Checklist: The List of All Hot Springs in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a world-famous spa town in the Czech Republic. People visit from across the globe to taste the healing waters. Finding a list of all hot springs in Karlovy Vary helps you plan your walk efficiently. This guide provides a detailed checklist for your 2026 visit. You will learn where to find each spring and how to enjoy them properly. Follow this advice to make the most of your mineral water experience.

Essential Before You Go Preparation

Planning your trip to this historic city requires some foresight. The mineral springs are powerful and affect everyone differently. It is best to prepare your body and your itinerary before arriving. Consult a Karlovy Vary city guide for general travel tips. Preparation ensures you stay healthy while exploring the beautiful colonnades.

Consult a doctor: Ask if drinking high-mineral water is safe for you.
Check the weather: Most springs are under cover, but you must walk between them.
Download a map: Ensure you know the locations of the five main colonnades.
Review etiquette: Learn the local customs for sharing the public taps.
Book accommodation: Stay near the Teplá River for easy access to the springs.

A List of All Hot Springs in Karlovy Vary

There are 15 main springs currently accessible to the public. They vary in temperature and mineral concentration. Most are located within the famous Karlovy Vary colonnades and springs area. The temperatures range from 30°C to a scorching 72°C. Use this list to track which ones you have visited.

Spring 1: Vřídlo (The Hot Spring) – The hottest source at 72°C.
Spring 2: Karlův IV (Charles IV) – Located in the Market Colonnade.
Spring 3: Zámecký dolní (Lower Castle) – Found in the Castle Colonnade.
Spring 4: Zámecký horní (Upper Castle) – A slightly cooler version of Spring 3.
Spring 5: Tržní (Market Spring) – Famous for its historic wooden structure.
Spring 6: Mlýnský (Mill Spring) – Located in the massive Mill Colonnade.
Spring 7: Rusalka – A popular stop for regular visitors.
Spring 8: Kníže Václav I (Prince Wenceslas I) – A very high-yield spring.
Spring 9: Libuše – Known for its consistent flow.
Spring 10: Skalní (Rock Spring) – Tucked away near the end of the Mill Colonnade.
Spring 11: Svoboda (Freedom Spring) – Located in a charming wooden pavilion.
Spring 12: Sadový (Park Spring) – Situated in the beautiful Dvořák Park.
Spring 13: Dorotka – Often used for specialized treatments.
Spring 14: Štěpánka – A cooler source preferred by some locals.
Spring 15: Hadí (Snake Spring) – The coolest spring at around 30°C.

Your On the Day Tasting Checklist

Once you arrive at the colonnades, you need a strategy. The water is meant to be sipped slowly while walking. This helps the minerals absorb into your system effectively. You should learn how to drink mineral water properly before your first sip. Follow these steps for the best experience on the day.

Buy a spa cup: Look for porcelain spa cups at local stalls.
Start with cooler springs: Begin with Spring 15 to acclimate your stomach.
Take small sips: Do not gulp the water like regular tap water.
Walk between springs: Movement is part of the traditional healing process.
Observe the colors: Notice the orange mineral deposits around the stone basins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at the Springs

Many tourists make simple errors that can ruin their experience. Some mistakes can even lead to digestive upset. The springs are medicinal, not just a refreshment. Refer to the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site for updated health warnings. Avoid these common pitfalls during your visit.

Using plastic bottles: Heat can leach chemicals from plastic into the water.
Drinking too much: Limit yourself to small amounts at each station.
Mixing with alcohol: Avoid drinking beer or wine immediately after the springs.
Ignoring the temperature: Be careful not to burn your tongue on Vřídlo.
Skipping the doctor: Never start a full drinking cure without medical advice.
Blocking the taps: Move away from the spring once your cup is full.
Forgetting a towel: Small drips from the cup can be messy.

What Not to Pack for Your Spa Walk

Traveling light is essential for a comfortable day in the city. You will be walking several kilometers between the different colonnades. The UNESCO World Heritage Centre recognizes this area for its unique layout. Keep your gear minimal to enjoy the architecture. Leave these items at your hotel.

Large backpacks: These are cumbersome in crowded colonnades.
Heavy glass bottles: They are fragile and heavy to carry all day.
Uncomfortable shoes: You will walk on cobblestones for hours.
Formal evening wear: Save the fancy clothes for dinner or the opera.
Excessive snacks: Let your stomach focus on the mineral water.

Checklist for Solo Travelers

Visiting the springs alone can be a very peaceful experience. It allows you to focus on the taste and the atmosphere. You can use the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary buses to reach outlying springs. Solo travelers should keep a few extra things in mind. Use this checklist to stay safe and happy.

Visit early: Enjoy the springs before the tour groups arrive at 10:00 AM.
Keep a journal: Note the different tastes of each spring in the list.
Use a tripod: Small portable tripods help for solo photos at the Mill Colonnade.
Stay hydrated: Drink regular plain water between mineral tastings.
Visit the official site: Check Visit Czechia for local event updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most famous spring in Karlovy Vary?

Vřídlo is the most famous spring in the city. It gushes to a height of 12 meters and reaches 72°C. You can find it inside the modern Hot Spring Colonnade. It is the primary source for most local spa treatments.

Is the mineral water in Karlovy Vary free to drink?

Yes, the water from the public springs is free for everyone. You only need to purchase a porcelain cup or bring your own container. Most visitors buy a traditional cup from nearby vendors as a souvenir. Always drink the water directly at the source.

Can I fill a large bottle with the spring water?

It is not recommended to fill large bottles with mineral water. The water loses its medicinal properties and CO2 content very quickly. It can also develop sediment and change taste within a few hours. For the best health benefits, drink it fresh at the tap.

Exploring the list of all hot springs in Karlovy Vary is a highlight of any Czech trip. By following this checklist, you can enjoy the healing traditions safely. Remember to sip slowly, walk often, and respect the local etiquette. For more detailed planning, check out our other guides on spa treatments and local history. Enjoy your wellness journey in this beautiful UNESCO city.

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.