Planning Your Visit to Petřín Hill

Getting to the top of the hill is an adventure in itself. Most visitors choose the historic funicular railway. It has been running since 1891 and offers a scenic ride through the trees. You can learn how to take the funicular to Petřín Hill using standard public transport tickets.

The funicular has three stops: Újezd at the bottom, Nebozízek in the middle, and Petřín at the top. If you have a 24-hour or 72-hour transport pass, the ride is included. Otherwise, you must buy a specific funicular ticket at the station vending machines. Expect short wait times during the busy summer months.

If you prefer to walk, several paths wind up the hillside. The walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes from the Újezd tram stop. It is a steep climb but very rewarding. You will pass through orchards and see the city from different angles as you ascend.

10 Best Things to Do at Petřín Lookout Tower and Funicular

Here are the top experiences you should not miss when visiting this famous Prague landmark. This list includes iconic sights and hidden gems found across the hilltop park area.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Petřín Lookout Tower
• Best for families: Mirror Maze
• Best free activity: Rose Garden
• Best rainy-day: Štefánik Observatory

1. Name: Petřín Lookout Tower Type: sight Why go: This tower is a 63.5-meter tall steel structure that resembles the Eiffel Tower. It offers the highest accessible viewpoint in the city center. You can find details on the Petřín Lookout Tower entrance fee and elevator options online. Best for: Photographers and view seekers. Where: Summit of Petřín Hill. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Paid entry (approx. 220 CZK). Getting there: Top funicular station. Tip: Take the elevator up if you want to save energy for the walk down.
2. Name: Petřín Funicular Type: experience Why go: It is one of the oldest funiculars in Europe. The ride provides a unique perspective of the Prague Castle as you rise above the rooftops. Best for: Families and transport enthusiasts. Where: Starts at Újezd. Time: 5-10 minutes. Cost: Standard transport ticket or special funicular fare. Getting there: Trams 9, 12, 15, 20, or 22 to Újezd. Tip: Sit at the very bottom of the carriage for the best view looking back at the city.
3. Name: Mirror Maze (Bludiště) Type: activity Why go: This quirky attraction is housed in a building that looks like a miniature castle. Inside, you will find a hall of mirrors and a historic diorama of a battle on Charles Bridge. Learn more about visiting the Mirror Maze on Petřín Hill before you go. Best for: Kids and lighthearted fun. Where: Near the Lookout Tower. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Paid entry (approx. 120 CZK). Getting there: Short walk from the funicular. Tip: The "Laughter Hall" at the end has distorted mirrors that are great for funny photos.
4. Name: Rose Garden (Růžový sad) Type: nature Why go: This massive garden features over 12,000 roses of various types. It is a peaceful place to sit and relax away from the tourist crowds. Best for: Couples and nature lovers. Where: Between the funicular and the observatory. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Exit the funicular and turn right. Tip: Visit in June or July when the roses are in full bloom for the best experience.
5. Name: Štefánik Observatory Type: experience Why go: You can look through large telescopes to see the sun or stars, depending on the time of day. It also features an interesting exhibition on astronomy. Best for: Science fans and rainy days. Where: Near the Rose Garden. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the funicular. Tip: Check their website for special evening observation hours if you want to see the planets.
6. Name: The Hunger Wall Type: sight Why go: This medieval defensive wall was built by Charles IV in the 14th century. Legend says it was built to provide work and food for the poor during a famine. Best for: History buffs. Where: Stretching across the hill. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from most paths on the hill. Tip: You can walk through several arched gates in the wall to reach the Kinský Garden.
7. Name: Strahov Monastery and Library Type: day trip Why go: Located just a short walk from the tower, this monastery houses one of the most beautiful historic libraries in the world. You can plan a Strahov library and monastery visit as part of your Petřín day. Best for: Architecture and book lovers. Where: Northern edge of Petřín Hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Paid entry for the library. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes north from the Lookout Tower. Tip: Try the beer at the monastic brewery located on the grounds.
8. Name: Church of St. Lawrence Type: sight Why go: This Baroque church features a striking facade and sits right next to the Mirror Maze. It is often overlooked but very beautiful. Best for: Art and religion enthusiasts. Where: Near the Lookout Tower. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Centrally located on the hilltop. Tip: Look for the Calvary statues located just outside the church entrance.
9. Name: Kinský Garden Type: nature Why go: This is a more rugged and wooded part of the hill. It features waterfalls, small ponds, and the wooden Church of St. Michael (currently under restoration). Best for: Hikers and those seeking quiet. Where: Southern slope of the hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south through the Hunger Wall. Tip: This area is much less crowded than the main tower area.
10. Name: Walk to Prague Castle Type: experience Why go: The path from Petřín to the castle offers some of the best skyline views. It is an easy downhill walk that connects two major landmarks. Consider visiting the Prague Castle complex after your morning on the hill. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Trail connecting Petřín and Hradčany. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs for "Pražský hrad". Tip: Stop at the viewpoint near the Great Strahov Garden for a perfect photo of the city's spires.

Nearby Attractions to Visit After Petřín Hill

Once you have finished exploring the Petřín Lookout Tower and funicular, you are in a great position to see more. The Malá Strana district is full of narrow lanes and historic sites. You can easily walk down the hill toward the river to find more famous spots.

The Lennon Wall is a popular stop for many travelers. It is a symbol of peace and freedom located near Kampa Island. This area is perfect for a relaxing afternoon coffee by the water. You can explore the Lennon Wall and Kampa Island in just a few hours.

If you have more energy, cross the Legion Bridge to see the National Theatre. From there, you can walk toward the Old Town. The city is very walkable, especially when you are moving downhill from Petřín. Always keep a map handy to find the best shortcuts through the historic gardens.

Practical Tips for Visiting Petřín in 2026

To make the most of your trip, timing is everything. The hill is most beautiful in the late afternoon. The golden hour light makes the red roofs of Prague glow. It is also a great time to avoid the biggest midday tour groups.

In 2026, expect the funicular to be busy on weekends. If the line is too long, consider walking up through the Kinský Garden for a quieter experience. You can find more advice on historic towers and viewpoints in Prague to compare your options. Most attractions on the hill accept credit cards, but having some small change in Czech Koruna is helpful.

For more general travel information, visit the Visit Czechia national tourism board. They provide updates on seasonal events and local holidays. Remember that the lookout tower can be windy at the top, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths can be uneven.