Understanding Market Colonnade History and Architecture

The Market Colonnade is a rare architectural gem in Central Europe. Most colonnades in Karlovy Vary use stone or cast iron. This structure is built almost entirely of white-painted wood. It was constructed between 1882 and 1883. The famous Viennese architects Fellner and Helmer designed it. They also created many of the city's theaters and grand hotels.

You can learn more about the architectural style of the wooden Market Colonnade to appreciate its detail. It features a "Swiss style" with intricate lace-like carvings. These patterns give the building a light and romantic feel. It was originally meant to be a temporary cover for the springs. However, the locals loved it so much that it was preserved for over 100 years. It underwent a major reconstruction in the 1990s to keep it stable.

The building houses two important thermal springs. These are the Market Spring and the Charles IV Spring. A relief above the Charles IV Spring depicts a famous local legend. It shows the Emperor discovering the hot water while hunting. This story is central to the city's identity. The Market Colonnade history and architecture reflect this royal connection. It remains one of the most photographed spots in the region.

10 Best Sights to See in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary offers a mix of relaxation and history. Here are the top picks for your next visit.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Market Colonnade
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Diana Observation Tower
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy-Day - Jan Becher Museum
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Colonnade Spring Tasting

1. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: To see the unique Swiss-style wood architecture and taste the Charles IV Spring. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Right bank of the Teplá River, near the town center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: Look for the bronze relief showing the discovery of the springs.
2. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five springs. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes north from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Read the Mill Colonnade Karlovy Vary guide before visiting to learn about the statues.
3. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídlo) Type: Experience Why go: To see the Vřídlo geyser shoot water 12 meters into the air. Best for: Families and nature fans. Where: Divadelní náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (Underground tours have a fee). Getting there: Located in the heart of the spa zone. Tip: Check out the Hot Spring Colonnade Vřídlo geyser for the hottest water in town.
4. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley and surrounding forests. Best for: Hikers and families. Where: Atop Friendship Hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit the mini-zoo and butterfly house at the top.
5. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: See how world-famous Bohemian crystal is blown and engraved by hand. Best for: Art and craft enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46/19. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. €12-€15 for a tour. Getting there: Take bus number 1, 2, or 22 from the center. Tip: Follow the Moser Glassworks visitor guide to book your tour in advance.
6. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Local experience Why go: Learn the secret recipe of Becherovka, a famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka 57. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approx. €10 (includes tasting). Getting there: Walkable from the main bus station. Tip: Check the Jan Becher Museum tour details for English-speaking times.
7. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: Architecture Why go: A stunning Baroque church designed by Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer. Best for: Spiritual seekers and history fans. Where: Near the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk from the central spa area. Tip: Visit the underground crypt to see the unique bone chapel.
8. Name: Deer Leap Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Nature Why go: To see the famous statue of a chamois overlooking the city. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Forest paths above the Market Colonnade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up the marked trails or take the Diana funicular halfway. Tip: This is the best spot for a sunset photo.
9. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful Russian-style church with vibrant golden domes and blue walls. Best for: Photographers and culture lovers. Where: Krále Jiřího street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations encouraged). Getting there: A 15-minute walk uphill from the center. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the interior.
10. Name: Elizabeth Baths Type: Historical building Why go: One of the largest and oldest spa facilities in the Czech Republic. Best for: Wellness fans. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 1-3 hours (if taking a treatment). Cost: Varies by treatment; entry to the park is free. Getting there: Walk from the Jan Becher Museum. Tip: The park in front is perfect for a quiet picnic.

Planning Your Visit to the Historic Colonnades

Most of the historic sites are located in a pedestrian zone. You should wear comfortable walking shoes. The town is hilly, so expect some inclines. You can use the local buses for longer distances. Check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary site for routes. It is helpful to buy a porcelain spa cup for drinking the water. You can find these at almost every souvenir stall.

The water from the springs is very hot and mineral-rich. It is best to sip it slowly while walking. This is the traditional way to take the "cure." Most springs are open 24 hours a day. The Visit Czechia portal provides great maps for first-time visitors. If you arrive by train, the Karlovy Vary railway station is a short bus ride from the center.

Best Time to Explore Karlovy Vary in 2026

Spring and autumn are the best times for quiet exploration. The weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. May is particularly beautiful when the flowers bloom. If you visit in July, be prepared for the International Film Festival. The city becomes very busy and prices for hotels rise. However, the atmosphere is electric during this week.

Winter offers a magical, snowy backdrop for the colonnades. The steam from the hot springs looks incredible in the cold air. Many people enjoy the outdoor thermal pools during this time. For more general travel info, you can check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site. Planning ahead for 2026 ensures you get the best accommodation deals.