Why Market Colonnade Wooden Architecture is Unique

The Market Colonnade wooden architecture is a masterpiece of late 19th-century design. Architects Fellner and Helmer designed this structure in 1883. It was originally meant to be a temporary shelter. However, the town decided to keep it for over 100 years. The white wood features delicate lace-like patterns. This style is often called the Swiss or romantic style. It provides a light and airy feeling for visitors. You can find this landmark in the heart of the spa zone. It is officially part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. The structure protects several important mineral springs from the elements.

Top 10 Sights Near the Market Colonnade

Karlovy Vary offers a mix of history, nature, and relaxation. Here are the top picks for your 2026 itinerary. Each location offers a unique look at local culture.

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

1. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is the best example of Market Colonnade wooden architecture. The white carvings are breathtaking. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Market Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Visit at night to see the wood glowing under warm lights.
2. Name: Charles IV Spring Type: experience Why go: Legend says King Charles IV discovered this spring. It is located directly inside the wooden structure. Best for: History buffs. Where: Inside the Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk into the colonnade. Tip: Buy a traditional porcelain spa cup to drink the water.
3. Name: Market Spring Type: experience Why go: This is another healing spring within the same wooden building. It has a unique mineral taste. Best for: Health enthusiasts. Where: Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Charles IV spring. Tip: The water is warm, so sip it slowly as locals do.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and a very different style. Best for: Walking and people-watching. Where: Short walk from Market Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path north. Tip: Read about the Mill Colonnade architecture history before you visit.
5. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It houses the Vřídlo spring, which shoots 12 meters high. The water temperature is 72 degrees Celsius. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Opposite the Market Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the small bridge. Tip: Take a Hot Spring Colonnade tour to see the underground pipes.
6. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: museum Why go: Moser is famous for "the glass of kings." You can watch master glassblowers at work. Best for: Souvenir shopping and craft lovers. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46/19. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for tours. Getting there: Use a local bus from the center. Tip: Check the Moser glassworks visitor guide for booking details.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: experience Why go: Learn how the famous Becherovka herbal liqueur is made. The tour includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka 57. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk or take a bus to the main shopping street. Tip: Book a Jan Becher Museum tour in advance for English groups.
8. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire valley. There is also a mini-zoo and butterfly house. Best for: Families and nature lovers. Where: On the hill above the city. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the Diana observation tower funicular near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk down the forest paths back to the town for a scenic hike.
9. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: sight Why go: This iconic hotel has hosted movie stars and royalty. It was a filming location for James Bond. Best for: Luxury atmosphere and cinema fans. Where: Mírové náměstí 2. Time: 30 minutes for a look. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Walk to the end of the spa zone. Tip: Explore the Grandhotel Pupp history and films for fun facts.
10. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: It features stunning golden domes and colorful mosaics. It is a beautiful piece of Russian architecture. Best for: Religious history and art. Where: King George Street. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for current opening hours.