Is the Diana Observation Tower Worth Your Time?

The Diana Observation Tower offers a 360-degree view of the spa city and the surrounding Slavkov Forest. For most travelers, this is a must-see attraction that defines the Karlovy Vary experience. The tower stands 35 meters tall and features a modern lift for easy access. It is a fantastic way to see the city's unique architecture from above.

• Pros: Free entry to the tower, accessible by elevator, beautiful forest setting, and family-friendly activities.
• Cons: Long queues for the funicular in summer, the restaurant can be expensive, and the summit gets crowded.

Best for: Families with children, photographers, and first-time visitors to the city. Skip if: You have extreme vertigo or prefer completely secluded nature trails. You can find more ideas in our Karlovy Vary sightseeing guide.

Diana Observation Tower Ticket Prices and Hours

One of the best things about this attraction is that entry to the tower itself is free. You do not need a ticket to climb the stairs or use the elevator. However, most people pay for the funicular ride to reach the top. You can check the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website for real-time transport updates.

In 2026, a round-trip adult ticket for the funicular costs approximately 150 CZK. Children under six usually ride for free, while older children and seniors get a discount. If you are on a budget, you can walk up the forest paths for free. This turns the visit into a completely free activity.

The tower and funicular operate on a seasonal schedule. During the peak summer months, they usually open at 9:00 AM and close at 7:00 PM. In the winter, the hours are shorter, often closing by 5:00 PM. Always check the official Karlovy Vary Official Tourism portal for holiday closures.

What to Expect at the Diana Complex

Once you reach the summit, there is more to do than just look at the view. The Diana complex includes a historic restaurant built in 1914. It serves traditional Czech meals and local beers in a rustic setting. There is also a small mini-zoo that children will love. It features ponies, goats, and pigs in a safe enclosure.

A major highlight at the top is the Papilonia Butterfly House. This is a separate indoor attraction with hundreds of exotic butterflies flying freely. Note that the Butterfly House has its own entry fee. It is not included in your funicular ticket or tower access. You can learn more about these combined options on our Diana Observation Tower and Funicular page.

Crowds and Timing: When to Visit Diana

Timing is everything when visiting a popular spot like Diana. The funicular station near the Grandhotel Pupp can get very busy between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. If you want to avoid the crowds, aim to arrive right when they open. The morning light is also better for taking photos of the city below.

Sunset is another popular time to visit, but be careful with the funicular schedule. If you miss the last ride down, you will have to walk through the forest in the dark. The trails are well-marked but can be steep and slippery after rain. For a more relaxed pace, consider visiting on a weekday rather than a weekend.

How to Get to the Diana Observation Tower

The easiest way to reach the tower is via the funicular railway. The boarding station is tucked away in a small alley near the Karlovy Vary colonnades. The ride takes about three minutes and offers a glimpse of the forest. It is a fun experience for kids and saves your legs for the tower stairs.

For active travelers, hiking to the top is a great alternative. There are several well-maintained paths starting from various points in the city. The walk takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on your fitness level. For detailed directions, see our guide on how to get to Diana Observation Tower. The forest air is refreshing and very clean.