The Singing Fountain Schedule and Season

The Singing Fountain is the heart of the town's social life. It only operates during the warmer months of the year. Usually, the season begins on April 30th and ends on October 31st. During these months, the fountain plays music every odd hour. You can hear the first performance at 7:00 AM. The final show usually takes place at 10:00 PM.

The evening performances are particularly special for visitors. At 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, the water display includes beautiful color lighting. Each odd hour features a different musical composition. You might hear classical masterpieces or modern film scores. It is a good idea to check the Visit Czechia portal for any temporary maintenance updates.

If you are coming from Plzeň, timing is very important. The train ride takes about 45 to 60 minutes. You should aim to arrive at least fifteen minutes before the odd hour. This gives you enough time to find a good seat on the surrounding benches. Many people enjoy eating a local spa wafer while they wait for the music to begin.

10 Best Things to Do in Mariánské Lázně from Plzeň

Mariánské Lázně offers much more than just its famous fountain. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Plzeň for history lovers. The town is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. Here are the top ten experiences to include in your itinerary.

• Best overall: The Singing Fountain
• Best for families: Boheminium Park
• Best rainy-day: Municipal Museum
• Best free activity: Maxim Gorky Colonnade

1. Name: The Singing Fountain (Zpívající fontána) Type: Sight Why go: It is the most famous musical fountain in the Czech Republic. Best for: Music and photography lovers. Where: Near the Maxim Gorky Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Catch the 10:00 PM show for the best light effects.
2. Name: Maxim Gorky Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: This neo-Baroque cast-iron structure is an architectural masterpiece. Best for: History buffs. Where: Main spa area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look up to see the beautiful ceiling frescoes.
3. Name: Cross Spring Pavilion (Křížový pramen) Type: Experience Why go: Taste the famous mineral waters that made the town famous. Best for: Wellness seekers. Where: At the end of the main colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (pay for a cup). Tip: Bring your own porcelain cup to save money.
4. Name: Boheminium Park Type: Activity Why go: See detailed miniature models of famous Czech castles and monuments. Best for: Families with children. Where: On the hill above the town. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Tip: Take the cable car up the hill to get there easily.
5. Name: Hamelika Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a panoramic view of the town and the Slavkov Forest. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Short hike from the town center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The tower looks like a romantic castle ruin.
6. Name: Forest Spring (Lesní pramen) Type: Nature Why go: A peaceful spring located in a beautiful park setting. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Northern part of the town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is less crowded than the central springs.
7. Name: Municipal Museum Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the town's famous guests like Goethe and Chopin. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Goethe Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee. Tip: Visit the room where Johann Wolfgang von Goethe stayed.
8. Name: Church of the Assumption Type: Sight Why go: A unique Byzantine-style church with a striking star-shaped ceiling. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Goethe Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Tip: Check the 33 steps leading to the entrance, representing the years of Jesus' life.
9. Name: Royal Golf Club Mariánské Lázně Type: Activity Why go: One of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in Central Europe. Best for: Sports enthusiasts. Where: Outskirts of town. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: High (Green fees). Tip: You can visit the clubhouse for a meal even if you don't play.
10. Name: Slavkov Forest Trails Type: Day trip Why go: Explore the protected landscape area surrounding the spa town. Best for: Hikers. Where: Trails start at the edge of the town. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Follow the marked green trail for the best forest views.

How to Plan Your Mariánské Lázně Day Trip

Getting to Mariánské Lázně from Plzeň is very easy. Most locals recommend using the train. You can check the train schedule from Plzeň to find frequent departures. The train station in Mariánské Lázně is about a 20-minute walk from the center. You can also take a local trolleybus from the station to the colonnade.

If you prefer driving, the trip takes about 50 minutes. Parking in the center can be difficult during the peak summer season. Use the central parking house to avoid stress. If you have more time, you might also consider a Karlovy Vary day trip from Plzeň on a different day. Both towns offer unique spa experiences in the Plzeň Region.

Remember that the spa town is at a higher altitude than Plzeň. It can be cooler, even in the summer. Always bring a light jacket for the evening fountain shows. Most shops and cafes accept cards, but keep some cash for small spring cups. Your day trip will be a relaxing break from the city bustle.