Discovering How Hot the Karlovy Vary Geyser Is

The Vridlo geyser is the most powerful spring in the city. It is located inside the Vridlo Colonnade. This spring is truly impressive to see in person. You can find it among many must-see places in Karlovy Vary. The water shoots up to 12 meters high.

So, exactly how hot is the Karlovy Vary geyser? The water reaches a temperature of 72 degrees Celsius. This is about 162 degrees Fahrenheit. It is the hottest spring in the entire country. The heat comes from deep underground volcanic activity. This area is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The geyser yields about 2,000 liters of water every minute. This water is rich in minerals like salt and calcium. You will see steam rising from the basin constantly. It creates a warm atmosphere inside the hall. Most people visit to see the fountain and drink the water.

10 Best Sights to See in Karlovy Vary

Here are the top picks for your trip. These include iconic sights and unique local experiences.

• Best Overall: Vridlo Hot Spring
• Best for Families: Diana Observation Tower
• Best Rainy-Day: Jan Becher Museum
• Best Free Activity: Walking the Colonnades

1. Name: Vridlo Hot Spring Type: sight Why go: To see the 72°C geyser in action. Best for: Everyone. Where: Vridlo Colonnade, City Center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Walk from the Tepla river. Tip: Visit the Vridlo Hot Spring Colonnade for the best views.
2. Name: Vridlo Underground Type: experience Why go: See the mineral deposits and old pipes. Best for: History buffs. Where: Beneath the Vridlo Colonnade. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Entrance inside the main hall. Tip: Book the underground tour of the Vridlo geyser in advance.
3. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: Beautiful neo-Renaissance architecture with five springs. Best for: Photographers. Where: Along the river. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from Vridlo. Tip: Bring a porcelain cup to taste the different waters.
4. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families. Where: On the hill above the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free tower, fee for funicular. Getting there: Take the Diana observation tower funicular near the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Visit the butterfly house at the top.
5. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A stunning 12th-century Gothic castle nearby. Best for: History lovers. Where: Loket town, 12km away. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Local bus or train. Tip: Check the torture chamber exhibition if you are brave.
6. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: Intricate white wooden carvings from the 1880s. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Near the Vridlo spring. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the pedestrian zone. Tip: Look for the Charles IV Spring inside.
7. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: museum Why go: Learn about world-famous Czech crystal making. Best for: Indoor activity. Where: Kpt. Jarose street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid tours. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: The glass museum shows pieces made for royalty.
8. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: Home of the famous Becherovka herbal liqueur. Best for: Unique local experience. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid tour with tasting. Getting there: Walk from the main bus station. Tip: Buy a bottle of the original recipe here.
9. Name: St. Peter and Paul Cathedral Type: sight Why go: Beautiful Russian Orthodox church with golden domes. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Westend neighborhood. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Donation suggested. Getting there: Uphill walk from the center. Tip: Dress modestly when entering the church.
10. Name: Park Colonnade Type: nature Why go: Relax in the Dvorak Park gardens. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Near the Mill Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the riverside park. Tip: Try the Snake Spring which is slightly cooler.

Practical Tips for Your Hot Spring Visit

When you visit, remember that the water is very hot. Do not touch the geyser spray directly. Use the designated taps to fill your cup. You can learn more at Visit Czechia for travel rules. Most springs are free to access all day.

The city is very walkable. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. Many people walk between the colonnades to try different temperatures. Each spring has a different mineral balance. Some are meant for digestion while others help metabolism.

Check the local weather before you go. The valley can be cool in the mornings. Bring a light jacket even in summer. The town is most beautiful in late spring or autumn. You will see fewer crowds during the weekdays.