Quick Picks for Your West Bohemian Castle Tour

Planning a trip can be overwhelming with so many choices. We have narrowed down the best options for your specific needs. Use these quick picks to start your itinerary planning today.

• Best Overall: Loket Castle for its atmosphere and views.
• Best for Families: Seeberg Castle with its interactive exhibits.
• Best for Romance: Kynžvart Chateau and its lush gardens.
• Best Free View: The exterior of Cheb Castle at sunset.

Each site offers a unique glimpse into the past. You can easily combine two or three of these in a single weekend. Be sure to check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal event updates.

Top 10 Castles Near Karlovy Vary to Visit

The following list includes the most impressive historic sites in the region. These locations are essential stops on any map of castles in West Bohemia region. We have included practical details to help you plan each visit effectively.

1. Name: Loket Castle Type: Fortress Why go: It is a stunning medieval castle perched on a rock. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Loket town. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: A 20-minute drive or bus from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Read our full Loket day trip guide for more details.
2. Name: Bečov nad Teplou Type: Chateau and Castle Why go: It houses the Reliquary of St. Maurus, a gold masterpiece. Best for: Art and jewelry enthusiasts. Where: Bečov nad Teplou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by tour circuit. Getting there: Easy train ride from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Book the Reliquary tour in advance as spots fill up.
3. Name: Cheb Castle Type: Imperial Palace Why go: See the rare Black Tower and the unique double chapel. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Cheb. Time: 1.5-2 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: 45 minutes by train. Tip: Visit during the Wallenstein festivities if you are there in summer.
4. Name: Seeberg Castle Type: Romanesque Castle Why go: It offers a look at rural life and historic interiors. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near Františkovy Lázně. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Best reached by car. Tip: Check the Seeberg Castle visitor guide for ticket info.
5. Name: Kynžvart Chateau Type: Neoclassical Palace Why go: It was the summer residence of Chancellor Metternich. Best for: Fans of the Napoleonic era. Where: Lázně Kynžvart. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train or car from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Explore the vast English-style park surrounding the palace.
6. Name: Hartenberg Castle Type: Ruins/Restoration project Why go: Experience a unique community-led castle rescue. Best for: Adventure seekers and volunteers. Where: Hřebeny. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Local train to Hřebeny station. Tip: Look at our Hartenberg ruins guide for event dates.
7. Name: Horní Hrad (Hauenštejn) Type: Medieval Castle Why go: A fairytale castle hidden deep in the forest. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Near Stráž nad Ohří. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Car is highly recommended. Tip: Climb the tower for a view of the Ore Mountains.
8. Name: Ostrov Chateau Type: Baroque Residence Why go: Beautifully restored gardens known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Best for: Gardeners and casual walkers. Where: Ostrov. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Park is free; interiors vary. Getting there: 15 minutes by bus. Tip: Visit the Palace of the Princes for local history.
9. Name: Starý Rybník Type: Castle Ruins Why go: Romantic ruins located right next to a pond. Best for: Quiet reflection and picnics. Where: Skalná. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to view exterior. Getting there: Car or local bus from Cheb. Tip: Combine this with a visit to Vildštejn Castle nearby.
10. Name: Vildštejn Castle Type: Romanesque Fortress Why go: One of the oldest and best-preserved castles in the region. Best for: Medieval dining experiences. Where: Skalná. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40-minute drive from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Try the traditional Czech food in the castle restaurant.

Using Your Map of Castles in West Bohemia Region

Navigating the West Bohemia region is relatively simple for international tourists. The public transport network is reliable and connects most major towns. You can check schedules at the Karlovy Vary railway station for daily departures. Trains offer a scenic way to see the countryside.

If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is a great choice. Many smaller ruins like Hartenberg are easier to reach by road. Parking is usually available near the castle entrances for a small fee. Always keep some local currency (Czech Koruna) for smaller parking meters.

Most castles are open from April through October. During winter, some sites may have limited hours or close entirely. It is wise to check the official UNESCO listing or local tourism sites before you go. This ensures you have the most current information for 2026.