Preparing for Your Karlovy Vary Drinking Cure

Before you take your first sip, you need to prepare properly. The mineral content in these springs is very high. It can affect your body quickly if you are not used to it. Most experts recommend a medical consultation before starting a full Karlovy Vary drinking cure guide program. This ensures the minerals will help rather than hinder your specific health needs.

You should also prepare for the unique taste of the water. It is warm, salty, and has a distinct mineral flavor. Many people find it unusual at first. It is helpful to carry a small bottle of plain water to rinse your mouth. However, do not mix the two types of water in your cup.

• Checklist:
• A traditional porcelain spa cup with a spout.
• Comfortable walking shoes for the colonnades.
• A small towel or tissues for drips.
• A map of the 15 main public springs.
• Contact info for a local spa physician.

How to Drink Karlovy Vary Spring Water Properly

Drinking the water is a ritual that requires specific steps. You cannot just gulp it down like a regular beverage. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you get the maximum benefit from the minerals. Most people perform this ritual twice a day, usually before breakfast and dinner in 2026.

1. Step 1: Purchase a porcelain cup. Time: 5–10 minutes. Typical cost: 150–500 CZK. Where: Any stall near the colonnades. Common mistake: Buying plastic or glass, which can alter the water temperature and taste. You can find many styles where to buy porcelain spa cups in Karlovy Vary easily.
2. Step 2: Locate your assigned spring. Time: 5–15 minutes. Typical cost: Free. Where: One of the five main colonnades. Common mistake: Drinking from a spring just because it has the shortest line. Follow a Karlovy Vary colonnades walking tour to see them all.
3. Step 3: Fill and sip while walking. Time: 15–20 minutes. Typical cost: Free. Where: Along the colonnade paths. Common mistake: Drinking while sitting down. Movement helps the minerals absorb into your system properly.

Which Karlovy Vary Spring Water Should I Drink?

When deciding which Karlovy Vary spring water should I drink, temperature is the most important factor. There are 15 main springs available to the public. They all share similar mineral compositions but vary greatly in heat. The temperature ranges from 30°C to 72°C. Higher temperatures generally slow down gastric motility, while lower temperatures increase it.

The Vřídlo (Spring 1) is the most iconic source. It gushes up to 12 meters high and is the hottest at 72°C. It is often recommended for chronic stomach issues. For more information on the city's offerings, visit the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website. If you prefer something cooler, the Park Colonnade springs are often around 30°C to 40°C.

Simple Decision Guide:

• If you want to stimulate digestion: Choose cooler springs (30°C - 45°C) like the Snake Spring.
• If you have a sensitive stomach or liver issues: Choose hotter springs (60°C - 72°C) like Vřídlo.
• If you are a first-time visitor: Start with the Mill Spring (Spring 6) at 56°C for a balanced experience.

Troubleshooting and Common Drinking Cure Mistakes

Even with a guide, things can go wrong during your visit. The most common problem is a sudden change in bowel movements. This is often normal as your body adjusts to the minerals. However, if you feel severe pain, stop drinking immediately and see a doctor. You can find more general travel tips at Visit Czechia to help plan your trip.

Another issue is the crowd at the Vřídlo Colonnade. It can be very loud and busy during peak hours. Try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening for a peaceful experience. This allows you to focus on the ritual without feeling rushed by other tourists.

• Common Problems:
• Mineral stains on teeth: Sip through the spout to minimize contact with enamel.
• Cup breakage: Porcelain is fragile; keep it in a padded bag when not in use.
• Dehydration: The mineral water is not a substitute for regular hydration.
• Over-consumption: Drinking too much can lead to nausea or dizziness.
• Temperature burns: Always test the water with a tiny sip first.
• Forgetting the walking rule: Standing still can lead to bloating.