At a Glance: Your Petřín Hill Adventure

This itinerary focuses on a full day of nature and history. You can easily complete the core Petřín Hill walking route in about four hours. However, we recommend taking a full day to enjoy the atmosphere. Here is a quick look at what you will experience during your trip.

• Morning: Start at Újezd and choose between the funicular or the forest paths.
• Midday: Visit the Petřín Lookout Tower and the fun Mirror Maze.
• Afternoon: Walk through the Rose Garden and follow the Hunger Wall.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset view near Strahov Monastery and a local beer.

We suggest starting early to avoid the largest crowds. The hill is very popular with both locals and tourists. If you want a more urban start, consider this Mala Strana walking tour itinerary first. It will lead you right to the base of the hill. Wear comfortable shoes as some paths are quite steep.

Morning: Starting Your Petřín Hill Walking Route

Your Petřín Hill walking route begins at the Újezd tram stop. This area is easily reached from anywhere in the city center. Before you head up, look at the Memorial to the Victims of Communism. It is a powerful set of statues located at the base of the hill. From here, you have two main choices for the ascent. You can take the historic funicular or walk the winding trails.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: If you choose to walk, follow the paved paths that zig-zag up the slope. The climb takes about 20 to 30 minutes at a steady pace. You will pass through dense orchards and open grassy areas. Each turn provides a new angle of the city below. For a broader look at the city, see this self-guided walking tour of Prague for more ideas.

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM: The funicular is a great option if you want to save your energy. It is part of the public transport system, so your standard tickets work here. The ride is short but offers a unique perspective of the hillside. Make sure to check the Prague.eu website for any seasonal maintenance schedules. The middle station, Nebozízek, has a lovely restaurant with a terrace for a quick coffee break.

Logistics tip: If you walk, stay on the marked paths to protect the local flora. The ground can be slippery after rain. Bring a bottle of water, as there are few shops on the lower slopes. The air is noticeably cooler here than in the crowded Old Town streets.

Afternoon: Exploring the Summit and Gardens

Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a flat plateau. This area is home to the hill's most famous landmarks. The Petřín Lookout Tower is the star of the show. It was built in 1891 and looks like a smaller Eiffel Tower. It stands 63.5 meters tall and offers 360-degree views. This is an essential stop on any Petřín Hill walking route.

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Climb the 299 steps to the top of the tower. On clear days, you can see the highest peaks of the country. If you prefer not to climb, there is a small elevator available for a fee. Afterward, head to the Mirror Maze located just a few steps away. It is a fun hall of mirrors that kids and adults both enjoy. It is housed in a building that looks like a miniature castle.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Take a quiet stroll through the Rose Garden. This area contains over 12,000 rose bushes of various types. It is especially beautiful in late spring and early summer. Near the garden, you will find the Štefánik Observatory. You can learn about the stars or look through their historic telescopes. This area is much quieter than the Prague Castle district nearby.

Logistics tip: Buy a combined ticket for the tower and maze to save money. Most attractions at the summit accept credit cards. The gardens are free to enter and perfect for a picnic. There are several public toilets located near the funicular station for convenience.

Evening: Sunset Views and Descent to Mala Strana

As the day winds down, follow the Hunger Wall toward the north. This massive stone wall was built in the 14th century. It originally served as a defense for the city. The path alongside it is flat and offers incredible views of the Vltava. You can see the river winding through the city from this high vantage point. This is a great time to visit the Vltava river embankment walking route later in the week.

4:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Continue your Petřín Hill walking route toward Strahov Monastery. The walk takes you through a scenic wooded area with frequent openings in the trees. You will eventually arrive at the monastery gates. This site is famous for its stunning Baroque library. It also houses a world-class brewery that has been making beer for centuries. Sit in the courtyard and try a glass of their seasonal ale.

6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: For your final descent, walk down the hill toward Mala Strana. The path leads you through the Great Strahov Garden. The view of the city lights coming on is magical. This area is a highlight of many self-guided Prague beer walks because of the local pubs. You will end your journey near the historic Charles Bridge.

Logistics tip: The descent to the city center is easier on the knees than the ascent. The paths are well-paved and have streetlights for evening walks. Check the Visit Czechia portal for local event listings at the monastery. Many concerts are held there during the summer months.

Practical Tips for Your Petřín Hill Hike

Planning your Petřín Hill walking route requires just a little bit of preparation. The hill is open year-round, but spring and autumn are the best seasons. In spring, the fruit trees are in full bloom. In autumn, the leaves turn vibrant shades of gold and red. Winter can be beautiful but some paths may be icy and closed for safety.

Public transport is the easiest way to reach the start. Take tram 9, 12, 15, or 22 to the Újezd stop. If you have a 24-hour or 72-hour transit pass, the funicular is included at no extra cost. For 2026, expect small price increases for individual attraction tickets. Always carry a small amount of Czech Koruna for smaller kiosks that might not take cards.

Safety is rarely an issue on the hill. However, stay on the main trails after dark. The park is very large and it is easy to lose your way in the wooded sections. If you are traveling with children, the playground near the Rose Garden is excellent. It offers a safe place for them to run while you enjoy the scenery. This hill is a true oasis in the heart of a busy capital.