Essential Sights & Thermal Springs

No trip here is complete without experiencing the heart of the spa culture. The city center is lined with ornate colonnades that house mineral springs. These structures are architectural marvels and social hubs. Walking between them is the most popular activity in town.

You will see locals and tourists alike strolling with unique sipping cups. This tradition has been around for centuries. Be prepared to walk a lot, as the best way to see these sights is on foot.

1. Name: The Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Built in a Neo-Renaissance style, it houses five different mineral springs. The majestic columns make for incredible photos. Read our full walking tour guide here. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds.
2. Name: The Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda) Type: Nature/Sight Why go: It houses the Vřídlo geyser, which shoots hot water up to 12 meters high. You can breathe in the mineral-rich steam inside the glass hall. It is a unique natural phenomenon tamed by architecture. Best for: Wellness seekers. Where: Divadelní náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free entrance (tours of the underground cost extra). Tip: Be careful with the water here; it is extremely hot (72°C/161°F).
3. Name: The Market Colonnade Type: Historic Sight Why go: This intricate wooden structure is famous as the place where Charles IV healed his legs. It offers a stunning visual contrast to the stone colonnades nearby. The white intricate woodwork is beautiful at sunset. Best for: History buffs. Where: Tržiště. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Try the Charles IV Spring located here.
4. Name: The Snake Spring (Hadí pramen) Type: Experience Why go: Located in the Park Colonnade, this spring has a distinct snake-shaped spout. It is cooler than the main geyser and easier to drink for beginners. Following the drinking cure is a must-do ritual. Learn how to follow the cure properly. Best for: Curious tasters. Where: Sadová kolonáda. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Buy a traditional porcelain cup as a souvenir before you start tasting.

Best Views & Cultural Experiences

Once you have seen the springs, look up toward the forested hills surrounding the valley. Karlovy Vary offers excellent hiking and viewpoints just minutes from the center. These spots provide a fresh perspective on the winding river and colorful buildings.

The city is also home to world-renowned glass and liquor brands. Visiting their factories or museums gives you insight into Czech craftsmanship. It is a perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon or a cultural morning.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: The view from the top is arguably the best in the region. You can see the entire spa valley and into the Ore Mountains. A funicular makes getting there effortless. Check our guide on the funicular ride. Best for: Panoramas and families. Where: Vrch přátelství (Friendship Hill). Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Free tower entry; Funicular is ~150 CZK roundtrip. Tip: Walk back down through the forest trails if you have good shoes.
2. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum/Tour Why go: Moser glass is known as the "Glass of Kings." You can watch master glassblowers shape molten glass in the heat of the furnaces. The museum displays over 160 years of artistic history. See why the tour is worth it. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46/19. Time: 2 hours. Cost: ~350 CZK for tour and museum. Getting there: Bus No. 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Book your factory tour in advance as spots fill up.
3. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum/Tasting Why go: Becherovka is the famous herbal liqueur of the Czech Republic. Locals often jokingly call it the "13th spring" of Karlovy Vary. The tour includes a history of the secret recipe and a tasting session. Read about the tasting experience here. Best for: Foodies and adults. Where: T. G. Masaryka 57. Time: 1 hour. Cost: ~250 CZK. Tip: The gift shop sells unique bottles you can't find elsewhere.
4. Name: Deer Leap Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the site of the iconic Chamois statue overlooking the city. It is one of the most photographed spots in Karlovy Vary. The hike up is steep but rewarding. Find other great viewpoints here. Best for: Instagram shots. Where: Above the Stará Louka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: You can reach it easily from the intermediate funicular station.

Relaxation, Food & Day Trips

You cannot leave a spa town without trying a treatment or a local snack. The pace here is slower, designed for recuperation. Take time to sit in a park or enjoy a warm wafer.

If you have an extra day, the surrounding region is full of castles and nature. A short trip out of the city adds variety to your itinerary. It places the grandeur of the spa town in context with the region's history.

1. Name: Spa Wafer Tasting Type: Food Experience Why go: Immense, thin, round wafers are the traditional snack of the city. You can buy them fresh and warm from street vendors. They come in flavors like hazelnut, vanilla, and chocolate. Discover where to buy the best ones. Best for: Everyone. Where: Street stands near colonnades. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: ~20 CZK per piece. Tip: Eat them while they are still warm for the best texture.
2. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: Its golden domes and blue roof stand out against the green hills. The interior is richly decorated with icons and majestic artwork. It reflects the strong historical connection between the wealthy elite and the town. Best for: Cultural insight. Where: Krále Jiřího street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Donation suggested. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the church.
3. Name: Thermal Spa Treatment Type: Activity Why go: Many hotels offer baths in the local thermal water or massages. It is the ultimate way to relax after walking the hills. You don't always need to be a hotel guest to book a procedure. Check our guide to top treatments. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Elizabeth Baths or major hotels. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Varies (approx 800+ CZK). Tip: Try the "Elizabeth Baths" for a traditional, public experience.
4. Name: Loket Castle (Hrad Loket) Type: Day Trip Why go: Just a few kilometers away, this medieval castle sits on a dramatic granite rock. The town of Loket is like a miniature Prague without the crowds. The castle tour includes a torture chamber and porcelain collection. Plan your day trip to Loket. Best for: History adventurers. Where: Loket town (14km away). Time: Half-day. Cost: ~150 CZK entry. Getting there: Train or bus (20 mins). Tip: The view from the castle tower over the Ohře river is spectacular.

Practical Tips for Visiting Karlovy Vary

Planning your visit requires knowing a few logistics. Karlovy Vary is a walkable city, but it is also hilly outside the main valley. Comfortable shoes are your most important packing item.

Transportation within the city is reliable. The local transport authority operates pleasant bus routes to outer attractions like Moser. Check the DPKV website for schedules and ticket prices. Most visitors arrive by bus or train from Prague, which takes about two hours.

The city sparkles year-round, but spring and autumn offer the best weather for hiking. Being a UNESCO World Heritage site, it maintains high standards for preservation. Respect the quiet zones near the springs and spas.