Petrin Lookout Tower
The Petřín Lookout Tower is one of the few structures that stands out above the city. There are no high-rise buildings in the centre of Prague, so you won’t encounter any skyscrapers, tower blocks, or apartment buildings. Like the Žižkov Television Tower to the east of the centre, the Petřín Lookout Tower is visible from a great distance, perched atop Petřín Hill to the west of the city centre.
The little brother of the Eiffel Tower
The Petřín Lookout Tower rises 60 meters into the sky and bears an uncanny resemblance to the Eiffel Tower. Inspired by their visit to the 1889 World’s Fair in Paris, members of the Czech Tourist Club (Klub českých turistů) sought to create a similar iconic landmark for Prague.
Completed just two years after the Eiffel Tower in 1891, the Petřín Tower may be five times shorter, but its summit reaches a comparable height thanks to its elevated position atop Petřín Hill. The panoramic views from the top are well worth the climb!
Popular attraction
The Petřín Lookout Tower is now a popular tourist attraction in Prague, but it originally served as a transmission tower and observation point.
Climbing the 299 steps of the upward spiral staircase leads you to breathtaking views of the entire city. Just remember to purchase a ticket first! You can descend via a second staircase, allowing you to flow with the crowd as you take in the sights.
Spectacular view from the Petrin Lookout Tower, on the left you see the Dancing House, more to the right you see Vysehrad.
Fun Facts About the Petřín Lookout Tower
- Fire in the Lookout Tower
On July 5, 1938, a fire broke out at the top of the tower, likely caused by an electrical short circuit in the lift shaft. A hundred visitors had to be evacuated. Extinguishing the blaze proved challenging due to the tower's height, but after half an hour, firefighters managed to extinguish the flames that had engulfed the wooden structure beneath the sinking roof. By mid-August 1938, the tower was repaired and reopened to the public. - Adolf Hitler
During his visit to occupied Prague on March 15-16, 1939, Adolf Hitler expressed his desire to have the tower demolished, claiming it spoiled the view from Prague Castle. However, this wish was never fulfilled during the occupation. - The Mayor's App
A quirky detail is that the Mayor of Prague has an app that allows him to determine the tower's lighting colour in the evenings when it is illuminated.
Enjoying the Surroundings
The area surrounding the tower is just as enchanting. Stroll through the nearby Petřín Gardens and the Rose Garden, where you can enjoy a variety of blooming flowers and peaceful paths. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet moment of reflection.
Don’t forget to visit the Hunger Wall, a medieval fortification that adds historical context to your visit.
From the Petrin Lookout Tower it is a short walk to the Strahov Monastery and Prague Castle.
Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
- Entry Fee: There is a small entrance fee to access the tower, which contributes to its maintenance.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to walk up, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views!
Opening Hours
January - March: 10 AM - 6 PM
April - May: 9 AM - 7.30 PM
June - September: 9 AM - 8.30 PM
October - November: 10 AM - 6 PM
December: 10 AM - 7.30 PM
How to get there:
- 10 minute walk from Strahov Monastery
- 20 minute walk from Ujezd uphill
- 30 minute walk from Charles Bridge
- Take the funicular (closed until further notice)
Personal Tip
"Visit the nearby cellar Restaurant Na Pekle for a beautiful experience underground."
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