Quick Picks for Karlovy Vary

Looking for a fast recommendation? Karlovy Vary offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you want luxury or nature, you will find it here. Check these quick picks to start your journey.

• Best Overall: The Mill Colonnade for iconic architecture.
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower and the butterfly house.
• Best Free Activity: Walking the forest trails and tasting spring water.
• Best Rainy Day: Moser Glassworks or Jan Becher Museum.

10 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary

The city is packed with history and unique experiences. Most attractions are within walking distance in the main valley. Here are the top ten places you should visit during your stay.

1. Name: Postovni Dvur (Postal Court) Type: experience Why go: It is one of the most beautiful historic buildings in the city. You can enjoy a meal in a ballroom where famous composers once sat. Best for: History lovers and foodies. Where: Southern end of the spa district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to view; meal prices vary. Getting there: Take Bus 2 or walk along the Tepla River. Tip: Always check the current Postal Court Karlovy Vary history to appreciate the site. The opening hours for Postovni Dvur in Karlovy Vary are usually 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five mineral springs. Best for: Photography and sightseeing. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk from any central hotel. Tip: Bring a porcelain spa cup to taste the different waters.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire valley. There is a funicular that takes you to the top. Best for: Views and nature. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Use the funicular near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk down through the forest paths after seeing the view.
4. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: museum Why go: See how world-famous Bohemian crystal is made. You can watch master glassblowers at work in the foundry. Best for: Craftsmanship fans. Where: Kpt. Jarose district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a local bus or taxi from the center. Tip: Book your tour in advance as slots fill up quickly.
5. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. The tour includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults and spirits enthusiasts. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walkable from the terminal. Tip: The gift shop offers unique bottles you can't find elsewhere.
6. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: sight Why go: Witness the Vridlo geyser, which shoots water 12 meters high. You can also explore the Hot Spring underground. Best for: Geothermal wonders. Where: Heart of the spa zone. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free for the geyser; small fee for underground. Getting there: Central walking zone. Tip: The underground tour shows how minerals petrify local souvenirs.
7. Name: St. Peter and Paul Cathedral Type: sight Why go: A stunning Orthodox church with golden domes. It was built for the Russian nobility who visited the spas. Best for: Architecture. Where: Westend district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation requested. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the church.
8. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A delicate white wooden structure built in Swiss style. It houses the Charles IV Spring. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Hot Spring. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking distance from the center. Tip: Look at the relief carving showing the discovery of the springs.
9. Name: Svatoš Rocks Type: nature Why go: Amazing granite rock formations along the Ohre River. It is one of the top hidden spots in Karlovy Vary. Best for: Hiking and climbing. Where: 6km outside the city. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus or bike along the river trail. Tip: There is a nice outdoor cafe nearby for a lunch break.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A medieval fortress overlooking a charming town. It was used as a filming location for James Bond. Best for: History and day trips. Where: 15km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a train or bus from the main station. Tip: Visit the torture museum in the castle basement if you are brave.

Planning Your Visit to Postovni Dvur

Getting around the city is very easy. Most of the spa area is a pedestrian zone. You can enjoy long walks along the river. For longer distances, use the local bus system managed by Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary. The buses are clean and run on time. You can buy tickets via an app or at kiosks.

If you are arriving by train, the station is a bit far from the center. A short bus ride or taxi will get you to the colonnades. The city is very safe for tourists at all hours. Always carry a small amount of local currency (Czech Koruna). While many places take cards, small cafes might prefer cash.