Why Explore the Hidden Springs of Karlovy Vary?

The main colonnades can get very busy. Large tour groups often block the most famous taps. By looking for lesser-known spots, you find a calmer atmosphere. You can take your time at each spring. This allows you to truly feel the local history. Many of these springs have lower temperatures. This makes the water easier to drink for beginners. You will also see parts of the city most tourists miss. The architecture in these quiet areas is often spectacular. It feels like stepping back into the 19th century. You can enjoy the sounds of the Teplá River without the noise of crowds. It is the best way to experience a real spa cure.

12 Stops for Your Lesser Known Mineral Springs Map

Use this list to plan your daily walks. Each spot offers something different. Remember to drink slowly and enjoy the surroundings.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Stephanie Spring
• Best for families: Park Spring
• Best rainy-day: Freedom Spring
• Best free: All springs listed below!

1. Name: Snake Spring (Pramen Hadí) Type: sight Why go: It is the newest spring with a lower temperature. Best for: Refreshing sips in a beautiful wooden colonnade. Where: Park Colonnade near Dvořák Park. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center toward the Military Spa. Tip: Look for the snake head carving on the tap.
2. Name: Freedom Spring (Pramen Svoboda) Type: iconic sight Why go: It sits in a charming octagonal wooden pavilion. Best for: A peaceful moment away from the main Mill Colonnade rush. Where: Between the Mill Colonnade and Park Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main spa area. Tip: This spring was discovered during the building of a nearby hospital.
3. Name: Stephanie Spring (Pramen Štěpánka) Type: experience Why go: It is located in a quiet park area far from the center. Best for: Nature lovers who want a peaceful walk. Where: Near Parkhotel Richmond at the city's edge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south through the forest paths or take a bus. Tip: The pavilion is very photogenic and rarely crowded.
4. Name: Dorotka Spring Type: sight Why go: It is one of the oldest springs with a unique pavilion. Best for: History buffs interested in early spa medicine. Where: Near the former hospital on the outskirts. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the main spa zone toward the forest. Tip: The water flow is sometimes restricted, so check the tap.
5. Name: Iron Spring (Železnatý pramen) Type: sight Why go: It has a very high iron content and a distinct taste. Best for: Those wanting to try a different mineral profile. Where: Near the forest paths behind the main spa zone. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the marked trails toward the hills. Tip: The water can leave a metallic aftertaste, so have a snack ready.
6. Name: Empress Elisabeth Spring Type: neighborhood Why go: Located in the elegant Westend district architecture walk area. Best for: Seeing luxury villas and quiet streets. Where: Westend District. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Park Colonnade. Tip: This area is perfect for photography lovers.
7. Name: Park Spring (Pramen Sadový) Type: museum/indoor Why go: It is located inside the historic Military Spa building. Best for: Families and those wanting an indoor experience. Where: Inside the Military Spa (Vojenský lázeňský ústav). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter the building near Dvořák Park. Tip: Respect the quiet atmosphere of the spa facility.
8. Name: Lower Castle Spring (Dolní zámecký pramen) Type: sight Why go: It is often overlooked for the Upper Castle Spring. Best for: A quick stop while exploring the Castle Colonnade. Where: Castle Colonnade (Zámecká kolonáda). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the stairs up from the Market Colonnade. Tip: The relief carving above the spring is very detailed.
9. Name: Cold Spring Type: sight Why go: It offers a refreshing change from the hot thermal waters. Best for: A cooling drink on a hot summer day. Where: Tucked away in the spa forest area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike toward the Diana Observation Tower paths. Tip: The water is much more palatable for sensitive stomachs.
10. Name: Saint Linhart Ruins Type: viewpoint/nature Why go: A beautiful forest site with ancient ruins and a deer park. Best for: Active travelers who enjoy hiking. Where: In the forest hills above the city. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the Saint Linhart ruins hiking guide for directions. Tip: Visit the nearby rope center if you have kids.
11. Name: Japanese Garden Type: unique experience Why go: A zen-like space designed for meditation and quiet. Best for: Relaxing after a long walk through the city. Where: Near the Parkhotel Richmond. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Check the Japanese garden Karlovy Vary location on your map. Tip: Go early in the morning for the most peace.
12. Name: Andělská Hora Type: day trip Why go: Stunning castle ruins with panoramic views of the region. Best for: A half-day escape from the urban spa zone. Where: About 10 kilometers from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Small fee for some areas; ruins are often free. Getting there: Follow the Andelska Hora ruins day trip instructions. Tip: The sunset from the top is one of the best in Bohemia.

How to Use a Lesser Known Mineral Springs Map

Navigating the city is easy if you are prepared. You should start by visiting the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism office. They can provide a physical map of all the springs. Buy a porcelain cup from a local vendor. These cups have a special straw in the handle. This protects your teeth from the minerals. Most springs are accessible by foot. If you need a break, use the local buses. The Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website has full schedules. Always check the water temperature before drinking. Some springs can be very hot. Drink in small sips while walking slowly. This is the traditional way to enjoy the cure.

Best Times for a Quiet Spa Experience

Timing is everything for a peaceful trip. Early morning is the best time for the springs. Most tour groups arrive after 10:00 AM. If you go at 7:00 AM, you will have the colonnades to yourself. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are also great. The colors of the forest are beautiful in October. Winter offers a magical atmosphere with rising steam. Avoid the city during the International Film Festival in July. It becomes very crowded and expensive then. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. Planning your visit for mid-week will save you time. You can enjoy the local cafes without waiting for a table. It makes for a much more relaxing vacation.