Top Mill Colonnade Mineral Springs to Visit

The Mill Colonnade is the largest colonnade in the city. It features 124 Corinthian columns and five distinct mineral springs. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the length of the hall. You should bring a traditional porcelain cup for the best experience. Here are the specific springs in the Mill Colonnade you must try.

• Best overall: Mill Spring
• Best for photos: Rusalka Spring
• Best nearby: Vřídlo Hot Spring
• Best free activity: Walking the Colonnade

1. Name: Mill Spring (Mlýnský pramen) Type: Mineral Spring Why go: This is the oldest and most famous spring in the complex. It was used for medicinal baths as early as the 16th century. Best for: Traditional spa therapy. Where: Central section of the Mill Colonnade. Time: 10-15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: The water is about 56°C, so sip slowly.
2. Name: Rusalka Spring Type: Mineral Spring Why go: Formerly known as the New Spring, it was once the most popular source. It is named after the famous water nymph of Czech folklore. Best for: History buffs. Where: North end of the colonnade. Time: 5-10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located inside the main hall. Tip: Read the historical plaque located nearby.
3. Name: Prince Wenceslas I Spring Type: Mineral Spring Why go: This spring is divided into two outlets with slightly different temperatures. It is one of the more powerful flows in the building. Best for: Experiencing high-pressure mineral water. Where: Southern part of the hall. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the main promenade. Tip: Check the temperature gauge above the fountain.
4. Name: Libuše Spring Type: Mineral Spring Why go: This spring was created by merging four smaller sources. It is known for its consistent flow and mild taste. Best for: First-time tasters. Where: Near the central orchestra pit. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk towards the middle of the structure. Tip: This is often the quietest spring during peak hours.
5. Name: Rock Spring (Skalní pramen) Type: Mineral Spring Why go: While technically just outside the main roof, it is part of the Mill Colonnade complex. It has a unique setting against the natural hillside. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Adjacent to the northern edge of the building. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path toward the Park Colonnade. Tip: Look for the 19th-century inscription on the rock.

Must-See Attractions Near the Mill Colonnade

Karlovy Vary is a compact city, making it easy to see multiple sites. After visiting the Mill Colonnade mineral springs, explore the surrounding streets. You will find impressive viewpoints and unique museums within a short walk. Many of these sites offer a deeper look into Mill Colonnade architecture and local culture. Don't miss the chance to see the city from above.

1. Name: Market Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This beautiful white wooden structure features intricate carvings. It houses three additional springs, including the Charles IV Spring. Best for: Architecture photography. Where: 5-minute walk south of Mill Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river downstream. Tip: Visit at night when the wood is beautifully illuminated.
2. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Type: Sight Why go: This is the hottest and most powerful spring in town. The water shoots up to 12 meters high inside a glass pavilion. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Inside the Vridlo Hot Spring Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (tours of the underground cost extra). Getting there: Located across the river from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Book the underground tour to see the mineral-encrusted roses.
3. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire valley. You can see the historic center and the surrounding Slavkov Forest. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: On the hill above Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular requires a ticket; tower entry is free. Getting there: Take the Diana funicular from the city. Tip: There is a mini-zoo and butterfly house at the top.
4. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: Experience Why go: Learn the secret history of Becherovka, the famous Czech herbal liqueur. The museum is located in the original factory building. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry (includes tasting). Getting there: A 15-minute walk or short bus ride from the springs. Tip: Book your tasting tour in advance.
5. Name: Park Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This elegant cast-iron structure is located in Dvorak Park. it is a peaceful spot away from the main crowds. Best for: A quiet stroll. Where: North of the Mill Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the park along the river. Tip: Try the Snake Spring located here; it is the coolest in town.
6. Name: Deer Jump Lookout (Jelení skok) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the site of the legendary chamois statue. It marks the spot where the first spring was discovered. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Forested paths above the Market Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike up the marked trails from the center. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the path is steep.
7. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: Landmark Why go: This world-famous hotel has hosted royalty and movie stars for centuries. It served as a filming location for James Bond's Casino Royale. Best for: Luxury lovers. Where: The southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view; paid for dining. Getting there: Walk to the end of the main promenade. Tip: Visit the Grandhotel Pupp cafe for traditional desserts.

Essential Tips for the Mill Colonnade Mineral Springs

Drinking from the Mill Colonnade mineral springs is a specific ritual. Locals recommend using a porcelain spa cup with a built-in straw. This helps protect your teeth from the high mineral content. You should always walk while drinking to aid digestion. Most people follow specific rules for drinking mineral water to get the best results. Always consult a doctor if you plan a long-term drinking cure.

The water is free for everyone to enjoy. However, you should respect the quiet atmosphere of the colonnade. Avoid running or making loud noises near the springs. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the light hits the columns beautifully. You will also find fewer tour groups blocking the fountains.

Be aware that the water temperature varies significantly. Some springs are quite hot and can cause minor burns if handled carelessly. Use the provided handles on the fountains. If you do not have a cup, you can buy one at nearby souvenir stalls. They come in many designs and make great souvenirs. For more logistics, check the Visit Czechia official site.

How to Reach the Mill Colonnade in Karlovy Vary

Reaching the Mill Colonnade mineral springs is very straightforward. The city is well-connected to Prague and other European hubs. Most visitors arrive at the Karlovy Vary railway station. From there, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the spa zone. The walk from the station to the colonnade takes about 20 minutes. It is a scenic route through the shopping district.

If you are coming from the airport, local buses run regularly. The Karlovy Vary Airport is small but efficient. Public transport is managed by Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary. You can buy tickets directly from the driver or via mobile apps. The spa zone is mostly pedestrian, so expect to walk once you arrive.

Parking in the city center is very limited. If you drive, use the large parking garages on the outskirts. From there, use the shuttle buses or walk. The city is very safe for pedestrians at all hours. Navigating the streets is easy with clear signage in multiple languages. Enjoy your journey to this historic Bohemian gem.