Riding the Petrin Hill and Funicular

The funicular is the easiest way to reach the top of the hill. It first opened in 1891 and has a long history. The track is about 510 meters long and climbs quite steeply. You will enjoy a unique perspective of the city as you ascend. It is a favorite activity for both locals and tourists alike. The ride is smooth and only takes a few minutes.

You can use standard public transport tickets for the ride. However, you must ensure your ticket is valid for the funicular specifically. Many visitors use a 24-hour or 72-hour pass for convenience. You can find more details on the official Prague.eu website. The funicular has three stops: Ujezd, Nebozizek, and Petrin. Each stop offers a different view of the surrounding gardens.

The middle stop, Nebozizek, is home to a lovely restaurant. It is a great place to stop for a coffee with a view. Many people consider this one of the best viewpoints in Prague. The funicular runs frequently throughout the day. Usually, it departs every 10 to 15 minutes. Be prepared for short queues during the peak summer season.

10 Best Things to Do on Petrin Hill

There is much more to do here than just enjoy the view. The hill is packed with historical monuments and fun activities. You can spend several hours exploring the different sections. Here are the top attractions you should not miss.

1. Name: Petrin Lookout Tower Type: sight Why go: It is often called Prague's mini Eiffel Tower and offers 360-degree views. Best for: Photographers and view seekers. Where: At the very top of the hill. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: Approximately 220 CZK for adults. Getting there: Take the funicular to the Petrin stop. Tip: Climb the 299 stairs for a workout or use the elevator for a fee.
2. Name: Mirror Maze Type: activity Why go: This fun hall of mirrors is housed in a building that looks like a small castle. Best for: Families with children. Where: Right next to the Lookout Tower. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Around 120 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the funicular top station. Tip: Don't miss the funny distorted mirrors at the end of the maze.
3. Name: Stefanik Observatory Type: experience Why go: You can look through large telescopes and learn about astronomy. Best for: Science lovers and night owls. Where: Near the Rose Garden. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually around 100 CZK. Getting there: Follow the signs from the funicular exit. Tip: Check the schedule for evening stargazing sessions.
4. Name: The Rose Garden Type: nature Why go: This beautiful garden features over 12,000 roses of many different colors. Best for: Couples and nature lovers. Where: Near the observatory. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the funicular top station. Tip: Visit in June or July when the roses are in full bloom.
5. Name: The Hunger Wall Type: sight Why go: This medieval fortification was built in the 14th century to provide work for the poor. Best for: History buffs. Where: Running across the hill. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from most paths on the hill. Tip: Look for the small gates that allow you to walk through the wall.
6. Name: Cathedral of St. Lawrence Type: sight Why go: A historic Baroque church with a beautiful facade and interior. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Near the Lookout Tower. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free or small donation. Getting there: Located in the main plateau area. Tip: The church is often very quiet compared to the tower.
7. Name: Memorial to the Victims of Communism Type: sight Why go: A powerful and moving series of statues showing the decay of the human form. Best for: Those interested in modern history. Where: At the base of the hill near Ujezd. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start your walk here before taking the funicular up. Tip: Read the plaques to understand the symbolism of the statues.
8. Name: Seminary Garden Type: nature Why go: This large orchard contains over 2,000 fruit trees and offers stunning views of the Old Town. Best for: Picnics and quiet walks. Where: On the eastern slopes. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Nebozizek funicular stop. Tip: The blossoms in early spring are incredibly beautiful.
9. Name: Strahov Monastery Type: day trip Why go: Famous for its incredible Baroque library and its own brewery. Best for: Culture and beer lovers. Where: On the edge of Petrin Hill. Time: 1.5-2 hours. Cost: Varies for the library and gallery. Getting there: A 10-minute flat walk from the Lookout Tower. Tip: Try the St. Norbert beer at the monastery brewery.
10. Name: Kampa Island Type: day trip Why go: A charming island with a park, modern art, and the famous yellow penguins. Best for: Relaxing by the river. Where: At the bottom of the hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the hill towards the Vltava River. Tip: Visit the Kampa Museum if you enjoy modern art.

Practical Tips for Visiting Petrin Hill

Plan your visit for the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. The hill is very popular on weekends with local families. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths can be steep. Even if you take the funicular up, you will likely walk down. The descent offers many great photo opportunities of the city skyline.

Check the weather before you go to the top. The Lookout Tower may close during very high winds or storms. Most attractions on the hill accept credit cards, but having some cash is helpful. You can find more travel advice on the Visit Czechia website. There are several public toilets available near the main attractions.

If you have limited mobility, the funicular is essential. Most of the main plateau is relatively flat and easy to navigate. However, the paths leading down the hill are paved but can be quite steep. Always carry a bottle of water, especially during the warm summer months. There are several kiosks where you can buy snacks and drinks.

Exploring Nearby Prague Landmarks

Petrin Hill is perfectly located for exploring other parts of Prague. You can easily walk from the hill to the famous Prague Castle. The path takes you through the scenic Hradcany district. It is a beautiful walk with many historic buildings along the way. This route avoids the steepest climbs found in other parts of the city.

Alternatively, you can head down into the Lesser Town (Mala Strana). This area is full of narrow cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards. You will find many traditional Czech pubs and cozy cafes here. It is the perfect place to rest after your walk. Many visitors enjoy exploring the gardens of the Lesser Town as well.

The hill also provides a great connection to the riverfront. From the bottom of the hill, you are just steps away from the Vltava. You can walk across the Legion Bridge for a view of the National Theatre. This makes Petrin Hill a great starting point for a full day of sightseeing. You will find that everything is quite walkable in this part of town.