Is Goethe’s Lookout Tower Open to the Public Now?

Yes, Goethe’s Lookout Tower is generally open to the public. It underwent a major renovation recently. Today, it serves as both a viewpoint and a seasonal cafe. Visitors can climb the stairs to see the rolling hills of the Slavkov Forest. The tower is a key part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

Opening hours can change based on the season. During summer, the tower and cafe usually open daily. In winter, access may be limited to weekends or closed during bad weather. It is always wise to check the Karlovy Vary tourism site before you walk up. The hike is beautiful, but you want to ensure the gate is open.

The tower stands 42 meters tall. It was built in the late 19th century. Princess Stephanie of Austria originally suggested the location. It was named after Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who loved this city. Today, it remains one of the most unique places in Karlovy Vary for history buffs.

10 Must-See Attractions and Experiences in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary offers more than just spa treatments. From historic towers to glass factories, there is much to explore. Here are the top 10 things to do in and around the city.

• Best overall: Goethe’s Lookout Tower
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glassworks
• Best free: The Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Tower (Goethova vyhlídka) Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a fairytale neo-Gothic design and panoramic forest views. Best for: Hikers and photographers. Where: Výšina věčného mládí hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Hike from the center or take a local bus. Tip: Try the local cake at the tower cafe.
2. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Type: Sight Why go: This is the city's most famous geyser, shooting water 12 meters high. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Walkable from the city center. Tip: Explore the underground thermal spring tour nearby.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides a different perspective of the city and has a funicular access. Best for: Families and those avoiding steep climbs. Where: Near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská street. Tip: Check out our Diana Observation Tower guide for more details.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city, featuring 124 Corinthian columns. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Along the Teplá River. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central pedestrian zone. Tip: Bring a porcelain spa cup to taste the mineral springs here.
5. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum/Experience Why go: See how world-famous Bohemian crystal is made by hand. Best for: Souvenir seekers and craft fans. Where: Kpt. Jaroše district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for tours. Getting there: Take bus number 1, 2, or 22. Tip: Book your tour in advance as they fill up quickly.
6. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum/Experience Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Fee includes a tasting session. Getting there: Near the main bus station. Tip: The museum shop offers limited edition bottles.
7. Name: Deer Leap Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: See the famous statue of a chamois overlooking the town. Best for: Quick nature escapes. Where: Forest paths above the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: This is a great sunset spot for photos.
8. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A massive 12th-century stone castle located in a bend of the Ohře River. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Loket (12km from Karlovy Vary). Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Entry fee for the castle. Getting there: Take a train from the Karlovy Vary railway station. Tip: Visit the torture chamber exhibit if you feel brave.
9. Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) Type: Nature Why go: Granite rock formations that look like a petrified wedding procession. Best for: Climbers and cyclists. Where: Ohře River valley. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cycle or hike along the river path from the city. Tip: There is a nice outdoor restaurant right by the rocks.
10. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure built in the Swiss style. Best for: Quick sightseeing. Where: Near the Vřídlo spring. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central pedestrian area. Tip: Taste the Charles IV Spring located inside.

Planning Your Goethe’s Lookout Tower Hike

The hike to the tower is one of the best ways to experience the local forest. Most trails start near the city center or the Imperial Hotel. The paths are well-marked with color-coded signs. You can follow the yellow or blue markers to reach the summit. Expect the walk to take about 45 to 60 minutes from the river level.

The terrain is mostly paved or well-trodden dirt paths. However, the incline is steady and can be tiring. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. If you prefer a shorter walk, you can take a bus to the "Hůrky" stop. From there, it is a much flatter 15-minute walk to the tower entrance.

Check the weather before you depart. The forest can be slippery after rain. Also, bring some cash for the tower entry and the cafe. Many small mountain kiosks in the Czech Republic do not take cards. For more route options, see our guide on the walking route to Goethe's viewpoint.