The History of Park Colonnade Dvořák Park

The Park Colonnade is a masterpiece of 19th-century design. It was built in 1880 by the famous Viennese architects Fellner and Helmer. If you wonder when was the Park Colonnade built, it was during the city's golden age. The structure is made of ornate cast iron. It was originally part of a larger concert hall called the Blanenský Pavilion. Today, only the colonnade remains as a reminder of that grand era.

The surrounding park is named after Antonín Dvořák. He was a celebrated Czech composer who loved this city. You can find a statue of him near the trees. The park offers a quiet escape from the busier spring areas. It is part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. This status is recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. The blend of nature and art makes it unique.

Walking through the Park Colonnade Dvořák Park feels like stepping back in time. The delicate white pillars contrast beautifully with the green lawns. It is a favorite spot for photographers and artists. You can learn more about the city's heritage at the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. Many locals come here to read or meet friends. It remains a living piece of Czech history.

12 Best Things to See at Park Colonnade Dvořák Park

This list includes the best sights within and near the park. We have mixed iconic landmarks with unique local experiences. Use this guide to plan your perfect day in the spa district. Here are our top picks for your 2026 visit.

• Best overall: Park Colonnade
• Best for families: Dvořák Park
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free: Snake Spring

1. Name: Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: It is one of the most beautiful cast-iron structures in Europe. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Northern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Look at the intricate ceiling details.
2. Name: Dvořák Park (Dvořákovy sady) Type: nature Why go: It offers relaxing walks in Dvořák Park under old plane trees. Best for: Families and couples. Where: Surrounding the Park Colonnade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Adjacent to the main colonnade. Tip: Find the monument dedicated to the composer.
3. Name: Snake Spring (Hadí pramen) Type: experience Why go: This is the most accessible mineral spring in the park. Best for: Health enthusiasts. Where: Inside the Park Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the end of the walkway. Tip: Check the Snake Spring temperature and mineral content before drinking.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: It is the largest colonnade in the city with 124 columns. Best for: History buffs. Where: A short walk south of Dvořák Park. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá River. Tip: Visit the Mill Colonnade mineral springs early to avoid crowds.
5. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Type: sight Why go: This is the city's most powerful hot spring, shooting 12 meters high. Best for: Everyone. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from Park Colonnade. Tip: Explore the Vřídlo hot spring colonnade underground tour.
6. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It provides the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Photographers. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies; tower is free. Getting there: Take the Diana observation tower funicular. Tip: There is a mini-zoo at the top for kids.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn about the secret recipe of Becherovka liqueur. Best for: Adults. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: 15-minute walk from the park. Tip: Book the Jan Becher Museum tasting tour in advance.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: experience Why go: See world-class glassblowers create famous Bohemian crystal. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local bus from the center. Tip: The museum shop has beautiful souvenirs.
9. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: A stunning Russian-style church with golden domes. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Westmount district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Walk uphill from the spa zone. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the church.
10. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure built in Swiss style. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Near the Vřídlo spring. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the river path. Tip: Look for the relief depicting the city's founding.
11. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: landmark Why go: This historic hotel is world-famous and was featured in Casino Royale. Best for: Luxury fans. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside. Getting there: Walk the length of the river. Tip: Have a coffee at the café for a taste of luxury.
12. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A medieval fortress located on a rocky cliff near the city. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: 15km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a bus or train from the main station. Tip: Visit the torture chamber exhibit for a spooky thrill.

Practical Tips for Visiting Karlovy Vary

Visiting the Park Colonnade Dvořák Park is easy if you plan ahead. Most of the spa area is a pedestrian zone. Wear comfortable shoes because you will do a lot of walking. To reach the city, you can use the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary bus system. It is very reliable and affordable for tourists.

When drinking from the springs, use a traditional porcelain cup. You can buy these at many stalls near the colonnades. The water is full of minerals and very healthy. However, do not drink too much at once. Start with small sips to see how your body reacts. Most springs are free and open 24 hours a day.

Summer is the busiest time due to the International Film Festival. If you prefer quiet, visit during the spring or autumn. The colors in Dvořák Park are beautiful in October. Most signs are in Czech, English, and German. This makes it very easy for international travelers to navigate. Enjoy your time in this historic Bohemian gem.