The Essential Map of All Colonnades in Karlovy Vary

The colonnades are the heart of the spa district. Most are located along the Teplá River. You can walk the entire route in about two hours. Each structure has a unique architectural style. Use this Karlovy Vary Colonnades walking guide to plan your path.

• Best overall: Mill Colonnade
• Best for families: Hot Spring Colonnade
• Best rainy-day: Market Colonnade
• Best free: All colonnades are free to enter!

1. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. It features 124 stone columns and five different springs. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: Central spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Look for the 12 statues representing the months of the year.
2. Name: Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: This white wooden structure has a beautiful Swiss style. It houses the Charles IV Spring, named after the city's founder. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Read the bronze relief explaining the legend of the town's founding.
3. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda) Type: Experience Why go: It contains the Vřídlo Geyser, which shoots water 12 meters high. The water here is a hot 72 degrees Celsius. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Divadelní náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (underground tours have a fee). Getting there: Located in the modern glass building. Tip: Try the water at different temperatures from the smaller fountains inside.
4. Name: Castle Colonnade (Zámecká kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: It sits on a hill overlooking the Market Colonnade. It is divided into the Upper and Lower parts. Best for: Quiet moments away from crowds. Where: Above the Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (some areas restricted to spa guests). Getting there: Climb the stairs from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Enjoy the view of the town from the upper terrace.
5. Name: Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: This cast-iron structure is very elegant and sits in a green park. It is home to the Snake Spring. Best for: Relaxing in nature. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the north end of the spa zone. Tip: This is the first colonnade you hit when walking from the bus station.

Top Sights and Experiences Near the Spa Zone

Karlovy Vary offers more than just mineral water. There are many landmarks within walking distance of the colonnades. You can find detailed info in this Karlovy Vary sightseeing guide. These spots add variety to your trip. Some require a short hike or a bus ride.

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire city and forests. There is a mini-zoo and a butterfly house at the top. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Friendship Hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the Diana funicular from behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths to see more viewpoints.
2. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Iconic Sight Why go: This luxury hotel is famous for its appearance in movies like Casino Royale. It represents the height of spa glamour. Best for: Fans of cinema and luxury. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 15 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view exterior. Getting there: Follow the river to the very end of the walk. Tip: Visit the hotel cafe for a coffee and a slice of Pupp cake.
3. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn about the history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. The tour includes a tasting session. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee for tours. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the Park Colonnade. Tip: Buy a small bottle as a unique local souvenir.
4. Name: Orthodox Church of Saint Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: This church has stunning golden domes and bright blue walls. It was built for the Russian nobility who visited the spa. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: King George street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: A 15-minute walk uphill from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Check the opening hours before you walk up the hill.
5. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Day trip Why go: Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." You can watch master glassblowers work in the factory. Best for: Craft enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street (suburbs). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for factory tour. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: The museum shop has beautiful items, but they are expensive.

Practical Tips for Your Colonnade Walking Tour

Visiting the colonnades is easy if you are prepared. Most people buy a porcelain spa cup at a local stall. These cups have a special spout for sipping the mineral water. Do not drink too much water at once. It is very strong and can affect your stomach. Consult a doctor if you plan a long treatment.

The city is very walkable, but some paths are steep. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. You can find more information on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. Public transport is also available for longer distances. Most signs are in Czech, English, and German.

Timing is important for a good experience. Early morning is the best time to avoid large tour groups. Late afternoon offers beautiful light for photos of the colonnades. Most springs are accessible 24 hours a day. However, the Hot Spring building has specific opening hours. Always check the latest schedules locally.