Diana Observation Tower Entrance Fee and Opening Hours 2026

The most important thing to know is that the tower entry is free. You do not need a ticket to climb the stairs or use the elevator. This makes it one of the best free things to do in the city. Many visitors find this very helpful for their travel budget.

While the tower is free, the funicular ride requires a paid ticket. In 2026, a return ticket for an adult costs approximately 150 CZK. Children and seniors can enjoy discounted rates for the ride. You can purchase these tickets at the bottom station near the Grandhotel Pupp.

The tower follows a seasonal schedule throughout the year. During the summer months, it typically opens from 9:00 AM until 7:00 PM. In the winter, the hours are shorter, usually closing by 5:00 PM. Always check the official tourism site for daily updates before you go.

The last funicular trip usually departs fifteen minutes before closing time. We recommend arriving at least an hour before sunset for the best light. This gives you enough time to explore the entire complex. You can find more details in our Diana Observation Tower guide for 2026.

How to Reach the Diana Observation Tower

There are two main ways to reach the top of the hill. The most popular method is taking the historic funicular railway. It has been serving visitors for over one hundred years. The ride takes about three minutes and offers a scenic ascent.

If you prefer exercise, you can walk up the forest paths. The hike takes about thirty to forty-five minutes from the town center. The trails are well-marked and wind through beautiful beech forests. This is a great way to see panoramic views in Karlovy Vary for free.

The funicular station is located in a small alleyway. It is very close to the famous Grandhotel Pupp at the edge of town. Most tourists find it easily by following the signs for "Diana." The funicular is also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Learning how to get to Diana Observation Tower from town center is simple. You can use local public transport to reach the funicular base. Many people choose to walk through the spa zone first. This allows you to see the beautiful architecture before your climb.

Top Attractions at the Diana Complex

The Diana complex offers much more than just a tall tower. You can visit the Papilonia Butterfly House located right next to it. This tropical garden features hundreds of exotic butterflies flying around you. It is a favorite spot for families and photographers alike.

Children will enjoy the small mini-zoo located on the grounds. You can see goats, ponies, and pigs in a friendly setting. There is also a large wooden playground nearby for kids to play. These attractions make the trip worth it for the whole family.

If you get hungry, the Diana Restaurant serves traditional Czech cuisine. You can enjoy a meal on the terrace during the summer. The prices are reasonable given the unique hilltop location. It is a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch after your walk.

You can also explore nearby lookouts like the Deer Leap Lookout (Jeleni skok). This famous statue is just a short walk from the Diana tower. The forest paths connect several historic sites in the hills. Most paths are easy to navigate for average hikers.

Best Times to Visit Karlovy Vary Towers

The best time to visit is during the late spring or early autumn. The weather is mild and the visibility is usually very clear. You can see the surrounding mountains and the town valley perfectly. May and September offer the best balance of weather and crowds.

Winter visits are also magical when snow covers the Bohemian forests. The tower remains open as long as the weather is safe. However, the funicular may close for maintenance in January or February. Always check the Visit Czechia portal for seasonal closures.

Morning visits are ideal for avoiding the largest groups of tourists. Most people arrive at the complex after 11:00 AM. If you go early, you can enjoy the silence of the forest. The air is fresh and the views are very peaceful.

Sunset is another popular time for visitors to the tower. The golden hour light makes the colorful town buildings look stunning. Be sure to check the last funicular descent time for that day. You do not want to walk down in the dark without a light.

Practical Tips for Your Diana Tower Visit

Wear comfortable walking shoes even if you take the funicular. The ground around the complex can be uneven in some places. If you plan to hike, sturdy sneakers are a must. The forest trails can be slippery after a rain shower.

Bring some cash in Czech Koruna for small purchases. While the restaurant and butterfly house accept cards, some stalls might not. It is always better to have a little local currency on hand. This will help you buy snacks or small souvenirs easily.

The tower has a modern elevator for those who cannot climb stairs. This makes the view accessible to almost every visitor. There are seventy-nine steps if you choose to walk up. The elevator is free to use just like the tower entry.

• Carry a bottle of water for the hike.
• Check the weather forecast for fog.
• Keep your funicular ticket for the return trip.
• Bring a camera with a good zoom lens.