO World Heritage details nearby.
3. Name: Thermal Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda) Type: indoor activity Why go: This is the largest indoor colonnade. It is perfect if the weather is bad. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Opposite the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: ~20-25 CZK. Getting there: Central bus stop nearby. Tip: Drink some thermal water while waiting for your wafer.
4. Name: Park Colonnade Kiosk (Sadová kolonáda) Type: viewpoint Why go: Located in a beautiful park setting. It is quieter than the main spring areas. Best for: A peaceful break. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: ~20 CZK. Getting there: North end of the spa zone. Tip: Great spot for photos with the ornate ironwork.
5. Name: Kolonáda Brand Shop Type: experience Why go: This is the flagship store for the most famous wafer brand. They have the widest variety of boxed sets. Best for: Souvenirs. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 60-150 CZK for boxes. Getting there: Main pedestrian shopping street. Tip: Look for the "official" seal on the boxes.
6. Name: Diana Funicular Base Station Type: day trip Why go: Grab a wafer before heading up the hill. It makes the ride more enjoyable. Best for: Kids and families. Where: Near Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: ~20 CZK. Getting there: Follow signs for the Diana lookout. Tip: The hazelnut flavor is a fan favorite here.
7. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Souvenir Shop Type: experience Why go: Experience a touch of luxury. The shop sells high-end versions of the local treat. Best for: Premium quality. Where: Southern end of the city. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: ~30 CZK for warm ones. Getting there: Walk to the end of the main promenade. Tip: Dress nicely if you plan to enter the hotel lobby.
8. Name: T. G. Masaryka Pedestrian Kiosks Type: market Why go: These kiosks serve the local shopping crowd. They are often less crowded than the colonnade spots. Best for: Avoiding tourists. Where: Commercial center. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: ~18 CZK. Getting there: Near the Becherovka Museum. Tip: Check out other best things to do in Karlovy Vary nearby.
9. Name: Imperial Hotel Kiosk Type: viewpoint Why go: Located high above the city. The views are incredible while you eat. Best for: Scenic views. Where: On the hill above the Teplá River. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: ~25 CZK. Getting there: Take the funicular or bus from the center. Tip: Use the public transport authority site for schedules.
10. Name: Karlovy Vary Airport Kiosk Type: experience Why go: Last chance to get a warm wafer before leaving. Best for: Last-minute cravings. Where: Departure lounge. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: ~30 CZK. Getting there: Shuttle or taxi from the center. Tip: Buy a box here if you forgot your souvenirs.

Tips for Buying Official Karlovy Vary Spa Wafers

Not all wafers are created equal. To ensure you get the best experience, look for the official designation. Authentic wafers use local thermal water in the recipe. This gives them a unique texture and light flavor.

When buying, ask for a "teplá oplatka" (warm wafer). The vendor will place a single wafer on a heater for a few seconds. This melts the sugar and spice filling. It creates a perfect crunch that cold wafers lack.

Consider trying different flavors during your trip. While chocolate and vanilla are popular, traditionalists prefer nut or sugar. You can learn more about the best flavor of Karlovy Vary wafers to try in our detailed guide. Most kiosks are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.