Why Sunset in Karlovy Vary is Magical

The geography of the Teplá River valley makes sunsets here special. The sun disappears behind the lush Slavkov Forest. This creates long shadows and soft light across the colonnades. The town's pastel-colored hotels seem to glow from within during this time.

Watching the sunset is a peaceful local tradition. You will see couples and families heading to the hills. The forest paths are well-maintained and easy to follow. Many viewpoints are just a short walk from the main springs.

In 2026, the city remains a top destination for relaxation. Sunset is the best time to see the city's grandeur without the midday crowds. It is the perfect moment for reflection and quiet appreciation. Use the official tourism portal to check for local evening events.

9 Best Places to Watch Sunset in Karlovy Vary

Here are the top spots to catch the evening glow. These locations offer the best views of the valley and the city skyline. Some require a short hike, while others are easily accessible by funicular or car.

• Best overall: Diana Observation Tower
• Best for families: Diana Tower (funicular access)
• Best rainy-day: Mill Colonnade (sheltered)
• Best free: Three Crosses

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: sight Why go: This is the highest point in the city area. You get a 360-degree view of the entire valley and the surrounding mountains. Best for: Panoramic photos and first-time visitors. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower entry is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from the street near Grandhotel Pupp or follow the Diana hiking trail. Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to find a good spot on the platform.
2. Name: Deer Jump (Jelení skok) Type: viewpoint Why go: This is the most famous lookout in Karlovy Vary. It features a statue of a chamois overlooking the town center. Best for: Iconic city views and romantic moments. Where: Forested slopes between Diana and the town. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the forest paths from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The path is paved but steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
3. Name: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) Type: experience Why go: It offers a direct view of the sun setting behind the Diana hill. It is usually much quieter than other popular spots. Best for: Peace, quiet, and a local vibe. Where: On the hill opposite the Diana Tower. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the city center via the yellow-marked trail. Tip: Bring a small picnic blanket to sit on the grass near the crosses.
4. Name: Goethe’s Lookout (Goethova vyhlídka) Type: sight Why go: A beautiful brick tower that looks like a mini castle. It provides a wilder view of the Bohemian landscape. Best for: Architecture lovers and nature seekers. Where: On the eastern edge of the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Take bus number 8 or hike through the woods. Tip: Check the tower's seasonal opening hours before you head out.
5. Name: Charles IV Lookout Type: sight Why go: A pseudo-Gothic lookout tower that feels like a hidden gem. It offers a unique angle of the spa district. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Located between the city and the Diana Tower. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the forest paths from the Grandhotel Pupp area. Tip: This spot is great for seeing the city lights turn on after dark.
6. Name: Peter the Great Lookout Type: viewpoint Why go: Named after the Russian Tsar who visited the city. It has a great history and a focused view of the river. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Deer Jump lookout. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the same forest paths as Deer Jump. Tip: Look for the memorial plaque dedicated to the Tsar's visit.
7. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Terrace Type: experience Why go: Enjoy the sunset with a drink in your hand. The luxury atmosphere makes the evening feel very special. Best for: Luxury and comfort. Where: At the southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Price of a drink or meal. Getting there: Easy walk through the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Dress slightly nicer if you plan to stay for dinner.
8. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: While not high up, the low sun shines through the 124 columns. It creates amazing patterns of light and shadow. Best for: Artistic photography. Where: In the heart of the spa district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central location, easy walk from anywhere. Tip: This is a great alternative if the weather is slightly rainy.
9. Name: Imperial Hotel Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: The park around this massive hotel offers a grand view of the valley. The building itself looks majestic in the orange light. Best for: Grand scale views. Where: On the hill above the Teplá river. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (park area). Getting there: Take the public funicular from the Imperial station near the river. Tip: The funicular ride itself offers a great view as you ascend.

Combining Sunsets with Romantic Evening Walks

Watching the sunset is just the start of a great night. You can easily find best walks in Karlovy Vary that end at these viewpoints. Start your walk in the late afternoon at the Thermal Hotel. Walk along the river toward the Grandhotel Pupp.

As the sky turns pink, head up into the forest. The paths are well-lit near the city but get darker in the woods. Always carry a small flashlight or use your phone. The transition from the busy town to the quiet forest is very romantic.

After the sun sets, walk back down to the colonnades. The city lanterns create a warm, golden glow on the stone paths. It is a peaceful time when most day-trippers have left. You will have the streets mostly to yourself for a quiet stroll.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Sunset Visit

Timing is everything when chasing the sunset. In summer, the sun sets as late as 9:00 PM. In winter, it can be as early as 4:00 PM. Check a local weather app to get the exact time for your visit.

Public transport is very helpful for reaching higher spots. The local transport authority, Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary, runs buses and funiculars. These can save you a lot of energy on steep climbs. Remember that some funiculars stop running shortly after sunset.

Even in summer, the temperature drops quickly once the sun is gone. Bring a light jacket or a sweater for the walk back. The forest can be several degrees cooler than the city center. Staying warm will make your evening much more enjoyable.