Choosing Your Transport to Loket Castle

Before you depart, you should decide which transport method fits your schedule. The bus is the most efficient choice for most tourists. It runs frequently and drops you off near the town square. If you prefer a slower pace, the train offers beautiful views of the valley. However, the train requires a quick transfer in a nearby town. Active travelers often choose to bike or hike along the Ohře river trail. This path is mostly flat and very scenic.

Use this simple decision guide to pick your route:

• If you want speed: Take the direct bus from the Tržnice station.
• If you want views: Choose the train from the main railway station.
• If you want exercise: Rent a bike and follow the marked river trail.

Each option is a great addition to your list of best day trips from Karlovy Vary. Prices are generally low for all public transport in this region. You can expect to pay between 30 and 60 CZK for a one-way ticket in 2026.

Step-by-Step: How to Get From Karlovy Vary to Loket Castle by Bus

Taking the bus is the most straightforward way to visit the castle. Buses are reliable and run throughout the day. You will start your journey at the local transit hub. Make sure to check the latest schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website before you go.

1. Step 1: Go to the Tržnice Bus Station. Time: 5 minutes from the center. Typical cost: Free (walking). Location: Varšavská street. Common mistake: Going to the Dolní Nádraží terminal instead.
2. Step 2: Buy your ticket. Time: 2 minutes. Typical cost: 30-40 CZK. Where: From the driver or the ticket office. Common mistake: Forgetting to bring small cash for the driver.
3. Step 3: Board the correct bus. Time: 20 minutes. Typical cost: Included in ticket. Where: Look for bus number 23 or intercity lines heading to Sokolov. Common mistake: Getting on a bus going the opposite direction toward the hotels.
4. Step 4: Get off at the Loket stop. Time: 5 minutes walk to castle. Typical cost: Free. Location: Loket, Epas or Loket, náměstí. Common mistake: Staying on the bus until the final stop in Sokolov.

• Before you go checklist:
• Check the 2026 bus schedule online.
• Carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) for tickets.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to the castle.
• Check the Loket Castle opening hours and ticket prices.

Taking the Train for a Scenic Journey

The train journey is a lovely alternative for those who enjoy rail travel. You will depart from the Karlovy Vary railway station, also known as the Upper Station. This route involves a short change, but the scenery is worth the extra effort. The trains are clean and provide a unique perspective of the Bohemian countryside.

Most trains to Loket require a transfer at Chodov station. The total travel time is usually around 30 to 45 minutes. Once you arrive at the Loket station, you will have a 10-minute walk across the bridge. This walk offers the best photo opportunities of the castle perched on the granite cliff. It is a fantastic way to start exploring the things to do in Loket town center.

Alternative Routes: Cycling and Hiking

If the weather is nice, consider cycling to Loket Castle. The path follows the Ohře river and is part of a popular national cycle route. You can rent a bike in Karlovy Vary for a few hundred CZK per day. The ride is approximately 12 kilometers long and takes about one hour. It is mostly flat, making it suitable for casual cyclists and families.

Hiking is also an option for those who want a full-day activity. The trail passes through the Svatoš Rocks, which are stunning granite formations. This hike takes about three hours one way. Many people choose to hike to Loket and then take the bus back to Karlovy Vary. This allows you to see the nature without getting too tired for the castle tour.

Troubleshooting Your Trip to Loket

Even the best-planned trips can face small challenges. Public transport in the Czech Republic is usually on time, but it helps to be prepared. Always have a backup plan in case you miss the last bus or train. Most services stop running in the late evening, so check the return times carefully.

• Missed the bus: Check the next intercity line or call a local taxi.
• No cash: Look for an ATM near the Tržnice station before boarding.
• Wrong stop: If you miss Loket, get off at the next stop and wait for a return bus.
• Castle events: The castle sometimes closes for private weddings or festivals.
• Language barrier: Use a translation app or show the word "Loket" to the driver.
• Station confusion: Remember that Karlovy Vary has two main train stations.
• Sunday schedules: Buses run less frequently on weekends and public holidays.