Petrin Tower and Hill in Prague: A Must-Visit Spot for Families

Rising proudly in the lively heart of Prague, Petrin Hill stands as a true gem among the city’s lush green retreats. It invites visitors with its fascinating history, stunning panoramas, and activities that charm families and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re seeking a quiet refuge from the city’s hustle and bustle or planning an adventure with kids, Petrin Hill has just the right mix of experiences to make your day unforgettable.

When I planned my trip to the Czech Republic, Petrin Hill in Prague stood out as the place that left the deepest impression on me. In my view, it’s one of the top spots you shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first time visiting the Czech capital. Start with Petrin Hill — alongside Charles Bridge and Prague Castle — during your first few days. These iconic landmarks capture the magical spirit and storybook charm of this enchanting city.

I’m not usually a fan of tourist hotspots, but Prague is something else entirely. Here, you don’t just “tick boxes” on a sightseeing list. Instead, it feels like you’ve traveled back in time by centuries. Wandering its streets, you can almost believe that the tales of the Brothers Grimm, Hans Christian Andersen, and other authors came to life right here. I never imagined I’d be so captivated by the magic of this remarkable city.

Stepping into History

Petrin Hill has been a part of Prague’s history for centuries. In medieval times, the hill was covered with vineyards and served as an important agricultural area. Later, it became home to defensive walls, including the famous Hunger Wall built in the 14th century during the reign of Emperor Charles IV. The wall earned its name because it provided work and food for the poor during a famine.

Fast forward to the 19th century, and the residents of Prague transformed the hill into the stunning parkland you see today, complete with gardens, pathways, and impressive monuments. One of the most notable landmarks here is the Petrin Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Built in 1891 for the General Land Centennial Exhibition, this charming structure has since become a symbol of the city.

Fun for the Whole Family

Petrin Hill is not just steeped in history; it’s also a fantastic place for families to explore. The area is brimming with activities that will delight both kids and adults.

The Cable Car to Petrin Hill

One of the most enjoyable ways to reach the top of Petrin Hill is by riding the funicular railway. This charming cable car has been operating since 1891 and is part of Prague’s public transport system, so it’s free with a valid transport pass. The ride is short but sweet, offering lovely views of the hill’s greenery as you ascend. For kids, it’s an exciting start to their Petrin adventure.

Instead of hiking up Petrin Hill, we decided to take the funicular and it was free with our city transport pass.

The cable car station Újezd is right next to the Memorial to the Victims of Communism. The funicular itself is a small tram-like ride that slowly makes its way up the hill. At first, all you see is a wall of trees. But as you climb higher, the view gradually opens up, becoming more and more breathtaking with each passing moment.

The Park

As soon as we reached the top of Petrin Hill, the kids eagerly ran off to explore. Everywhere we looked, there were gardens, flowerbeds, and benches, all of which created a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere.

At one point, our little adventurers found a “tree house tent” of their own. Just like in fairy tales, a tree bent its branches as if trying to shelter a heroine from chasing geese or swans. It wasn’t an apple tree, but it still felt like the coziest tree we could imagine.

As we walked a bit further, we stumbled upon the Štefánik Observatory. Milan Štefánik, a pilot and astronomer who had a deep love for the sky, was honored here. Behind his statue, you’ll spot solar clocks — a wall with lines and triangles jutting out, used by the people of old Prague to tell the time.

We had already seen similar ancient observatories in India. Some of their enormous astronomical instruments were as tall as multi-story buildings. We even witnessed these mechanisms still working today. So, we had no doubt that Prague’s solar clocks were just as accurate — they definitely work!

Another historic sight on Petrin Hill is the Hunger Wall, part of which you can see in the photos. Emperor Charles IV hired poor workers to build the wall between 1360 and 1362, giving them a job and paying them just enough to survive. After that, the workers gave the wall its name. It’s also known as the “Battlemented Wall,” and its appearance makes it easy to understand why.

The church in the photos is the Church of St. Lawrence, or Kostel svatého Vavřince. According to legend, this place used to be a pagan shrine dedicated to Perun, the Slavic god of thunder. Christian rulers later built a church here in the 10th century to convert the local people. Originally made of wood, the church went through many changes over the years and finally took on its current Baroque style in the 18th century.

The Petrin Tower and the Mirror Maze

Standing at 63.5 meters tall, the Petrin Tower offers one of the best views of Prague. While it’s not as grand as its Parisian counterpart, its charm lies in its unique design and location.

Visitors can climb 299 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city, including Prague Castle, the Vltava River, and the spires of Old Town. There’s also a lift for those who prefer an easier ascent. Kids love the adventure of reaching the top and spotting familiar landmarks from above.

Petrin tower Prague view.

Just a short walk from the tower, you’ll find the Petrin Mirror Maze. This small but fascinating attraction is housed in a building that resembles a medieval castle. Inside, visitors navigate a series of twisting, turning hallways lined with mirrors that distort reflections in funny and surprising ways.

It’s a hit with children, who can’t help but giggle as they see themselves stretched tall or squished short. Adults often find themselves just as amused, making it a wonderful stop for families.

Why Visit Petrin Hill in Prague?

There are countless reasons to include Petrin Hill on your Prague itinerary.

1. Natural Beauty. The hill features lush gardens, including the famous Rose Garden, which blooms spectacularly in summer. The open spaces and fresh air create the perfect setting for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply relaxing on a bench.
2. Cultural and Historical Significance. From the Hunger Wall to the Stefanik Observatory, Petrin Hill is a living history lesson. The observatory, named after Milan Stefanik, a famous Slovak astronomer, gives visitors a chance to learn about the stars and planets through interactive exhibits and telescopes.
3. Family-Friendly Atmosphere. With attractions like the Mirror Maze and the funicular, Petrin Hill is a place where kids can explore, play, and learn in a safe and engaging environment. The wide paths and open spaces make it easy to navigate with strollers or young children.
4. Stunning Views. The views from Petrin Tower are unmatched. They provide a new perspective on Prague’s beauty, and photographers will relish the opportunity to capture the cityscape from above.
5. Relaxing Escape. If the hustle and bustle of Prague’s Old Town feels overwhelming, Petrin Hill offers a tranquil retreat. It’s a great way to unwind while still immersing yourself in the city’s charm.

So, it’s absolutely worth visiting. Because Petrin Hill and its attractions are among the highlights of any trip to Prague. It’s a place where history meets nature, and families can create unforgettable memories.

Tips for Visiting

• Petrin Hill can easily fill an entire afternoon, so allocate enough time to explore.
• The paths are well-maintained, but there’s plenty of walking involved, so wear comfortable shoes.
• While there are a few cafes nearby, a picnic with your own snacks is a lovely way to enjoy the surroundings.
• Prague’s transport pass includes the funicular, making it a hassle-free way to reach the hill.

Whether you’re admiring the city from the top of the tower, giggling in the Mirror Maze, or enjoying a quiet moment in the gardens, Petrin Hill offers a unique mix of fun, culture, and relaxation. Plus, its central location and easy accessibility make it a convenient stop for any traveler.

Petrin Tower in Prague on the Map

I’ve marked Petrin Tower on my map with a blue tower icon, and the park with a green skater icon.

You can zoom in and out of the map or explore other Prague hotspots by clicking on other icons, which will open information about each location.

How to Get to Petrin Hill

To get to Petrin Hill in Prague, you have several options. The most popular way is to take the funicular railway, which departs from Ujezd street, near the city center, and takes you up the hill in about 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk to the top via a series of paths, which offers a scenic and more physically demanding route.

To get to Petrin Hill by feet, you can take tram number 22 and get off at the “Pohořelec” stop. From there, stroll through the Strahov Monastery, and follow the road that leads up to the hill. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes, slightly uphill, but it’s well worth it as you’ll be treated to beautiful views of Prague Castle and the Old Town along the way. This option offers a scenic and pleasant walk, combining the charm of Prague’s architecture with the natural beauty of the hill.

In summary, Petrin Hill in Prague is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, it’s a destination that will leave you with lasting memories and plenty of reasons to return. So, next time you’re in Prague, make sure to include Petrin Hill on your list. You won’t regret it! 🌳✨