Why the River Teplá Walk is Iconic

The River Teplá is the lifeblood of Karlovy Vary. Its name means "warm," referring to the thermal springs that feed into it. The river path is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will see grand 19th-century architecture on both banks. Crossing the bridges offers unique perspectives of the famous colonnades. It is a relaxing route perfect for all fitness levels. You can follow our River Teplá promenade walking guide for a complete experience.

Bridges here are more than just crossings. They serve as social hubs and prime photography spots. Many bridges lead directly to mineral springs or historic theaters. You can easily spend several hours wandering between the two shores. Most of the path is flat and paved. This makes it ideal for a slow, romantic stroll. The bridges help you navigate the city's unique layout efficiently.

11 Best Bridges to Cross on River Teplá Walk

Each bridge in Karlovy Vary has its own character and history. Some are modern and sleek, while others feature ornate stone carvings. Use this list to find the most photogenic spots in town. Here are the top crossings to include in your itinerary.

1. Name: Festival Bridge (Lávka u Grandhotelu Pupp) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It offers the most famous view of Grandhotel Pupp. Best for: Luxury photography and movie fans. Where: Southern end of the promenade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Park Colonnade. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the hotel facade.
2. Name: Theatre Bridge (Divadelní lávka) Type: Museum/Indoor adjacent Why go: This bridge sits right next to the stunning Municipal Theatre. Best for: Architecture lovers and culture seekers. Where: Near the Vřídlo spring. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the pedestrian zone. Tip: Look through the theatre windows to see the ornate ceiling.
3. Name: Market Colonnade Bridge Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: It connects the wooden Market Colonnade to the shopping street. Best for: Shopping and tasting mineral water. Where: Central promenade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river toward the town center. Tip: Bring a porcelain cup to try the nearby springs.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Bridge Type: Iconic sight Why go: Offers a wide-angle view of the city's largest colonnade. Best for: Seeing the 124 Corinthian columns. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the main walking path. Tip: This is a great spot for a colonnades walking route start.
5. Name: Imperial View Bridge Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides a steep view up toward the Imperial Hotel. Best for: Seeing the hillside funicular. Where: Near the Art Gallery. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past Grandhotel Pupp toward the forest. Tip: Watch the funicular cars pass by from the center of the bridge.
6. Name: Thermal Hotel Bridge Type: Unique local experience Why go: A brutalist style bridge near the famous film festival venue. Best for: Fans of modern architecture. Where: Northern end of the spa zone. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the main bus stops. Tip: Great spot to see the large outdoor Thermal pool above.
7. Name: Jánský Bridge Type: Historic crossing Why go: One of the older stone-style bridges in the center. Best for: A classic European feel. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central pedestrian area. Tip: Use this bridge to reach the underground spring tours.
8. Name: Dvořák Park Bridge Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: Crosses into the greenest part of the city center. Best for: Families and picnics. Where: Near the Park Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the northern spa area. Tip: Look for the statue of composer Antonín Dvořák nearby.
9. Name: Chebský Bridge Type: Day trip/Gateway Why go: A massive historic stone bridge at the edge of the center. Best for: Seeing the transition from old to new town. Where: Near the Karlovy Vary railway station. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main bus station. Tip: This bridge is great for watching the river widen.
10. Name: Forest Edge Footbridge Type: Nature Why go: A small wooden bridge leading into the lush Bohemian woods. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: Southern outskirts near Březová. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue south past the Art Gallery. Tip: Follow the yellow trail markers for a forest hike.
11. Name: Doubí Bridge Type: Day trip Why go: Located in a charming suburb with a medieval castle. Best for: A quiet escape from the crowds. Where: Doubí district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take bus line 6 from the center. Tip: Visit the Christmas House museum while in this area.

Planning Your Karlovy Vary Bridge Route

Most bridges are within a 2-kilometer stretch. You can see them all in a single afternoon. Start at the Thermal Hotel and walk south. This keeps the most famous sights for the end of your walk. You can find more details in a self-guided walking tour of Karlovy Vary. Wear comfortable shoes as some side streets have cobblestones.

The bridges are very safe to cross at night. The city lights reflect beautifully on the water. Many visitors prefer a late stroll after dinner. Most bridges are also wheelchair accessible with smooth ramps. Check the official tourism site for any seasonal events. Festivals often take place on the larger bridges during summer. Winter brings festive lights that make the walk magical.