Essential Stops on Your Hot Spring Colonnade Tour

The Hot Spring Colonnade, or Vřídelní kolonáda, is the modern heart of the spa zone. It houses the most famous spring in the city. You can watch the water shoot high into the air. The building also serves as a hub for local culture and wellness. Many people gather here to start their journey through the town.

A Hot Spring Colonnade tour often begins with the Great Geyser. This natural wonder is a testament to the earth's power. Visitors can enjoy the warmth of the steam even in winter. It is a sensory experience that defines the Karlovy Vary atmosphere. Make sure to bring a traditional porcelain cup for the water.

Beyond the main hall, there are hidden layers to explore. The mineral salts create unique formations over many years. You can see these processes in action during specialized tours. It is a fascinating look at the science behind the spa. This area is essential for any first-time visitor to the region.

Top 12 Attractions in Karlovy Vary for 2026

Karlovy Vary offers a mix of natural beauty and grand history. This list features the best spots to include in your itinerary. We have selected a variety of experiences for every type of traveler. From high viewpoints to deep underground tunnels, there is much to see.

1. Name: Vřídlo (The Hot Spring Geyser) Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the hottest and most powerful spring in town. The water shoots up to 12 meters. Best for: Everyone Where: Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to view Getting there: Walkable from the city center Tip: Stand back to avoid the hot mineral mist.
2. Name: Vřídlo Underground Tour Type: Unique experience Why go: Explore the underground tunnels and see mineral-encrusted objects. Best for: History buffs Where: Below the Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 1 hour Cost: Moderate fee Getting there: Entrance inside the main hall Tip: Book tickets in advance as tours are small.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five springs. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Near the river Teplá Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Vřídlo Tip: Read the architecture history panels on-site.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure in Swiss style. It covers the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Photographers Where: Just across from the Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walkable Tip: Visit the Market Colonnade at night when it is lit up.
5. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum/Experience Why go: Learn about Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults Where: T. G. Masaryka street Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Moderate fee Getting there: Short bus ride or 15-minute walk Tip: Take the museum tour to enjoy the tasting session.
6. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: See world-class crystal being made by hand. It is known as the "Glass of Kings." Best for: Craft enthusiasts Where: Kpt. Jaroše street Time: 2 hours Cost: Moderate fee Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 Tip: Check the Moser visitor guide for glass-blowing times.
7. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the city and forests. Best for: Families and hikers Where: Friendship Height Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee Getting there: Use the Diana funicular near Grandhotel Pupp Tip: There is a mini-zoo at the top for children.
8. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Iconic sight Why go: A legendary hotel featured in movies like Casino Royale. Best for: Film fans Where: Southern end of the spa zone Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free to view exterior Getting there: Walk along the river Tip: Learn about the hotel's film history at the cafe.
9. Name: Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: Architecture/Religious Why go: A stunning Russian-style church with brilliant golden domes. Best for: Art lovers Where: West of the city center Time: 30 minutes Cost: Small donation suggested Getting there: Walk uphill from the center Tip: Respect the dress code when entering.
10. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: Architecture/Religious Why go: A masterpiece of Baroque architecture located near the geyser. Best for: History buffs Where: Near Hot Spring Colonnade Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walkable Tip: Look for the interior details during organ concerts.
11. Name: Deer Leap Lookout Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: See the famous chamois statue and enjoy a forest walk. Best for: Nature lovers Where: Woods above the city Time: 1 hour Cost: Free Getting there: Hike up from the Market Colonnade Tip: The path is steep but well-paved.
12. Name: Karlovy Vary Municipal Theatre Type: Cultural experience Why go: Admire the Neo-Baroque interior and ceiling paintings by Gustav Klimt. Best for: Culture seekers Where: Divadelní náměstí Time: 1 hour for a tour Cost: Varies by performance Getting there: Walkable Tip: Book a ticket for a performance to see the full interior.

Planning Your Hot Spring Colonnade Tour Experience

When planning your Hot Spring Colonnade tour, timing is everything. The early morning is often the quietest time to visit the springs. You can enjoy the steam and the architecture without the crowds. Most colonnades are open daily and are free to enter. Check the official tourism site for any seasonal events or closures.

Drinking the thermal water is a key part of the experience. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. You should use a traditional spa cup with a spout. This helps cool the water slightly before you sip it. Always consult a doctor if you plan to drink large amounts for health reasons.

Getting around the city is quite easy for visitors. Most of the spa zone is a pedestrian area. You can reach the city by train from Prague or other major hubs. The local public transport is efficient for reaching outer attractions. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.