Quick Picks for Your Trip

Short on time? Use these quick recommendations to find the right vista for your schedule. Each spot offers a unique perspective on the city's famous skyline.

• Best Overall: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) for a full panoramic view.
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower due to the funicular access.
• Best Free Option: Deer Jump (Jelení skok) which is close to the center.
• Best for Solitude: Findlater’s Temple, located deep in the woods.

The Best Secret Viewpoints Karlovy Vary Has to Offer

The spa woods feature over 100 kilometers of well-marked walking paths. These trails were built for 19th-century aristocrats who wanted to exercise in nature. Today, they lead to romantic arbours and sturdy stone towers. Here are the top secret viewpoints Karlovy Vary visitors should explore.

1. Name: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) Type: viewpoint Why go: This spot offers a classic postcard view of the entire valley. Three massive wooden crosses stand here as a symbol of the town's history. Best for: Sunset photography and history buffs. Where: On the hill above the Thermal Hotel. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from the city center or use this trail map. Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the whole city in one frame.
2. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Tower Type: sight Why go: A stunning Neo-Gothic tower that looks like a fairy-tale castle. It is the highest point in the immediate area. Best for: Architecture lovers and hikers. Where: On the eastern edge of the city forest. Time: 3 hours (including the hike). Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Check this guide on how to hike to Goethe's Lookout. Tip: The tower often has a small cafe open during the summer months.
3. Name: Peter the Great Viewpoint Type: experience Why go: Named after the Russian Tsar who climbed here on a horse. It features a small wooden chapel and a great view of the Westend district. Best for: A quick uphill walk from the springs. Where: Near the Westend residential area. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Peter the Great monument through the Westend district. Tip: Look for the old carvings in the rocks near the chapel.
4. Name: Charles IV Lookout Tower Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest lookout tower in Karlovy Vary. It was built in 1877 and resembles a medieval fortress. Best for: Panoramic views of the Ore Mountains. Where: On the southern ridge of the spa woods. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the funicular to the Diana station and walk about 15 minutes. Tip: The climb up the tower stairs is narrow but worth the effort.
5. Name: Mayer’s Gloriette Type: experience Why go: A quiet wooden gazebo that overlooks the Teplá River. It is much less crowded than the nearby Deer Jump. Best for: Couples seeking a romantic and quiet spot. Where: Located between Deer Jump and the Diana Tower. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: This is an excellent spot to read a book while overlooking the city.
6. Name: Camera Obscura Type: sight Why go: A unique wooden arbour designed to frame specific views of the city. It acts like a natural picture frame. Best for: Creative photography and peaceful meditation. Where: In the woods above the Imperial Hotel. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the forest paths from the Teplá River bank. Tip: Visit during the autumn to see the frame surrounded by colorful leaves.
7. Name: Findlater’s Temple Type: sight Why go: A classical semi-circular arbour dedicated to a Scottish Earl. It offers a very secluded view of the valley. Best for: Avoiding all tourist crowds. Where: Deep in the forest near the Březová reservoir. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike the green trail starting near the Gallery of Art. Tip: The path can be steep, so wear sturdy hiking shoes.
8. Name: Deer Jump (Jelení skok) Type: sight Why go: The most famous statue in the city, a metal chamois. It marks the spot where the springs were legendary discovered. Best for: First-time visitors and iconic photos. Where: Directly above the Market Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the steep stairs from the center or take the funicular. Tip: There is a restaurant nearby that serves traditional Czech snacks.
9. Name: Petrohrad Viewpoint Type: experience Why go: Offers a unique perspective of the residential parts of Karlovy Vary. You can see the colorful villas from a high angle. Best for: Seeing the local side of the city. Where: On the hill above the main train station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the residential streets near the station. Tip: This spot is best visited in the morning for the best light.

Scenic Day Trips Near Karlovy Vary

If you have extra time, the surrounding countryside offers even more vistas. These locations are just a short drive or bus ride away. They provide a deeper look into the Bohemian landscape.

1. Name: Andělská Hora Ruins Type: day trip Why go: These castle ruins sit on a massive basalt rock. The view from the top stretches for miles across the rolling hills. Best for: History lovers and sunset seekers. Where: About 10 km east of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free to explore the ruins. Getting there: Follow this Andělská Hora guide for bus details. Tip: The village at the base of the hill is very charming and worth a walk.
2. Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) Type: day trip Why go: Impressive granite rock formations that resemble a wedding procession. You can see them from a bridge or climb nearby trails. Best for: Nature lovers and active travelers. Where: Along the Ohře River valley. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use our Svatoš Rocks hike guide for the best route. Tip: Rent a bike in Karlovy Vary and cycle there along the river path.

Practical Tips for Exploring the Spa Woods

Exploring the secret viewpoints Karlovy Vary offers is easy with a little planning. The trails are exceptionally well-maintained by the city forest service. You should look for the color-coded markers on trees and posts. These paths are usually safe, but they can be slippery after rain. Many trails are also suitable for mountain biking.

For local transport, the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary operates buses and funiculars. The Diana funicular is the easiest way to gain elevation quickly. It runs every 15 minutes during the peak season. If you prefer walking, start your journey early in the morning. This helps you avoid the midday heat and the larger groups of hikers.

Always carry a bottle of water, though you can refill it at the springs. The mineral water is safe to drink and full of healthy minerals. Check the official tourism site for any trail closures. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the forest paths. Most of the secret viewpoints are free to access year-round.