The History Behind the Legend of Charles IV

The story begins in the 14th century during a royal hunting expedition. According to local lore, the Emperor’s hounds chased a stag into a steep valley. The stag jumped into a bubbling pool of hot water to escape. When the dogs followed, they began to howl from the heat. Charles IV arrived and noticed the water had unusual properties. He supposedly soaked his aching leg and felt immediate relief.

This event led to the founding of the town. The Emperor realized the water was a gift from nature. He ordered a settlement to be built around the springs. This area became the heart of the spa district. The Market Colonnade wooden architecture was later built to protect these precious sources. It remains one of the few wooden structures left in the city today.

The current building was designed by famous Viennese architects. It was originally intended to be a temporary structure. However, the locals loved the Swiss-style design so much they kept it. It has survived for over a hundred years. Walking through its white arches feels like stepping back into the 19th century. It is the perfect place to start your spa journey.

10 Must-See Highlights of the Market Colonnade

To help you plan your visit, here are the top experiences at the Market Colonnade and the surrounding area. These picks combine history, health, and local culture. You can see most of these in a single afternoon.

• Best overall: Market Colonnade
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Moser Glassworks
• Best free activity: Tasting the mineral springs

1. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This is the most beautiful wooden structure in the city. The intricate white carvings look like lace against the sky. It houses three major mineral springs. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Left bank of the Teplá River. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Visit at night when the lights make the wood glow.
2. Name: Charles IV Spring Type: Experience Why go: This is the exact spot from the famous legend. It is the second spring inside the colonnade. The water is roughly 64 degrees Celsius. Best for: History buffs. Where: Inside the Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the central spa zone. Tip: Read the bronze relief above the spring that tells the story.
3. Name: The Relief of the Discovery Type: Sight Why go: This artistic plaque depicts the legend of Charles IV and Market Colonnade. It shows the Emperor, his horse, and the stag. It is a great visual aid for the local history. Best for: Photographers. Where: Above the Charles IV Spring. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Inside the main hall. Tip: Look closely at the details of the hounds and the forest.
4. Name: Market Spring Type: Experience Why go: This is one of the most popular springs inside the Market Colonnade Karlovy Vary. It has a high mineral content that locals swear by. It is slightly cooler than the Charles IV source. Best for: Wellness seekers. Where: Near the entrance of the colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy access from the street. Tip: Use a traditional porcelain cup with a spout.
5. Name: Lower Castle Tower Type: Sight Why go: This tower is the only remaining part of the Emperor's original hunting lodge. It sits on a rock directly above the Market Colonnade. It offers a great view of the rooftops. Best for: Viewpoint seekers. Where: Zámecký vrch. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Short uphill walk behind the colonnade. Tip: It is one of the oldest buildings in town.
6. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in Karlovy Vary. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five springs. It is just a two-minute walk from the Market Colonnade. Best for: Grand architecture. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path north. Tip: Check the roof for the 12 statues representing the months.
7. Name: Vřídlo (The Geyser) Type: Nature Why go: This is the hottest and most powerful spring in the city. It shoots water up to 12 meters high. It is located directly across the river from the Market Colonnade. Best for: Nature fans. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (underground tour is paid). Getting there: Cross the bridge near the Market Colonnade. Tip: The water here is 72 degrees, so be careful.
8. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: For the best panoramic views of the entire valley. You can see the spa district and the surrounding forests. There is also a small butterfly house at the top. Best for: Families. Where: Above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the funicular from the street behind the theater. Tip: Walk back down the forest paths to see the deer park.
9. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: Known as the "Glass of Kings." This factory has produced luxury glass for over 160 years. You can see master glassblowers at work. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46/19. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Check the Moser glassworks visitor guide for current prices. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: The museum shop has beautiful (but expensive) souvenirs.
10. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Local Experience Why go: Learn about the secret recipe for Becherovka. This herbal liqueur is often called the "13th spring" of Karlovy Vary. The tour includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults. Where: T. G. Masaryka 57. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid tour. Getting there: Located near the main bus station. Tip: Buy the special 2026 anniversary bottles if available.

Planning Your Trip to Karlovy Vary in 2026

When visiting the Market Colonnade in 2026, keep a few things in mind. The town is most crowded during the Film Festival in July. If you prefer peace, visit in May or September. The weather is usually mild during these months. Most of the spa zone is a pedestrian area, so wear comfortable shoes.

You should also learn the local drinking culture. Do not drink the water in large amounts without advice. Most people use a special porcelain cup called a "pohárek." You can buy these at any souvenir stall near the springs. For more official travel info, check the Visit Czechia website. It has great tips for international travelers.

Getting around is quite easy. The Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary operates reliable buses. However, the best way to see the colonnades is on foot. Most major sights are within a 15-minute walk of each other. Always carry some local currency (Czech Koruna) for small purchases like snacks or cups.