Planning Your Visit to Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. It belongs to the Great Spa Towns of Europe. The city has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. You will find elegant colonnades and grand hotels at every turn. Most visitors come for the top places to visit in Karlovy Vary to relax and recharge.

Before you start your walk, check out these quick picks for your trip:

• Best Overall: Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best Rainy-Day: Moser Glassworks
• Best Free Activity: Walking the Colonnades

The city is very walkable, but some paths are steep. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hilly Westend district. You should also buy a porcelain spa cup. These cups are used to drink the mineral water directly from the springs. It is a local tradition that has lasted for centuries.

Exploring the Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul

The Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. It was built in the late 19th century for wealthy Russian guests. The church features five gold-plated domes and colorful murals. It sits in the quiet Westend neighborhood, surrounded by historic villas. This area is perfect for a peaceful morning stroll. The church remains an active place of worship today.

1. Name: Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: It is the oldest and most important Orthodox church in the country. The gold domes and intricate wood carvings are breathtaking. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Westend District. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Free (donations encouraged). Getting there: Walk uphill from the city center or take Bus 4. Tip: Dress modestly and avoid taking photos during active religious services.
2. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Type: sight Why go: This is the most famous spring in the city. It shoots water up to 12 meters high. You can see the Vřídlo Hot Spring Geyser inside a modern glass pavilion. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Divadelní náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the heart of the spa zone. Tip: Visit the underground tour to see how thermal water petrifies souvenirs.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is the largest colonnade in Karlovy Vary. The structure features 124 Corinthian columns and several mineral springs. It is a perfect example of Neo-Renaissance style. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Near the Teplá River. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: An easy walk from the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Bring your spa cup to taste the different temperatures of water here.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Museums

Karlovy Vary is more than just mineral water. It is also home to world-class craftsmanship and famous liqueurs. You can spend an entire afternoon learning about local traditions. Many of these sites offer interactive tours for all ages. It is a great way to escape the rain or cold in winter. Be sure to book your tours in advance during the peak summer season.

1. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, a famous herbal liqueur. The Jan Becher Museum tour includes a tasting of different varieties. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walkable from the main bus station. Tip: The museum shop is the best place to buy authentic souvenirs.
2. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: museum Why go: Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." You can watch master glassblowers create beautiful art in the furnace room. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take Bus 1, 2, or 22 from the center. Tip: Check the schedule for glassblowing demonstrations before you go.
3. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: sight Why go: This hotel is a symbol of luxury. It inspired the hotel in Wes Anderson's movies and appeared in Casino Royale. A Grandhotel Pupp architecture tour reveals its 300-year history. Best for: Movie fans and luxury seekers. Where: End of the spa zone. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to view; tours vary. Getting there: Walk along the river to the southern end of town. Tip: Have a coffee at the Café Pupp to enjoy the atmosphere.
4. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: sight Why go: This Baroque church is located right next to the Vřídlo spring. The Church of St. Mary Magdalene features a unique underground crypt. Best for: Religious history fans. Where: Near the Market Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (crypt tour has a fee). Getting there: Central spa zone. Tip: Look for the beautiful altar paintings inside.
5. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This white wooden structure is built in the Swiss style. It covers the Charles IV Spring, which the Emperor supposedly used. Best for: History lovers. Where: Tržiště. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking distance from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: It is especially beautiful when lit up at night.

Nature Views and Day Trips Near the City

The hills surrounding Karlovy Vary offer amazing hiking trails. You can find many viewpoints that look over the colorful valley. If you have extra time, consider exploring the nearby Bohemian countryside. There are medieval castles and unique rock formations just a short drive away. These trips provide a nice break from the busy spa center.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the city. You can take the Diana Observation Tower funicular to reach the top easily. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Friendship Heights. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Funicular station is near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit the mini-zoo and butterfly house located at the top.
2. Name: Deer Leap Statue Type: viewpoint Why go: This metal chamois statue is a famous symbol of the city. Legend says a deer jumped from here to discover the hot springs. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Forest paths above the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Diana funicular middle station. Tip: The path is shaded, making it a great summer walk.
3. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: This 12th-century Gothic castle is perched on a rock. A Loket Castle day trip is perfect for seeing medieval torture chambers and armory. Best for: Families and history fans. Where: Loket (12km from Karlovy Vary). Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local bus or train from the main station. Tip: Try the roasted pig at the family brewery in the town square.
4. Name: Svatoš Rocks Type: nature Why go: These granite pillars were formed by the Ohře River. They look like a petrified wedding procession. Best for: Nature lovers and climbers. Where: Slavkov Forest. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cycle or walk along the river path from the city. Tip: Rent a bike in town for a scenic ride to the rocks.

Expert Travel Tips for Your 2026 Trip

Visiting Karlovy Vary in 2026 is easy with proper planning. The city is well-connected to Prague by bus and train. You can check schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Most people find that two or three days is enough to see the main sights. However, if you want a full spa treatment, stay for a week.

The official Visit Czechia site recommends visiting in late spring. The flowers are in bloom and the weather is mild. Summer is very busy due to the International Film Festival. If you visit in July, book your hotel many months in advance. Winter is also charming, especially during the Christmas market season.

Remember that the mineral water is very strong. Do not drink too much at once without medical advice. It is meant to be sipped slowly while walking. Most locals are friendly and speak some English or German. Learning a few basic Czech phrases will always be appreciated by the staff.