Essential City Promenades & Spa Routes

These routes are perfect for beginners or those wanting to see the main sights. They are mostly flat and paved. You can enjoy the architecture without breaking a sweat.

• Name: The Main Colonnade Route
  Type: City sightseeing / Architectural walk
  Why go: It connects the most famous mineral springs and historic colonnades. You will see the Mill Colonnade, Market Colonnade, and the modern Hot Spring Colonnade.
  Best for: First-time visitors and architecture lovers.
  Where: City Center (Spa Zone).
  Time: 45–60 minutes.
  Cost: Free (buy a spa cup for tasting).
  Getting there: Start near Hotel Thermal and follow the river upstream.
  Tip: Follow the Karlovy Vary colonnade walking route early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Name: Teplá River Promenade
  Type: Relaxed urban stroll
  Why go: This path follows the river through the heart of the spa district. It is lined with cafes, grand hotels, and luxury boutiques.
  Best for: Families and leisurely afternoon walks.
  Where: From Dvořák Park to Grandhotel Pupp.
  Time: 30–45 minutes.
  Cost: Free.
  Getting there: Begin at the main post office bridge.
  Tip: Try this Teplá River promenade stroll in the evening when the historic buildings are beautifully lit.

Scenic Hilltop Hikes & Viewpoints

The forests surrounding the town are famous for their accessible hiking paths. These trails offer elevation gain and rewarding panoramas. Most paths are well-marked with color-coded signs.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Trail
   Type: Forest hike / Viewpoint
   Why go: It offers the most iconic view of the entire city. You can hike up or take the funicular and walk down.
   Best for: Panorama hunters and photographers.
   Where: South of the Grandhotel Pupp.
   Time: 1–1.5 hours (walking up).
   Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee.
   Getting there: Follow blue markers from the valley station.
   Tip: The Diana Observation Tower hiking trail is paved but steep; bring water.
2. Name: Deer Jump (Jelení Skok)
   Type: Iconic landmark walk
   Why go: To see the famous statue of the chamois looking over the city. It is a symbol of local legend.
   Best for: A shorter climb with great rewards.
   Where: Halfway up the hill near Diana Tower.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Take the path behind the Grandhotel Pupp.
   Tip: Combine this with the full Deer Jump lookout path for a loop back to town.
3. Name: Three Crosses (Tři Kříže)
   Type: Sunset hike
   Why go: This spot offers a raw, unobstructed view of the spa center. It is often quieter than the Diana tower side.
   Best for: Romance and sunsets.
   Where: Northern hills above Vřídlo.
   Time: 40 minutes (steep).
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Follow the yellow tourist markers from the Hot Spring area.
   Tip: The Three Crosses lookout walk has uneven stairs, so wear sturdy shoes.
4. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Tower
   Type: Historic architecture hike
   Why go: This is the oldest lookout tower in Karlovy Vary. The building looks like a small castle hidden in the woods.
   Best for: Lovers of history and solitude.
   Where: East of the city center.
   Time: 1.5–2 hours.
   Cost: Free entry to grounds; tower hours vary.
   Getting there: Best reached by walking from the Hůrky bus stop.
   Tip: The Goethe’s Lookout Tower hike is less crowded than other viewpoints.
5. Name: Charles IV Lookout Tower
   Type: Pseudo-Gothic tower walk
   Why go: It is a beautiful brick tower from 1877. The climb is moderate and the forest surroundings are peaceful.
   Best for: A quiet escape from tourists.
   Where: Above the Richmond Hotel.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Start near the Art Gallery and follow yellow signs.
   Tip: Access the Charles IV Lookout Tower trail via the funicular mid-station to save energy.

Nature Trails & Day Trips Nearby

If you want to escape the city limits, these walks offer pure nature. They feature river canyons, rock formations, and deep forests. Official transport information is available from the Karlovy Vary Transport Company.

• Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály)
  Type: River canyon nature walk
  Why go: Massive granite rock formations rise from the Ohře River. It is a National Nature Monument rich in folklore.
  Best for: Nature lovers and rock climbers.
  Where: 6 km from city center towards Loket.
  Time: 3–4 hours (walking one way).
  Cost: Free.
  Getting there: Walk along the Ohře river path or take a bus to Doubí.
  Tip: The Svatoš Rocks nature hike is flat and bicycle-friendly.
• Name: Saint Linhart Nature Trail
  Type: Educational forest walk
  Why go: Features wooden walkways and game preserves with deer. It is a great place to see local wildlife up close.
  Best for: Families with children.
  Where: Sovova stezka area.
  Time: 1–2 hours.
  Cost: Free.
  Getting there: Take the bus to Svatý Linhart stop.
  Tip: Check out the Saint Linhart forest nature trails for suspended rope bridges.
• Name: Loket Castle Path
  Type: Long-distance day hike
  Why go: Connects Karlovy Vary to the stunning medieval town of Loket. The route follows the winding river valley.
  Best for: Endurance walkers and cyclists.
  Where: Route 6 along the Ohře River.
  Time: 3–4 hours one way.
  Cost: Free (castle entry separate).
  Getting there: Start at the Doubí district.
  Tip: Take the train back after exploring the castle.

Practical Tips for Walking in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a town of hills. While the riverside is flat, the best views require climbing. Wear comfortable sneakers or light hiking boots for any trail leaving the pavement.

The local woods are generally safe and well-signposted. Look for the color-coded striped markers on trees and posts. You can find detailed maps at the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism office. Always carry water during summer, as uphill sections can be strenuous.

Winter walking is possible but can be slippery. Snow and ice often cover the cobblestones and forest paths. Stick to the lower colonnade routes if the weather is severe.