Temperature of the Vřídlo Geyser in Karlovy Vary and Its Power

The temperature of the Vřídlo geyser in Karlovy Vary is a steady 72 degrees Celsius. This makes it the hottest thermal spring in the entire country. The water comes from a depth of about 2,500 meters. It carries many minerals that are beneficial for health.

This spring is not just hot, but also very powerful. It yields about 2,000 liters of thermal water every single minute. The pressure is high enough to shoot a column of water twelve meters into the air. You can see this display inside the Vřídelní kolonáda building. It is a spectacular sight for any visitor.

The city of Karlovy Vary is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its spa history. The Vřídlo geyser is the primary source of water for most local spa hotels. It also provides the water used in the famous drinking cures. The heat from the spring is even used to warm some of the buildings nearby.

9 Best Things to See and Do Near the Vřídlo Geyser

There are many top attractions in Karlovy Vary located within walking distance of the geyser. The spa zone is designed for pedestrians and slow walks. You can easily spend a full day exploring the colonnades and nearby hills. Here are the best experiences to include in your 2026 itinerary.

1. Name: Vřídlo Geyser Type: sight Why go: To see the hottest and highest-reaching spring in Central Europe. Best for: Families and photography. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the spa zone. Tip: Stand on the balcony for the best view of the water jet.
2. Name: Vřídlo Underground Type: experience Why go: To see how the thermal water is distributed and how minerals form. Best for: Science lovers and history buffs. Where: Beneath the Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee for guided tours. Getting there: Entrance is inside the main geyser hall. Tip: Book a Vřídlo underground spring tour in advance as slots fill up quickly.
3. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This wooden structure features beautiful Swiss-style carvings. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Next to the Vřídlo building. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 2-minute walk from the geyser. Tip: Look for the Charles IV spring inside, which is said to be the first one discovered.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most famous colonnade in the city. Best for: Walking and drinking mineral water. Where: Along the Teplá River. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes downstream from Vřídlo. Tip: Bring a porcelain spa cup to taste the different springs located here.
5. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: For the best panoramic views of the entire city and forest. Best for: Active travelers and families. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a fee. Getting there: Take the Diana funicular from the town center. Tip: Visit the mini-zoo and butterfly house near the tower.
6. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: To learn about the history of Becherovka, a famous herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults and foodies. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry includes a tasting. Getting there: Take a local bus or walk 15 minutes from the spa zone. Tip: Buy a bottle here as a unique souvenir from your trip.
7. Name: Church of St. Mary Magdalene Type: sight Why go: A stunning Baroque church located right across from the geyser. Best for: History and religion enthusiasts. Where: Above the Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk up the stairs from the geyser building. Tip: Check the schedule for evening organ concerts.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: experience Why go: To see world-famous Czech glass being made by hand. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Outskirts of the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid tour. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22 from the center. Tip: The museum shop offers high-quality glass pieces for sale.
9. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A medieval stone castle on a rocky cliff just outside the city. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Town of Loket, 12km away. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Entry fee for the castle. Getting there: Take a local bus or train from the main station. Tip: Walk through the torture chambers for a spooky historical experience.

Practical Tips for Your Thermal Spring Visit

When visiting the hot springs, always check the official tourism site for the latest updates. The water is very hot, so use the traditional porcelain cups to sip it safely. These cups have a long handle that acts as a straw to cool the water. Drinking the water is a medical ritual, so do not overdo it.

Most of the colonnades are open 24 hours a day. However, the Vřídelní kolonáda building has specific opening times. It usually opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. Try to visit during the morning to avoid the largest tour groups. The atmosphere is much more peaceful at that time.

If you plan to stay overnight, many hotels offer thermal baths. These baths use the same water from the Vřídlo spring. It is a great way to relax after a day of walking. Make sure to consult a doctor if you have heart issues before drinking large amounts. The high mineral content can affect people differently.