Preparing for your spa drinking experience

Before you begin your drinking cure, you need the right equipment. The most important item is a traditional porcelain spa cup. These cups have a unique shape with a long spout. The spout acts as a handle and a straw. This design protects your teeth from the high mineral content.

You can find these cups at almost every souvenir stall in the city. They come in many colors and sizes. It is best to where to buy porcelain spa cups in Karlovy Vary to find a design you like. Expect to pay between 150 and 500 CZK depending on the detail.

Besides a cup, wear comfortable walking shoes. The drinking ritual requires constant movement. You should also carry a small pack of tissues. The water can sometimes splash, and the minerals might leave a residue on your cup. Check the UNESCO World Heritage Centre site to learn about the city's historic spa status.

• Checklist:
• Traditional porcelain spa cup.
• Comfortable walking shoes for the colonnades.
• A map of the spring locations.
• Hand sanitizer and napkins.
• A reusable bag for your cup.

Step-by-step guide to drinking Karlovy Vary thermal springs

Drinking the mineral water is a slow and deliberate process. Do not rush the experience. Follow these steps to ensure you get the most benefit from the springs. Most locals follow this routine daily during their stay.

1. Step 1: Buy a porcelain cup. Spend 10 minutes choosing a cup at a local stall. Typical cost is 200 CZK. Avoid using plastic bottles as they can react with the hot minerals.
2. Step 2: Locate a spring. Head to one of the five main colonnades. This is free and takes about 5 minutes to find a spout. A common mistake is starting with the hottest spring, which can be 72°C.
3. Step 3: Fill your cup. Place the cup under the flowing water. Do not touch the spout with your cup for hygiene reasons. This takes only a few seconds and costs nothing.
4. Step 4: Sip while walking. Take small sips through the handle-spout while walking slowly. This should take 15 to 20 minutes per cup. Avoid sitting down, as movement aids digestion.
5. Step 5: Rinse your cup. After finishing, rinse the cup with fresh water. This prevents mineral buildup and staining. Do this at your hotel or a public restroom.

If you are unsure where to start, use a map of potable hot springs in Karlovy Vary. This will help you navigate the 12 main springs. Remember that each spring has a different temperature and mineral balance. Follow the advice of a spa doctor if you have specific health goals.

Where to find the best thermal springs

The springs are located within beautiful architectural structures called colonnades. The most famous is the Hot Spring Colonnade Vridlo geyser. This spring is the hottest and most powerful in the city. It shoots water up to 12 meters into the air.

For a variety of temperatures, visit the Mill Colonnade. It is the largest colonnade and houses five different springs. The stone pillars provide a grand atmosphere for your walk. You can follow a Karlovy Vary colonnades walking guide to see them all in one afternoon.

The Park Colonnade offers a more peaceful setting. It is located near a beautiful garden. Here you will find the Snake Spring, which is cooler and popular with beginners. For more official information on city layouts, visit the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. It provides updates on any temporary spring closures.

Health benefits and safety precautions

Drinking Karlovy Vary thermal springs is intended for metabolic and digestive health. The water contains high levels of bicarbonate, sulfate, and chloride. These minerals can have a strong effect on your body. It is vital to know how to drink Karlovy Vary spring water safely before you start.

The water temperature ranges from 30°C to 72°C. Hotter springs are often used for calming the digestive system. Cooler springs may have a more laxative effect. Always start with small amounts to see how your stomach reacts. Do not drink more than the recommended amount, as excessive minerals can stress your kidneys.

If you have heart or kidney issues, talk to a doctor first. Most spa hotels have on-site physicians who can create a drinking plan for you. They will tell you exactly which springs to visit and at what time. You can learn more about general health standards in the region from Visit Czechia.

Local etiquette and troubleshooting tips

When visiting the springs, respect the local spa culture. The colonnades are places of healing and relaxation. Keep your voice down and avoid running. It is customary to walk in a clockwise direction around the spring fountains. This keeps the flow of people moving smoothly.

The taste of the water can be quite metallic or salty. This is normal due to the high mineral content. If you find the taste difficult, try a cooler spring first. Some people eat a spa wafer between drinks to cleanse the palate. However, do not eat a full meal while drinking the water.

• Troubleshooting / common problems:
• Metallic taste is too strong: Try the cooler Snake Spring or use a porcelain cup.
• Water is too hot: Let it sit in your cup for two minutes before sipping.
• Digestive upset: Reduce the amount you drink and stick to warmer springs.
• Crowds at Vridlo: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Cup gets stained: Use a mixture of lemon juice and water to clean mineral deposits.
• Sensitive teeth: Only use the spout of the spa cup to bypass your teeth.
• Spring is dry: Check local notices; some springs are rotated for maintenance.