Understanding the Temperature of the Snake Spring Water

The temperature of the Snake Spring water is typically around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes it one of the cooler springs in the city. Most other local springs are much hotter. The lower temperature makes it easier to drink for many people. It has a high content of carbon dioxide. This gives the water a slightly refreshing, bubbly sensation.

The spring is officially known as Hadí pramen. It was first captured in 1979 during the reconstruction of the area. You can find it inside the Park Colonnade Snake Spring structure. The water flows from a beautiful bronze snake head. This artistic detail makes it a favorite spot for photos. Many locals believe this water helps with digestion.

Drinking the mineral water is a centuries-old tradition. You should use a traditional porcelain spa cup. These cups have a special spout for sipping. This allows the minerals to bypass your front teeth. Always consult a doctor before starting a serious drinking cure. For casual visitors, a small taste is usually perfectly fine. The cool temperature of the Snake Spring water is perfect for a summer day.

11 Must-See Sights Near the Park Colonnade

Exploring the city is easy because most sights are close together. Start your journey at the Park Colonnade and walk through the valley. You will see stunning architecture and natural beauty. Here are the top 11 sights to visit during your stay in 2026.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Mill Colonnade
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Diana Observation Tower
• Quick Pick: Best Rainy-Day - Jan Becher Museum
• Quick Pick: Best Free - Dvořák Park

1. Name: Snake Spring (Hadí pramen) Type: sight Why go: To experience the unique temperature of the Snake Spring water. Best for: Health enthusiasts. Where: Park Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center towards Dvořák Park. Tip: Bring your own spa cup to save money.
2. Name: Park Colonnade (Sadová kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: To see the intricate cast-iron architecture from 1880. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Next to Dvořák Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the northern end of the spa zone. Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light for photos.
3. Name: Dvořák Park Type: nature Why go: A peaceful green space named after the famous composer. Best for: Relaxing. Where: Adjacent to the Park Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Easy walk from most central hotels. Tip: Look for the statue of Antonín Dvořák in the center.
4. Name: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: The largest and most iconic colonnade in the city. Best for: Photography. Where: 5-minute walk from Park Colonnade. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river downstream. Tip: Check out the Mill Colonnade Karlovy Vary guide for history.
5. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídlo) Type: sight Why go: Home to the city's hottest and most powerful spring. Best for: Seeing the geyser. Where: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central spa area. Tip: The Hot Spring Colonnade Vridlo geyser shoots water 12 meters high.
6. Name: Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda) Type: sight Why go: A beautiful white wooden structure with Swiss-style carvings. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Across the river from the Mill Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Pedestrian zone. Tip: Taste the Charles IV Spring located inside.
7. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the entire valley. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the funicular from near the river. Tip: Visit the butterfly house located at the top.
8. Name: Church of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: A stunning Russian Orthodox church with golden domes. Best for: Culture. Where: West Bohemians district. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: 10-minute walk uphill from the center. Tip: Respect the dress code when entering.
9. Name: Jan Becher Museum Type: museum Why go: Learn about the history of Becherovka, the local herbal liqueur. Best for: Adults. Where: Near the main bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate (includes tasting). Getting there: Short bus ride or 15-minute walk. Tip: Book your tour in advance during peak season.
10. Name: Loket Castle Type: day trip Why go: A dramatic 12th-century Gothic castle on a rocky cliff. Best for: History buffs. Where: 12 km from Karlovy Vary. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Entry fee required. Getting there: 20-minute bus or train ride. Tip: Explore the torture chambers in the basement.
11. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: experience Why go: See master glassblowers create world-famous crystal. Best for: Craft lovers. Where: Suburbs of Karlovy Vary. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Tour fee applies. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 22. Tip: The museum shop offers high-quality souvenirs.

Practical Tips for Your Karlovy Vary Spa Visit

Visiting the springs is a relaxing experience if you plan ahead. Most springs are open 24 hours a day. However, the colonnades may have specific closing times at night. Always wear comfortable walking shoes as the city is hilly. You will do a lot of walking between the different springs.

Public transport is very efficient in Karlovy Vary. You can use the local buses to reach further attractions. Check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary site for schedules. Most of the spa zone is pedestrian-only. This makes it very safe and quiet for tourists.

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Please help keep it clean by using the provided bins. Respect the quiet atmosphere near the springs. Many people are there for medical reasons. Enjoy the history and the unique atmosphere of this Bohemian gem.