How Many Colonnades Are in Karlovy Vary?

Karlovy Vary is home to five major colonnades. These structures were built to protect the mineral springs and the people drinking from them. They range from grand stone halls to delicate wooden pavilions. The city is a proud member of the Great Spa Towns of Europe UNESCO listing. This heritage ensures the colonnades remain beautifully preserved for visitors today.

The five main structures are the Mill, Market, Hot Spring, Park, and Castle colonnades. Most are located within easy walking distance in the pedestrian zone. You can follow a simple Karlovy Vary colonnades walking route to see them all in one afternoon. Each spring has a specific temperature and mineral content. Local doctors often prescribe specific waters for various health conditions.

Before you start your walk, buy a traditional porcelain spa cup. These cups have a unique spout for sipping the water slowly. This protects your tooth enamel from the heavy mineral content. You will find many small shops selling these cups near the main springs. Here are the top sights to include on your itinerary.

The Karlovy Vary Colonnades Walking Route

Walking through the city center is the best way to experience the local atmosphere. Most of the springs are free to access and open daily. Use this list to plan your route through the historic heart of the town.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Mill Colonnade
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Hot Spring Colonnade
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Tasting the mineral springs
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy Day - Jan Becher Museum

1. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Best for: Architecture lovers and photographers. Where: City center along the Teplá River. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Look up to see the 12 statues representing the months of the year.
2. Name: Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: This white, Swiss-style wooden structure is incredibly intricate and beautiful. Best for: Romantic walks and historic charm. Where: Just a short walk from the Mill Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path south. Tip: Taste the Charles IV Spring, named after the city's founder.
3. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídelní kolonáda) Type: Experience Why go: It houses the "Vřídlo," a geyser that shoots hot water 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature indoors. Where: Directly across from the Market Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (Underground tours have a fee). Getting there: Central pedestrian zone. Tip: Visit the underground area to see how souvenirs are petrified by mineral water.
4. Name: Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: A stunning cast-iron structure located in the green Dvořák Park. Best for: Relaxing in a garden setting. Where: Near the beginning of the spa zone. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through Dvořák Park. Tip: This is a great spot to start your visit to the Mill and Market colonnades.
5. Name: Castle Colonnade (Zámecká kolonáda) Type: Sight Why go: It offers a higher vantage point over the Market Colonnade below. Best for: Views and seeing the "Spirit of the Springs" relief. Where: On the hill above the Market Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (some areas restricted to spa guests). Getting there: Climb the stairs behind the Market Colonnade. Tip: The upper spring is often less crowded than the ones below.

Top Sights Near the Karlovy Vary Springs

Beyond the springs, the city offers many cultural and natural attractions. You can enjoy panoramic views or learn about local crafts. These spots add variety to your trip. Many visitors enjoy exploring the lush forests surrounding the valley.

6. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It provides the best bird's-eye view of the entire spa valley. Best for: Panoramic photos and nature walks. Where: On the hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from Mariánská Street. Tip: Walk back down through the forest trails if you have comfortable shoes.
7. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. Best for: Tasting local culture and history. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: Walk or take a local bus to the "Tržnice" stop. Tip: Book your tour in advance as they often sell out.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Museum Why go: See world-class glassblowers creating luxury crystal by hand. Best for: Art enthusiasts and souvenir hunters. Where: On the outskirts of the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take bus number 1, 2, or 22. Tip: The museum shop offers high-quality glass at various price points.
9. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Sight Why go: This iconic hotel inspired the Grand Budapest Hotel and appeared in Casino Royale. Best for: Luxury atmosphere and afternoon tea. Where: At the southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view (Cafe prices vary). Getting there: Walk to the end of the main pedestrian street. Tip: Visit the cafe for a slice of traditional Pupp cake.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning 12th-century Gothic castle perched on a rocky cliff near the city. Best for: History buffs and medieval fans. Where: 12km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local train or bus from the Karlovy Vary railway station. Tip: Check the torture chamber exhibit if you enjoy spooky history.

Practical Tips for Your Spa Visit

When visiting the colonnades, remember that the water is quite strong. It is best to consult a professional before drinking large amounts. Most people just take small sips from each spring to experience the taste. You can find a helpful drinking mineral water guide to help you understand the process. The water temperature can reach up to 72 degrees Celsius, so be careful not to burn yourself.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the town center is mostly pedestrianized. The walk between the Park Colonnade and Grandhotel Pupp is about two kilometers. It is a flat and easy walk along the river. If you need a break, there are many benches and cafes along the way. Local etiquette suggests being quiet and respectful near the springs.

For the best experience, visit the colonnades early in the morning. This is when the light is best for photos and the crowds are thin. Most tour groups arrive after 10:00 AM. You can find more information on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. Enjoy the unique combination of health, history, and beauty in this Bohemian gem.