Exploring Sadová Colonnade near Dvořák Park

The Sadová Colonnade near Dvořák Park is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. It was originally part of a larger concert hall complex. Today, only the ornate cast-iron wing remains. It houses the famous Snake Spring, which is popular for its refreshing temperature. The colonnade is located at the northern edge of the spa zone. This makes it a quiet alternative to the busier central colonnades. You can find more details in our Karlovy Vary colonnades guide.

The structure is surrounded by lush greenery. The adjacent park honors the famous composer Antonín Dvořák. You will find his statue nestled among the trees. The park is a favorite spot for locals to sit and read. It offers a perfect transition from the urban streets to the spa promenade. Walking through the colonnade feels like stepping back in time. The intricate ironwork creates beautiful shadows on sunny afternoons.

Visiting this area is completely free of charge. You can walk through the colonnade at any time of day. Most visitors spend about 30 minutes here. This allows enough time to taste the water and take photos. If you love photography, check out the best photo spots in Dvořák Park for the best angles of the ironwork. The light is particularly soft and golden during the late afternoon.

10 Top Sights and Experiences in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary offers a wealth of culture beyond the main springs. Use this list to plan your route starting from the Sadová Colonnade. There are many things to see in Karlovy Vary within walking distance. Here are the top 10 picks for your itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Mill Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free: Snake Spring

1. Name: Snake Spring (Hadí pramen) Type: Sight Why go: This is the most accessible spring inside the colonnade. It flows at a cool 30°C, making it easy to drink. Best for: First-time tasters. Where: Inside Sadová Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center toward Dvořák Park. Tip: Buy a small porcelain cup nearby to drink like a local.
2. Name: Dvořák Park Type: Nature Why go: It is a peaceful green oasis with historic plane trees. The park offers a break from the paved spa streets. Best for: Relaxing and picnics. Where: Adjacent to Sadová Colonnade. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the end of the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Look for the monument dedicated to Antonín Dvořák.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: Iconic Sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five different springs. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: 5-minute walk from Dvořák Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river downstream from Sadová Colonnade. Tip: Climb the stairs to the roof terrace for a unique view.
4. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the world-famous herbal liqueur. The tour includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 200-300 CZK). Getting there: 10-minute walk from the park. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the summer months.
5. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire valley. You can take a historic funicular to the top. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from the station near the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit the butterfly house located right next to the tower.
6. Name: St. Peter and Paul Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: This Russian Orthodox church features stunning golden domes. It is one of the most colorful buildings in the city. Best for: History and religion buffs. Where: West of the spa center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: A 15-minute uphill walk from the colonnades. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the cathedral.
7. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Iconic Sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure built in Swiss style. It houses the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Near the Mill Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá River. Tip: Check the relief carving above the spring showing the city's founding legend.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Unique Experience Why go: See how world-class Bohemian crystal is made. You can watch master glassblowers at work. Best for: Craft enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: The museum shop has beautiful but expensive souvenirs.
9. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: A 12th-century Gothic castle located on a rocky cliff. It is just a short trip from Karlovy Vary. Best for: History fans. Where: Loket town (12 km away). Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a local train or bus from the main station. Tip: Visit the torture museum in the castle basement if you are brave.
10. Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) Type: Nature Why go: Dramatic granite rock formations along the Ohře River. It is a popular spot for climbers and cyclists. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Outside the city center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bike or walk along the river path from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Stop at the local riverside restaurant for a traditional Czech lunch.

Planning Your Visit to Dvořák Park and Gardens

Visiting the Sadová Colonnade near Dvořák Park is easy with a little planning. The area is mostly pedestrian-friendly. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the city has many cobblestone streets. Most attractions are open year-round, but the parks are most beautiful in spring. You can check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for seasonal events. The city is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, so expect many visitors.

Public transport is very efficient in Karlovy Vary. You can use local buses to reach the outskirts like the Moser Glassworks. For schedules, visit the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. If you are arriving by train, the walk to the colonnade takes about 20 minutes. The city is also very safe for solo travelers. Always keep a map or a digital guide handy to find the hidden springs.

Drinking the mineral water is a major part of the experience. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. Start with small sips to see how your body reacts. Many people find the taste quite strong or salty. You can find more travel tips for the region on the Visit Czechia portal. Enjoy the unique spa culture that has drawn visitors for centuries.