Top 12 Attractions: See the St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a world-famous spa town in the Czech Republic. It is known for its healing waters and grand buildings. One of the most beautiful sights is the St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary. This Russian Orthodox church shines with golden domes. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors come from all over the world to relax here. You can walk through elegant colonnades or hike in the green hills. This guide shows you the best things to do in 2026.

Best overall: St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary
Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
Best free activity: Mill Colonnade

Top Landmarks and the St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary

The city's skyline is defined by its unique historic buildings. Many of these structures reflect the diverse visitors who came for spa treatments. You will see grand hotels and intricate churches nestled in the valley. These landmarks offer great photo opportunities and deep historical insights.

Name: St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary Type: Sight Why go: This is a stunning Russian Orthodox church with five golden domes. It was built in 1898 for wealthy Russian guests. You can understand why Karlovy Vary has a Russian church by exploring its history. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Westend district. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk uphill from the city center. Tip: Wear modest clothing to respect the active place of worship.
Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Sight/Experience Why go: This is one of the most famous hotels in Europe. It has hosted movie stars and world leaders for centuries. You might recognize it from the James Bond film Casino Royale. Best for: Movie fans and luxury seekers. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside; tea is moderate. Getting there: Walk to the end of the main promenade. Tip: Visit the Cafe Pupp for a slice of traditional cake.
Name: Karlovy Vary Municipal Theater Type: Culture Why go: The theater features a beautiful Neo-Baroque design. The interior is decorated with paintings by Gustav Klimt. It is a masterpiece of late 19th-century art. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Near the Theater Square. Time: 30 minutes for a tour. Cost: Varies by performance. Getting there: Short walk from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Book a show to see the interior in full glory.

Exploring the Famous Colonnades and Springs

The colonnades are the heart of the Karlovy Vary experience. They were built to protect spa guests from rain while they drank the water. Each colonnade has a different architectural style. You can taste water from several different springs as you walk.

Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five different springs. You should visit the Mill Colonnade to see its grand stone design. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Central spa district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Main pedestrian path along the river. Tip: Bring your own porcelain cup for tasting.
Name: Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: Nature/Sight Why go: This is the hottest and most powerful spring in town. It shoots water up to 12 meters into the air. You can see the Vridlo Hot Spring inside its modern glass hall. Best for: Seeing natural wonders. Where: Vridelni Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river to the glass building. Tip: Take the underground tour to see how the minerals form.
Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This white wooden structure looks like it belongs in the Swiss Alps. It covers the Charles IV Spring. Legend says the Emperor discovered the waters here. Best for: History buffs. Where: Close to the Vridlo Geyser. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Look at the relief carving showing the city's founding.

Culture, Museums, and Local Crafts

Karlovy Vary is famous for more than just its water. The city produces world-class glass and a unique herbal liqueur. You can explore more at Visit Czechia to learn about regional crafts. These museums offer a great break from the outdoor sights.

Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: This museum tells the story of Becherovka. It is a famous herbal liqueur made in the city. You can take a Jan Becher Museum tour to see the old cellars. Best for: Foodies and drink lovers. Where: City center near the bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the main train station area. Tip: The tour includes a tasting of different liqueur types.
Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum/Experience Why go: Moser produces some of the finest crystal in the world. You can watch master glassblowers at work in the factory. The museum displays beautiful pieces made for royal families. Best for: Art and craft enthusiasts. Where: Outskirts of the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local bus or taxi from the center. Tip: Book your factory tour in advance to secure a spot.

Scenic Viewpoints and Woodland Walks

The hills surrounding the city offer a peaceful escape. There are many miles of well-marked trails for walking. These paths lead to towers and statues with amazing views. It is the best way to see the valley from above.

Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: This tower offers the best panoramic views of the region. You can see the whole city and the Ore Mountains. There is also a small butterfly house nearby. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Hilltop above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk down the forest paths instead of taking the funicular back.
Name: Deer Leap Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the most iconic photo spot in Karlovy Vary. It features a statue of a chamois looking over the town. The views of the colorful buildings are perfect. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Hillside above the Market Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the center or stop at the funicular middle station. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the buildings.

Essential Day Trips Near Karlovy Vary

If you have extra time, explore the nearby Bohemian countryside. There are historic castles and quaint villages just a short ride away. These trips add more variety to your spa holiday. You can easily return to the city for dinner.

Name: Loket Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: Loket is a stunning medieval castle on a rocky cliff. It is surrounded by the Ohre River on three sides. You can enjoy a Loket Castle day trip very easily. Best for: History and castle lovers. Where: 12 kilometers from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a bus or train from the main station. Tip: Explore the castle's torture chamber for a spooky experience.
Name: Park Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This elegant cast-iron structure is located in a beautiful park. It is a great place to start the Karlovy Vary drinking cure. The Snake Spring here is very popular. Best for: Relaxing walks. Where: Dvorak Gardens. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: North end of the spa zone. Tip: The park is perfect for a picnic on a sunny day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to see the St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary?

The best way to see the church is by walking from the city center. It is located in the Westend district. The walk is slightly uphill but very scenic. You will pass many beautiful historic villas along the way. Make sure to visit during the day to see the golden domes shine.

Can you go inside the Russian Orthodox church in Karlovy Vary?

Yes, visitors are usually allowed inside the church. It is an active place of worship, so please be quiet. Women should consider covering their heads with a scarf. Men should remove their hats. There is no fixed entry fee, but a small donation is appreciated for maintenance.

Is Karlovy Vary worth visiting as a day trip from Prague?

Yes, it is a very popular day trip. The bus ride from Prague takes about two hours. You can see the main colonnades and the church in one day. However, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the spa treatments. It also gives you time to hike the forest trails.

Karlovy Vary is a gem of the Czech Republic. From the golden domes of the St Peter and Paul Church Karlovy Vary to the hot springs, there is much to see. You can enjoy world-class architecture and beautiful nature in one place. Be sure to check out the Karlovy Vary highlights before you arrive. Use the official tourism site to plan your transport. Enjoy your journey to this historic spa town in 2026!

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.

Karlovy Vary Official Tourism — unverified: Official DMO site.
Statutory City of Karlovy Vary — unverified: Official municipal portal.
Visit Czechia — unverified: National tourism board.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO listing for the city.
Lonely Planet Karlovy Vary — unverified: Tier 3 editorial requirement.
Karlovy Vary Airport — unverified: Official airport authority.