Build your own Prague funicular with this new construction set

Prague's popular Petřín Funicular has closed until 2026 due to significant damage to the tracks from recent storms. When it reopens, the funicular will feature a brand-new vehicle designed by Anna Marešová, which won a recent competition held by the Prague Public Transit Company (DPP).

You won't have to wait until 2026 to experience the new design first-hand. This fall, fans can get their hands on the new vehicle through a construction set made in collaboration with Marešová, DPP, and Czech toy brand SEVA.

The new model was launched this weekend at the international Designblok festival, where attendees got an exclusive first look. The model is made from classic parts developed by Czech brand SEVA, which specializes in vehicle construction sets.

“To ensure that people do not miss the funicular during this time, we have prepared for the public, in collaboration with DPP, a unique version of the new funicular created using the Czech construction toy SEVA," Marešová explains through a press release.

“It was a new experience to create the construction toy; first, we made a large model, which you can also see at Designblok, and from that, we developed the smaller model.”

The SEVA Petřín Funicular construction set features 798 pieces that are made using environmentally friendly materials. Recommended for ages 6+, the building process supports the development of fine motor skills.

From November, the new SEVA set will be available for purchase from DPP's official fan shop and other retailers. It's currently available for pre-order on the official Petřín Funicular website, with a CZK 100 discount off the CZK 1,300 retail price.

The Petřín funicular, which has been a staple of Prague's transport system since the late 19th century, faced operational disruptions during recent storms that resulted in floods in other parts of the country. Rather than make costly repairs, DPP decided to suspend operations until the new vehicle design is launched in 2026.

On Sept. 13, the existing third-generation cars made their final journey, cutting short a service that had been slated to conclude at the beginning of 2025. This month, visitors can say goodbye to the old vehicles with a special tour of the upper funicular station, which also includes a commemorative funicular ticket.

The new funicular is set to begin service in summer 2026 featuring the updated vehicles. Manufacturer Doppelmayr is currently processing the final design updates in cooperation with the original designer.

“I am very pleased that we managed to maintain the original design’s integrity. Some changes have even enhanced the design," notes Marešová.

"For example, instead of seats in the upper part of the funicular, we now have support bars that allow access to the wall of the funicular, improving the overall structure. I look forward to the funicular’s production next year.”