Quick Picks: The Best Viewpoints in Karlovy Vary

Are you in a hurry to find the perfect photo spot? Karlovy Vary offers many different types of vistas. Some are easy to reach, while others require a bit of effort. Here are our top recommendations for different types of travelers.

• Best Overall: Diana Observation Tower (Great views and easy funicular access).
• Best for Families: Diana Tower (Includes a mini-zoo and butterfly house).
• Best for Sunset: Three Crosses (Wide views facing the evening sun).
• Best Free Spot: Deer Jump (Iconic statue with a classic city backdrop).
• Best Rainy Day: Imperial Hotel Terrace (Covered spots and elegant atmosphere).

Before you head out, make sure you have explored the other things to do in Karlovy Vary. Many viewpoints are located near famous spa springs. You can easily combine a morning hike with an afternoon of relaxation. This city is part of the UNESCO Great Spa Towns of Europe. The views help you understand why this location is so special.

The 10 Best Viewpoints in Karlovy Vary to Visit

The following list covers the most impressive spots in and around the city. Each location offers a unique perspective on the valley. We have included practical details to help you plan your route. Most of these spots are open year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most vibrant colors.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Sight/Activity Why go: This is the most famous lookout in the city. It offers a 35-meter high platform with 360-degree views. Best for: Families 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 Diana funicular from the station near the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit the Butterfly House located right next to the tower.
2. Name: Deer Jump (Jelení skok) Type: Experience Why go: This is the oldest lookout structure in the city. It features a famous metal statue of a chamois goat. Best for: Iconic photos of the city center. Where: Forest trails between Diana Tower and the town. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the forest paths from Diana Tower or climb up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The path is steep, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip.
3. Name: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It offers a dramatic view of the entire valley. The three large wooden crosses represent the town's history. Best for: Sunset photography and quiet reflection. Where: On the hill opposite the Diana Tower. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up the yellow-marked trail from the city center. Tip: Bring a snack to enjoy while watching the sun go down over the spa district.
4. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Type: Sight Why go: A neo-Gothic tower that looks like a fairy tale castle. It is the highest point in the immediate area. Best for: Architecture lovers and hikers. Where: The eastern edge of the city forest. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Take bus number 8 or hike through the forest trails. Tip: Check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website for the latest bus schedules.
5. Name: Charles IV Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: A brick tower built in 1877 that resembles a medieval watchtower. It offers views of the Ore Mountains. Best for: Escaping the crowds. Where: Southern forest trails. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green trail from the Ecumenical Chapel. Tip: This spot is very peaceful and rarely crowded even in peak season.
6. Name: Peter the Great Lookout Type: Sight Why go: Named after the Russian Tsar who climbed here on a horse. It features a bust of the Tsar and great views of the Teplá river. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Deer Jump lookout. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the forest paths above the city center. Tip: Look for the commemorative plaque explaining the Tsar's legendary visit.
7. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: The gold domes of this Orthodox Church are stunning from the street level. The view from the nearby road looks down on the valley. Best for: Architectural photography. Where: Westend district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside; small donation to enter. Getting there: A 15-minute walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Visit in the morning when the sun hits the golden domes perfectly.
8. Name: Imperial Hotel Terrace Type: Experience Why go: The hotel looks like a castle on a hill. Its terrace provides a luxury view of the city. Best for: A romantic evening or coffee with a view. Where: Libušina street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a drink or meal. Getting there: Take the Imperial funicular from the theater square. Tip: This is a great place to rest after a long day of walking.
9. Name: Mayer’s Gloriette Type: Viewpoint Why go: A small wooden pavilion offering a framed view of the city's spires. Best for: Quick stops during a forest walk. Where: On the trail between Deer Jump and Diana Tower. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the well-marked forest paths. Tip: It is a great spot to hide from a sudden rain shower.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A massive stone castle perched on a rock. The view from the castle tower shows the Eger river and the medieval town. Best for: A full day of exploration. Where: 12km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Entry fee for the castle. Getting there: Take a short train or bus ride for a day trip to Loket Castle. Tip: Visit the torture chamber museum inside the castle if you enjoy dark history.

Tips for Hiking to Karlovy Vary Viewpoints

Walking to the best viewpoints in Karlovy Vary requires some preparation. The city is famous for its steep hills and winding paths. Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. However, the terrain can be uneven in the forest areas. We recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes with good support. Do not attempt the steeper trails in flip-flops or high heels.

If you want to save your energy, use the local transport system. The funiculars are a great way to reach high points quickly. You can check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for maps. Many visitors take the funicular up and walk down. This allows you to see several viewpoints without getting too tired. Always carry a bottle of water with you.

While hiking, you can also enjoy the famous drinking cure. Fill your porcelain cup at a spring before you start your climb. The mineral water is said to provide energy and health benefits. After your hike, reward yourself with some traditional Karlovy Vary spa wafers. They are light, sweet, and perfect for a quick snack on the go.

Planning Your Karlovy Vary Photography Route

To get the best photos, timing is everything. Most viewpoints face west or south. This means the afternoon and evening offer the best lighting. The "Golden Hour" before sunset makes the yellow and pink buildings glow. If you visit during the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, expect crowds. During this time, the viewpoints offer a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

A popular route starts at the colonnades. From the Market Colonnade, follow the signs toward Deer Jump. From there, continue up to the Diana Observation Tower. This route passes several smaller lookouts and historic markers. It takes about two hours at a steady pace. You will see the city from many different angles along this path.

For a different perspective, head to the Three Crosses hill. This side of the valley is less developed and more natural. You can see the grand hotels and the river winding through the town. For more travel inspiration, visit the Visit Czechia website. They have excellent resources for planning trips across the Czech Republic. Remember to check the weather forecast before heading into the forest lookouts.