Understanding the Famous Thermal Springs

The city of Karlovy Vary sits on a massive reservoir of thermal water. For centuries, people have used these waters to treat various health issues. The city is even part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing for its spa history. There are 12 main springs used for drinking cures in the city center.

The water comes from deep underground and contains dozens of minerals. While the chemical mix is similar across springs, the heat varies greatly. This temperature difference is what makes each spring unique for visitors. Most springs are housed in beautiful architectural structures called colonnades. These areas allow you to walk and sip water in any weather.

Temperature of Different Colonnade Springs Explained

Here are the most popular springs you can visit in the city. Each one offers a different experience for your palate and health. Make sure to carry a traditional cup as you explore these locations.

• Best overall: Vřídlo (The Hot Spring)
• Best for families: Park Colonnade
• Best rainy-day activity: Hot Spring Colonnade
• Best free experience: All public springs listed below

1. Name: Vřídlo (The Hot Spring) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the hottest and most powerful spring in the city. Best for: Seeing a massive geyser shoot up into the air. Where: Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk to the central spa area near the river. Tip: The water is 72°C, so let it cool before sipping.
2. Name: Snake Spring (Hadí pramen) Type: Unique experience Why go: This is the coolest spring available for public drinking. Best for: Those who prefer refreshing water over hot tea-like sips. Where: Park Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located at the end of the Dvořák Park. Tip: At 30°C, it has a higher carbon dioxide content than others.
3. Name: Mill Spring (Mlýnský pramen) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is one of the oldest and most popular springs in town. Best for: Traditional spa treatments and historical atmosphere. Where: Mill Colonnade Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk along the main pedestrian zone by the river. Tip: This spring is 56°C and very rich in minerals.
4. Name: Market Spring (Tržní pramen) Type: Neighborhood/market Why go: Located in a beautiful white wooden structure. Best for: Photo opportunities and central access. Where: Market Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located just across from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: It stays at a steady 62°C year-round.
5. Name: Charles IV Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: Legend says the Emperor discovered this spring himself. Best for: History lovers and fans of local lore. Where: Market Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Found inside the wooden Market Colonnade. Tip: The temperature is 64°C, which is quite hot.
6. Name: Orchard Spring (Sadový pramen) Type: Viewpoint/nature Why go: It is located inside a stunning cast-iron building. Best for: A quiet moment away from the main crowds. Where: Park Colonnade Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located near the Military Spa Institution. Tip: This spring is 40°C and very pleasant to drink.
7. Name: Rock Spring (Skalní pramen) Type: Unique experience Why go: It was once located directly in the Teplá River. Best for: Seeing how the city manages its natural resources. Where: Mill Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Found at the edge of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: It has a temperature of 53°C.
8. Name: Libuše Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: It was originally called the Spring of the Roses. Best for: A classic Karlovy Vary tasting experience. Where: Mill Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk to the middle section of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: This spring is 62°C and very popular with locals.
9. Name: Rusalka Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: Named after a famous water nymph from Czech opera. Best for: Cultural enthusiasts and music fans. Where: Mill Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located near the central part of the stone colonnade. Tip: The temperature is 60°C.
10. Name: Freedom Spring (Pramen Svoboda) Type: Viewpoint/nature Why go: It sits in a charming octagonal wooden pavilion. Best for: Relaxing while watching the city life pass by. Where: Between Mill and Park Colonnades Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the path from the Mill Colonnade toward the park. Tip: It is 60°C and was discovered in the late 1800s.
11. Name: Prince Wenceslaus Spring Type: Iconic sight Why go: This spring is divided into two separate taps. Best for: Seeing how one source can serve different outlets. Where: Mill Colonnade Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Located at the far end of the stone colonnade. Tip: Tap I is 65°C, while Tap II is 64°C.

How Temperature Affects Your Healing Experience

You might wonder why the temperature of the water matters so much. Hotter springs, like Vřídlo, are often used for gallbladder and liver issues. They tend to have a stronger effect on the digestive tract. Cooler springs are frequently recommended for different metabolic needs. They often contain more dissolved carbon dioxide, which changes the taste.

Always remember that drinking thermal spring water in Karlovy Vary is a medical treatment. You should not drink large amounts without professional advice. Local doctors can tell you exactly which temperatures suit your body. Most people sip about 200ml before meals for the best results.

Practical Tips for Your Spa Walk

To drink like a local, you need a porcelain spa cup. These cups have a special spout that helps cool the water. You can learn how to properly drink Karlovy Vary mineral water to get the full benefit. Walking while sipping is also part of the traditional ritual. It helps the minerals absorb better into your system.

Before you start, you should where to buy traditional porcelain spa cups in the city center. Many small stalls near the colonnades sell them in various designs. After your drink, treat yourself to traditional Karlovy Vary spa wafers. They are light, sweet, and the perfect snack for a spa guest. For more travel ideas, check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website.