History: When Was the Park Colonnade Built?

The Park Colonnade is a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture. If you want to know when was the park colonnade built, the answer is between 1880 and 1881. It was designed by the famous Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer. They were the most sought-after architects for theaters and spa buildings in Europe. Originally, this structure served as part of a larger concert hall complex.

The concert hall was sadly demolished in the 1960s. Only this beautiful cast-iron walkway remains for us to enjoy. You can find more details on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. The structure features intricate ironwork and delicate white pillars. It provides a sheltered path for visitors drinking the healing mineral waters. Today, it stands as a protected cultural monument in the heart of the town.

10 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary offers a perfect mix of relaxation and history. The city is famous for its thermal springs and grand architecture. Use this list to plan your perfect itinerary. Here are the top 10 experiences to enjoy in 2026.

• Best overall: Park Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free activity: Mineral water tasting

1. Name: Park Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It is a stunning example of 19th-century iron architecture. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the city center. Tip: Look at the ceiling details for incredible craftsmanship.
2. Name: Snake Spring Type: Experience Why go: This is one of the most popular mineral springs in the city. Best for: Health-conscious travelers. Where: Inside the Park Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the end of the Park Colonnade. Tip: Check the snake spring temperature and mineral content before drinking.
3. Name: Dvořák Park Type: Nature Why go: This park offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets. Best for: Relaxing walks and picnics. Where: Next to the Park Colonnade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking distance from most hotels. Tip: Visit in spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest colonnade in Karlovy Vary with 124 columns. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Along the Teplá River. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Park Colonnade. Tip: Learn about the Mill Colonnade mineral springs to find your favorite taste.
5. Name: Vřídlo (Hot Spring Colonnade) Type: Experience Why go: See the city's most powerful hot spring shooting 12 meters high. Best for: Everyone. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Located in the main spa zone. Tip: Explore the Vridlo hot spring colonnade underground tour for a unique perspective.
6. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies; tower is free. Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská Street. Tip: Walk back down through the forest trails for a scenic descent.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: Discover the secret history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and culinary fans. Where: T.G. Masaryka Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: Near the main bus station. Tip: Buy a bottle at the shop for the best local price.
8. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This wooden structure features beautiful Swiss-style carvings. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Opposite the Mill Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking path along the river. Tip: Visit at night when it is beautifully illuminated.
9. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Experience Why go: See master glassblowers create world-class crystal by hand. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the summer season.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning 12th-century Gothic castle perched on a rock. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Loket town (12km away). Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Entry fee for the castle. Getting there: Use the public transport authority buses for a cheap ride. Tip: Visit the torture chambers if you enjoy spooky history.