Exploring the Hot Spring Colonnade Vridlo Geyser

The Vridlo geyser is a unique natural phenomenon. It reaches a temperature of 72 degrees Celsius. The water shoots up to 12 meters high. You can watch this display from inside the modern functionalist building. It is a striking contrast to the older architecture nearby.

Inside the colonnade, you can find several drinking fountains. Each fountain has a different temperature. Locals believe these waters help with digestive issues. You should buy a traditional porcelain cup to sip the water properly. These cups are sold at many stalls inside the building.

Don't miss the underground tour of the colonnade. This tour shows the complex system of pipes and mineral deposits. You can see how the thermal water is distributed to local hotels. It is a fascinating look at the city's hidden infrastructure. Most visitors find the "petrification" process very interesting to watch.

12 Best Things to Do Near the Vridlo Geyser

Karlovy Vary offers a wealth of activities for every traveler. Many of the best attractions in Karlovy Vary are located in the historic center. You can easily explore most of these sites on foot. Use this list to plan your perfect itinerary in the spa district.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Mill Colonnade
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Diana Observation Tower
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Hiking to Deer Jump Lookout
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy Day - Moser Glassworks

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest and most beautiful colonnade in the city. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: On the riverbank, a 5-minute walk from Vridlo. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the Tepla River. Tip: Read the colonnades walking guide to learn about the statues.
2. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: On the hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free tower entry; small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the Diana funicular ride from the town center. Tip: Visit the mini-zoo nearby if you are traveling with children.
3. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: See how world-famous Bohemian glass is made by hand. Best for: History buffs and shoppers. Where: Kpt. Jarose 46/19. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: Check the Moser visitor guide for workshop times.
4. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka 57. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walkable from the main bus station. Tip: Book the tasting experience in advance as slots fill up.
5. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Landmark Why go: This iconic hotel inspired the Grand Budapest Hotel movie. Best for: Luxury seekers and film fans. Where: At the end of the spa zone. Time: 1 hour for coffee. Cost: Free to view; expensive for dining. Getting there: Walk past the Market Colonnade. Tip: Read the Pupp landmark guide for its movie history.
6. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: A rare and beautiful wooden colonnade in Swiss style. Best for: Quick stops and photos. Where: Right next to the Vridlo geyser. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just a few steps from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: Look for the Charles IV Spring inside.
7. Name: Saint Peter and Paul Orthodox Church Type: Sight Why go: Famous for its bright blue walls and golden domes. Best for: Culture and history enthusiasts. Where: Westend district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: A 15-minute uphill walk from the center. Tip: Check the church guide for dress code rules.
8. Name: Deer Jump Lookout Type: Nature Why go: See the famous statue of a mountain goat overlooking the city. Best for: Active travelers. Where: In the forest park above the Tepla River. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the marked trails from the Diana funicular mid-station. Tip: The stag statue is a great photo spot.
9. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: Sight Why go: A stunning High Baroque church with a unique crypt. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Opposite the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free; fee for crypt tours. Getting there: Located directly in the spa center. Tip: Join the crypt excursions for a spooky experience.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A massive medieval fortress surrounded by a river. Best for: History lovers and day trippers. Where: 12 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local bus or train from the main station. Tip: Plan your Loket day trip for early morning.
11. Name: Christmas House Type: Experience Why go: A magical year-round museum dedicated to Christmas decorations. Best for: Families and fans of the holidays. Where: Studentska 1. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Take a bus to the Doubi neighborhood. Tip: Buy Christmas House tickets at the door.
12. Name: Castle Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: Offers a more private and quiet atmosphere for tasting water. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Above the Market Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the stairs from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Only the Upper Spring is usually open to the public.

Practical Tips for Your Karlovy Vary Trip

Drinking the thermal water is a key part of the experience. You should consult a doctor if you plan a long treatment. For a casual visit, small sips are usually fine. Remember that the water is very warm and has a strong mineral taste. Always use the proper drinking methods to protect your teeth.

Public transport in Karlovy Vary is very efficient. You can use local buses to reach the outskirts like the Moser Glassworks. For schedules and tickets, visit the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. The city center itself is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes because many streets are made of cobblestone.

The best time to visit is during the spring or fall. The weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in summer. July is very busy due to the International Film Festival. If you enjoy winter magic, December is also a great choice. Always book your accommodation early if you visit during peak seasons.