Essential Colonnades & Thermal Springs

The heart of this city lies in its elegant colonnades. These structures shelter the mineral springs that made the town famous. You should start your visit by walking along the Teplá River. Be sure to buy a porcelain spa cup before you taste the waters. It is the most authentic way to experience the local culture.

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic Landmark Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in town. You can admire 124 Corinthian columns and drink from five different mineral springs. Best for: Architecture lovers and first-time visitors. Where: Mlýnské nábř., City Centre. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main post office. Tip: Visit early in the morning for photos without crowds.
2. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídlo) Type: Natural Wonder Why go: It houses the hottest and strongest geyser in the city. The water shoots up to 12 meters high in the main hall. You can also explore the underground tour to see how the thermal stones form. Read more in our guide to the Vřídlo Geyser. Best for: Witnessing nature’s power. Where: Divadelní náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Entry to hall is free; underground tours cost a small fee. Getting there: Located right in the spa center near St. Mary Magdalene church. Tip: Be careful with the water here; it is extremely hot (72°C).
3. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Historic Architecture Why go: This beautiful white wooden structure is visually distinct from the stone colonnades. It supposedly covers the spring where Emperor Charles IV healed his legs. The intricate wood carvings are stunning at sunset. Best for: Romantic strolls and history buffs. Where: Tržiště street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just steps away from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: Look for the relief carving depicting the discovery of the springs above the Charles IV Spring. See our colonnades walking guide for a full route.

Must-Visit Cultural Sights & Museums

Beyond the water, Karlovy Vary has a rich industrial and cultural heritage. You can explore world-famous glassworks or taste iconic herbal liqueurs. These indoor activities are perfect for rainy days. They offer a deeper look into what shapes the region's identity.

• Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Factory & Museum Why go: Moser is known as the "glass of kings." You can watch master glassblowers shape molten glass in the heat of the pristine factory. The attached museum displays over 160 years of glassmaking history. Best for: Art enthusiasts and souvenir shoppers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše, Dwory district. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: ~350 CZK for combined enterance. Getting there: Take bus No. 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Book your Moser visitor tour in advance during summer.
• Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Distillery Museum Why go: Becherovka is the Czech Republic’s most famous herbal liqueur. The museum explains the secret recipe and the history of the Becher family. Turs end with a tasting of different varieties. Best for: Foodies and history lovers (18+). Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: ~200 CZK. Getting there: Walking distance from the main bus station. Tip: Try the unfiltered version if available; it is unique to the cellars. Check tasting experience details before you go.
• Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Historic Hotel Why go: This hotel is a legend of European hospitality and a movie star itself. It featured heavily in the James Bond film Casino Royale. Even if you do not stay overnight, stop by for coffee and cake in the grand café. Best for: Cinema fans and luxury seekers. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 1 hour for coffee. Cost: Price of a coffee/cake (higher end). Getting there: Located at the end of the spa zone near the funicular. Tip: Walk the lobby to see the impressive crystal chandeliers.

Scenic Viewpoints & Religious Landmarks

The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush green hills. Hiking up for a view is one of the best things to do here. The contrast of the forests against the colorful buildings is photogenic. You will also find striking religious architecture tucked away on the slopes.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: This brick tower offers the absolute best panorama of the entire spa valley. You can take a funicular up if you prefer not to hike. There is also a butterfly house nearby for families. Best for: Photographers and families. Where: Friendship Hill (Výšina přátelství). Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; Funicular is ~150 CZK round trip. Getting there: Take the funicular from behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Ride the Diana funicular up and walk down for a gentle hike.
2. Name: Deer Jump Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Statue & Viewpoint Why go: This is the site of the famous Chamois (stag) statue, the symbol of the city. The legend says a stag led Emperor Charles IV to the hot springs here. The view over the roofs is iconic. Best for: The classic Karlovy Vary photo. Where: Myslivna hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from Diana Tower or hike up from the center. Tip: Learn the legend of the Stag statue before you climb.
3. Name: Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: Religious Site Why go: Its golden domes and blue roof stand out against the forest backdrop. The interior is richly decorated with icons and reliefs. It reflects the strong historical connection between the city and visitors from the East. Best for: Admirers of Byzantine architecture. Where: Krále Jiřího street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Donations welcome. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the center. Tip: Dress modestly when entering. Learn more about the church's history here.

Top Day Trips Near Karlovy Vary

If you have extra time, explore the surroundings. The region creates a perfect base for short excursions. These trips are easy to reach by bus, train, or a short taxi ride.

• Name: Loket Castle Type: Medieval Castle Why go: This 12th-century stunning castle sits on a granite rock surrounded by the Ohře river. It looks like a fairytale fortress and was a favorite of Goethe. You can explore dungeons, towers, and porcelain collections. Best for: History buffs and day-trippers. Where: Town of Loket (14 km away). Time: Half-day trip. Cost: ~150 CZK entry. Getting there: 20 min by train or bus. Tip: Plan your Loket Castle day trip for a sunny afternoon.
• Name: Christmas House (Vánoční dům) Type: Seasonal Attraction Why go: It is the only place in the Czech Republic where it is Christmas all year round. Located in the romantic Doubí chateau, it features massive decorations and a festive cafe. It is magical for kids and adults alike. Best for: Families and fans of holiday cheer. Where: Doubí district. Time: 1–1.5 hours. Cost: ~200 CZK. Getting there: Bus No. 6 from the center. Tip: Buy Christmas House tickets online to skip queues in December.