The Golden Age of Bohemian Views

The 1800s brought a surge of tourism to this spa town. Wealthy guests wanted more than just mineral water treatments. They embraced the Romantic movement, which celebrated nature. This shift sparked a building boom on the surrounding peaks. Architects designed towers that looked like medieval castles or neo-Gothic monuments. These structures became symbols of prestige for the local community.

The city is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. This status protects the historic integrity of the forest trails. Most towers are connected by a well-marked network of paths. These trails have guided walkers for over a century. Walking these paths is among the most unusual things to do in Karlovy Vary today. You will find that the views remain as breathtaking as they were in 1890.

9 Historic Lookout Towers in Karlovy Vary

Here are the top historic towers and viewpoints to visit in 2026. This list includes iconic stone towers and scenic wooden arbors. Use this guide to plan your daily walks through the woods.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Diana Observation Tower
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Goethe’s Lookout Tower
• Quick Pick: Best Free View - Deer Leap (Jelení skok)

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: sight Why go: It is the most famous tower in the city. Built in 1914, it offers a 35-meter high platform. Best for: Families and first-time visitors. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free tower entry; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská Lane. Tip: Visit the butterfly house located right next to the tower.
2. Name: Goethe’s Lookout Tower Type: experience Why go: This neo-Gothic structure was built in 1889. It was a favorite spot of Princess Stephanie of Austria. Best for: Architecture lovers and hikers. Where: On the Výšina věčného mládí (Height of Eternal Youth). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Small entry fee usually applies. Getting there: Follow the Goethe’s Lookout Tower hike trail. Tip: Check if the tower is currently open before you start your walk.
3. Name: Charles IV Lookout Tower Type: sight Why go: Built in 1877, it is the oldest lookout tower in the area. Its brick design resembles a minaret. Best for: History buffs. Where: Hamerský vrch. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Diana Tower via the yellow trail. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so climb carefully.
4. Name: Deer Leap (Jelení skok) Type: viewpoint Why go: This is the most iconic viewpoint in town. It features a famous statue of a mountain goat. Best for: Photos and quick walks. Where: On a rocky cliff above the center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The wooden pavilion nearby offers great shade on sunny days.
5. Name: Three Crosses (Tři kříže) Type: sight Why go: These crosses date back to the 16th century. They represent the Catholic faith of the region. Best for: Sunset views. Where: Three Crosses Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path from the Karlovy Vary railway station area. Tip: The path is steep, so wear sturdy shoes.
6. Name: Aberg (Doubská hora) Type: sight Why go: This stone tower was rebuilt in 1905. It includes a hotel and a restaurant at the top. Best for: A lunch break with a view. Where: Doubská hora hill. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free entry to the tower for diners. Getting there: Accessible by car or a long forest hike. Tip: It is one of the highest points near the city.
7. Name: Peter’s Height (Petrova výšina) Type: viewpoint Why go: It commemorates the visit of Peter the Great in 1712. He famously rode a horse up this steep hill. Best for: Panoramic city photos. Where: Near the Deer Leap. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the Diana funicular middle station. Tip: Look for the bust of the Russian Tsar.
8. Name: Mayer’s Gloriette Type: experience Why go: A charming wooden gazebo built in 1804. It offers a peaceful spot away from the main crowds. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: On the way to Deer Leap. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the forest trails starting near the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Perfect for a rainy day rest stop.
9. Name: Charles IV View Pavilion Type: sight Why go: A wooden structure that mimics the style of the local colonnades. It offers a unique angle of the Teplá river valley. Best for: Landscape sketching. Where: Near the Imperial Hotel. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the trail markers from the city center. Tip: The light here is best in the early morning.

Planning Your Historic Hiking Route

Visiting these towers requires some preparation. Most trails are well-maintained but can be slippery after rain. It is helpful to carry a hiking map to Goethe’s Lookout Tower and other peaks. The local forest management uses color-coded signs. Follow these colors to avoid getting lost in the dense woods. Public transport is also a great way to save energy.

The local transport authority operates buses and funiculars. You can take a bus to the outskirts and walk back toward the center. This allows you to see more towers in one afternoon. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the hills. High winds can sometimes close the taller stone towers for safety. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for long walks.