The History of Karlovy Vary Spa Wafers

Spa wafers, or oplatky, have a long and rich history. Local cooks first made them for spa guests in the 18th century. They were originally simple, thin wafers sprinkled with sugar. Over time, the recipe became more complex and delicious. Bakers began adding layers and various sweet fillings. Today, they are a protected regional specialty in the European Union.

The production process is quite unique. Bakers use local thermal mineral water in the dough. This gives the wafers a light and crispy texture. They are baked between two heavy metal plates. This process creates the iconic circular shape and intricate patterns. You can see these patterns on every wafer you buy today. It is a true craft passed down through generations.

In the past, guests ate them while walking between springs. This tradition continues in 2026. You can follow a Karlovy Vary colonnades walking route to see where it all began. The wafers were designed to be easy to digest. This made them the perfect snack for people undergoing water cures. Today, they remain the most popular souvenir in the region.

10 Best Traditional Karlovy Vary Spa Wafers Shops

Finding the right shop is essential for the best experience. Some spots offer mass-produced boxes, while others bake them fresh on-site. Here are the top traditional Karlovy Vary spa wafers shops for your visit.

• Best overall: Oplatky Kolonáda Boutique
• Best for families: Vřídelní kolonáda Stall
• Best rainy-day: Grandhotel Pupp Shop
• Best free: Samples at Market Colonnade

1. Name: Oplatky Kolonáda Boutique Type: experience Why go: This is the most famous brand in the country. They offer a wide variety of fresh flavors. Best for: Classic hazelnut and vanilla flavors. Where: Near the pedestrian zone on T.G. Masaryka. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 2-5 EUR per box. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Ask for the limited edition seasonal tins.
2. Name: Karlovarské oplatky (U Tržnice) Type: sight Why go: This shop is known for its traditional production methods. It feels like stepping back in time. Best for: Authentic cinnamon-flavored wafers. Where: Near the central bus station area. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 1-3 EUR. Getting there: Short walk from the Karlovy Vary Tržnice stop. Tip: They often have the best prices for bulk buying.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Kiosks Type: experience Why go: Buying a warm wafer here is a classic experience. You can eat it while drinking mineral water from the nearby springs. Best for: Single warm wafers for immediate snacking. Where: Located directly under the stone arches of the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Less than 1 EUR per wafer. Getting there: Central location on the main promenade. Tip: The chocolate-filled warm wafers are a crowd favorite.
4. Name: Vřídelní kolonáda Gift Shop Type: sight Why go: This is the heart of the spa district. The shop is located inside the modern hall with the famous geyser. Best for: Souvenir sets that include wafers and spa salt. Where: Inside the Vřídlo Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 3-10 EUR for gift sets. Getting there: Walk towards the Teplá River. Tip: Check out the underground spring tours while you are there.
5. Name: Market Colonnade Stall Type: experience Why go: The wooden architecture of this colonnade is beautiful. The small stall here serves wafers in a very scenic setting. Best for: Quick snacks during a photo walk. Where: In the white wooden Market Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: 1 EUR. Getting there: Located between the Mill and Vřídlo colonnades. Tip: Try the almond flavor here for something different.
6. Name: Sadová kolonáda Pastry Corner Type: sight Why go: This area is quieter and surrounded by a park. It is a peaceful place to enjoy a sweet treat. Best for: Relaxed atmosphere away from the main crowds. Where: At the edge of the Dvořák Park. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 2 EUR. Getting there: Walk north from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: This is a great spot if you are traveling with pets.
7. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Souvenir Boutique Type: experience Why go: This is the most luxurious hotel in the city. Their shop offers premium versions of the traditional wafers. Best for: High-end gift boxes and elegant packaging. Where: Inside the Grandhotel Pupp complex. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 5-15 EUR. Getting there: Follow the river to the southern end of town. Tip: Dress up a bit to enjoy the hotel's grand atmosphere.
8. Name: Diana Funicular Base Shop Type: activity Why go: It is perfectly located for those heading up the hill. Grab some wafers before your forest hike. Best for: Energy snacks before walking. Where: At the bottom station of the Diana funicular. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 2-4 EUR. Getting there: Located in a small alley near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: These wafers are great to eat at the top while enjoying the view.
9. Name: Stará Louka Riverside Stands Type: sight Why go: This street is the most picturesque in the city. You can browse many small shops along the water. Best for: Variety and comparing different brands. Where: Along the River Teplá promenade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Varies by shop. Getting there: Main walking path in the spa zone. Tip: Look for shops that sell traditional spa cups as well.
10. Name: Karlovy Vary Dolní Nádraží Kiosk Type: day trip Why go: This is your last chance to buy wafers before leaving. It is perfect for last-minute gifts. Best for: Travelers catching a train or bus. Where: Inside the lower railway station building. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: 2-5 EUR. Getting there: Accessible via local buses or a 15-minute walk from the center. Tip: Check the official railway site for station hours.

Essential Tips for Buying Authentic Spa Wafers

When visiting traditional Karlovy Vary spa wafers shops, look for the official seal. Authentic wafers should have a specific logo. This ensures they were made using traditional methods. Many shops sell "warm" wafers for immediate eating. These are usually sold individually and are very fragile. They have a different texture than the ones in boxes.

Flavor choice is a personal preference. Hazelnut and chocolate are the most popular. However, you can also find apple, lemon, and even herb flavors. Some modern shops offer sugar-free versions for health-conscious travelers. If you plan to take them home, buy the sealed boxes. These will stay fresh for several months if kept dry.

Prices are generally very affordable across the city. You should expect to pay more in the main colonnades. Shops further from the springs often have better deals. Most shops now accept credit cards. However, having a few Czech Koruna coins is helpful for small kiosks. It makes the transaction much faster for a single wafer.

How to Enjoy Your Wafers Like a Local

Locals often enjoy wafers as a light afternoon snack. The best way to eat them is while they are still warm. Many people buy a single wafer and walk through the parks. You can pair the sweetness with the salty taste of the mineral water. This combination is a classic Karlovy Vary experience. It is part of the relaxation culture here.

If you are exploring the city, plan your snack breaks. The city can be hilly in some parts. You might want to sit down after a long walk. There are many benches near the colonnades. These are perfect for enjoying your treats. You can find a good spot by following a one-day walking itinerary.

Remember that wafers are very delicate. If you put them in a backpack, they might break. It is best to carry them in a separate shopping bag. If you are flying, pack them in your carry-on luggage. This prevents them from being crushed in the cargo hold. Enjoying a crispy wafer at home is a great way to remember your trip.