Karlovy Vary with Kids
Diana Lookout Tower: A Trip with Kids in Karlovy Vary
If you have a free day in Karlovy Vary and are traveling with children, the Diana Lookout Tower is the perfect destination. You can expect a beautiful view, fun for both kids and adults, and pleasant moments in nature. Plus, everything can be done without complicated planning.
How to Get to Diana
You can reach the lookout tower either by foot or by cable car. The cable car is an experience in itself, especially for children. The lower station is right next to the famous Pupp Hotel. MAP
If you’re traveling with kids, I recommend taking the cable car up and walking back down — it’s easier going down (although a bit adventurous with a stroller, but more on that later).
The cable car runs every 15 minutes from 9 AM to 5 PM. In the summer months and on weekends, there may be a line, so be patient — it’s worth it. The ride lasts about 5 minutes, and kids usually enjoy it.
Cable Car Tickets:
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Jelení skok: 50 CZK
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Diana (one way): 100 CZK
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Diana round trip: 150 CZK
You can pay for tickets in cash (in CZK only) or by credit card.
Operating Hours:
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January – March: 09:00 – 17:00
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April: 09:00 – 18:00
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May – September: 09:00 – 19:00
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October: 09:00 – 18:00
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November – December: 09:00 – 17:00
Exceptions:
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December 24th – CLOSED (Christmas Eve)
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January – CLOSED
You can buy tickets directly at the lower station of the cable car, right next to the Pupp Hotel. If you have the Karlovy Vary Region Card, you are eligible for a discount.
Transport of Pets, Bicycles, and Strollers:
Pets and bicycles are transported on the cable car for a fee. Strollers are transported for free.
What to Do at the Top
Once you exit the cable car, you’ll almost immediately find yourself at the Diana Lookout Tower. Entry is free. You can either climb the 150 steps to the top or comfortably take the elevator.
From the lookout tower, you’ll not only see Karlovy Vary but also the surrounding area full of forests and hills. On a sunny day, it’s truly a stunning view.
Afterward, you can relax on beach loungers, enjoy a coffee, drink, or lunch at the local restaurant. And what’s even better – vegans will find something to eat here too! In addition to salads, they also offer tasty chili sin carne. Pets are welcome in the restaurant!
Fun for Kids
Diana is also an ideal place for the little ones. Here’s what awaits them:
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Mini Zoo – where you can pet pigs, Cameroon goats, or ponies and admire white peacocks.
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Butterfly House (Papilonia) – dozens of butterflies flying around you. Plan 15–30 minutes for the visit.
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Children’s Playground – perfect for letting the kids run around.
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Photo Postcards – in front of the restaurant, you’ll find a vending machine where you can take a photo and print your own postcard – a great souvenir!
You can find the current prices for the Butterfly House and postcards in the attached photos.
The Way Down
The walk back down is a pleasant one through the forest. It’s easy for most people without a stroller, but with a stroller, I’d recommend being cautious – some parts are narrow or have tree roots. If you have an all-terrain stroller and a helping hand, it’ll be manageable.
If you don’t want to go straight down, you can head towards the Jelení skok station (but not with a stroller). Along the way, you’ll pass the U Myslivny cottage and a large bell, and then reach several viewpoints – including the famous Kamzík. MAP
The Legend of Kamzík: There are many legends about the origin of Karlovy Vary, but the most famous one goes something like this: During a hunt, Emperor Charles IV. heard the cry of his dog, who had fallen into a hot spring while chasing a deer. When he learned of the incident, he visited the spot, tried the hot water himself, and discovered its healing properties. He then ordered the creation of a spa town – and according to the legend, this is how Karlovy Vary came to be. The rock from which the deer was said to have jumped is now called Jelení skok (Deer Jump).
In 1850, the local council planned to erect a statue of a deer on the rock, but the idea fell through due to a lack of funds. Baron August von Lützow seized the opportunity and, at his own expense, placed a bronze statue of a chamois there in 1851. He argued that only a chamois could truly leap from the rock – and so the chamois became the symbol of Karlovy Vary.
Still Want More Views?
Before heading back down to the Vřídelní Colonnade, I recommend stopping by the Castle Tower. They have great coffee, plant-based milk, and the views are definitely worth it. You can then comfortably take the elevator down directly to the colonnade. MAP
Bonus: The Orthodox Church
If you still have the energy and desire to explore, just a few steps from the colonnade, you’ll find the Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul. Its golden domes will catch your eye from a distance, and the visit is definitely worth it. MAP
Whether you’re visiting Karlovy Vary just for the weekend or planning to stay longer, a trip to Diana is definitely worth it—especially if you’re traveling with kids. Expect stunning views, a funicular ride, a mini-zoo, a butterfly house, a playground, and a cozy restaurant. And the best part? You can easily enjoy it all in just half a day.
Have you already been to Diana? Or is it your first time planning a visit? Let me know in the comments how you liked it or if you have any tips to share with fellow travelers. And if this post inspired you, I’d love it if you shared it or saved it for later!
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