Things to Do In Karlovy Vary

An Overview of Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary, which translates to “Charles’ Bath” was named for Charles IV, the King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor. He founded the city in 1370.

Modern Karlovy Vary is a soothing retreat in the hills of the Czech Republic. It’s famous for it’s cobbled roads, whimsical, bright buildings and numerous hot springs. There are 13 main hot springs scattered throughout the town and an additional 300 small hot springs within the territory. The city center and spa cultural landscapes are well-preserved and protected as an urban monument reservation site.

Visitors in Karlovy Vary can soak in baths, but one of the most popular activities involves using the traditional ceramic “sipping cups.” These small, decorated containers are used to safely pull steaming water from the various hot-spring-drinking-fountains throughout the city.

Things to Do In Karlovy Vary

Mill Colonnade

This is one of the major stopping points for Karlovy Vary. The site is popular with tourists and locals alike as a place to drunk natural hot spring waters. Here, a unique series of pillars and roadways pass various famous hot springs through the center Karlovy Vary.

Market Colonnade

This is a secondary, popular zone of hot springs within the spa town. The Market Colonnade is an elegant, white-trimmed building of Bohemian design. The open colonnade, freely accessible to the public, has 3 mineral-spring drinking-water fountains

Vřídelní Kolonáda

A stunning little hot spring with cooling taps for convenient visitor sipping and consumption. The taps are unique, appearing as clear pillars with stainless steel spouts around low brick circles. The concrete structure allows for bathing, cooled drinking water and active geyser displays.

 Diana Funicular Railway

This is a steep funicular leading from the southern portion of the town into the high hills surrounding Karlovy Vary.  There’s a mid-point where the Funicular stops, which leads to roads that can access other parts of the highlands. The ride provides impressive views overlooking the whimsical architecture of town.

Diana Observation Tower

An impressive and stately overlook peering over the entire valley and the distant mountains. It can easily be reached by taking the funicular. However, there are also several, steep hiking trails leading up to the lookout point.

(Papilonia) Butterfly House Diana Karlovy Vary

A tropical butterfly house with various plants and species of insects from around the world. The small, peaceful pavilion has shallow pools and artificial stone walls within. It’s located right next to the Minizoo Diana and Diana Observation Tower.

Rozhledna – Vyhlídka Karla IV.  (Tower View of Charles IV)

A study red-brick spire which overlooks the surrounding hills. The tower makes a good waypoint when hiking through the various foothills above Karlovy Vary. One popular hiking route includes visiting the Grandhotel Pupp before heading towards Tower Charles IV., Deer Jump, Diana Tower and the Russian Orthodox Church. The route eventually loops back into Karlovy Vary.

 Chopinova Chata

This overlook found on the various footpaths around Karlovy Vary has a quiet and slightly hidden resting point for hikers. The humble structure is a truly gorgeous open-air waypoint and landmark.

Vyhlídka Rusalčina Chata Observation Deck

This is a large wooden observation platform offering views facing the opposite direction of Karlovy Vary. The overlook gazes into into the green mountain wilderness to the south.

Obora Svatý Linhart

This is a short, well-maintained walking trail following a wooden boardwalk where local wildlife can be observed. It crosses through a lush national forest with small ponds and enclosed meadows.

Lávka u Divočáků

This area is part of a small and beautiful hiking area and wildlife park.  Wild pigs, deer, local birds and other animals can be sighted on this trail.

Peter the Great Lookout

This is a steep, somewhat rocky lookout which stares directly over the most beautiful and historic buildings of Karlovy Vary. The view offers great angles looking down the central shopping area and long canal spaces. On cold days, steam from the various outdoor hot springs can be sighted from above.

Park Colonnade

A pleasant walking park with an extended gazebo and many musicians plying their craft. The Park Colonnade is home to a photogenic, ornate covered walkway made of painted cast iron,  The park also has a mineral spring, various gardens, a duck pond, views of the central Teplá River and a small picnic area.

Sklenený Obelisk

This is a rather beautiful blue, glass obelisk created in front of picturesque historic buildings

Smetana Orchard

A pleasant walkway leading to a gorgeous spa building and reasonably priced public swimming pool. The entire site uses an inflow of hot spring water. Visitors can also drink water from special taps at the facility.

Loket Castle

Located about 12 kilometers away from Karlovy Vary, this is a massive fortification built upon a high, rocky cliff in the town of Loket. The Castle is protected on three sides by the Ohře River and once held the title “The Impregnable Castle of Bohemia” due to it’s advanced fortifications. It’s considered one of the most valuable preserved historical sites in Czech lands. The Castle is home to the yearly Opera Festival performed by the Czech National Opera.

Jan Becher Museum

This building is a combination of museum, historic site, architectural gem and visitor center. The museum aspect is charming with various tidbits and facts regarding Karlovy Vary. Tours and explanations are offered in English. The site is also home to a small restaurant, especially well known for schnapps and Becherovka. The schnapps are served in signiture crystal shot glasses with bottled water from the various hot springs around town.

Museum of Glass MOSER

This popular museum located in central Karlovy Vary is known for glassblowing demonstrations and exhibits of historical glass-crafting pieces. The factory itself is housed in a beautiful building with numerous crystals on display. While the crystals and glassworks are masterful, they’re somewhat expensive. However, the staff is very accommodating and allows guests to take pictures of the artworks.

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