Planning Your Orthodox Church Karlovy Vary Visit

The Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. It sits in the upscale Westend district, surrounded by beautiful green hills. This area was once the favorite retreat for Russian nobility visiting the local spas. Today, the church remains an active place of worship and a major landmark. You can easily spot its five gilded domes from many viewpoints across the city valley.

Inside, the church features a rich iconostasis made of oak and porcelain. The atmosphere is peaceful and filled with the scent of incense. Visitors should respect the quiet environment during their Orthodox Church Karlovy Vary visit. Photography is often restricted inside, so check for signs at the entrance. The exterior gardens are also worth exploring for their calm and scenic views.

The church is a short walk from the main spa center. However, the path involves a bit of an uphill climb through quiet residential streets. You can see many unique places in Karlovy Vary along this route. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone paths can be uneven. Most people spend about 30 to 45 minutes touring the grounds and the interior.

10 Must-See Sights for Your Karlovy Vary Trip

Karlovy Vary offers a mix of grand architecture and natural beauty. This list includes the best highlights to ensure a memorable trip. Use this guide to plan your daily itinerary efficiently. We have included iconic landmarks and even a few trips to nearby towns.

• Best overall: Saint Peter and Paul Church
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glassworks
• Best free activity: Colonnade walks

1. Name: Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: Experience Why go: It is the oldest and largest Orthodox church in the country. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Westend District. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city with 124 columns. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the main pedestrian path. Tip: Read about the Mill Colonnade architecture facts before your visit.
3. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: Nature Why go: See water shoot 12 meters into the air. Best for: Everyone. Where: Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Center of the spa zone. Tip: Check out the Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser for its impressive underground tour.
4. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Witness the creation of world-famous Bohemian crystal. Best for: Craft enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Follow this Moser Glassworks visitor guide to book your glass-blowing tour.
5. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure built in Swiss style. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Near the Hot Spring. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking distance from the town square. Tip: Learn about the Market Colonnade wooden architecture to appreciate its history.
6. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults. Where: T.G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry (includes tasting). Getting there: Near the main bus station. Tip: Book the Jan Becher Museum tasting tour in advance.
7. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Hikers and families. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free tower entry (funicular has a fee). Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská street. Tip: Use our Diana Observation Tower guide to find the best hiking trails.
8. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: A massive 12th-century stone castle overlooking a river. Best for: Medieval history fans. Where: 12 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: Half-day. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: 15-minute drive or local bus. Tip: Visit the torture museum in the castle basement if you are brave.
9. Name: Mariánské Lázně Type: Day Trip Why go: Explore another famous spa town with a singing fountain. Best for: Relaxation. Where: 45 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: Full day. Cost: Free to walk; spa treatments vary. Getting there: Regular trains leave from the main station. Tip: Check the Karlovy Vary railway station official site for train schedules.
10. Name: Imperial Baths Type: Historical building Why go: This neo-Renaissance building is a true architectural gem. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry for tours. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá river. Tip: See the Imperial Baths historical building to see where royalty once bathed.

Essential Tips for Visiting Karlovy Vary

Getting around the city is easy on foot or by public transport. The local bus network is reliable and covers all major districts. You can find route maps on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Most of the spa area is a pedestrian zone, making it very safe for walking. Taxis are available but can be expensive for short distances.

When visiting the local springs, buy a traditional porcelain spa cup. These cups have a unique spout for sipping the mineral water. Be careful, as some springs are very hot and have a strong mineral taste. It is best to consult a doctor before drinking large amounts of the water. Many locals drink small amounts daily for health benefits.

The city is busiest during the International Film Festival in July. If you prefer a quiet trip, consider visiting in spring or autumn. The weather is mild, and the foliage in the surrounding forests is beautiful. Always carry some local currency, Czech Koruna, for small purchases like snacks or souvenirs. Most larger shops and restaurants will accept credit cards.