Famous Colonnades and Thermal Springs

The colonnades are the heart of daily life here. These covered walkways house the mineral springs that made the town famous. Visitors stroll from one spring to another sipping water from porcelain cups. This tradition is known as the "drinking cure." The architecture ranges from intricate wood carvings to grand stone pillars.

Most springs are free to access and open all day. The water temperature varies significantly between sources. Be careful with the hotter springs to avoid burning your tongue. Start your tour right in the city center along the Teplá River.

1. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is the largest and most photographable colonnade in the city. The Neo-Renaissance structure features 124 Corinthian columns and houses five different mineral springs. Groups often gather here for concerts during summer. Best for: Architecture lovers and first-time visitors. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží, City Center. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the central bus stop. Tip: Bring a porcelain spa cup to sip the water like a local; learn more about the history of the Mill Colonnade before you go.
2. Name: Vřídlo (Hot Spring Colonnade) Type: Natural Wonder Why go: This modern glass building houses the legendary Vřídlo geyser. It shoots hot water up to 12 meters into the air. The pressure and heat are a powerful display of nature’s energy. There are also cooler fountains for drinking inside. Best for: Witnessing the power of the thermal earth. Where: Divadelní náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free entry to the hall. Getting there: Located right next to the St. Mary Magdalene Church. Tip: If you are curious about the mechanics, take the Underground Spring Tour to see the petrification process.
3. Name: Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda) Type: Architecture Why go: This white wooden structure looks like delicate lace. It was originally built as a temporary shelter but became a permanent beloved landmark. Legend says King Charles IV healed his legs at the Charles IV Spring located here. Best for: Romantic photos and history buffs. Where: Tržiště street. Time: 15–20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just a few steps from the Vřídlo Colonnade. Tip: Visit at night when the intricate wood carvings are beautifully illuminated.

Best Viewpoints and Nature Walks

Karlovy Vary is nestled in a deep valley surrounded by dense forests. Climbing out of the city center rewards you with breathtaking panoramas. The spa woods are crisscrossed with well-marked hiking paths. These trails have been used for "terrain cures" for over a century.

You do not need to be an expert hiker to enjoy these views. A funicular railway makes the ascent easy for everyone. However, walking down is a great way to enjoy the fresh air. The views are especially stunning in autumn when the leaves turn gold.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: This brick tower offers the definitive view of the spa town and surrounding hills. On clear days, you can see for miles across the Bohemian landscape. The complex includes a historic restaurant and a mini-zoo for children. Best for: Families and sunset seekers. Where: Vrch přátelství (Friendship Hill). Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; Funicular is paid (approx. €4-6). Getting there: Take the funicular from behind the Grandhotel Pupp or hike up. Tip: The funicular runs every 15 minutes; read our guide on the Diana Observation Tower funicular for schedule details.
2. Name: Deer Leap Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Historic Landmark Why go: This is the site of the famous chamois statue, the symbol of Karlovy Vary. It marks the legendary spot where a deer jumped off the cliff, leading to the discovery of the hot springs. The view of the colorful city rooftops is iconic. Best for: Classic Instagram photos. Where: Below the Diana Tower. Time: 45 minutes (hike). Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the city or walk down from the Diana Tower mid-station. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the path can be steep and uneven in places. See hiking info at Deer Leap lookout hike.

Historic Landmarks and Architecture

Beyond the springs, the city is a showcase of European architectural styles. Grand hotels and churches reflect the wealth of the aristocracy who visited in the past. You will see Baroque details, Byzantine domes, and Art Nouveau facades. These buildings give the town its cinematic quality.

Many of these landmarks are clustered near the river or on the lower slopes. They are easy to visit while walking between the colonnades. Take time to look up at the intricate details on the facades.

1. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Hotel/Landmark Why go: This hotel is a legend of European hospitality and a movie star in its own right. It served as the inspiration for The Grand Budapest Hotel and appeared in Casino Royale. The architecture is majestic, and the atmosphere is steeped in history. Best for: Luxury lovers and film fans. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 30 minutes (exterior) or 1 hour (café). Cost: Free to view; coffee is pricey. Getting there: Located at the end of the riverside promenade. Tip: You don't have to stay there to enjoy it; try visiting the Grandhotel Pupp Café for cake.
2. Name: St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: Religious Site Why go: The golden domes of this church shine brightly against the green forest backdrop. Modeled after a church in Moscow, it serves the large Russian community historically present in the city. The interior is richly decorated with icons and reliefs. Best for: Cultural insight and architecture. Where: King George Street in the Westend quarter. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: A 15-minute uphill walk from the center. Tip: Dress modestly when entering; check details on the Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church before climbing the hill.
3. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: Religious Site Why go: This is a masterpiece of High Baroque architecture built by K.I. Dientzenhofer. It dominates the square near the Vřídlo geyser. The interior features valuable altar paintings and a unique underground crypt. Best for: History and religious art. Where: Close to Vřídlo Colonnade. Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: Free (tours of crypt require a ticket). Getting there: Central location near the geyser. Tip: Check the schedule for organ concerts or St. Mary Magdalene Church tours which include the crypt.

Museums and Authentic Local Experiences

Karlovy Vary is famous for more than just water. It is the home of luxury glass and a unique herbal liqueur. Visiting these production sites gives you a deeper appreciation for Czech craftsmanship. You can also experience the spa treatments that put this town on the map.

Booking these experiences in advance is smart, especially in summer. Tours are often available in multiple languages. They serve as great indoor activities if the weather turns rainy.

1. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum/Factory Why go: Known as the "Glass of Kings," Moser produces some of the world's finest lead-free crystal. You can watch master glassblowers at work in the intense heat of the glassworks. The attached museum displays over 160 years of artistic glass history. Best for: Art lovers and souvenir hunters. Where: Kapitána Jaroše street (Dvory area). Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Approx. €12 for museum and glassworks. Getting there: Take a bus from the center or taxi. Tip: Read our Moser Glassworks visitor guide to decide between the museum or full factory tour.
2. Name: Jan Becher Museum (Becherovka) Type: Museum/Tasting Why go: Becherovka is a herbal liqueur invented here in 1807. Locals jokingly call it the "13th spring" of Karlovy Vary. The tour takes you through the historic cellars and explains the secret production process. Of course, it ends with a tasting session. Best for: Foodies and groups. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. €8-10. Getting there: Located in the business district, walkable from the bus station. Tip: Book your Jan Becher Museum tasting tour slot online to avoid waiting.
3. Name: Elizabeth Baths (Alžbětiny lázně) Type: Spa Experience Why go: Named after Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), this is one of the grandest public spa houses. It offers a wide range of medical and relaxing treatments. You can enjoy a bubble bath, massage, or swim in the large pool without staying at a hotel. Best for: Relaxation and wellness. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 1–3 hours. Cost: Varies by treatment; pool is affordable. Getting there: Located in the park near the post office. Tip: See our guide on Elizabeth Baths spa treatments to choose the right procedure.

Worthwhile Day Trips Near Karlovy Vary

If you have an extra half-day, step outside the city. The surrounding region of West Bohemia is full of castles and nature. Public transport is reliable, making short trips easy to execute. One destination stands out as an essential companion to your spa visit.

• Name: Loket Castle (Hrad Loket) Type: Day Trip/Castle Why go: Just 15km away, this massive gothic castle sits on a granite rock surrounded by the Ohře river. It looks like a fairy tale fortress. The town of Loket is charming, walkable, and much quieter than Karlovy Vary. You can explore torture chambers, castle halls, and porcelain collections. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Town of Loket. Time: 3–4 hours (including travel). Cost: Entrance approx. €6-8. Getting there: Frequent bus or train from Karlovy Vary (20 mins). Tip: Visit the castle terrace for a stunning view of the river bend that gave the town its name (Loket means "Elbow").