Navigating the Healing Waters of Karlovy Vary

The spa district follows the path of the Teplá River. Most springs are located inside beautiful structures called colonnades. These buildings protect the springs and provide a space for walking. Drinking the water is a slow, meditative process. It is a tradition that dates back hundreds of years. Local doctors often prescribe specific springs for different health issues.

You do not need a prescription to try the water. However, it is important to know how to drink Karlovy Vary spring water safely. The minerals are very strong and can affect your digestion. Most people sip the water while walking slowly. This helps the body absorb the minerals effectively. Always use a traditional porcelain cup for the best experience.

Map of Potable Hot Springs in Karlovy Vary: Top 12 Picks

Use this list as your personal map of potable hot springs in Karlovy Vary. We have included iconic sights, viewpoints, and museums. This variety ensures you see the best of the city. Each location is easy to find within the pedestrian spa zone.

1. Name: Vřídlo (The Geyser) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the hottest and most powerful spring in the city. Best for: Seeing a natural water spout. Where: Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the spa zone. Tip: Watch the geyser shoot 12 meters high.
2. Name: Charles IV Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: Legend says Emperor Charles IV discovered this spring. Best for: History lovers. Where: Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located next to the Town Hall Tower. Tip: Look for the relief carving above the spring.
3. Name: Mill Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous spring in the Mill Colonnade. Best for: Classic spa architecture. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds.
4. Name: Rusalka Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It was once called the New Spring and was very popular. Best for: Tasting high-mineral water. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Middle section of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: This spring has a very distinct mineral taste.
5. Name: Libuše Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is formed by the union of four smaller springs. Best for: Seeing unique fountain designs. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the end of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: The temperature is usually around 62 degrees Celsius.
6. Name: Rock Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It used to rise directly in the Teplá River bed. Best for: A quieter tasting experience. Where: Near the Mill Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk behind the main Mill Colonnade structure. Tip: This spring is slightly cooler than the Geyser.
7. Name: Freedom Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It sits inside a beautiful wooden gazebo. Best for: Outdoor photos. Where: Between the Mill and Park Colonnades. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: An easy walk along the main path. Tip: It is a great spot to sit and rest.
8. Name: Park Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is located in the basement of the Military Spa Institution. Best for: Seeing the beautiful cast-iron Park Colonnade. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the park at the north end of the spa zone. Tip: This area is very green and relaxing.
9. Name: Snake Spring Type: Unique experience Why go: It is the newest spring and features a snake-head spout. Best for: Families and children. Where: Sadová Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Inside the Park Colonnade area. Tip: It is cooler than other springs, making it easier to drink.
10. Name: Lower Castle Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It has a beautiful decorative setting. Best for: Art and design fans. Where: Castle Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the stairs from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Check the opening hours as the Castle Colonnade has specific times.
11. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire city. Best for: Photography and nature walks. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Paid funicular, free tower entry. Getting there: Take the funicular from the street behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths to see more hidden sights.
12. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Learn about Becherovka, the famous local herbal liqueur. Best for: A rainy day activity. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Located near the main bus station. Tip: The tour includes a tasting session of different varieties.

Practical Tips for Your Thermal Spring Walk

Before you start your walk, you need a cup. You can learn where to buy porcelain spa cups in Karlovy Vary at many local shops. These cups have a special spout in the handle. This design helps cool the water and protects your teeth. Mineral water can sometimes stain tooth enamel if drunk directly. Using the spout is the traditional and safest method.

Check the official Karlovy Vary tourism site for current water quality updates. Most springs are available 24 hours a day. However, some colonnades close their gates at night. The water temperature varies from 30 to 72 degrees Celsius. Start with the cooler springs if you are a beginner. This allows your stomach to adjust to the high mineral content.

How to Reach the Main Spa Colonnades

The best way to see the springs is on foot. The spa center is a pedestrian-only zone. If you arrive by bus, use the local public transport to reach the edge of the zone. Most buses stop near the Main Post Office. From there, it is a flat and easy walk to the colonnades. You can follow our Karlovy Vary colonnades walking guide for a perfect route.

If you are coming from Prague, the bus is very convenient. It drops you at the Terminal station or the Tržnice stop. From Tržnice, you are just minutes away from the first spring. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven. Most of the route is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Enjoy the fresh air and the historic atmosphere of this Bohemian gem.