Finding the Funicular Station in Karlovy Vary

The lower station of the funicular is located in the heart of the spa district. You will find it on a street called Stará Louka. This area is famous for its colorful buildings and luxury shops. It is just a short walk from the Vridlo Hot Spring geyser.

Look for a narrow passage between the buildings near the Grandhotel Pupp. There are several signs pointing toward the "Lanová dráha Diana." The station building is small and made of stone. It blends into the hillside quite well. Most travelers find it easily by following the crowds heading toward the woods.

If you are arriving from the main colonnades, keep the Teplá River on your left. Walk past the Mill Colonnade and continue toward the end of the valley. The walk from the city center takes about 10 to 15 minutes. It is a very scenic route through the historical zone.

• Checklist:
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• A camera or smartphone for photos.
• Small change or a credit card for tickets.
• A light jacket for the tower summit.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Diana Tower Funicular

Using the funicular is a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. It is a great way to see unique places in Karlovy Vary from above. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey to the top of the hill.

1. Step 1: Locate the Stará Louka Station. Walk to the end of the pedestrian zone near Grandhotel Pupp. This takes about 5 minutes from the main spring. Mistake to avoid: Do not confuse this with the Imperial funicular nearby.
2. Step 2: Purchase your ticket. Use the ticket booth or the automated machine at the entrance. Tickets cost roughly 100 to 150 CZK for a round trip. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting to check if your hotel provides a free transport pass.
3. Step 3: Board the carriage. Wait for the doors to open and find a seat or standing spot. The ride is very short, lasting about 3 to 5 minutes. Mistake to avoid: Sitting in the middle if you want the best view; choose the ends.
4. Step 4: Decide on the intermediate stop. The funicular stops at Jelení skok (Deer Jump) halfway up. You can get off here to see the famous statue or stay on until the end. Mistake to avoid: Getting off early if you only have one-way tickets.
5. Step 5: Exit at the Diana station. Walk out of the upper station and you will see the tower immediately. The entrance to the tower itself is free. Mistake to avoid: Leaving the area without visiting the butterfly house next door.

Ticket Prices and Opening Hours for 2026

In 2026, the funicular remains an affordable way to see the city. Prices generally range from 60 CZK for a single trip to 150 CZK for a return. Children and seniors often receive significant discounts. You can pay with most major credit cards at the station booth.

The funicular typically runs every 15 minutes throughout the day. During the peak summer season, it may run more frequently to handle the crowds. It usually starts operating at 9:00 AM and closes around 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM. Check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website for the most current schedule.

Keep in mind that the funicular may close for maintenance. This usually happens for a few weeks in January or February. Always check the official Karlovy Vary Official Tourism portal before your visit. This will help you avoid arriving at a closed station.

Alternative Ways to Reach the Diana Tower

If you prefer to skip the funicular, you can walk to the summit. There are several well-marked paths through the lush Bohemian forest. The most popular trail starts near the lower funicular station. It is a zig-zagging path that offers several viewpoints along the way.

The hike usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes depending on your pace. It is a steep climb, so it requires a moderate level of fitness. Walking up is a great way to experience the quiet side of the spa town. Many locals use these trails for daily exercise and fresh air.

For a complete experience, read our Diana Observation Tower guide. It covers both the walking routes and the attractions at the top. If you walk up, you can always take the funicular back down. This saves your knees and provides a different perspective of the forest canopy.

Troubleshooting Your Trip to Diana Tower

Sometimes things do not go as planned during a trip. Here are some common issues and how to solve them. Being prepared will make your visit much more enjoyable.

• Long Queues: During the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, lines can be very long. Arrive early in the morning to beat the rush.
• Machine Errors: If the ticket machine fails, wait for the staff at the booth. They usually speak basic English and can help.
• Bad Weather: The funicular may stop running during very high winds or heavy storms. Check the sky before you buy a non-refundable ticket.
• Cash Only: While most stations take cards, some smaller kiosks might only take Czech Koruna. Carry a small amount of cash just in case.
• Missed Last Ride: If you miss the last funicular down, don't panic. The walking trails are safe and well-lit near the bottom sections.
• Accessibility: The funicular can accommodate strollers, but wheelchairs may need assistance. Ask the operator for help before boarding.