Introduction to the Mill Colonnade Karlovy Vary

The Mill Colonnade is a masterpiece designed by architect Josef Zítek. He is also famous for designing the National Theatre in Prague. This stone structure was built between 1871 and 1881. It features 124 Corinthian columns and 12 statues representing the months of the year. You can learn more about its history on the Mill Colonnade Wikipedia page. It is the largest colonnade in the city and serves as a public promenade. Many people gather here to enjoy the atmosphere and listen to occasional concerts.

Visitors often wonder how many springs are in the Mill Colonnade during their walk. There are actually five distinct springs located within this specific structure. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. You will need a traditional porcelain spa cup to taste the water properly. These cups have a special spout to protect your tooth enamel from the minerals. The colonnade is open 24 hours a day and is completely free to enter. It is a must-visit spot for any traveler in Bohemia.

10 Best Things to Do Near the Mill Colonnade Karlovy Vary

Here are the top attractions and experiences you should not miss when visiting this historic area.

• Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: It is the architectural heart of the city with five healing springs. Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers. Where: Central Riverside. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk from the city center. Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
• Name: Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: Sight Why go: See the most powerful spring in the city shooting 12 meters high. Best for: Families and nature fans. Where: Vridelni Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from Mill Colonnade. Tip: Explore the Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser underground tour for a unique experience.
• Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure built in a Swiss style. Best for: Photographers. Where: Near the Plague Column. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from Mill Colonnade. Tip: Read about the Market Colonnade architecture to appreciate its intricate carvings.
• Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley and surrounding forests. Best for: Active travelers and families. Where: On the hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free entry to tower; fee for funicular. Getting there: Take the funicular from the town center. Tip: The Diana Observation Tower also has a mini-zoo for kids.
• Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Experience Why go: A world-famous luxury hotel that inspired films like Casino Royale. Best for: Luxury seekers and film fans. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 1 hour for coffee or dinner. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: 15-minute walk along the river. Tip: Learn about the Grandhotel Pupp history while enjoying tea at the cafe.
• Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walk or take a local bus. Tip: Book your tour in advance as slots fill up quickly.
• Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Experience Why go: Watch master glassblowers create world-class crystal art. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Kpt. Jarose Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Short bus or taxi ride from the center. Tip: Check the gift shop for high-quality souvenirs.
• Name: St. Peter and Paul Church Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Russian Orthodox church with brilliant gold domes. Best for: Culture and history enthusiasts. Where: Westend district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Uphill walk from the colonnades. Tip: Respect the dress code when entering the sanctuary.
• Name: Deer Leap Lookout Type: Viewpoint Why go: Visit the famous chamois statue and enjoy a peaceful forest walk. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Forest trails above the city. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The trails are well-marked but can be steep in some sections.
• Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A perfectly preserved 12th-century medieval castle on a rocky cliff. Best for: History buffs and day trippers. Where: 12 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Bus or train from the main station. Tip: A Loket Castle day trip is easy to organize from the city center.

Practical Tips for Your Karlovy Vary Visit

When visiting the Mill Colonnade Karlovy Vary, timing is very important. The town is most beautiful during the spring and summer months. However, autumn brings stunning colors to the surrounding hills. If you visit in July, you might catch the International Film Festival. This event brings many celebrities and crowds to the city. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday in late May or September.

You should also plan your transport in advance. Most of the spa area is a pedestrian zone. You can arrive by train at the Karlovy Vary railway station. From there, it is a pleasant walk or a short bus ride to the colonnades. If you are flying, the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism site provides updated flight info. Always carry some cash for small purchases like spa wafers or cups.

Drinking the water is a local tradition you must try. Each spring has different effects on health. It is wise to consult a spa doctor if you plan a long-term drinking cure. For a casual visit, a small sip from each spring is fine. The water is quite warm, so be careful not to burn your tongue. Enjoying the water while walking slowly is the traditional way to do it. This practice helps the body absorb the minerals better.