Petřín Tower
Ideal: Ideal for views, park walks, photography, and a calm city break.
Built in just four months in 1891 after Czech travelers returned from Paris saying 'let's build one too' after seeing the Eiffel Tower. The tower itself is 63.5 metres, but standing on a 327-metre hill its summit remains higher above sea level than the Eiffel's. You climb 299 steps to the top, with a lift available. The mirror maze in the same park also dates from the 1891 exhibition. A funicular from the city center reaches the hill, and the ticket is a normal public transport fare.
Quick facts
- Built
- 1891
- Height
- 58.7 m
- Elevation
- 324 m
- Annual visitors
- 234,200
- Heritage status
- cultural monument of the Czech Republic
Facts from Wikidata, photos from Wikimedia Commons.
Did you know?
Is the Petřín Tower a copy of the Eiffel Tower?
It was inspired by Czech visitors to Paris in 1891 and its form is openly Eiffel-like. At 63.5 m it is far smaller, but standing on a hill its summit comes close to the Eiffel's elevation.
Is there an easy way up the hill?
Yes — a funicular has run since 1891 and standard public transport tickets are valid on it. Wooded paths are there for anyone who prefers to walk.
Why was the wall on the hill built?
The "Hunger Wall" was built in the 1360s under Charles IV. The tradition holds that its real purpose was less defence than providing work and bread for the poor during a famine.
Why go?
- To see Prague from above
- To take a calm walk inside Petřín Park
- To add green space and a photo stop to a city trip
Travel tip
Views are much better in clear weather; a walk in the park before climbing the tower is enjoyable.
