Top 10 Bridges for Crossing Tepla River

The Tepla River flows through the heart of the spa zone. Dozens of bridges connect the two sides of the valley. Each bridge offers a unique perspective of the colorful buildings. Exploring these paths is a highlight of any visit to UNESCO-listed Karlovy Vary.

Here are the best spots for crossing Tepla River bridges during your stay. We have included the famous love lock spot and several other iconic landmarks.

• Best overall: Bridge near Grandhotel Pupp
• Best for families: Smetana Park Bridge
• Best rainy-day: Mill Colonnade Footbridge
• Best free view: Jánský Most

1. Name: Love Lock Bridge (Jánský Most) Type: experience Why go: This is the primary location of love lock bridge Karlovy Vary. Couples leave padlocks here to symbolize eternal love. Best for: Couples and photographers. Where: Near the Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center toward the Tepla River. Tip: Bring your own lock as local shops may be pricey.
2. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Bridge Type: sight Why go: It offers the most iconic view of the famous hotel. It is a very romantic bridge in Karlovy Vary for couples. Best for: Luxury travelers. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river south to the end of the pedestrian zone. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Footbridge Type: sight Why go: It connects the river walk to the city's largest colonnade. It is perfect for seeing the thermal springs. Best for: History buffs. Where: Opposite the Mill Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the central pedestrian area. Tip: Check out the Mill Colonnade riverside landmarks while you are here.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Bridge Type: sight Why go: This wooden bridge matches the Swiss-style architecture of the nearby colonnade. It is very photogenic. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Next to the Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Look for the hot spring relief inside the colonnade nearby.
5. Name: Poštovní Most (Post Bridge) Type: sight Why go: It is located near the grand Main Post Office building. It marks the start of the historic district. Best for: General sightseeing. Where: Near the Elizabeth Baths. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by local bus or on foot. Tip: This is a great starting point for a long walk.
6. Name: Chebský Most Type: sight Why go: This is one of the larger stone bridges. It provides a wide view of the river valley. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Karlovy Vary railway station. Tip: Use this bridge to cross toward the local shopping district.
7. Name: Imperial Hotel Funicular Bridge Type: experience Why go: This small bridge leads to the lower station of the funicular. It is a unique path up the hill. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Divadelní náměstí. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free (bridge only). Getting there: Follow signs for the Imperial funicular. Tip: Take the funicular up for a great city view.
8. Name: Smetana Park Bridge Type: nature Why go: This bridge is surrounded by greenery. It is much quieter than the central spa zone. Best for: Families. Where: Smetana Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the Elizabeth Baths. Tip: Great spot for a picnic in the summer.
9. Name: Festival Bridge Type: experience Why go: Located near Hotel Thermal, the heart of the Film Festival. It feels modern and energetic. Best for: Film fans. Where: Near Hotel Thermal. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk from the main road. Tip: Visit in July to feel the festival atmosphere.
10. Name: Loket Castle Bridge Type: day trip Why go: This bridge crosses the Ohře River near a medieval castle. It is a perfect short trip from the city. Best for: History lovers. Where: Loket (15km away). Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free (bridge), small fee for castle. Getting there: Take a bus or train from Karlovy Vary. Tip: The town of Loket is incredibly charming.

Pinpointing the Location of Love Lock Bridge Karlovy Vary

Finding the exact location of love lock bridge Karlovy Vary is easy once you are in the spa zone. The bridge is officially known as Jánský Most. It is situated right between the Market Colonnade and the Sprudel Colonnade. This area is the most visited part of the city.

When you arrive at the Market Colonnade, look toward the river. You will see a small, ornate bridge covered in metal locks. Many visitors enjoy crossing Tepla River bridges here to reach the famous Vřídlo spring. The locks are a modern tradition that adds a touch of romance to the historic setting.

The bridge offers a great view of the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. It is a perfect spot for a quick photo stop. Most people spend about 10 to 15 minutes here. You can easily find it on any Tepla River walking route map available at local tourist offices.

Practical Tips for Your Riverside Walk

Walking along the Tepla River is the best way to see the city. The paths are flat and well-paved. Most of the area is a pedestrian zone. This makes it very safe for families and slow strolls. For more information, visit the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. The light is soft and there are fewer crowds. If you are traveling by public transport, check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary site for schedules. Most buses stop near the Elizabeth Baths, which is a short walk from the river.

Please remember to respect the local environment. While love locks are popular, some cities discourage them to protect historic structures. Always check if there are signs regarding the placement of new locks. Enjoy the beauty of the Czech Republic responsibly during your visit.