Quick Guide to Castles Near the Spa City

If you have limited time, choosing the right destination is key. Some sites are better for children, while others suit photography fans. Use these quick picks to plan your day trips near Karlovy Vary efficiently.

• Best Overall: Loket Castle (Medieval atmosphere and easy access).
• Best for History: Bečov nad Teplou (Home to a golden reliquary).
• Best for Nature: Andělská Hora (Stunning views from the ruins).
• Best for Families: Seeberg Castle (Interactive exhibits and farm history).

The region is part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers more than just water. Exploring the nearby countryside adds depth to your Czech vacation.

10 Best Castles Near Karlovy Vary to Visit

West Bohemia features a dense concentration of historical monuments. Most are accessible within an hour from the city center. Here are the best castles near Karlovy Vary for your 2026 itinerary.

1. Name: Loket Castle Type: Medieval Fortress Why go: It is one of the most beautiful stone castles in Central Europe. The town and castle are surrounded by the Ohře River. Best for: Families and photography lovers. Where: Loket town. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 150-200 CZK). Getting there: 15-minute drive or 20-minute bus from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Book a Loket Castle day trip to see the infamous torture museum in the basement.
2. Name: Bečov nad Teplou Type: Castle and Chateau Complex Why go: It houses the Reliquary of Saint Maurus, the second most valuable gold item in the country. The complex features both a medieval ruin and a Baroque palace. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Bečov nad Teplou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by tour type. Getting there: 25-minute drive or direct train. Tip: Visit the Bečov nad Teplou castle website to book the reliquary tour in advance.
3. Name: Kynžvart Chateau Type: Neoclassical Palace Why go: This was the summer residence of Chancellor Metternich. It contains a massive library and a unique cabinet of curiosities. Best for: Art and book lovers. Where: Lázně Kynžvart. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40-minute drive. Tip: A Kynžvart Chateau visit is perfect when combined with a walk in the English-style park.
4. Name: Cheb Castle Type: Imperial Palace (Pfalz) Why go: It is the only representative of the Hohenstaufen imperial palace style in the Czech Republic. The Black Tower is a local landmark. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Cheb. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: 45-minute drive or train. Tip: Use a Cheb medieval town guide to find the best local restaurants after your tour.
5. Name: Hauenštejn (Horní Hrad) Type: Romantic Castle Ruin Why go: A private owner is currently restoring this castle. It has a very authentic and rugged atmosphere. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Stráž nad Ohří. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: 30-minute drive. Tip: Check for local festivals or night tours often held in summer.
6. Name: Seeberg Castle (Ostroh) Type: Romanesque-Gothic Castle Why go: It offers a look into the life of the Egerland rural population. The interiors feature beautiful period furniture. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Ostroh near Františkovy Lázně. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 50-minute drive. Tip: Visit the nearby Visit Czechia portal for seasonal event dates.
7. Name: Chyše Chateau Type: Neo-Gothic Manor Why go: Famous writer Karel Čapek once worked here as a tutor. It also features a functioning manor brewery. Best for: Beer lovers and literature fans. Where: Chyše. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 40-minute drive east. Tip: Try the local "Prokop" beer at the chateau restaurant.
8. Name: Valeč Chateau Type: Baroque Complex Why go: The gardens are filled with stunning statues by Matthias Bernard Braun. The palace itself is undergoing a unique "open restoration." Best for: Garden walks and art. Where: Valeč. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low/Donation based for grounds. Getting there: 40-minute drive. Tip: The park is accessible year-round and is very peaceful.
9. Name: Andělská Hora Type: Castle Ruin Why go: It sits on a high basalt rock. The views of the Doupov Mountains are the best in the region. Best for: Hikers and sunset watchers. Where: Andělská Hora village. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute drive or local bus. Tip: This is one of the top historic ruins to visit near Karlovy Vary.
10. Name: Starý Rybník Type: Gothic Ruin and Chateau Why go: It features a unique combination of a medieval ruin and a later chateau standing side-by-side. It is a hidden gem away from tourists. Best for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers. Where: Skalná. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: 50-minute drive. Tip: This site is among the best castles within one hour of Karlovy Vary for quiet reflection.

Planning Your Castle Tours from Karlovy Vary

Visiting the best castles near Karlovy Vary requires some planning. While buses and trains are available, a car offers the most flexibility. Many sites are located in small villages with infrequent public transport.

Check the opening hours before you leave. Most Czech castles are closed on Mondays. The main season runs from April to October. Some sites, like Loket, stay open during winter weekends.

You can find more information at the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism office. They provide maps and updated bus schedules. Always carry some Czech Koruna for smaller entrance fees or snacks.

Consider grouping your visits by direction. For example, Cheb and Seeberg are very close to each other. This saves time and allows you to see more in one day.