Diana Observation Tower Opening Hours and Tickets

The tower is open every day of the year. However, the exact hours change depending on the month. From May to September, it usually opens from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. In the winter, it often closes earlier, around 5:00 PM. Always check the official tourism site for daily updates.

Admission to the tower itself is free. You do not need a ticket to climb the stairs or use the lift. However, most people pay for the funicular ride. You can buy tickets at the bottom station near the Grandhotel Pupp. The local transport authority sets the prices for the funicular. You can pay with cash or a credit card at the ticket office.

If you want a full experience, consider a combo ticket. These often include entry to the nearby Butterfly House. Buying a return ticket for the funicular is cheaper than two singles. Children and seniors usually get a discount. Keep your ticket safe for the ride back down the hill.

10 Best Things to Do at Diana Observation Tower

There is more to see than just the view. The complex offers activities for all ages. Here are the top experiences to enjoy during your visit.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Diana Observation Tower
• Quick Pick (Best for Families): Butterfly House Papilonia
• Quick Pick (Best Free Activity): Mini Zoo

1. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: Sight Why go: It offers 360-degree views of Karlovy Vary and the Ore Mountains. Best for: Photographers and first-time visitors. Where: At the summit of Friendship Hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Via the funicular or a 30-minute forest hike. Tip: Use the elevator if you want to save your legs for the trails.
2. Name: Diana Funicular Type: Experience Why go: It is a historic rail system that saves you a steep climb. Best for: Families and those with limited mobility. Where: Starts near Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Small fee for a return ticket. Getting there: Walk from the city center to the Mariánská lane station. Tip: Sit at the very back for the best view as you ascend.
3. Name: Butterfly House Papilonia Type: Indoor Activity Why go: See hundreds of exotic butterflies in a tropical climate. Best for: Rainy days and children. Where: Right next to the tower. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Paid entry (discounts with combo tickets). Getting there: Funicular to the top station. Tip: Wear bright colors to encourage butterflies to land on you.
4. Name: Deer Leap (Jelení skok) Type: Viewpoint Why go: See the famous statue of the chamois, a symbol of the city. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: A short walk down from the tower. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the marked trails from the Diana complex. Tip: This is the most iconic photo spot in Karlovy Vary.
5. Name: Diana Restaurant Type: Experience Why go: Enjoy traditional Czech food on a peaceful woodland terrace. Best for: A relaxing lunch. Where: Adjacent to the observation tower. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate prices for meals. Getting there: Located at the funicular summit. Tip: Try the local wild game dishes if they are on the menu.
6. Name: Forest Mini Zoo Type: Activity Why go: See ponies, goats, and pigs in a small, friendly setting. Best for: Small children. Where: Behind the restaurant. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Just steps from the funicular station. Tip: Bring some small coins for the vending machines that provide animal feed.
7. Name: Charles IV Lookout Type: Nature Why go: A quieter, neo-Gothic tower with a different perspective of the woods. Best for: Hikers. Where: A 15-minute walk through the forest trails. Time: 45 minutes round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow-marked trail from Diana. Tip: The path is mostly flat and very easy to walk.
8. Name: Vřídlo Geyser Type: Sight Why go: The hottest and most powerful spring in the city. Best for: Understanding the spa history. Where: In the valley at the base of the hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: A short walk from the funicular bottom station. Tip: Check out the underground tour if you have extra time.
9. Name: Mill Colonnade Type: Sight Why go: Stunning architecture with many mineral springs to taste. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Along the river in the spa zone. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the funicular station. Tip: Buy a porcelain spa cup to taste the different waters.
10. Name: Moser Glassworks Type: Day Trip Why go: See world-famous crystal being made by hand. Best for: Luxury shoppers and craft lovers. Where: On the edge of Karlovy Vary. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Paid tour. Getting there: Take a local bus or taxi from the city center. Tip: Book your tour in advance as they fill up quickly.

Planning Your Visit to the Diana Complex

To avoid the biggest crowds, arrive early in the morning. The first funicular usually runs at 9:00 AM. This is also the best time for clear photos from the top. You can read more in our Diana Observation Tower guide. Late afternoon is also beautiful for seeing the sunset over the hills.

The complex is very family-friendly. The paths are paved and easy for strollers. There is a playground near the restaurant for kids to enjoy. If you like walking, you can take the funicular up and walk down. This allows you to see more unique places in Karlovy Vary along the way. The forest paths are well-marked with different colors.

Check the weather before you head up. The tower may close during very high winds or storms. If it rains, the Butterfly House is a great indoor option. The restaurant also has plenty of indoor seating. Always bring a light jacket as it is cooler in the forest than in the town center.

Nearby Attractions in Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is so much to see near the Diana Tower. After your visit, walk through the beautiful colonnades. You can learn how to get to the tower from various parts of the city. Most sights are within walking distance of each other.

The city is famous for its thermal water. You can try it at many different springs. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. Local people believe the water has healing powers. Don't forget to try a traditional Karlovy Vary wafer. They are thin, sweet, and very delicious.