Planning Your Karlovy Vary Underground Thermal Tour

The underground tour is located beneath the Hot Spring Colonnade. This building houses the most powerful geyser in the city. The water reaches temperatures up to 72 degrees Celsius. It is a marvel of nature and engineering. You can learn what to see in the Karlovy Vary thermal underground before you arrive. This helps you appreciate the history of the tunnels.

The tour shows you how the city protects its thermal sources. You will see rare minerals and old machinery. The air inside is warm and very humid. Guides explain how the spring water is distributed to local hotels. It is a unique look at the city's "heart." Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the stairs.

10 Best Sights for Your Vřídlo Underground Visit

Here are the top sights and experiences for your trip. This list includes the main tour and nearby attractions. Use these to plan your perfect day in Karlovy Vary.

• Best overall: Vřídlo Underground Tour
• Best for families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free: Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Vřídlo Geyser Type: sight Why go: It is the hottest and most powerful spring in town. Best for: Iconic photos Where: Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk from the city center Tip: Stand back to avoid the hot water spray.
2. Name: Underground Thermal Spring Route Type: experience Why go: You see the inner workings of the spa system. Best for: History buffs Where: Beneath the Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 1 hour Cost: Approx. 10 EUR Getting there: Entrance is inside the main hall Tip: Book in advance during the summer months.
3. Name: The Petrifying Chamber Type: experience Why go: See how spring water turns souvenirs into stone. Best for: Unique souvenirs Where: Part of the underground tour Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in tour Getting there: Follow the guide downstairs Tip: You can buy a "stone rose" at the gift shop.
4. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is a modern glass structure with great views. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Divadelní náměstí Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Central pedestrian zone Tip: Try the water from different drinking fountains here.
5. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most beautiful stone colonnade. Best for: Morning walks Where: Mlýnské nábřeží Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: 5-minute walk from Vřídlo Tip: Look for the statues representing the 12 months.
6. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This white wooden building looks like lace. Best for: Romantic photos Where: Tržiště Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Next to the Vřídlo area Tip: Visit the Charles IV spring inside.
7. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the valley. Best for: Families Where: On the hill above the city Time: 2 hours Cost: Funicular fee applies Getting there: Take the funicular near Grandhotel Pupp Tip: There is a mini-zoo and butterfly house at the top.
8. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn about the famous Becherovka herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults Where: T. G. Masaryka 57 Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Approx. 12 EUR Getting there: 15-minute walk from the springs Tip: The tour includes a tasting of different liqueur types.
9. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning medieval fortress on a rocky cliff. Best for: History and views Where: 12km from Karlovy Vary Time: 4 hours Cost: Entry fee for the castle Getting there: Take a local bus or train Tip: Visit the torture chambers if you are brave.
10. Name: Svatoš Rocks Type: nature Why go: Massive granite pillars created by the Ohře river. Best for: Hikers Where: Along the river path Time: 3 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the Svatoš Rocks hike guide for directions Tip: There is a nice restaurant with a terrace nearby.

How to Buy Tickets for Hot Spring Vřídlo Underground Tour

Securing tickets for Hot Spring Vřídlo underground tour is easy if you plan ahead. You can buy them at the information desk in the Hot Spring Colonnade. In 2026, many visitors prefer to book online to guarantee a spot. Tours are available in several languages, including English and German. Check the official Karlovy Vary tourism site for the latest prices.

Groups are limited to a small number of people. This ensures everyone can hear the guide in the narrow tunnels. If you are traveling with a large group, email the office first. Prices are generally lower for children, students, and seniors. Keep your ticket handy as you will need it to enter the lower levels.

Exploring Beyond the Thermal Underground

After your tour, take time to find hidden gems in Karlovy Vary. The city has many quiet parks and old churches. You can walk along the river to see the grand hotels. The atmosphere is very relaxing and peaceful. It is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the scenery.

Public transport is very efficient in the city. You can use local buses to reach the outer districts. Check the schedules on the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Most of the main sights are within walking distance of each other. This makes it easy to explore without a car.