The Beauty of Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church

The Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church is a masterpiece of Byzantine design. It was built between 1893 and 1898. Local Russian nobility and wealthy spa guests funded the project. The church features five gold-plated domes that shine in the sun. Its blue and white walls are decorated with intricate carvings and icons.

Inside, the church is just as impressive as the outside. You will find a beautiful wooden iconostasis. This was originally made for the World Exhibition in Paris. The walls are filled with religious paintings and gold leaf. It remains an active place of worship today. Please remember to dress modestly when entering the building.

The church is located in the West End district. This area is famous for its historic villas and quiet streets. It is a pleasant 15-minute walk from the main spa center. You can find more details on Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church opening hours before your visit. This site is a highlight of any best attractions in Karlovy Vary list.

10 Must-See Sights Near Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church

Karlovy Vary offers many unique experiences for every type of traveler. From thermal springs to historic towers, there is much to see. Here are the top picks for your next visit.

• Best overall: Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glassworks Museum
• Best free: The Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest and most important Orthodox church in the country. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: West End District. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light on the gold domes.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city with 124 columns. Best for: Seeing the spa culture. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central walking zone. Tip: Bring a porcelain cup to taste the different mineral springs.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free entry; small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the Diana Observation Tower funicular ride from the town. Tip: There is a mini-zoo and a butterfly house at the top.
4. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: sight Why go: See the Vridlo geyser, which shoots water 12 meters high. Best for: Natural wonders. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path. Tip: Take the underground tour to see how the thermal water is managed.
5. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: museum Why go: Learn about the "Glass of Kings" and see master blowers at work. Best for: Indoor activity. Where: Kpt. Jarose street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: Read the Moser Glassworks museum visitor guide to book your tour in advance.
6. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Discover the history of Becherovka, a famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the main bus station. Tip: The Jan Becher Museum tasting experience is the best part of the tour.
7. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: landmark Why go: This historic hotel inspired the Grand Budapest Hotel movie. Best for: Luxury fans. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view; expensive for tea or stay. Getting there: Walk along the Tepla river. Tip: Check the Grandhotel Pupp historic landmark guide for its famous film history.
8. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: viewpoint Why go: See the famous statue of a mountain goat overlooking the town. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Forest paths above the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: The trail is steep but well-paved and shaded.
9. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning 12th-century Gothic castle on a granite rock. Best for: History buffs. Where: 12 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a 20-minute train or bus. Tip: Plan a Loket Castle day trip from Karlovy Vary for great photos.
10. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: sight Why go: A beautiful Baroque church designed by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. Best for: Art and history. Where: In the heart of the spa area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Next to the Vridlo geyser. Tip: Attend an evening organ concert for a magical experience.

Planning Your Visit to Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Great Spa Towns of Europe. This recognition highlights its unique cultural value. When planning your trip, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn. The weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom. Winters can be cold but very festive during the holidays.

Getting around the city is easy on foot. Most major sights are located in the pedestrian zone. For longer distances, use the local bus system. You can find routes and tickets on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Taxis are available but can be expensive for short trips.

Be sure to try the local wafers known as oplatky. They come in many flavors like chocolate and hazelnut. Also, drinking the thermal water is a key part of the experience. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. Consult the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism portal for seasonal events and festivals.