Top 10 Things to Do in Karlovy Vary

There are many amazing places to see in this historic spa city. You can enjoy thermal springs, mountain views, and local museums. This list includes the best experiences for your 2026 itinerary.

• Best overall: Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glassworks
• Best free: Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: This is the oldest Russian Orthodox church in the country. It features five stunning gold-plated domes and beautiful Byzantine-style architecture. Best for: History and architecture lovers. Where: Westend district. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Small donation (approx. 50 CZK). Getting there: Walk up from the city center or take bus 4. Tip: Read about the history of the church before your visit to appreciate the details.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It has 124 Corinthian columns and houses five mineral springs. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: City center along the Tepla River. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Check out the Mill Colonnade guide for spring details.
3. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: Experience Why go: It houses the Vridlo geyser. This spring shoots water up to 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Heart of the spa zone. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from the town center. Tip: You can take an underground tour to see the spring's pipes.
4. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the city and forests. There is a funicular that takes you to the top. Best for: Families and photographers. Where: On a hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee; tower entry is free. Getting there: Take the funicular from Marianska street. Tip: Follow the Diana Tower guide for the best hiking trails back down.
5. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." You can watch master glassblowers at work in the foundry. Best for: Craft enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jarose street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approx. 300 CZK for a tour. Getting there: Bus 1, 2, or 22 from the center. Tip: Book your tour in advance as they fill up quickly.
6. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Neighborhood/Iconic Why go: This is one of the most famous hotels in Europe. It has hosted movie stars and royalty for centuries. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside; café prices vary. Getting there: Walk to the end of the main promenade. Tip: Visit the café for a slice of Pupp cake.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Unique local experience Why go: Learn about Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. The museum is located in the original production building. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK (includes tasting). Getting there: Walk from the main bus station. Tip: The museum shop offers limited edition bottles.
8. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: See the famous statue of a chamois. It is the symbol of Karlovy Vary. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Forested hills above the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up the forest paths from the colonnades. Tip: The paths are steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
9. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Architecture Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure built in Swiss style. It covers the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Near the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the central spa area. Tip: Look for the relief carving depicting the city's founding.
10. Name: Imperial Baths Type: History Why go: This building was once the most modern spa facility in the world. Its architecture is incredibly grand and ornate. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Entry fee for exhibitions. Getting there: Use the local bus system managed by Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary. Tip: Check for concerts held in the main hall.

Guide to the Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul

The Orthodox Church of St Peter and Paul is a masterpiece of design. It was built between 1893 and 1897. The church served the wealthy Russian nobility who visited the spa. Its design was inspired by a church in Ostankino near Moscow.

The exterior features rich decorations and five golden domes. Inside, you will find a beautiful wooden iconostasis. This was originally made for the World Exhibition in Paris in 1900. The walls are covered with paintings and religious icons.

Visiting this church offers a quiet moment away from the busy center. It sits in the Westend district, which is full of grand villas. To plan your entry, check the official opening hours. Remember that this is an active place of worship.

Planning Your Visit to Karlovy Vary in 2026

Karlovy Vary is easy to reach from Prague. You can take a bus or a train for a day trip. However, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the quiet evenings. Many visitors prefer the spring and autumn months for cooler weather.

When you arrive, consider buying a Karlovy Vary Region Card. This card offers free entry to many sights. It also includes free travel on local public transport. You can find more info on the official tourism site.

Always respect the local spa culture. Drinking the mineral water is a ritual here. Most people use small porcelain cups with a spout. You can buy these at any local souvenir stall. Be sure to try the water from different springs.