Diana Observation Tower Entrance Fee Breakdown

The Diana Observation Tower entrance fee and opening hours are very important for planning your 2026 holiday. You will find that admission to the actual observation tower is completely free for all visitors today. This makes it one of the most affordable attractions to enjoy while exploring the Karlovy Vary region. You only need to pay if you decide to use the funicular to reach the tower summit.

A round-trip ticket for the funicular costs approximately 150 CZK for adults in the current 2026 season. Children and seniors can enjoy reduced rates of about 80 CZK for the same scenic mountain journey. Families can purchase a special discounted ticket to save money on their group visit to the peak. Please check the public transport authority website for the most current price updates before you go.

You can purchase your tickets directly at the lower station located near the famous Grandhotel Pupp building. The ticket office accepts both cash in local currency and major international credit cards for your convenience. Many visitors choose to buy a one-way ticket and walk back down through the beautiful forest trails. This allows you to see more of the best viewpoints in Karlovy Vary during your descent.

If you plan to visit the Butterfly House, you will need to pay an additional separate entrance fee. The Butterfly House tickets usually cost around 170 CZK for adults and 110 CZK for younger children. Combining multiple attractions at the summit can fill an entire morning or afternoon of your travel itinerary. Always keep your funicular ticket safe if you purchased a return trip to use for the ride down.

Diana Observation Tower Opening Hours for 2026

Understanding the Diana Observation Tower entrance fee and opening hours ensures you do not miss the sunset views. During the peak summer months, the tower and funicular typically operate from 9:00 AM until 7:00 PM. These extended hours allow plenty of time to explore the surrounding woods and the local mini-zoo area. The funicular departs every fifteen minutes, so you never have to wait very long for a ride.

In the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, the closing time usually shifts earlier to 6:00 PM daily. Winter hours are even shorter, with the complex often closing its doors at 5:00 PM during December. You should always verify the schedule on the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website for specific dates. The tower may close during extremely poor weather conditions to ensure the safety of all its visitors.

The Diana Restaurant often follows a slightly different schedule than the observation tower and the funicular service. It usually stays open later in the evening to accommodate guests who wish to enjoy a traditional dinner. However, the last funicular ride down always dictates when most people decide to leave the mountain top. Plan to arrive at the station at least ten minutes before the final scheduled departure of the day.

• Summer (April - September): 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Winter (November - February): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Shoulder Season (March and October): 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Reach the Diana Observation Tower

Most tourists prefer using the Diana funicular transport options to reach the summit quickly and comfortably. The lower station is hidden in a small alleyway just a short walk from the main colonnades. The ride takes about three minutes and offers a charming glimpse of the town through the trees. It is a very steep climb that saves you a significant amount of physical effort and time.

If you enjoy hiking, there are several well-marked paths that lead from the town center to the tower. These trails wind through the lush forest and offer a peaceful escape from the busy spa district crowds. Walking to the top takes approximately thirty to forty-five minutes depending on your personal fitness and pace. Many hikers enjoy the fresh air and the chance to spot local wildlife along the wooded paths.

The tower itself features a modern elevator that carries visitors to the viewing gallery in just a few seconds. This makes the attraction accessible for people with limited mobility or those traveling with small children in strollers. You can also choose to climb the 150 steps if you want to get some extra exercise. The view from the top is equally rewarding regardless of how you choose to reach the gallery.

Top Attractions at the Diana Tower Complex

The Diana complex offers much more than just a tall tower with a view of the valley below. You can visit the Papilonia Butterfly House to see hundreds of exotic species flying in a tropical climate. This indoor attraction is perfect for families and provides excellent photo opportunities in a lush green environment. It is located just a few steps away from the funicular exit at the top of the hill.

Children will especially love the small mini-zoo which features ponies, goats, and pigs in a friendly setting. Entry to the mini-zoo is free, making it a great addition to your budget-friendly day in Karlovy Vary. There is also a well-equipped playground nearby where kids can play while parents relax on the benches. The entire area is designed to be a relaxing destination for visitors of all different ages.

The Diana Restaurant serves hearty Czech cuisine and local beers in a historic building dating back to 1914. You can sit on the outdoor terrace during the summer to enjoy the forest atmosphere while you eat. It is a popular spot for lunch, so consider making a reservation if you visit during the weekend. The prices are reasonable considering the unique location and the high quality of the traditional food served.

Best Tips for Your Diana Tower Visit

To get the best photos, try to find the best time to visit Diana Tower for lighting. Early morning light provides a soft glow over the colorful buildings of the spa town far below you. Alternatively, visiting shortly before the final funicular departure allows you to see the golden hour over the hills. Bring a good camera or a smartphone with a wide-angle lens to capture the full panoramic scene.

Check the weather forecast before you purchase your funicular tickets at the lower station in the town center. Low clouds or heavy fog can completely block the view from the top of the observation tower gallery. Clear days offer visibility for many miles, reaching as far as the Ore Mountains on the horizon. If it is raining, the Butterfly House remains a great indoor alternative to enjoy while you wait.

Combine your trip to Diana with a walk to the nearby Deer Jump lookout for more iconic views. This famous statue is one of the symbols of Karlovy Vary and is located on a nearby trail. The walk between the two points is relatively flat and takes about fifteen minutes through the cool forest. It is a great way to see multiple landmarks without needing to return to the valley floor.

Remember to bring a light jacket even if the weather in the town center feels quite warm and sunny. The summit of Friendship Hill is often several degrees cooler and can be quite breezy at the top. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is also recommended if you plan to explore any of the surrounding forest trails. Proper preparation will ensure that your visit to the Diana Observation Tower is comfortable and very enjoyable.