Top 11 Attractions Near Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church

Karlovy Vary is easy to explore on foot. However, many sights are located on steep hills. You should wear comfortable shoes for your journey. Many visitors start at the official tourism center for maps. Here are the top eleven things to do in the area.

1. Name: Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest Orthodox church in the country. It has five golden domes and beautiful blue walls. The interior features a stunning wooden iconostasis made in Russia. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: West End district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small voluntary donation. Getting there: Walk uphill from the city center or take a local bus. Tip: Dress modestly and keep your voice low inside.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five mineral springs. It is a masterpiece of Karlovy Vary colonnades architecture. Best for: Relaxing walks. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Buy a traditional porcelain cup to taste the water.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: This tower offers the best views of the valley. You can see the entire city and the surrounding forests. There is also a butterfly house and a mini-zoo nearby. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Friendship Heights. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the Diana Observation Tower funicular from near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Eat at the restaurant next to the tower for great views.
4. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn about the history of Becherovka, a famous herbal liqueur. The tour includes a look at the old cellars and a tasting session. It is a very unique tasting tour. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: Located in the modern part of the town center. Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to save time.
5. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: experience Why go: Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." You can watch master glassblowers create beautiful art in the furnace room. Follow a Moser glassworks visitor guide for the best experience. Best for: Art fans. Where: Kpt. Jarose street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1, 2, or 22 from the center. Tip: The museum shop has high-quality gifts to take home.
6. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Type: nature Why go: This is the most famous geyser in the city. It shoots hot water up to 12 meters high. You can also tour the Vridlo underground thermal springs. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Vridelni Colonnade. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free (underground tour has a fee). Getting there: Located in the heart of the spa district. Tip: The air inside the colonnade is very humid and warm.
7. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: sight Why go: This hotel is world-famous for its luxury and history. It has appeared in several major Hollywood movies. The Grandhotel Pupp architecture is truly impressive. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 20 minutes (exterior) or 1 hour (tea). Cost: Free to view; high for dining. Getting there: Walk along the river to the end of the town. Tip: Visit the Cafe Pupp for a slice of traditional cake.
8. Name: Deer Leap Lookout Type: nature Why go: This is the oldest lookout point in the city. It features a famous statue of a mountain goat. The Deer Leap lookout hike is very popular. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Forested hills above the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the forest paths from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Bring water as the climb can be steep.
9. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This white wooden building looks like a lace carving. It covers two important mineral springs. It was built in a Swiss style in the late 1800s. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Near the Vridlo geyser. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking distance from most central hotels. Tip: Look for the relief showing the discovery of the springs.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: This 12th-century stone castle sits on a rocky cliff. It is only 15 kilometers from Karlovy Vary. You can explore the torture chambers and the weapon museum. Best for: History buffs. Where: Loket town. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a short bus or train ride. Tip: Visit the Visit Czechia site for transport schedules.
11. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: sight Why go: This is a beautiful Baroque church near the hot springs. It has a high altar and historic paintings. You can take St. Mary Magdalene church tours to see the crypt. Best for: Spiritual visitors. Where: Near the Vridlo Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (crypt tour has a fee). Getting there: Located in the center of the spa area. Tip: The acoustics are great, so check for evening concerts.

Why the Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church is Unique

The Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church is a unique landmark in Bohemia. It was built between 1893 and 1897. The money for the church came from wealthy Russian guests. These guests visited the town for its healing thermal waters. The design follows the style of churches near Moscow.

The exterior is decorated with colorful tiles and golden ornaments. It stands out against the green trees of the West End. Inside, you will find a quiet and holy atmosphere. The walls are covered with icons and religious art. It is a peaceful place for reflection away from the crowds.

This church is not just a museum. It is an active place of worship for the local community. Visitors are welcome to admire the architecture and art. However, you must respect the religious services. It remains one of the most photographed spots in the entire region.

Essential Travel Tips for Karlovy Vary in 2026

Planning a trip to Karlovy Vary in 2026 is exciting. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn. The weather is mild and the colors are beautiful. Summer is also popular but can be very crowded. Winter offers a magical atmosphere with fewer tourists.

The city center is mostly for pedestrians. You will do a lot of walking during your stay. If you have trouble with hills, use the local buses. They are reliable and cover most major attractions. You can also use the funiculars to reach high viewpoints easily.

When drinking the mineral water, start with small amounts. The water is very strong and can affect your stomach. Most people use a special porcelain cup with a spout. You can buy these cups at any shop in the colonnades. It is a fun and healthy local tradition.