12 Best Things to Do Near Dvořák Park and Gardens

Karlovy Vary is a town of elegance and history. Most major sights are within walking distance of the central park area. Here are the top experiences to enjoy during your visit in 2026.

• Best overall: Sadová Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free: Dvořák Park and Gardens

1. Name: Dvořák Park and Gardens Type: nature Why go: This park is the most relaxing spot in the city center. It features a monument to Antonín Dvořák and a charming pond. Best for: Relaxing walks and photography. Where: Northern end of the spa zone. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main spa street. Tip: Visit in early morning for the best light on the flowers.
2. Name: Sadová Colonnade Type: sight Why go: Located right next to the park, this Sadová Colonnade near Dvořák Park is a cast-iron masterpiece. It houses the Snake Spring. Best for: Architecture lovers and history buffs. Where: Adjacent to Dvořák Park. Time: 15–20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 1-minute walk from the park. Tip: Bring a porcelain cup to taste the mineral water.
3. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: sight Why go: This is the city's most famous spring. The Vřídlo Hot Spring Geyser shoots water up to 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Vřídelní Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: 10-minute walk south from the park. Tip: Take a tour of the underground springs located beneath the geyser.
4. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: For the best views of the valley, visit the Diana Observation Tower viewpoint. It overlooks the entire spa town. Best for: Panoramic photos and nature lovers. Where: On the hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská Lane. Tip: Visit the mini-zoo and butterfly house near the tower base.
5. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn about the "Glass of Kings." A Moser Glass Museum tour shows you how world-class crystal is made. Best for: Art lovers and shoppers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše Street. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take bus 1, 2, or 22 from the center. Tip: Book the glassworks tour to see live glassblowing.
6. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Discover the history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. A Jan Becher Museum visit includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults and culinary fans. Where: T. G. Masaryka Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the main bus station. Tip: Buy a souvenir bottle at the factory shop for better prices.
7. Name: St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: sight Why go: This St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church features stunning golden domes. It is inspired by Russian Byzantine architecture. Best for: Architecture and spiritual seekers. Where: Krále Jiřího Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: 15-minute walk uphill from the park. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the church.
8. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: nature Why go: This is the oldest lookout point in the city. It features a famous statue of a mountain goat. Best for: Hikers and casual walkers. Where: On the wooded slopes above the center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The path is steep, so wear sturdy walking shoes.
9. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: sight Why go: This world-famous hotel has hosted movie stars and royalty. It served as inspiration for the Grand Budapest Hotel. Best for: Luxury seekers and film fans. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 30 minutes (for a coffee). Cost: Free to view; high prices for dining. Getting there: 15-minute walk from Dvořák Park. Tip: Enjoy a cake at the Café Pupp for a taste of luxury.
10. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: sight Why go: A beautiful Baroque church located near the hot springs. It is one of the most important religious sites in the city. Best for: History and art enthusiasts. Where: Near the Vřídlo Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the park. Tip: Check the schedule for evening organ concerts.
11. Name: Goethe Lookout Tower Type: day trip Why go: This neo-Gothic tower offers a quiet escape. It is surrounded by beautiful forests and hiking trails. Best for: Active travelers and nature lovers. Where: On the eastern edge of the city. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Small fee for tower access. Getting there: Take bus 8 or hike from the center. Tip: Check the tower's seasonal opening hours before heading out.
12. Name: Christmas House Type: experience Why go: Experience the magic of Christmas all year round. This unique museum features festive decorations and a teddy bear collection. Best for: Families and holiday lovers. Where: Doubí district. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take bus 6 from the city center. Tip: Visit the castle cafe for a cozy atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit to Dvořák Park and Gardens

Karlovy Vary is part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe UNESCO listing. This status highlights the city's unique cultural and architectural value. Most visitors arrive by train or bus from Prague. The journey takes about two hours through the scenic Czech countryside.

Walking is the best way to explore the area near the park. The city center is largely pedestrianized and very safe. For longer distances, you can use the local Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary bus network. Tickets are affordable and easy to purchase at kiosks.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During these months, the gardens are in full bloom. The weather is usually mild and perfect for walking. However, the city is also beautiful in winter when the colonnades are covered in snow.