The History of the Market Colonnade Wooden Structure

The Market Colonnade wooden structure was built between 1882 and 1883. It was originally intended to be a temporary building. Architects Fellner and Helmer designed it in a Swiss style. The white wood features beautiful lace-like patterns. It has survived for over a century despite its delicate material. This structure protects three important mineral springs. The most famous is the Charles IV Spring. Legend says the Emperor discovered this water himself. You can see a bronze relief depicting this discovery inside. The colonnade is a highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage spa triangle. It remains one of the most photographed spots in the city. Visiting this site is essential for any history lover.

Top Things to See Near the Market Colonnade

Karlovy Vary is easy to explore on foot. Most major sights are located along the Tepla River. You can walk from one colonnade to the next in minutes. Each site offers a different architectural style and spring temperature. Use this list to plan your daily route. Here are the top 12 sights to visit near the Market Colonnade wooden structure.

• Quick picks:
• Best Overall: Market Colonnade
• Best for Views: Diana Observation Tower
• Best Rainy-Day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best Free: Mineral Spring Tasting

1. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: To see the unique Swiss-style woodwork and the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Left bank of the Tepla River. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Look for the relief of Charles IV discovering the spring.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Best for: History buffs. Where: A short walk from the Market Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path north. Tip: Visit the Mill Colonnade mineral springs early to avoid crowds.
3. Name: Vřídlo (Hot Spring Colonnade) Type: sight Why go: To see the most powerful geyser in Karlovy Vary. Best for: Families. Where: Opposite the Market Colonnade. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cross the bridge near the Market Colonnade. Tip: Book a tour of the Vridlo hot spring colonnade underground.
4. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: For the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Photographers. Where: On the hill above the city. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies. Getting there: Take the Diana observation tower funicular from near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit the butterfly house located right next to the tower.
5. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn the history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walk or take a local bus. Tip: The Jan Becher Museum tasting tour includes samples of different liqueur varieties.
6. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: experience Why go: Watch master glassblowers create world-class Bohemian crystal. Best for: Art lovers. Where: In the Dvory district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Take a bus from the city center. Tip: A Moser glassworks factory visit requires booking in advance.
7. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: To admire the stunning golden domes and Russian-style architecture. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Westbury street area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk uphill from the Park Colonnade. Tip: Check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for current opening times.
8. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: nature Why go: To see the famous chamois statue and enjoy a forest walk. Best for: Hikers. Where: Forest trails above the town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The path is steep but well-paved for most of the way.
9. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: landmark Why go: This is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Europe. Best for: Luxury travelers. Where: At the end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside. Getting there: Walk south along the river. Tip: Stop for coffee at the Grandhotel Pupp historical landmark cafe.
10. Name: Imperial Baths (Císařské lázně) Type: history Why go: To see the most opulent spa building from the Austro-Hungarian era. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry for tours. Getting there: Walk along the riverbank. Tip: The building recently underwent a massive renovation.
11. Name: Park Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A beautiful cast-iron structure located in a peaceful park. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: This is a great spot to sit and enjoy the local atmosphere.
12. Name: Christmas House Type: experience Why go: A year-round museum dedicated to Christmas decorations and magic. Best for: Families. Where: Doubí Castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Short taxi or bus ride from the center. Tip: It is one of the most unique attractions in the Czech Republic.

Essential Tips for Visiting Karlovy Vary in 2026

Visiting Karlovy Vary in 2026 is a fantastic choice. The town is very walkable and safe. You should buy a porcelain spa cup for tasting the water. These cups have a special spout for sipping. Do not drink too much mineral water at once. The high mineral content can affect your stomach. Most springs are free to access at any time. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many cobblestones. The town gets very busy during the International Film Festival. This usually happens in early July. If you want a quiet trip, visit in spring or autumn. Always carry some local currency for small purchases. Most places accept cards, but smaller kiosks might not.