Quick Picks for Your Karlovy Vary Trip

Are you planning a short visit to the spa district? You might not have time to see everything. Use these quick picks to prioritize your itinerary. Each spot offers a unique glimpse into the city's character.

• Best Overall: The Japanese Zen Garden Karlovy Vary for pure tranquility.
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower and the butterfly house.
• Best Rainy-Day: Jan Becher Museum tasting tour.
• Best Free Activity: Walking through the Mill Colonnade.

12 Best Things to See Near the Japanese Zen Garden Karlovy Vary

This list includes the most iconic sights and hidden gems. Most are within walking distance of the spa center. Plan to spend at least two days to see them all comfortably. Here are the top experiences for your 2026 trip.

1. Name: Japanese Zen Garden Type: Experience Why go: It is a circle-shaped meditation garden designed by Kanji Nomura. The stones represent the path of life and water. Best for: Meditation lovers. Where: Parkhotel Richmond grounds. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Usually free for the public. Getting there: Walk along the Tepla River from the center. Tip: Visit in early spring for the best atmosphere.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five mineral springs. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Spa center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the Zen garden. Tip: Read about the architecture facts before you go.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. You can see the surrounding forests and the city below. Best for: Photographers. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from the street near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Follow our Diana Tower guide for hiking trail tips.
4. Name: Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the most powerful spring in town. It shoots water up to 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing nature's power. Where: Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the heart of the spa zone. Tip: Visit the geyser hall to feel the heat.
5. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn the history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. The tour includes a tasting of different varieties. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: Take a local bus to the "Trznice" stop. Tip: Book your tasting tour in advance.
6. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Unique experience Why go: See master glassblowers create world-famous crystal. The museum displays pieces made for royalty. Best for: Art lovers. Where: On the outskirts of the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Check the visitor guide for glass-blowing times.
7. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: This church features stunning blue domes and gold decorations. It was built for the Russian nobility. Best for: History buffs. Where: Westend district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: A steep walk up from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Respect the dress code when entering the Orthodox church.
8. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: Nature Why go: It is the oldest lookout point in the city. The statue of a chamois is a famous symbol. Best for: Hikers. Where: Forested slopes above the city. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike the Deer Jump trail from the funicular station. Tip: The path can be slippery after rain.
9. Name: Imperial Baths Type: Historical building Why go: This neo-Renaissance building was once the most modern spa in Europe. It has been recently renovated. Best for: Luxury enthusiasts. Where: Near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee for tours. Getting there: Walk south from the main spring area. Tip: Admire the historical building facade at sunset.
10. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure in the Swiss style. It covers two important springs. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Near the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central location in the pedestrian zone. Tip: Look for the wooden carvings inside.
11. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Tower Type: Day trip Why go: A brick tower that looks like a castle. It offers views of the Ore Mountains. Best for: Active travelers. Where: On the Heights of Eternal Life. Time: 3 hours (including hike). Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike through the forest or take a taxi. Tip: Combine it with a Goethe's hike through the woods.
12. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Underground Type: Experience Why go: Go below the surface to see how spring water minerals create stone. It is a fascinating geological tour. Best for: Science fans. Where: Under the Vridlo geyser. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Entrance is inside the Vridlo hall. Tip: Join the underground tour to see the thermal springs.

Planning Your Visit to the Japanese Zen Garden Karlovy Vary

Finding the garden is easy once you know where to look. It is located at the southern end of the spa district. You can find more details on where to find the garden online. The walk from the city center takes about 20 minutes. You will follow the Tepla River past grand hotels.

Public transport is also an option for those who prefer not to walk. The local transport authority runs regular buses. Take bus number 2 or 7 and get off near the Richmond stop. The garden is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the warmer months. Spring brings blossoms, while autumn offers colorful leaves.

Remember that this is a place for quiet reflection. Many people come here to escape the crowds. Please keep your voice low while inside the garden. Do not climb on the stones. They are placed with specific spiritual meanings. Taking photos is allowed, but try to be discreet. This ensures everyone can enjoy the peace.

Why This Zen Garden is a Karlovy Vary Hidden Gem

The garden was created in 1998. It was a gift from the Japanese city of Kusatsu. Both cities are famous for their thermal springs. This shared heritage created a strong bond between them. The garden is a symbol of this international friendship. It brings a touch of the East to UNESCO-listed Karlovy Vary.

The design follows strict Zen principles. It uses white gravel to represent the ocean. Large stones represent islands or mountains. The circular shape of the garden symbolizes the soul. It is meant to help visitors find inner balance. This fits perfectly with the city's focus on health and wellness.

Visiting the Japanese Zen Garden Karlovy Vary is a unique experience. It offers a break from the traditional European architecture. You can sit on the benches and listen to the wind. It is a great place to rest your legs after a long walk. Many locals come here to read or meditate. It truly is a hidden gem in West Bohemia.