Name: Karlovy Vary International Film Festival 2025 Highlights
Start: 2026-07-03T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2026-07-11T00:00:00.000Z

The Karlovy Vary Film Festival is the most prestigious film festival in Central Europe and has a unique atmosphere. The first one was held in 1946 in Mariánské Lázně, a year later it was moved to Karlovy Vary and since that time it has taken place in the first half of July.

Each year the festival presents the premieres of more than 200 new films from around the world, of which the best is traditionally awarded the main prize, Crystal Globe, during the closing ceremony. The festival includes a variety of film and social celebrities, thousands of film fans, concerts, ceremonies, parties, press conferences and dozens of accompanying events. The center of the festival is the hotel Thermal, but screenings are held virtually throughout the city.

What can you expect?

World premières in Czechia: Many films will have their world or European première screening here.
Meeting the stars: You can meet famous actors, directors, and producers who will share their stories and experiences with you.
Discussions and workshops: You can broaden your horizons during thematic discussions.
Awards and gala evenings: Both ceremonies with the red carpet rolled out in front of the Thermal Hotel are worth it!
The ambiance of Karlovy Vary: The beauty of this spa town, its architecture, hotel buildings (including the luxurious Grandhotel Pupp or the super-modern multifunctional hall that looks like a giant red crab), the surrounding nature, and the healing mineral springs are among the top experiences in Czechia.

Tickets and practical information

If you want to see any of the festival films in Karlovy Vary, you need to buy a Festival Pass ⬈. This provides you with multiple tickets to multiple films, depending on which option you choose (one-day, three-day, five-day, and full festival). Tickets can be booked via the app or at one of the 25 on-site box offices.

There are many ways to get to Karlovy Vary, you can go by train or bus and there is a regular bus line to Karlovy Vary direct from Václav Havel Airport Prague. Festival buses will transport you around the city and the festival zone. These are free for all festival visitors. Ecology and cycling enthusiasts also have something to look forward to. They will be able to get around the city by bike.

Where to go after the festival

Karlovy Vary is part of the famous Czech Spa Triangle which the town forms together with Mariánské Lázně and Františkovy Lázně. You can enjoy culture, rest, relaxation, and walks through beautiful nature here. Golf enthusiasts will also enjoy themselves because Karlovy Vary offers one of the best golf resorts in Czechia.