Planning Your Day Trip from Plzeň

Getting to Karlovy Vary from Plzeň is simple and fast. The drive takes about one hour through the scenic Plzeň Region countryside. If you prefer public transport, buses run frequently between the two cities. You can also learn how to get from Plzeň to Karlovy Vary by train for a relaxing ride. Most visitors arrive at the main bus or train station near the city center.

Start your day early to beat the crowds. Most attractions open around 9:00 AM. Walking is the best way to explore the historic spa zone. The town is long and narrow, following the Teplá River. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestones. This area is one of the most popular places to visit near Plzeň for history lovers.

10 Best Things to Do in Karlovy Vary in One Day

Here are the top attractions to visit during your 2026 trip. These picks offer a mix of culture, nature, and history. Check out these quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: Mill Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Lookout Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glass Museum
• Best free: Drinking from the mineral springs

1. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in town. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Spa center Time: 30-45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: 15-minute walk from the bus station. Tip: Bring a porcelain spa cup to taste the different mineral waters.
2. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: See the Vřídlo geyser which shoots water 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Central spa area Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located just south of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Visit the underground tour to see how thermal water petrifies souvenirs.
3. Name: Diana Lookout Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Nature lovers and families. 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 street. Tip: There is a small butterfly house and a mini-zoo at the top.
4. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: museum Why go: Discover the history of world-famous Czech crystal. Best for: Learning about local craftsmanship. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Moderate entry fee Getting there: Short bus ride or taxi from the center. Tip: Book a glassworks tour in advance to see glassblowers in action.
5. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Learn how the famous herbal liqueur Becherovka is made. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street Time: 1 hour Cost: Small fee (includes tasting) Getting there: Near the main bus station. Tip: Buy a bottle here as a unique local souvenir.
6. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure with intricate carvings. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Opposite the Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Easy walk through the pedestrian zone. Tip: Try the Charles IV Spring located inside.
7. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: sight Why go: A stunning Baroque church with a rich history. Best for: History and art enthusiasts. Where: Near the Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free (donations welcome) Getting there: Visible from the main spa area. Tip: Check the local schedule for organ concerts.
8. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: landmark Why go: This iconic hotel inspired the Grand Budapest Hotel movie. Best for: Luxury vibes and film fans. Where: Southern end of the spa zone Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Follow the river to the end of the walk. Tip: Have a coffee at the Café Pupp for a royal experience.
9. Name: Peter the Great Lookout Type: nature Why go: A peaceful forest trail leading to a great viewpoint. Best for: Hikers and active travelers. Where: Forested hills Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Trails start behind the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: The path is steep, so wear shoes with good grip.
10. Name: Imperial Spa (Císařské lázně) Type: experience Why go: A newly renovated historic building with incredible interiors. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Mariánskolázeňská street Time: 1 hour Cost: Moderate entry fee Getting there: Near the Diana funicular station. Tip: Check out the Atrium for modern art exhibitions.

Where to Eat and Drink in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary offers many dining options for every budget. For a traditional meal, try a local tavern serving roast duck. You should also taste the famous spa wafers. These thin, round treats come in many flavors like chocolate or hazelnut. You can find vendors selling them warm on almost every corner.

If you enjoy sweets, visit one of the many riverside cafes. They serve excellent cakes and local coffee. For a more formal experience, the restaurants near the colonnades offer great views. Remember that prices in the spa zone are often higher. If you have more time, consider checking out the best castles near Plzeň on your way back. The Visit Czechia website has more dining recommendations.