Planning Your Trip to Petřín Hill

The funicular has been a staple of Prague since 1891. It connects the Malá Strana district to the lush gardens above. It is one of the most popular famous landmarks in Prague for families. The railway operates daily from early morning until late at night. In 2026, the cars run every 10 to 15 minutes depending on the season.

Understanding the ticketing system is vital before you arrive. Prague uses an integrated transport system called PID. Most city passes cover the funicular, but short-term 30-minute tickets do not. You must have a longer-duration ticket or a dedicated funicular pass. Check the Prague.eu portal for real-time updates on transport rules.

Decision Guide: Which ticket should you use?

• If you have a 24-hour or 72-hour pass: Do nothing. Your ride is fully covered.
• If you have a 90-minute ticket: You are covered. Just ensure it is still valid.
• If you have no pass: Buy a 60 CZK funicular ticket at the station.
• If you have a 30-minute ticket: This is NOT valid. You must buy a separate ticket.

How to Take the Funicular to Petřín Hill

Getting to the base station is simple. Take tram 9, 12, 15, 20, or 22 to the Újezd stop. From there, follow the signs toward the park. The station building is clearly marked and sits at the foot of the hill. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey.

1. Step 1: Arrive at Újezd station. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the station. Where: Malá Strana. Common mistake: Waiting at the tram stop instead of walking to the funicular building.
2. Step 2: Purchase your ticket. Time: 5-10 minutes. Cost: 60 CZK (if no pass). Where: Ticket machines or the counter. Common mistake: Assuming the 30-minute tram ticket works here.
3. Step 3: Validate your ticket. Time: 1 minute. Cost: N/A. Where: Yellow validation machines at the turnstiles. Common mistake: Forgetting to stamp paper tickets, which leads to heavy fines.
4. Step 4: Board the carriage. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: N/A. Where: The boarding platform. Common mistake: Not moving to the very front or back for the best views.
5. Step 5: Ride to the summit. Time: 4 minutes. Cost: N/A. Where: Petřín Hill. Common mistake: Getting off at the middle stop (Nebozízek) thinking it is the top.

• Before you go checklist:
• Check if the funicular is open (it closes for maintenance twice a year).
• Carry small coins or a contactless card for ticket machines.
• Bring a camera for the panoramic views of the city.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk back down.

Exploring the Summit of Petřín Hill

Once you reach the top, you are in the heart of Petřín Park. The most iconic sight is the Petřín Lookout Tower and funicular complex. This tower looks like a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower. It offers the highest views over the Vltava River and the Old Town. You can learn about the Petřín Lookout Tower entrance fee and elevator options at the base of the structure.

Just a short walk from the tower is another favorite attraction. You should consider visiting the Mirror Maze on Petřín Hill for a fun diversion. It is housed in a building that looks like a miniature castle. Inside, you will find a labyrinth of mirrors and a hall of funny distorted glass. This is a great spot for children and photography.

The hill is also home to the Stefanik Observatory and the Rose Garden. In the spring, the fruit orchards on the slopes are in full bloom. Many locals come here for picnics or romantic walks. You can find more information about the city's parks on the Prague official site. If you feel energetic, you can even walk from the summit toward the Strahov Monastery.

Troubleshooting and Common Problems

While the trip is usually easy, a few things can go wrong. Being prepared will save you time and frustration. The most common issue is the seasonal maintenance closure. This typically happens for two weeks in March and October. Always check the official transport website before your visit to ensure the cars are running.

• Long Queues: During summer afternoons, wait times can exceed 45 minutes. Visit before 10:00 AM to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Maintenance Closures: The funicular shuts down twice a year. If it is closed, you must walk up the hill path.
• Ticket Machine Errors: Some machines only take coins or cards. Carry both to be safe.
• Middle Station Confusion: The funicular stops at Nebozízek halfway up. Stay on the car unless you have a restaurant reservation there.
• Stroller Access: Carriages have limited space for strollers. You may need to fold yours before boarding.
• Validation Issues: If the yellow machine does not beep, your ticket is not valid. Try another machine immediately.
• Crowded Carriages: The cars get very full. Hold onto the handrails as the climb is steep.