Easy Guide: How to get to Petrin Tower via funicular
Are you planning a trip to Prague in 2026? You must learn how to get to Petrin Tower via funicular. This iconic ride offers the best views of the city. It is both easy and affordable for every traveler.
Finding the Ujezd Funicular Station
The funicular starts at the Ujezd station in the Lesser Town. You can reach this spot by taking several tram lines. Trams 9, 12, 15, and 22 stop right in front of the station. This area is very easy to find from the city center.
Once you hop off the tram, look for the "Lanová dráha" signs. These signs point directly to the funicular entrance. The station sits at the base of the lush Petrin Hill. You will see the tracks climbing up the steep slope.
Walking from Charles Bridge is another great option for tourists. It takes about fifteen minutes to reach Ujezd on foot. This walk allows you to see the beautiful streets of Mala Strana. You can find more details in our Petrin Lookout Tower guide.
The station has a clear waiting area for all passengers. It is often busy during the warm summer months of 2026. Try to arrive early in the morning to avoid long lines. This ensures a more relaxed start to your sightseeing day.
Purchasing Tickets for the Petrin Funicular
Prague uses an integrated public transport system for all travel. You do not need a special ticket for the funicular ride. A standard 30-minute or 90-minute ticket works perfectly here. Many visitors prefer using a 24-hour or 72-hour travel pass.
In 2026, a basic 30-minute ticket costs around 30 to 40 CZK. You can buy these at the yellow machines in the station. Most machines now accept contactless credit or debit cards. Check the Prague.eu portal for the latest price updates.
Remember to validate your paper ticket before boarding the car. Look for the small yellow boxes at the station entrance. Insert your ticket to get a time stamp. Failure to validate can lead to a heavy fine from inspectors.
If you have a long-term pass, you can skip the machines. Just walk straight to the boarding platform when the doors open. This makes the process very fast and efficient for regular commuters. It is one of the best viewpoints in Prague to reach.
What to Expect During the Funicular Ride
The funicular operates daily from early morning until late at night. Cars usually run every ten minutes during the peak summer season. In winter, the frequency might change to every fifteen minutes. The entire journey to the top takes about five minutes.
There are three main stops on this historic railway line. The bottom station is Ujezd, where most people start their journey. The middle stop is called Nebozizek, which features a lovely restaurant. You can get off here for a scenic meal with a view.
The final stop is the Petrin station at the very top. This is where you will find the famous lookout tower. The cars are clean, modern, and offer large glass windows. You should try to stand near the bottom window for the best photos.
The ride is quite steep but very smooth for all passengers. It has been a favorite Prague attraction since the year 1891. You will enjoy seeing the city skyline slowly reveal itself. It is a unique experience for any visitor to the Czech capital.
Reaching Petrin Tower from the Top Station
After you exit the top station, follow the paved paths. The Petrin Lookout Tower is just a short walk away. You will see the tower peeking through the trees almost immediately. The walk is flat and very easy for children or seniors.
You will pass through the beautiful Rose Garden on your way. This garden smells wonderful during the blooming months of June and July. There are many benches where you can sit and relax. It is a peaceful escape from the busy city streets below.
Before you climb the tower, check the Petrin Lookout Tower entrance fee and steps count. The tower looks like a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower. It stands tall on the hill and offers 360-degree views. You can see the entire Vltava River from the top gallery.
The area around the tower also features a fun Mirror Maze. This is a great stop if you are traveling with family. You can also explore the historic Hunger Wall nearby. This stone wall dates back to the reign of Charles IV.
Tips for a Smooth Petrin Hill Visit
Wear comfortable walking shoes for your visit to Petrin Hill. While the funicular does the hard work, you will still walk a lot. The paths at the top lead to many different scenic spots. You might even want to walk down the hill later.
Check the weather forecast before you head to the Ujezd station. Visibility is key for enjoying the views from the Petrin Tower. Clear days offer sights that stretch far into the Bohemian countryside. Rainy days can make the hill paths a bit slippery.
If the funicular has a long line, consider other scenic options. You can read about Letna Park scenic views for a different perspective. However, the funicular remains the most iconic way to climb Petrin. It is a unique part of Prague's transport history.
Bring a small bottle of water for your walk at the top. There are kiosks selling snacks and drinks near the tower entrance. Prices at the top are slightly higher than in the city center. Carrying your own supplies can save you a few Czech koruna.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Prague public transport ticket cover the funicular?
Yes, the funicular is part of the integrated transport system. You can use standard 30-minute, 90-minute, or daily passes. Just ensure your ticket is valid for the duration of the ride. Always validate paper tickets before you enter the boarding area.
How often does the funicular run to Petrin Hill?
The funicular typically runs every 10 to 15 minutes. During the busy summer season, it operates more frequently to handle crowds. In the winter months, the schedule might be slightly reduced. It usually runs from 9:00 AM until 11:30 PM daily.
Is the Petrin funicular accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?
Yes, the funicular is accessible for strollers and most wheelchairs. The stations have ramps or level access to the cars. However, the paths at the top of Petrin Hill are gravel in some areas. Be prepared for some uneven surfaces near the lookout tower.
Learning how to get to Petrin Tower via funicular makes your Prague trip easier. This historic ride is fun, cheap, and very scenic. Start your journey at Ujezd station and enjoy the climb. It is the perfect way to see the Golden City from above.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.