Exploring the Historic Market Colonnade

The Market Colonnade is a unique sight in the city. Most other colonnades are made of stone or iron. This one is crafted from white-painted wood. It features intricate carvings and a romantic atmosphere. It was built in 1883 as a temporary structure. However, it was so popular that it remains today. You can find more details in our Karlovy Vary Colonnades guide. The building sits on the site of the town's oldest town hall. Today, it serves as a peaceful place to rest and sip healing waters. The wooden roof provides shade on hot summer days. It also protects you from rain while you explore the springs.

10 Top Springs at the Market Colonnade and Nearby

The following list includes the best mineral springs and attractions located at or very near the Market Colonnade. These are the highlights of the historic district.

1. Name: Charles IV Spring Type: sight Why go: This is one of the most famous springs in town. Legend says King Charles IV discovered it while hunting. Best for: History lovers and health seekers. Where: Inside the Market Colonnade. Time: 10-15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the main bus stop. Tip: Look for the relief carving above the spring showing the discovery.
2. Name: Market Spring Type: sight Why go: This spring has a high mineral content and a temperature of 62°C. It is very popular for drinking cures. Best for: Tasting the local mineral water. Where: Inside the Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the center of the wooden structure. Tip: Use a traditional porcelain spa cup to protect your teeth.
3. Name: Lower Castle Spring Type: sight Why go: It is located just a few steps above the wooden colonnade. The water is channeled here from the Castle Colonnade. Best for: Seeing different architectural styles. Where: Just behind the Market Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the small stairs behind the wooden building. Tip: This spring is slightly cooler and easier to drink for beginners.
4. Name: Vřídlo Geyser Type: experience Why go: This is the hottest and most powerful spring in the city. It shoots water 12 meters into the air. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: In the Vridlo Hot Spring Geyser hall nearby. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Free to see the geyser. Getting there: Walk 2 minutes across the river from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Visit the underground tour here to see how stone roses are made.
5. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: sight Why go: This is the largest colonnade in Karlovy Vary. It features 124 columns and five different springs. Best for: Architecture photography. Where: A 3-minute walk from the Market Colonnade. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north along the Tepla river. Tip: Check our Mill Colonnade architecture details for the best photo spots.
6. Name: St. Mary Magdalene Church Type: sight Why go: This is a stunning Baroque church. It is one of the most important religious sites in the region. Best for: Fans of historical art and quiet reflection. Where: Directly across from the Vřídlo hall. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Visible from the Market Colonnade area. Tip: Visit during a classical music concert for a great experience.
7. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: experience Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the entire valley. You can see the colonnades from above. Best for: Nature lovers and families. Where: On the hill above the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Tower is free; funicular has a small fee. Getting there: Take the funicular from the lane near Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Read more about the Diana Observation Tower viewpoint before you go.
8. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Type: sight Why go: This is a world-famous luxury hotel. It has appeared in many movies like James Bond. Best for: Luxury atmosphere and afternoon tea. Where: At the end of the pedestrian zone. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free to view; cafe prices vary. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes south from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Try the famous Pupp cake in the hotel cafe.
9. Name: Stará Louka (Old Meadow) Type: experience Why go: This is the most beautiful walking street in the city. It is lined with colorful historic houses and shops. Best for: A relaxing stroll and shopping for souvenirs. Where: Along the river bank. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Starts right next to the Market Colonnade. Tip: This is the best place to buy traditional spa wafers.
10. Name: Moser Glass Museum Type: day trip Why go: Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." You can see how the world's finest crystal is made. Best for: Learning about local crafts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46, a short bus ride from the center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 150-300 CZK. Getting there: Take bus number 1 or 2 from the Tržnice station. Tip: Book the factory tour in advance to see the glassblowers at work.

Planning Your Visit to the Market District

Visiting the top springs at the Market Colonnade is easy. Most sights are within walking distance of each other. You should wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. The official tourism board suggests visiting early in the morning. This is when the light is best for photos. It is also when the springs are less crowded. Most springs are open 24 hours a day. However, some indoor halls have specific opening times. Always carry a small amount of local currency for snacks. Many shops sell porcelain cups for about 100 to 300 CZK. These make great souvenirs for your trip home.