Quick Picks for Your Petrin Hill Visit

If you are in a hurry, these quick picks will help you decide what to see first. Petrin Hill is large, so prioritizing is key. Most people spend at least half a day here. Here are our top recommendations for every type of traveler.

• Best Overall: Petrin Observation Tower for the 360-degree views.
• Best for Families: The Mirror Maze for a fun and quick laugh.
• Best Free Activity: Walking through the fragrant Rose Garden.
• Best Unique Experience: Riding the historic Petrin Funicular up the slope.

Check out other top sights in Prague to plan your full itinerary. This hill is a great starting point for a day of exploring. You can easily walk from here to other historic districts.

10 Best Things to Do at Petrin Hill and Observation Tower

There are many unique experiences waiting for you on the hill. Each spot has its own history and charm. Here are the top ten things to do during your visit.

1. Name: Petrin Observation Tower Type: sight Why go: This 63.5-meter steel tower was built in 1891. It looks like a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower. It offers the highest views of the city center. You can see the Vltava River and the Old Town from the top. Best for: Photographers and view seekers. Where: At the very top of the hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: ~220 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the funicular top station. Tip: Take the elevator if you want to save your legs for more walking later.
2. Name: Petrin Funicular Type: experience Why go: This historic cable railway has been running since the late 19th century. It is a fun and easy way to reach the summit. The ride offers great views as you climb the steep slope. It is part of the city's public transport system. Best for: Families and those who want to avoid the steep hike. Where: Starts at Ujezd in Malá Strana. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Standard public transport ticket (~60 CZK). Getting there: Take tram 9, 12, 15, or 22 to Ujezd. Tip: Stand at the back of the car when going up for the best view.
3. Name: The Mirror Maze Type: experience Why go: This building looks like a small Gothic castle from the outside. Inside, you will find a labyrinth of mirrors that distort your reflection. It also features a large diorama of a historic battle. It is a classic Prague attraction that kids love. Best for: Families with children. Where: Right next to the Observation Tower. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: ~100 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the tower. Tip: It is quite small, so visit on a weekday to avoid long lines.
4. Name: The Rose Garden Type: nature Why go: This garden features over 12,000 rose bushes of various types. It is a peaceful place to sit and relax. The scent in the air is wonderful during the blooming season. It is one of the most beautiful best scenic viewpoints in Prague for nature lovers. Best for: Couples and garden enthusiasts. Where: Between the funicular station and the tower. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Exit the funicular at the top station. Tip: Visit in June or July to see the roses in full bloom.
5. Name: Štefánik Observatory Type: experience Why go: This is a working astronomical observatory open to the public. You can look through large telescopes during the day or night. They have interesting exhibits about space and the solar system. It is a unique way to learn about science in a historic setting. Best for: Science fans and curious minds. Where: Southern part of the hill summit. Time: 1 hour. Cost: ~100 CZK. Getting there: Follow the signs from the Rose Garden. Tip: Check the official website for special night-time stargazing events.
6. Name: Strahov Monastery Type: sight Why go: This historic monastery is famous for its stunning Baroque library. It also houses a world-renowned brewery. You can enjoy a local beer after exploring the beautiful halls. It is a short and scenic walk from the tower. Best for: History buffs and beer lovers. Where: Northern edge of Petrin Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: ~150 CZK for the library. Getting there: Walk north along the path from the tower. Tip: Try the St. Norbert beer at the monastery brewery.
7. Name: The Hunger Wall Type: sight Why go: This medieval stone wall was built in the 1360s. Legend says it was built to provide work for the poor during a famine. It is a massive structure that stretches across the hill. It is a great spot for historical photos. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Runs across the middle of the hill. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: You will pass through it while walking between attractions. Tip: Look for the small gates that allow you to walk through the wall.
8. Name: Kinský Garden Type: nature Why go: This is a large, landscaped park on the southern slope. It features a beautiful wooden church moved here from Ukraine. There are also small waterfalls and ponds. It is much quieter than the main tower area. Best for: Hikers and those seeking quiet. Where: Southern side of the hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the paths from the Observatory. Tip: Find the Carpathian Church of St. Michael for a unique photo.
9. Name: St. Lawrence Cathedral Type: sight Why go: This Baroque church stands on the site of a very old Romanesque building. It has a beautiful facade and a rich interior. It adds to the historic atmosphere of the hill summit. It is often overlooked but worth a quick look. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Next to the Mirror Maze. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free / Donation. Getting there: Located in the main cluster of buildings at the top. Tip: Check if there are any local concerts being held inside.
10. Name: Vrtba Garden Type: sight Why go: While technically at the foot of the hill, it is a must-visit nearby. It is one of the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Europe. It offers tiered terraces with amazing views of the hill and tower. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site area. Best for: Romantic walks and photographers. Where: Karmelitská street, Malá Strana. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: ~120 CZK. Getting there: Walk down from Petrin or take the tram to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Go to the highest terrace for a perfect view of the tower.

Planning Your Petrin Hill and Observation Tower Trip

Visiting Petrin Hill and Observation Tower requires a bit of planning. The area is open year-round, but spring and summer are the most popular. During these months, the gardens are lush and full of life. Autumn is also beautiful as the leaves change color across the slope. Winters can be cold, but the views of snowy Prague are magical.

Most attractions on the hill open around 10:00 AM. The tower stays open later in the summer months. You should consider using a Prague sightseeing pass to save money. These passes often include the funicular and tower entry. Always check the weather before you head up for the views.

Wear comfortable walking shoes even if you take the funicular. There are many gravel paths and some stairs to navigate. Bring a bottle of water, especially in the summer. There are a few cafes at the top, but they can be pricey. A small backpack is helpful for carrying your camera and snacks.

How to Reach Petrin Hill and Observation Tower

Getting to the summit is part of the adventure. The most popular way is the funicular railway. It departs from the Ujezd tram stop every 10 to 15 minutes. You can use a standard 24-hour or 72-hour public transport pass. If you buy a single ticket, make sure it is valid for at least 60 minutes.

If you prefer to walk, there are several paths. The hike from Malá Strana takes about 20 to 30 minutes. It is a steep climb but very rewarding. You will pass through orchards and see the city from different angles. Many locals prefer walking down the hill after taking the funicular up.

You can also reach the hill from the back side. Take a tram to the Pohořelec stop near the monastery. From there, the walk to the tower is mostly flat. This is a great option if you want to avoid the steep climb entirely. Learn more about the city's history on the official city tourism portal.

Best Nearby Sights to Explore

Petrin Hill is perfectly located near other major landmarks. You can easily walk to the Prague Castle complex from the Strahov Monastery. This path offers stunning views of the castle walls and the city below. It is one of the most scenic walks in all of Europe.

After your visit, walk down the hill toward the river. You will end up near the John Lennon Wall and Kampa island. This area is full of charm and small cafes. It is a great place to relax after a morning of sightseeing. The Charles Bridge is also just a short walk away from the foot of the hill.

If you have more time, explore the narrow streets of Malá Strana. This district is known for its Baroque architecture and hidden gardens. You can find many traditional Czech restaurants here. It is the perfect place to end your day with a hearty meal. The entire area feels like stepping back in time.