Understanding Karlovy Vary Colonnades and Springs

Karlovy Vary has served as a wellness destination for centuries. The town sits on a volcanic area with many hot springs. Architects built grand colonnades to protect visitors from the rain while they drank. These structures are now part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each colonnade has its own unique style and history.

The water comes from deep underground and contains many minerals. People believe these waters help with digestion and metabolic issues. You will find different temperatures at each spring. Some are warm, while others are very hot. It is important to know which ones to visit. You can find many best things to do in Karlovy Vary near these sites.

Walking between the colonnades is very easy. Most of them are located along the Tepla River. The paths are flat and perfect for a slow stroll. You will see beautiful buildings and small shops along the way. Make sure to bring a camera for the stunning architecture. Many visitors spend several hours exploring the main spa district.

12 Best Karlovy Vary Colonnades and Springs

Here are the top Karlovy Vary colonnades and springs you must see. This list includes iconic sights and unique experiences. Check out these quick picks for your trip:

• Best overall: Mill Colonnade
• Best for families: Hot Spring Colonnade
• Best rainy-day: Hot Spring Colonnade
• Best free activity: Drinking from the springs

1. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: This is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five mineral springs. Best for: Architecture lovers and first-time visitors. Where: Central spa district by the river. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the town center. Tip: Look for the statues on the roof representing the twelve months.
2. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda) Type: experience Why go: This modern building houses the Vřídlo spring, which shoots 12 meters high. It is the hottest spring in town at 72°C. Best for: Seeing the power of nature indoors. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from any central hotel. Tip: Visit the underground tour here to see how stone roses are made. You can find more info on the official tourism site.
3. Name: Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: This elegant cast-iron structure is located in a beautiful park. It is very photogenic and houses the Snake Spring. Best for: A quiet moment in nature. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 15–20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the start of the spa zone. Tip: This is one of the few remaining cast-iron colonnades in Europe.
4. Name: Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: A white wooden structure built in Swiss style. It covers the Charles IV Spring and the Market Spring. Best for: History buffs interested in local legends. Where: Just across from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk through the pedestrian zone. Tip: Look for the relief above the Charles IV Spring depicting the town's founding.
5. Name: Castle Colonnade (Zámecká kolonáda) Type: viewpoint Why go: Located on a hill, this colonnade offers great views of the town. It consists of the Upper and Lower Spring halls. Best for: Great views and a bit of exercise. Where: Above the Market Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the stairs from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Part of this area is reserved for spa guests, but the springs are public.
6. Name: Snake Spring (Pramen Hadí) Type: experience Why go: This is the newest spring in the city. It has a lower temperature of 30°C, making it easier to drink. Best for: People who find the hot water difficult to sip. Where: Inside the Park Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to Dvořák Park. Tip: The water here has a higher CO2 content than others.
7. Name: Mill Spring (Pramen Mlýnský) Type: experience Why go: This spring was once used for baths but is now for drinking. It is one of the most popular springs for locals. Best for: Tasting the classic mineral water. Where: Inside the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Use a traditional porcelain cup for the best experience.
8. Name: Freedom Spring (Pramen Svobody) Type: sight Why go: Located in a charming wooden gazebo. It is a great spot to rest while walking between the major colonnades. Best for: A quick break and photos. Where: Between the Mill and Park Colonnades. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the main river path. Tip: The gazebo was built in the late 19th century.
9. Name: Rusalka Spring (Pramen Rusalka) Type: experience Why go: Named after a famous water nymph. It is located inside the Mill Colonnade and has a temperature of 60°C. Best for: Fans of Czech folklore. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central location in the spa zone. Tip: It was originally called the New Spring.
10. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: While not a spring, it offers the best view of the spa district. You can see the whole valley from the top. Best for: Panoramic photos of the city. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free entry to the tower; small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the funicular from near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Read our Diana Observation Tower guide for more.
11. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning medieval castle just a short distance from the city. It provides a great contrast to the spa architecture. Best for: History lovers and families. Where: Town of Loket, 12km away. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take a bus from the local bus station or a train. Tip: Check our Loket Castle day trip guide for transport details.
12. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: museum Why go: Discover the famous crystal glass made in this region. You can see glassblowers at work in the factory. Best for: Souvenir shopping and crafts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee for the tour. Getting there: Take a local bus from the center. Tip: Book your tour in advance at the Moser Glassworks visitor center.

Practical Tips for Your Spa Visit

Drinking from the Karlovy Vary colonnades and springs requires some preparation. You should buy a traditional porcelain spa cup. These cups have a long spout that helps cool the water. You can find them at many stalls near the springs. It is a great souvenir to take home with you.

Always sip the water slowly while walking. This is the traditional way to enjoy the mineral benefits. Do not drink large amounts all at once. The minerals are very strong and can affect your stomach. You should learn how to drink mineral water properly before your visit.

Be careful with the temperature of the springs. Some water is hot enough to cause burns if you are not careful. Use the handle of your cup and keep it away from children. Most springs are clearly labeled with their temperature. Always follow the local signs for safety.