Understanding the Temperature of the Vridlo Geyser Spring

The heat of the Vridlo spring comes from deep underground. It originates about 2,500 meters below the surface. The water absorbs minerals and heat from the Earth's crust. By the time it reaches the surface, the temperature is intense. This 72°C water is the source for many local spa treatments. It also feeds several smaller drinking fountains nearby.

When you visit, you will notice the steam rising from the fountain. The pressure is so high that the water shoots 12 meters up. This natural fountain is housed inside a modern glass building. It protects visitors from the splashing hot water. You can feel the warmth just by standing near the glass. Most people find the humid air very relaxing.

It is important to be careful with the water. Because the temperature of the Vridlo geyser spring is so high, it can cause burns. Never try to touch the main jet of water. Instead, use the designated drinking fountains. These fountains provide the water at slightly cooler temperatures for safe tasting. You should always follow the local safety signs around the spring.

10 Must-See Stops on a Hot Spring Colonnade Tour

Planning a trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site requires a good itinerary. There are many unique spots to explore within walking distance of the main springs. Here are the top 10 experiences for your visit.

• Best overall: Vridlo Geyser
• Best for families: Diana Lookout Tower
• Best rainy-day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best free: Mill Colonnade

1. Name: Vridlo Geyser Type: Sight Why go: To see the 72°C water shoot 12 meters high. Best for: Everyone. Where: Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Visit at night to see it illuminated.
2. Name: Vridlo Underground Type: Experience Why go: See the mineral deposits and old pipes. Best for: History buffs. Where: Beneath the Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Paid. Getting there: Entrance inside the main hall. Tip: Book your underground tour tickets in advance.
3. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: Beautiful white wooden architecture from 1883. Best for: Photography. Where: Left bank of the Tepla River. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 2-minute walk from Vridlo. Tip: Look for the Charles IV Spring inside.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: The largest colonnade with 124 Corinthian columns. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Riverside promenade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Try drinking from the five different springs here.
5. Name: Park Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: Ornate wrought-iron structure in a peaceful park. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Dvorak Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the main post office. Tip: Taste the Snake Spring, which is cooler than Vridlo.
6. Name: Diana Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular is paid; tower is free. Getting there: Take the funicular from Marianska street. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths.
7. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: See world-class Bohemian crystal being made. Best for: Shoppers. Where: Kpt. Jarose street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: The visitor center has a great gift shop.
8. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn the history of Becherovka herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid. Getting there: Central city location. Tip: Your Jan Becher Museum tour includes a tasting session.
9. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: Sight Why go: Stunning Baroque interior near the hot springs. Best for: Culture. Where: Directly across from Vridlo. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: Check for evening organ concerts.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A 12th-century royal castle on a rocky cliff. Best for: History lovers. Where: Town of Loket (12km away). Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Paid. Getting there: 15-minute drive or local bus. Tip: Visit the torture museum in the castle basement.

Practical Tips for Your Karlovy Vary Visit

When you plan your trip, consider the timing. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is busy but vibrant with festivals. Winter is magical, especially when the steam from the springs hits the cold air. Check the Official Tourism portal for seasonal events. Most attractions are open year-round.

Drinking the water is a local tradition. You should buy a traditional porcelain spa cup. These have a special spout for sipping. It helps cool the water slightly before it reaches your mouth. Learn about drinking thermal water properly to get the health benefits. Start with small sips as the mineral content is very high.

Walking is the best way to see the sights. The central spa zone is a pedestrian area. If you arrive by train, the Visit Czechia site recommends local buses. They are efficient and connect the station to the spa center. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many cobblestone streets. Most of the main colonnades are very close to each other.