Must-See Sights in the Historic Center

The main square is the heart of Cheb. It is called King George of Poděbrady Square. This area features colorful merchant houses and cobblestone streets. It is perfect for photography and slow walks. Many of these buildings date back to the 13th century. You can feel the medieval history as you explore. This square is one of the best day trips near Karlovy Vary for history lovers.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Špalíček
• Best for families: Cheb Castle
• Best rainy-day: Retromuseum
• Best free: Franciscan Gardens

1. Name: Špalíček Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is a unique complex of eleven medieval merchant houses. They are divided by a narrow alley called Kramářská. It is the most famous symbol of the city. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: King George of Poděbrady Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Walk to the center of the main square. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the timber-framed walls.
2. Name: King George of Poděbrady Square Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This vast square is lined with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. It hosts seasonal markets and local events. The atmosphere is lively and authentic. Best for: People watching and local culture. Where: Central Cheb. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the train station. Tip: Grab a coffee at a sidewalk cafe to enjoy the view.
3. Name: Museum of Cheb Type: Museum Why go: It is located in the historic Pachelbel House. This is where the famous general Albrecht von Wallenstein was murdered in 1634. The exhibits cover local history and art. Best for: Learning about the Thirty Years' War. Where: North side of the main square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Located directly on the square. Tip: Look for the original 17th-century furniture in the Wallenstein room.
4. Name: Gabler House Type: Sight Why go: This building features a stunning Rococo facade. it is one of the most decorative houses in the square. It shows the wealth of medieval Cheb merchants. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: King George of Poděbrady Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: North-west corner of the square. Tip: Pay attention to the intricate details around the window frames.

Beyond the historic Špalíček sightseeing in Cheb square

Cheb offers more than just its central square. Just a short walk away, you will find massive fortifications. The town was a strategic fortress for centuries. You can explore ancient churches and quiet monastery gardens. These spots offer a break from the main tourist paths. Always check Cheb castle admission prices and hours before you head out. This ensures you do not miss the interior tours.

1. Name: Cheb Castle Type: Sight Why go: This is a rare example of a Staufen imperial palace. It features the famous Black Tower made of volcanic stone. The double-decker chapel is a Gothic masterpiece. Best for: Medieval history and views. Where: 5 minutes north of the square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walk down Hradní street from the square. Tip: Climb the Black Tower for the best panoramic view of the town.
2. Name: St. Nicholas Church Type: Sight Why go: This massive Gothic church dominates the skyline. It has two tall towers and a beautiful interior. It was rebuilt several times after fire and war damage. Best for: Spiritual reflection and architecture. Where: Kostelní Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Two blocks from the main square. Tip: Check the local schedule for organ concerts held inside.
3. Name: Retromuseum Cheb Type: Unique experience Why go: This museum focuses on design and lifestyle from the 1960s to the 1980s. It showcases furniture, cars, and household items from the socialist era. It is very nostalgic and colorful. Best for: Families and design fans. Where: Next to the Museum of Cheb. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Access from the main square. Tip: It is a great place to visit if it starts raining.
4. Name: Franciscan Monastery and Gardens Type: Indoor/Garden Why go: The monastery features a beautiful Gothic cloister. The adjacent gardens are a peaceful oasis in the city center. It is a perfect place to relax. Best for: Quiet moments and relaxation. Where: Františkánské Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for gardens; small fee for cloister. Getting there: West of the main square. Tip: Visit in late spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

Best Day Trips and Nature Near Cheb

If you have extra time, explore the outskirts of Cheb. The surrounding landscape is full of surprises. You can visit extinct volcanoes or historic towers. These locations are easy to reach by car or local train. Many visitors combine Cheb with a Loket castle day trip for a full medieval experience. The region is well-connected and easy to navigate.

1. Name: Bismark Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Located on Green Mountain, this stone tower offers views into Germany. It is surrounded by lush forests. The hike to the top is gentle and scenic. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: 4 km west of Cheb. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green hiking trail from the town edge. Tip: Bring water as there are no shops at the tower.
2. Name: Maria Loreto Type: Day trip Why go: This pilgrimage site in Starý Hrozňatov is a Baroque gem. It was recently restored and looks stunning. The site includes a chapel and a large cloister. Best for: History and religious art. Where: Starý Hrozňatov village. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: 10-minute drive or local bus from Cheb. Tip: Check the opening hours as they vary by season.
3. Name: Komorní Hůrka Type: Nature Why go: This is the youngest extinct volcano in the Czech Republic. Even Johann Wolfgang von Goethe studied this site. It is a small but fascinating geological landmark. Best for: Science fans and curious walkers. Where: Between Cheb and Františkovy Lázně. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short drive or a long walk from the center. Tip: Look for the relief of Goethe carved into the rock face.