Why Walk the Tepla River Promenade?

The Tepla River defines the layout of Karlovy Vary. Most of the town's famous sights sit right on its banks. Walking here is very easy because the path is flat. You can see the entire historic center in just a few hours. This is why the Karlovy Vary river promenade route is so popular with tourists.

The river itself is unique because it stays warm. Thermal springs flow into the water throughout the year. This creates a mystical mist on cold mornings. You will find many benches and cafes along the way. It is the best way to soak in the local atmosphere. You can also learn about the city's long history as a royal retreat.

• Best overall: Mill Colonnade
• Best for families: Dvořák Park
• Best rainy-day: The Hot Spring Hall
• Best free activity: Tasting the mineral springs

Top 10 Best Stops Along the Tepla River Promenade

This list covers the most iconic and interesting spots. Each stop offers something different for your itinerary. Most are free to visit and easy to find. Make sure to carry a porcelain spa cup for the best experience.

1. Name: Dvořák Park Type: nature Why go: It is a peaceful green space at the start of the promenade. Best for: relaxing and photos. Where: Northern end of the promenade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Thermal Hotel. Tip: Look for the statue of composer Antonín Dvořák.
2. Name: Park Colonnade Type: iconic sight Why go: This delicate white cast-iron structure is beautiful. Best for: architecture lovers. Where: Next to Dvořák Park. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river south from the park. Tip: Try the Snake Spring located right inside.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: iconic sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Best for: history and scale. Where: Central promenade area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from Park Colonnade. Tip: Climb the stairs for a better view of the river.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Type: unique local experience Why go: This Swiss-style wooden building houses several springs. Best for: tasting different waters. Where: Opposite the river from the plague column. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue south from Mill Colonnade. Tip: Read the legend of Emperor Charles IV on the wall inside.
5. Name: The Hot Spring (Vřídlo) Type: viewpoint/nature Why go: See a geyser shoot water 12 meters into the air. Best for: natural wonders. Where: Inside the modern glass pavilion. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Located right in the heart of the spa zone. Tip: Visit the underground tour for a small fee to see the pipes.
6. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: iconic sight Why go: It is a stunning Baroque church overlooking the river. Best for: spiritual history. Where: On the hill just above the Hot Spring. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk up the small hill behind Vřídlo. Tip: Check for evening organ concerts in the summer.
7. Name: Karlovy Vary City Theatre Type: museum/indoor Why go: The interior features paintings by Gustav Klimt. Best for: art and culture. Where: Near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 45 minutes for a tour. Cost: Moderate fee for tours. Getting there: Follow the river further south. Tip: Book a tour in advance to see the famous curtain.
8. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: iconic sight Why go: This world-famous hotel was a filming location for James Bond. Best for: luxury vibes. Where: The southern end of the main promenade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Walk to the end of the paved promenade. Tip: Have a coffee at the Café Pupp if you have time.
9. Name: Imperial Baths (Císařské lázně) Type: museum/indoor Why go: It is a masterwork of spa architecture recently renovated. Best for: grand interiors. Where: Across the river from Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Entry fee required. Getting there: Cross the bridge near the hotel. Tip: Visit the new concert hall built inside the courtyard.
10. Name: Diana Funicular Base Type: nature/viewpoint Why go: This cable car takes you to the best view of the city. Best for: panoramic photos. Where: Tucked in an alley near Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 10 minutes (ride only). Cost: Small fee for the ticket. Getting there: Follow signs from the theatre or hotel. Tip: Use the funicular to save energy for the forest trails.

Planning Your Karlovy Vary River Promenade Route

To enjoy the best stops along the Tepla River promenade, you should plan for a full day. You can reach the city easily by train or bus. The Karlovy Vary railway station is a short bus ride from the center. Most visitors arrive at the Tržnice bus station and walk toward the river from there. You can check local schedules with the public transport authority.

Wear comfortable shoes for your walk. The length of the main promenade is about 2 kilometers one way. You will want to stop often for photos and water tastings. Bring a small bottle to refill if you do not buy a spa cup. Most colonnades are open daily and are free to enter. The best time to visit is during the late spring or early autumn.

If you prefer a structured walk, consider a historic colonnades walking route. This ensures you do not miss any of the major springs. Many people also use a self-guided walking map to explore side streets. Keep an eye on the river for local trout and ducks. They are a common sight in the clear, warm water.