Exploring the Postal Court Karlovy Vary History

The Postal Court, or Poštovní dvůr, was built in 1791. It originally served as a stable for postal horses. Soon, it became the center of social life in the spa town. Famous guests like Goethe and Beethoven spent time here. The building features a stunning Neo-Classicist style that captures the eye. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the city.

Inside, the Festive Hall is the most impressive space. It boasts beautiful frescoes and a grand atmosphere. Many musical performances take place here throughout the year. The venue is surrounded by a peaceful park area. This makes it a perfect stop during a long walk. You can feel the history in every corner of the property.

The site has survived many changes over the decades. It transitioned from a simple station to a luxury social club. Today, it operates as a restaurant and event space. Visitors can enjoy traditional Czech cuisine in a historic setting. It is one of the most photographed buildings in the southern part of town.

12 Historic Landmarks to Visit in Karlovy Vary

Discover the best places to experience the city's unique heritage. These picks include iconic sights, nature, and day trips. Use this list to plan your perfect historical itinerary.

• Best overall: Poštovní dvůr
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Villa Becher
• Best free: Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Poštovní dvůr (Postal Court) Type: Historic site & restaurant Why go: It is a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. Best for: History buffs and foodies. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to view; menu prices vary. Getting there: Walk from the center or take bus 2. Tip: Consider dining at the historic Postal Court restaurant for the full experience.
2. Name: Westend District Type: Neighborhood Why go: This area features stunning 19th-century villas and churches. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: West of the Teplá River. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Follow a Westend residential district walk to see the best mansions.
3. Name: Underground Thermal Tour Type: Unique experience Why go: See the complex pipe systems under the Hot Spring Colonnade. Best for: Curious explorers. Where: Under the Vřídlo Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the very center of the spa area. Tip: Join the Karlovy Vary underground thermal tour for expert insights.
4. Name: Villa Becher Type: Museum/Gallery Why go: It is a beautiful villa housing an interactive art gallery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Easily reachable on foot from the main street. Tip: Visit the Villa Becher interactive gallery to see local creative works.
5. Name: Japanese Garden Type: Nature/Park Why go: A peaceful Zen garden located near the Richmond Hotel. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Near the Richmond Hotel. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the Postal Court towards the park. Tip: The Japanese garden at Parkhotel Richmond is great for quiet meditation.
6. Name: Svatoš Rocks Type: Day trip/Nature Why go: Massive granite rock formations with local legends. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: 7km from the city center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bike or hike along the Ohře River. Tip: Use a Svatoš Rocks hike guide to find the best viewpoints.
7. Name: Andělská Hora Type: Day trip Why go: Dramatic ruins of a Gothic castle on a high rock. Best for: Photographers. Where: 10km east of the city. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a local bus or drive. Tip: An Andělská Hora ruins day trip offers amazing sunset views.
8. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: The largest colonnade in the city with 124 columns. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Main spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central location, pedestrian access only. Tip: Bring your own porcelain cup to taste the springs.
9. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: Home to the Vřídlo spring, which shoots 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Heart of the spa district. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Main walkway in the center. Tip: Check the temperature of the water before sipping!
10. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from the Grandhotel Pupp area. Tip: There is a small butterfly house at the top.
11. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the "Glass of Kings" and watch master blowers. Best for: History and craft fans. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Book the factory tour in advance to see the furnace.
12. Name: Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral Type: Iconic sight Why go: A stunning Orthodox church with golden domes. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Westend district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Respect the dress code when entering the sanctuary.

How to Plan Your Historical Spa City Tour

Karlovy Vary is best explored on foot. Most historical sites are located in the pedestrian zone. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many hills. You can find more info on the official tourism site. This will help you find current event schedules.

Public transport is very efficient for reaching outer landmarks. Buses run frequently from the central station to the spa woods. Check the DPKV website for routes and ticket prices. You can buy tickets via mobile app or at kiosks. This is the easiest way to reach the Moser Glassworks.

For a complete experience, visit during the shoulder seasons. Spring and autumn offer cooler weather and fewer crowds. Many historical venues have limited hours in winter. Always check official websites before your visit. The Visit Czechia portal is a great resource for national travel tips.