Petrin Hill & Observation Tower
Lesser Town, Prague 5

Built as a mini version of Paris's Eiffel Tower, the Petrin Observation Tower was built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition.

The tower is 60m tall, which doesn't seem particularly high until you add in the fact that it sits at the summit of Petrin Hill, which is 318m (1043 feet) high.

Climb the 299 steps to reach the top of the tower and the view over Prague is magnificent. On a clear day it is possible to see the highest peak in the Czech Republic, Snezka, which is 150km away.

The Petrin Observation Tower is set in landscaped gardens, including a sizeable rose garden, which make for a pleasant stroll all year round.

Other attractions here include an observatory, which contains a museum and a telescope open to the public, a hall of mirrors, a church and cafes (small entrance fees apply for the tower, observatory and mirror maze - no need to pre-book).

Much of the stone used to build the major sights in Prague was quarried out of Petrin. But this is well hidden beneath the grass and the trees that now cover the hillside.

To reach the Observation Tower and other attractions at the top of Petrin Hill, take the Funicular Railway. This departs from Ujezd street in the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), near Ujezd tram stop.

Alternative routes: 1. take a 30 minute stroll up Petrin Hill - the climb is steep, but the walk is pleasant, passing through gardens and wooded areas; 2. take tram 22 to Pohorelec tram stop, then walk 10 minutes along Strahovska street; 3. catch a taxi.

Once you have enjoyed the fresh air and super views of Prague from Petrin and its attractions, we recommend paying a visit to Nebozizek Restaurant, which is set on the side of Petrin Hill, at the half way point. The funicular stops at Nebozizek on its way up and down, or you can reach it on foot.

Finally, back down at the base of Petrin Hill, near where the funicular departs from, is a well equipped children's playground.

The funicular railway forms part of the Prague public transport network, so a single ticket for travel on trams, buses and the metro is also valid on the funicular. Tickets are available at the funicular terminals too: Travel around Prague by public transport.