Quick Picks for Your Westend Architecture Tour

If you have limited time, focus on these top highlights. The Westend district is hilly but very rewarding for walkers. These picks ensure you see the most iconic structures quickly. You can find more details in our guide to the best villas to see in Karlovy Vary Westend.

• Best Overall: St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Cathedral (for its golden domes).
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower (includes a funicular ride).
• Best Rainy-Day: Villa Becher (often hosts art exhibitions).
• Best Free Activity: Walking the residential streets of Petra Velikého.

Top 12 Stops on the Karlovy Vary Westend Architecture Walk

This list includes the most significant buildings in the Westend area. Most are private residences or hotels, so you will mostly view them from the outside. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are steep and paved with cobblestones.

1. Name: St. Peter and Paul Orthodox Cathedral Type: sight Why go: It is the most visually striking building in the Westend. The five golden domes shine brightly against the green forest. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Krále Jiřího Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Visit in the morning when the sun hits the domes.
2. Name: Villa Savoy Type: sight Why go: This is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture. It features intricate floral patterns and elegant balconies. Best for: Fans of early 20th-century design. Where: Westend district. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Located on the corner of Petra Velikého. Tip: Look for the detailed tile work near the entrance.
3. Name: Villa Artemis Type: sight Why go: This villa showcases the Neo-Renaissance style perfectly. It has a very symmetric and regal appearance. Best for: Architecture students. Where: Petra Velikého Street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: A short walk from the Orthodox Cathedral. Tip: Notice the classical statues on the facade.
4. Name: Villa Bristol Type: sight Why go: It is one of the largest and most luxurious villas in the area. It now serves as a high-end spa hotel. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Zámecký vrch. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Follow the signs for the Bristol Hotel Group. Tip: The gardens around the villa are beautifully manicured.
5. Name: Villa Carlton Type: sight Why go: This building has a romantic, castle-like feel. It features small towers and decorative gables. Best for: Romantic couples. Where: Sadová Street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Walk along the edge of the Dvořák Park. Tip: It looks especially beautiful during the autumn foliage.
6. Name: Villa Smetana Type: sight Why go: Named after the famous Czech composer, this villa is grand and imposing. It represents the wealth of the 19th-century spa guests. Best for: Music lovers. Where: Krále Jiřího. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Located near the upper end of the Westend. Tip: Check if they are hosting any local classical concerts.
7. Name: Villa Chopin Type: sight Why go: This villa is smaller but very charming. It has a unique timber-framed look common in Alpine architecture. Best for: Fans of cozy, rustic styles. Where: Westend core. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Accessible via the winding residential paths. Tip: It is a great spot for a quiet, non-touristy photo.
8. Name: Villa Hohenburg Type: sight Why go: This villa is known for its medieval revival elements. It looks like a miniature fortress. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Near the forest edge. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Walk toward the start of the forest trails. Tip: Use this as a starting point for a woodland hike.
9. Name: Villa Schäffler Type: sight Why go: It features eclectic decorations and a very colorful facade. It stands out from the more serious Neo-Classical buildings. Best for: Those who like unique details. Where: Petra Velikého. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (exterior view). Getting there: Right next to Villa Artemis. Tip: Look at the ornate window frames.
10. Name: Restaurant Little Versailles Type: experience Why go: This historic building has been a social hub for centuries. It offers a beautiful terrace and local food. Best for: A lunch break. Where: Westend border. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: $$ (Moderate). Getting there: Located at the end of the Sadová street walk. Tip: Read more about this spot in our guide to Little Versailles Karlovy Vary.
11. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It provides the best panoramic view of the Westend and the valley. You can see the entire layout of the villas. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Above the Westend district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (Tower entry), $ (Funicular). Getting there: Take the funicular from behind the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Combine this with the Karlovy Vary spa woods hiking trails.
12. Name: St. Linhart Church Ruins Type: day trip Why go: These are the oldest architectural remains in the city area. It provides a contrast to the 19th-century villas. Best for: Nature and history. Where: Spa woods. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue hiking trail from the Westend. Tip: This is a great St. Linhart church ruins hike for active travelers.

Planning Your Karlovy Vary Westend Architecture Walk

The Westend is best explored on foot during the morning. The light is perfect for seeing the details of the villas. Most tourists stay near the colonnades, so the Westend is quiet. You can easily spend two to three hours wandering the streets. Be prepared for some steep inclines as you move between levels. If you want a peaceful experience, consider avoiding crowds in Karlovy Vary by visiting during the week. Public transport is available if you prefer not to walk uphill. You can check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary site for bus schedules. Most buses stop near the bottom of the district at the "Lázně III" stop.