How to Find the Location of Freedom Spring Karlovy Vary

The Freedom Spring is a unique site in the spa district. It does not sit under a massive stone roof. Instead, it has its own charming wooden pavilion. This structure was built in 1865. You can find it between the Mill Colonnade and the Park Colonnade. It is located on the left bank of the Teplá River. Look for a small, octagonal gazebo made of wood.

The spring is easily accessible on foot. If you are walking from the town center, follow the river upstream. It is about a five-minute walk from the main Post Office. The path is flat and paved. It is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Many people walk right past it without noticing. This makes it a peaceful place to enjoy the water.

If you use public transport, take bus line 2. You should get off at the "Lázně III" stop. From there, it is a very short walk. You can check the latest schedules on the official transport site. The spring is free to access at any time of day.

10 Lesser Known Mineral Springs Karlovy Vary to Visit

Karlovy Vary has over 12 hot springs available to the public. While some are very famous, others remain quiet secrets. These hidden gems in Karlovy Vary offer a more authentic experience. Here are the best springs to visit for a calm and healthy tour.

• Best overall: Freedom Spring
• Best for families: Snake Spring
• Best for quiet: Rock Spring
• Best free activity: All springs listed below are free to access!

1. Name: Freedom Spring (Svoboda) Type: Sight/Experience Why go: It is a peaceful spot with a high temperature of 60°C. Best for: People seeking a quiet moment. Where: Wooden pavilion near Mill Colonnade. Time: 10-15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Lázně III. Tip: The water is hot, so sip slowly from a porcelain cup.
2. Name: Snake Spring (Hadí) Type: Sight Why go: This is the coolest spring in the city at 30°C. Best for: Those who prefer milder mineral water. Where: Park Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through Dvořák Park. Tip: Learn more about the Snake Spring location before you go.
3. Name: Sadový Spring (Park) Type: Experience Why go: It has a high content of dissolved carbon dioxide. Best for: A refreshing, bubbly taste. Where: Basement of the Military Spa Institution. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Park Colonnade entrance. Tip: This spring is often less crowded in the early morning.
4. Name: Rock Spring (Skalní) Type: Sight Why go: It used to flow directly into the river before being captured. Best for: History lovers. Where: At the edge of the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the main Mill Colonnade statues. Tip: The temperature is around 53°C.
5. Name: Libuše Spring Type: Experience Why go: It is formed by the merger of four smaller springs. Best for: Tasting a complex mineral mix. Where: Inside the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central section of the Mill Colonnade. Tip: This is one of the most beautiful spots for a photo.
6. Name: Prince Wenceslas Spring I Type: Sight Why go: It was once used to produce Karlovy Vary medicinal salt. Best for: Understanding local industry. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the middle of the stone structure. Tip: It is quite hot at 65°C, so be careful.
7. Name: Prince Wenceslas Spring II Type: Sight Why go: A secondary outlet of the same powerful source. Best for: Avoiding lines at the first outlet. Where: In front of the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the terrace area. Tip: It has a slightly lower pressure than the main outlet.
8. Name: Rusalka Spring Type: Experience Why go: Named after a famous Slavic water nymph. Best for: Fans of local folklore. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs inside the colonnade. Tip: It was formerly known as the New Spring.
9. Name: Market Spring (Tržní) Type: Sight Why go: Legend says Charles IV healed his limbs here. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk towards the Castle Tower. Tip: The white lace-like woodwork here is stunning.
10. Name: Upper Castle Spring Type: Viewpoint/Experience Why go: It offers a slightly elevated view of the district. Best for: Escaping the river-level crowds. Where: Above the Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the stairs near the Castle Spa. Tip: The water here is around 50°C and very soothing.

Expert Tips for Your 2026 Mineral Spring Tour

Visiting the springs is a ritual. To do it right, you need a porcelain spa cup. These cups have a special spout for sipping. You can buy them at many stalls near the Official Tourism centers. Do not use plastic bottles for hot water. The heat can release chemicals from the plastic. Also, read a safety guide for drinking hot springs before you start.

The best time to visit is early morning. Most tourists arrive by bus after 10:00 AM. If you go at 8:00 AM, you will have the colonnades to yourself. This is the best time for photography. The steam rising from the springs looks magical in the morning light. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot.

Respect the local etiquette while at the springs. Do not touch the spring outlets with your hands. Keep the area clean for other visitors. Most springs are open 24/7, but some colonnades may close at night. Always check for local signs regarding water quality. The water is natural and its flow can change slightly.