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Funicular · Fribourg, Fribourg
Fribourg Funicular (Funiculaire Neuveville–Saint-Pierre)
A 1899 funicular that links the lower La Neuveville district to the upper part of Fribourg, powered by the weight of the city’s water. It is listed in the inventory of cultural property of national significance.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fribourg Funicular (Funiculaire Neuveville–Saint-Pierre)
Fribourg’s funicular opened in 1899 to connect La Neuveville, beside the Sarine, to the Saint-Pierre district in the upper town. The route is short but climbs a steep slope that separates the two levels of the city.
The system is rare: the funicular operates by a water counterweight. The car at the top takes on water in a reservoir until it is heavier than the one below and then descends, pulling the other car up. The water used comes from the city’s sewage network, which earned it the nickname of the funicular powered by wastewater.
For its technical and historical value, the funicular is included in the inventory of cultural property of national significance. The old cars and the upper station retain the late-19th-century appearance.
For visitors, it is the most practical way to return from the lower districts to the centre.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 15 minutes.
Best time
By day; the funicular runs on a regular schedule with short intervals. Confirm times before you go.
How to get there
The lower station is in La Neuveville, by the Sarine; the upper station is near the Saint-Pierre district, about a 10-minute walk from the train station.
Tip
Use the funicular to go up after walking down through the lower districts: that way the walking is always downhill.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fribourg Funicular (Funiculaire Neuveville–Saint-Pierre)
How does Fribourg’s funicular work?
By water counterweight: the upper car is filled with water until it becomes heavier and descends, pulling the other car up.
Since when has Fribourg’s funicular been operating?
Since 1899. It is listed in the inventory of cultural property of national significance.
Where do you catch Fribourg’s funicular?
At Neuveville, by the Sarine, or near the Saint-Pierre district, in the upper part.