The Legacy of Charles IV in Karlovy Vary

Charles IV was not just an Emperor; he was a visionary for the Czech lands. He recognized the healing power of the local thermal springs early on. The city was officially founded around 1370 under his royal decree. His presence is still felt in the Gothic remains scattered throughout the modern spa center. Visitors often start their journey by learning about these historical places in Karlovy Vary to understand the city's roots.

The original hunting lodge built by the Emperor no longer exists in its full form. However, the remaining tower stands as a symbol of his enduring legacy. It represents the transition from a medieval hunting outpost to a world-class wellness destination. The city has survived fires and floods, yet the spirit of its founder remains. Exploring this history helps you appreciate the grand colonnades and luxury hotels you see today.

Karlovy Vary is now part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe UNESCO listing. This recognition highlights the city's global importance in spa culture and architecture. You can see the blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles in every corner. Most travelers find that the story of Charles IV adds a layer of magic to their stay. It is the perfect starting point for any historical walking tour.

12 Historic Sights Including Castle Tower Karlovy Vary Charles IV

Karlovy Vary offers a wealth of landmarks that tell the story of European nobility. From thermal halls to hilltop towers, each site has a unique tale. Here are the top 12 spots you must see to fully experience the city's heritage. Use this list to plan your daily walks through the historic spa zone.

• Best overall: Castle Tower
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free activity: Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Castle Tower Type: Sight Why go: It is the only remnant of the original 14th-century hunting lodge. Best for: History buffs. Where: Above the Market Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside; small fee for exhibitions. Getting there: Walk up the stairs from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Look for the relief depicting the legend of the spring's discovery.
2. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Experience Why go: This wooden structure houses the "Charles IV Spring" where the Emperor supposedly bathed. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Historic center near the river. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central walking zone. Tip: Check out the Market Colonnade wooden architecture details during sunset.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest colonnade in the city with 124 Corinthian columns. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: Along the Teplá River. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main pedestrian path from the center. Tip: Read our Mill Colonnade history guide to identify the statues on the roof.
4. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Type: Experience Why go: See the 12-meter high geyser of thermal water. Best for: Natural wonders. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the spring; fee for underground tours. Getting there: Located in the modern glass building in the center. Tip: Book the Vridlo hot spring underground tours in advance for 2026.
5. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: On the hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Learn about the Diana observation tower funicular history before riding.
6. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: Sight Why go: A masterpiece of High Baroque architecture by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. Best for: Religious art. Where: Near the Vřídlo spring. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free; donations welcome. Getting there: Easy walk from the main colonnades. Tip: Visit the St. Mary Magdalene Church crypt to see the ossuary.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Local culture. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main bus station. Tip: Use a Jan Becher Museum tour guide to find the best souvenir bottles.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Discover why this glass is known as the "Glass of Kings." Best for: Craftsmanship enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local bus from the center. Tip: The Moser glassworks historical museum shows glassmaking live.
9. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Sight Why go: Famous for its luxury and appearance in films like Casino Royale. Best for: Film fans. Where: End of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view; expensive for tea or stay. Getting there: Walk along the river to the southern end of town. Tip: Check the Grandhotel Pupp historical facts to see which celebrities stayed there.
10. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: Stunning gold domes and intricate Russian-style architecture. Best for: Photographers. Where: Westend district. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Walk uphill through the luxury villa district. Tip: Respect the dress code when entering the Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul.
11. Name: Imperial Spa (Císařské lázně) Type: Sight Why go: Recently renovated, it is one of the most beautiful spa buildings in the world. Best for: Architecture. Where: Near Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate for tours. Getting there: Located at the southern edge of the spa zone. Tip: The Imperial Spa visit is essential for seeing Zander Hall.
12. Name: Park Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: A delicate wrought-iron structure located in a beautiful park. Best for: Relaxing. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the start of the spa zone walking path. Tip: Read the Park Colonnade heritage details on the nearby plaques.

Planning Your Visit to the Castle Tower Area

The Castle Tower Karlovy Vary Charles IV sits in the most historic part of the city. To enjoy it fully, arrive early in the morning. The streets are narrow and can get crowded by midday. Most sites are within walking distance of each other. Comfortable shoes are a must because of the cobblestone streets. You will likely spend most of your time in the pedestrian zone.

Public transport is efficient for reaching outlying areas like the Moser Glassworks. You can check schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. For those arriving by train, the Karlovy Vary railway station is well-connected to Prague. Taxis are available but walking is the best way to see the details. Many visitors enjoy buying a porcelain spa cup to taste the springs along the way.

Dining options near the Castle Tower range from traditional Czech pubs to upscale cafes. Look for restaurants that offer a view of the river for the best atmosphere. Many places accept credit cards, but having some Czech Koruna is helpful for small purchases. Remember that some smaller museums might close on Mondays. Always check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for current event schedules in 2026.