Petrin Lookout Tower

Petřín Lookout Tower – Prague, Czech Republic

Overview

The Petřín Lookout Tower (Petřínská rozhledna) is one of Prague’s most distinctive landmarks, often nicknamed the “mini Eiffel Tower of Prague.” Rising 63.5 meters on top of Petřín Hill, the tower offers some of the best panoramic views in the city, stretching across the historic Old Town, the Vltava River, and even as far as the Krkonoše Mountains on clear days. Built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition, it was inspired by Paris’s Eiffel Tower and quickly became a symbol of Czech innovation and national pride. Today, the tower is one of Prague’s most popular attractions, combining history, scenic views, and a unique hillside setting.

Why Visit

• Climb to one of Prague’s most iconic viewpoints
• Admire 360-degree views over the city, castle, and river
• Experience Prague’s own version of the Eiffel Tower
• Explore Petřín Hill’s gardens, trails, and nearby attractions
• Capture stunning photographs, especially at sunset

Highlights

• Observation Decks: Two viewing platforms at 20 m and 55 m heights with sweeping vistas
• 299 Steps: A rewarding climb up the spiral staircase (or take the elevator)
• Exhibits: Displays about the tower’s history and construction
• Petřín Hill Setting: A scenic park filled with orchards, gardens, and walking paths
• Night Illumination: The tower is beautifully lit after dark, visible across Prague

History & Cultural Significance

The Petřín Lookout Tower was constructed in just four months in 1891 as part of the Jubilee Exhibition, organized by the Czech Tourist Club. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, it stands one-fifth the size of its French counterpart but achieves a comparable vantage point thanks to its hilltop location. Over the years, the tower served not only as a lookout but also as a radio and television transmitter. During World War II, it was closed to the public, but in modern times it has been restored as a beloved tourist site. The tower remains a symbol of Prague’s creativity and its connection to European architectural trends of the late 19th century.

Typical Costs & Tickets

Admission to the Petřín Lookout Tower is around 150 CZK (€6) for adults and 80 CZK (€3) for students and children. Family tickets and discounts for seniors are available. Access to the elevator usually costs a small additional fee, making it a convenient option for those unable to climb the 299 steps. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance online, especially during peak summer months when lines can be long. Entry to the surrounding Petřín Hill gardens is free.

Best Time to Visit

The tower is open year-round, though hours vary by season. Spring and autumn are ideal, with pleasant weather and colorful foliage making the views especially stunning. Summer is the busiest season, but the longer daylight hours allow for evening visits, often with spectacular sunsets. Winter offers a quieter experience and the chance to see Prague’s rooftops dusted in snow. For photography, mornings provide the clearest views, while late afternoons are perfect for golden-hour shots over the city.

Nearby Experiences

The Petřín Lookout Tower is part of the larger Petřín Hill complex, which features a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Rose Garden, the whimsical Mirror Maze, and the Štefánik Observatory. A short walk connects to Strahov Monastery with its stunning library and brewery, and Prague Castle is also nearby. For a scenic journey, take the funicular railway from Újezd up to Petřín Hill, combining a cultural ride with easy access to the tower.

Travel Tips

• Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds on the spiral staircase
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb can be tiring but rewarding
• Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for distant views of Prague and beyond
• Take the funicular up Petřín Hill for convenience, and walk down through the gardens
• Stay until sunset for unforgettable panoramic photography

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• The tower is 63.5 meters tall but sits 318 meters above sea level, making its top higher than the Eiffel Tower’s observation deck
• It was built in just 120 days for the 1891 Jubilee Exhibition
• The tower was used as a TV transmission tower until the 1950s
• Locals sometimes call it “Prague’s Eiffel Tower” due to its Parisian inspiration