12 Unusual Things to Do in Karlovy Vary Beyond the Spas
Karlovy Vary is famous for its grand colonnades and healing mineral waters. Most visitors spend their days sipping from porcelain cups and admiring the architecture. However, this UNESCO-listed city hides a quirkier side for those willing to look.
If you want to escape the crowds, you have plenty of options. You can explore underground tunnels or visit a museum dedicated entirely to Christmas. Finding unusual things to do in Karlovy Vary is easier than you think. This guide reveals the best offbeat activities for a memorable trip.
Key Takeaways
- Head underground at Vřídlo for a unique view of the springs.
- Visit the Christmas House for festive vibes even in summer.
- Try a Beer Spa for a quirky Czech wellness experience.
- Take a day trip to Loket or Svatoš Rocks for adventure.
Hidden Gems Beneath & Around the Center
The city center is bustling, but secrets lie just beneath the surface and around familiar corners. These stops offer a fresh perspective on the famous spa town. They are perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Name: Vřídlo Underground Type: Tour Why go: Most people see the geyser from above, but few go below. You can tour the technical basement to see the pipes and mineralization process. It is a fascinating look at the plumbing behind the thermal magic. Best for: Curious engineers and geology fans. Where: Inside the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low (approx. 100 CZK). Getting there: Walk to the main Vřídlo hall in the center. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, as the floor can be wet and uneven.
- Name: Japanese Zen Garden Type: Nature/Relaxation Why go: This is a rare piece of Japan in Bohemia. It was designed by Japanese landscape architects as a gift to the city. The garden features raked gravel and symbolic stones that represent water and islands. Best for: Meditation and escaping the noise. Where: Beside Parkhotel Richmond. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the bus south or walk along the Teplá river. Tip: Visit early in the morning for true silence.
- Name: Historic Main Post Office Type: Architecture Why go: This is not just a place to buy stamps. The building is a national cultural monument with breathtaking frescoes and grand interiors. It looks more like a palace than a government office. Best for: Photography and sheltering from rain. Where: T. G. Masaryka Avenue. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the hall. Getting there: Located at the top of the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Look up at the four allegorical statues representing telegraph, rail, and post.
Quirky Museums and Attractions
Karlovy Vary has more than just history museums. You can find whimsical and colorful attractions that appeal to travelers of all ages. These spots provide a great break from the serious spa treatments.
- Name: The Christmas House (Vánoční dům) Type: Museum/Shop Why go: It celebrates Christmas every single day of the year. Located in the romantic Chateau Doubí, it is filled with decorations, lights, and festive music. It is surreal to visit in July. Best for: Families and holiday enthusiasts. Where: Doubí district. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a bus or taxi to Chateau Doubí. Tip: Their on-site cafe serves excellent hot chocolate year-round.
- Name: Papilonia Butterfly House Type: Nature/Indoor Why go: Step into a tropical rainforest environment right in the city. Hundreds of exotic butterflies fly freely around you. It is warm, humid, and very colorful. Best for: Kids and macro photography. Where: Near the Diana funicular base or tower area. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 150–200 CZK. Getting there: Access via the Diana funicular complex. Tip: Wear bright yellow or orange to attract butterflies to land on you.
- Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Factory Tour Why go: Watch masters blow glass by hand in intense heat. Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." Seeing the physical effort behind the crystal is humbling. Best for: Art lovers and souvenir hunters. Where: Dvory district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate (tour fee). Getting there: Check local bus schedules to the Dvory stop. Tip: Book the tour in advance to ensure an English-speaking guide.
Offbeat Wellness and Nature
A trip here usually involves mineral water, but there are other ways to soak and hike. These activities offer a fun twist on the traditional spa culture. They are ideal for travelers seeking something different.
- Name: Beer Spa Type: Wellness Why go: Instead of mineral water, you soak in a tub of hops, yeast, and malt. You often get unlimited beer to drink while you bathe. It claims to be good for the skin and hair. Best for: Couples or groups of friends. Where: Various locations in the center. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: High (luxury experience). Getting there: Search for reputable spas near the colonnades. Tip: Don't shower immediately after to let the vitamins absorb.
- Name: Goethe’s Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: Most tourists flock to the Diana Tower, leaving this one peaceful and quiet. It is a stunning neo-Gothic brick tower with fewer crowds. The hike up is rewarding and steep. Best for: Hikers and romantics. Where: The hills south of the center. Time: 2 hours (hike + visit). Cost: Free access to the tower. Getting there: Follow the yellow tourist trail from the center. Tip: Bring water, as there are fewer amenities here than at Diana.
- Name: Deer Jump (Jelení skok) Type: Statue/Viewpoint Why go: It is the symbol of the city, perched on a rocky cliff. While the statue is famous, the forest path leading there is a mystical walk. You get eye-level views of the colorful rooftops below. Best for: The classic Instagram shot. Where: West side cliffs above the Teplá. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Grandhotel Pupp or take the funicular halfway. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the rooftops.
Unique Day Trips Near Karlovy Vary
If you have extra time, the surrounding region of West Bohemia is full of surprises. These trips are short, easy, and offer completely different vibes from the spa town. They are highly recommended for adventurous spirits.
- Name: Svatoš Rocks (Svatošské skály) Type: Nature/Hiking Why go: These massive granite pillars rise dramatically from the Ohře river bank. Legend says they are a wedding procession turned to stone. It is a geological wonder and a climber's paradise. Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts. Where: Between Karlovy Vary and Loket. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Cycle or hike along the river path. Tip: The suspension bridge nearby makes for a great photo.
- Name: Loket Castle Torture Chamber Type: History/Spooky Why go: Loket is a stunning medieval town, but the castle's torture exhibition is uniquely creepy. It features moving mannequins and realistic sound effects in the dungeon. It is not for the faint of heart. Best for: Thrill-seekers and history buffs. Where: Town of Loket (15km away). Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Castle entry fee. Getting there: Take the train or bus from the main station. Tip: Climb the castle tower for incredible views of the river bend.
- Name: Bečov nad Teplou Type: Heritage Why go: Home to the St. Maurus Reliquary, the second most valuable artifact in Czechia. The tour is strictly regulated and incredibly atmospheric. It feels like a secret treasure hunt. Best for: Serious history fans. Where: Bečov nad Teplou. Time: Half-day. Cost: Tour fee. Getting there: Train or bus south from Karlovy Vary. Tip: Tickets for the reliquary tour can sell out, so book ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unusual things to do in Karlovy Vary for families?
Unlike typical spas, families love the Christmas House and the Papilonia Butterfly House. The official tourism site also recommends the funicular ride to Diana Tower. These spots offer engaging visuals for kids.
Is the Vřídlo Underground tour worth it?
Yes, especially if you enjoy technical history or geology. It is a short, affordable tour that explains the complexity of the hot springs. It offers a cooler, darker contrast to the hot colonnades above.
Are there any hidden Japanese gardens in Karlovy Vary?
Yes, the Japanese Zen Garden is located behind the Parkhotel Richmond. It is a quiet, free-to-access meditation space. Many tourists miss it because it sits away from the main colonnade route.
Can I visit Loket Castle on a day trip from Karlovy Vary?
Absolutely. Loket is only about 15 minutes away by train or bus. It is famous for its torture chamber and medieval architecture. It makes for an easy and exciting half-day excursion.
Karlovy Vary offers much more than just healing waters and wafers. From the eerie dungeons of Loket to the festive joy of the Christmas House, this city rewards curiosity. Exploring these unusual spots will give you a deeper connection to the region. Don't be afraid to step off the main colonnade and see the hidden side of West Bohemia. Refer to UNESCO listings to understand the full heritage of this amazing area.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Karlovy Vary Official Tourism — unverified: Official DMO site.
- Statutory City of Karlovy Vary — unverified: Official municipal portal.
- Visit Czechia — unverified: National tourism board.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO listing for the city.
- Lonely Planet Karlovy Vary — unverified: Tier 3 editorial requirement.
- Karlovy Vary Airport — unverified: Official airport authority.
- Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary — unverified: Public transport authority.