Market Colonnade Wooden Architecture: A Swiss Style Gem

The Market Colonnade wooden architecture is famous for its Swiss style. Architects Fellner and Helmer designed this beautiful structure. They are the same duo who designed the town's theater. The colonnade features delicate white woodwork that looks like lace. It covers three different mineral springs. These include the Charles IV Spring, the Lower Castle Spring, and the Market Spring. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content.

Legend says that Emperor Charles IV discovered the first spring here. You can see a relief above the spring depicting this story. The wooden design provides a soft contrast to the stone buildings nearby. It is especially beautiful during the winter months. The white wood blends perfectly with the falling snow. It is a favorite spot for photographers and history buffs alike.

The colonnade is also very functional for modern visitors. It provides shelter while you sip the healthy mineral waters. Most people buy a small porcelain spa cup to use. These cups have a special spout for drinking. You can find many shops selling them right next to the colonnade. It is a relaxing place to sit and watch the world go by. Many travelers start their riverside walk in Karlovy Vary from this very spot.

11 Best Sights Near the Market Colonnade

If you are planning a trip, here are the top picks for your itinerary. These locations are within easy reach of the historic center. They offer a mix of history, nature, and unique local culture. Here are the best things to do in Karlovy Vary in 2026.

• Best overall: Market Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glass Museum
• Best free activity: Mill Colonnade walk

1. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: To see the iconic Swiss-style wood carvings and taste the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Tržiště street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the town center. Tip: Look for the bronze relief showing the town's founding legend.
2. Name: Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: sight Why go: This is the hottest and most powerful spring in the city. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Vřídelní street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 2-minute walk from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Book a tour of the underground thermal area to see the spring's source. Learn more about the Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser visit before you go.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is the largest colonnade in the city with 124 Corinthian columns. Best for: Photography. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes north from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Check out the Mill Colonnade riverside landmarks for the best photo angles.
4. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley and forests. Best for: Scenic views. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies; tower is free. Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská street. Tip: Visit the mini-zoo and butterfly house located at the top.
5. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: sight Why go: A stunning High Baroque church located right next to the geyser. Best for: History fans. Where: Náměstí Svobody. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Steps away from the Vridlo Colonnade. Tip: The crypt contains unique ossuary remains that are worth a look.
6. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: museum Why go: To see world-class crystal glass being made by hand. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the museum and the glassworks factory tour.
7. Name: Stara Louka Street Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the main promenade for shopping and luxury cafes. Best for: Shopping. Where: Along the Tepla River. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Directly adjacent to the Market Colonnade. Tip: Read our Stara Louka street shopping guide for the best boutiques.
8. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: sight Why go: One of the most famous hotels in the world, seen in James Bond films. Best for: Luxury seekers. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view outside. Getting there: 10-minute walk along the river. Tip: Visit the Grandhotel Pupp riverside location for afternoon tea in their cafe.
9. Name: Park Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A beautiful wrought-iron structure located in a lush green park. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Dvořákovy sady. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the Park Colonnade Dvorak park walk area. Tip: Taste the Snake Spring, which is the coolest spring in town.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A massive 12th-century Gothic castle on a rocky cliff near the city. Best for: Adventure. Where: Loket town (12km away). Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 15-minute bus or train ride. Tip: Walk the ramparts for amazing views of the Ohře River.
11. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Learn about the history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Local flavors. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the spa zone. Tip: The tour includes a tasting session of several different varieties.

Planning Your Visit to Karlovy Vary

Visiting Karlovy Vary is easy and rewarding. Most people arrive by bus or train from Prague. The journey takes about two hours. The Karlovy Vary railway station is well-connected. Once you arrive, the town is very walkable. Most major sights are located in the pedestrian zone. This makes it a very safe place for families and solo travelers.

The mineral waters are the main attraction here. There are 12 main springs available for the public. Each one has a different temperature and effect. It is best to consult a doctor before drinking large amounts. However, small sips are generally safe for most people. Always use the traditional porcelain cups to protect your teeth. The minerals can be quite strong on tooth enamel.

Accessibility is also a priority in the town. Many of the colonnades are flat and easy to navigate. If you have mobility concerns, check the promenade accessibility for wheelchairs guide. The town is very clean and well-maintained. Local residents are proud of their heritage. Always be respectful when visiting the churches and spa buildings.