Budget guide to Františkovy Lázne (Franzensbad), Czech Republic
Our second stop in our budget-friendly tour of the Czech Republic outside Prague is Františkovy Lázne:
Františkovy Lázne
German Name: Franzensbad
Much smaller than Pilsen, but known for its equal charm. Františkovy Lázne has been a wellness holiday destination for centuries. Goethe himself described it as “heaven on earth,” and it was the setting for Milan Kundera’s novel, “The Farewell Party.” At the height of its popularity, Beethoven and Johann Strauss visited, no doubt taking a dip in one of its 20+ mineral springs and going for mud baths.
It’s still got wellness hotels and traditional treatments, although Thai massage spas have since moved in. And here, too, the price is right.
What to Do
Walk around the town parks or take a relaxing spa trip. A half-day pass to the Aquaforum for two adults and two kids costs only €18!

Penzion U Namornika on the on the outskirts of Františkovy Lázne. Photo: Booking.com
Stay
Penzion U Námorníka
Družstevní 203/5 a 202/7, Františkovy Lázne, 351 01
Doubles from $43
This three-star pension is perfect for families, with its large outdoor garden and playground (complete with pirate ship!). A shared kitchen and low rates only sweeten the deal.
Search all hotels in Františkovy Lázne
Getting there
Františkovy Lázne is mere steps from the eastern German border. A direct train ride from Prague is just over 2 hours long.
More affordable Czech destinations
Františkovy Lázne is just one stop on our tour of budget-friendly Czech destinations. These also include:
- Plzen (German Name: Pilsen)
- Ceské Budejovice (German name: Budweis)
Also going to Prague?
Be sure to check out our recommended budget hotels in Prague, and our articles on how to save when visiting the city.