12 towers with the best views of Prague + opening times, tickets & local tips (2026)

Practical travel guide to the 12 best towers in Prague, including opening times, tickets, local tips and what you can expect to see from the top of each tower.

You might have heard the saying: Prague is a city of 100 spires… and these spires include some fantastic towers. From the historic Old Town Hall Tower, the church tower of St. Vitus Cathedral to the modern Žižkov Television Tower with quirky baby sculptures, each tower has a different view of the city and also fascinating history.

Although I know Prague well, I have enjoyed seeing the town from the tops of the towers – it’s like the city is turned into a giant 3d map model and you can see how close or far away different places are. After climbing most of the towers in Prague, it’s now my favourite way to explore new towns too when I’m travelling around the Czech Republic.

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My favourite Local Tip

All the towers that are owned by the Prague Town offer a 50% discount on admission during the first hour (usually 9-10 am), so it’s worth getting up a little earlier, especially if you are travelling to Prague on a budget.

The towers that are included in this offer are: Old Town Hall Tower (not on Monday), Lesser Town Bridge Towers, Old Town Bridge Tower, St. Nicholas Church Tower, New Water Mill Tower, The Clementinum Astronomical Tower, Powder Tower

My Extra Budget Tip: If you are interested to see all the towers in the care of Prague Town (plus the Mirror Maze at Petrin Hill), you can get a special ticket covering the 9 attractions, which costs 1100 CZK (and 790 CZK concessions).

The total cost for all attractions (without any discount) is over 2000 CZK so you would be saving about 50% of the cost. This special ticket is valid for a whole 12 months, but you can visit each tower only once.

Accessibility of Prague Towers

Unfortunately, most of the Prague towers don’t have lifts and most have steep narrow steps. But, there are three towers which are equipped with lifts to accommodate visitors with mobility issues:

Old Town Hall Tower: This tower has a system of lifts that can transport you from street level to the top, which does make it acessible for wheelchair users, but there is an extra cost – adults 100 CZK, senior citizens over 65 years old: 50 CZK, disabled and wheelchair users: FREE

Žižkov Television Tower: The tower has three elevators that provide access to the observation pods, which makes this tower completely accessible. The lift is part of the ticket price and there is no additional cost.

Petřín Lookout Tower: Although the lift in Petřín Lookout Tower is small, it does provide access for visitors with mobility issues, but there is an extra cost. Please note, the lift doesn’t go all the way to the top, but to the lower platform only – adults 150 CZK, senior citizens over 65 years old: 50 CZK, disabled and wheelchair users: FREE.

1. Old Town Hall Tower

Of course, we have to start with the famous Old Town Hall Tower with its colourful Astronomical Clock, which has the most amazing views over the Old Town Square and surrounding streets.

The tower was built as part of the Old Town Hall in 1338 when King John of Luxembourg granted the town council the right to establish a town hall.

The original building had a Gothic-style tower, but in 1364, the tower was connected to a private house, and over the centuries, additional buildings were added, creating the complex we see today. The beautiful Astronomical Clock was installed in 1410 and the Great Modern Hall of Council was built in 1879-1880 decorated with a portrait of Emperor Francis Joseph.

What you can see from the top: The closest views of Old Town Square, the roof tops of all houses surrounding the square and of course the churches too. You can also see the Prague Castle from the distance.

• Address: Staroměstské nám. 1/3, 110 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 350, Students and Seniors: CZK 250, Children (6-15 years): CZK 250, Children under 6: Free

2. Old Town Bridge Tower

The Old Town Bridge Tower was built in 1357 during the reign of Bohemian King Charles IV. It was designed by the architect Petr Parléř in a Gothic Style and the Bohemian kings would pass under the main arch during their coronation processions from the original Royal Court Palace, where the Municipal House stands today.

What you can see from the top: Great views of Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle and Petrin Hill in the distance. The sun is setting behind the Prague Castle, so the best time to visit is in the morning to make sure that the sun is behind you when you are taking photos of the Bridge & Castle Hill.

• Address: Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1 – the side closer to the Old Town Square
• Opening Times: April to September: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, October to March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 190, Students and Seniors: CZK 130, Children (6-15 years): CZK 130, Children under 6: Free

3. The Lesser Town Bridge Tower

The Lesser Town Bridge Tower is on the other side of the historic Charles Bridge and consists of two towers from different periods. The lower, Romanesque tower, dates back to the 12th century and was originally part of the Judith Bridge – a bridge that was here before Charles Bridge was built.

The higher Gothic tower was built in 1464 during the reign of King George of Poděbrady, replacing an older Romanesque structure. The taller tower was designed to somewhat match the architectural style of the Old Town Bridge Tower, so they look quite similar.

What you can see from the top: Perfect view of the Charles Bridge and roofs of surrounding houses. This tower is much lower than the other tower on the Charles Bridge, but you will still be able to see Prague Castle and the Petrin Hill.

Best for photos of Charles Bridge (and the Old Town Tower) in the afternoon and evening, as the sun is setting behind the Prague Castle and you’ll have a good light. The tower is not open early enough to get there for sunrise over the Old Town Tower, but you can always take a great photos from the bridge itself.

• Address: Malostranské náměstí, 118 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: April to September: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, October to March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 190, Students and Seniors: CZK 130, Children (6-15 years): CZK 130, Children under 6: Free

4. Petřín Lookout Tower

If the historic Petřín Lookout Tower looks like a miniature Eiffel Tower, that’s because it was very much inspired by it. The tower was designed by engineers František Prášil and Julius Souček, funded by the Czech Tourist Club and constructed in 1891 for the Prague Jubilee Exhibition. It’s 63.5 meters tall and it was completed in just four months!

There is an open-top area, so you can see perfectly and take your pictures. Just a warning if you are scared bit of heights – the top can slightly move in the wind and as people are walking up and down. It’s perfectly safe, but still it can be a bit weird feeling.

What you can see from the top: Fabulous side views of St.Vitus Cathedral, Prague Castle Buildings, Strahov Monastery, Churches nearby and Charles Bridge in the distance.

• Address: Petřínské sady 633, 118 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: January to March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, April to September: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, October to December: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 250, Students and Seniors: CZK 180, Children (6-15 years): CZK 180, Children under 6: Free,

5. The Powder Tower

The Powder Tower originally called the New Tower, was built in 1475 during the reign of King Vladislaus II. It was designed by architect Matěj Rejsek and was used as one of the city’s main gates.

The tower was renamed in the 17th century when it was used as gunpowder storage. It was heavily damaged during the Prussian siege in 1757, but was restored in the 19th century by architect Josef Mocker in a Gothic style.

The tower viewing area is very compact and narrow – there is only space for one person with passing areas. There is a netting protecting the tower, but you can easily take pictures through it.

What you can see from the top: The square in front of the tower, nearby houses and roofs and Prague Main Train Station building in the distance, churches and Prague Castle & Petrin Hill in the distance. To get get best views of Prague Castle & Petrin Hill it’s best to visit during the morning as in the afternoon the sun will be over the Prague Castle and might be too strong to take good photos.

• Address: nám. Republiky 5, 110 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: November to February: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, April: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM, May to September: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, October: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 190, Students and Seniors: CZK 130, Children (6-15 years): CZK 130, Children under 6: Free

6. Jindřišská Tower

This is the highest free standing tower in Prague, which was originally the bell tower for the church over the road – Church of St. Henry and St. Kunhuta.

The tower was built between 1472 and 1476 in a Gothic style by Master Jan and later underwent Baroque modifications after being damaged by fire in 1745. The tower is 67.7 meters high.

What you can see from the top: Good view of the streets around – mainly Jindrisska Street, Wenceslas Square, Main Train Station and the colourful Jerusalem Synagogue and Senovazne Namesti (Square)

• Address: Jindřišská 2125/33, 110 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: Daily: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 190, Students and Seniors: CZK 110, Children (6-15 years): CZK 60, Children under 6: Free

7. Astronomical Tower in Klementinum

The Astronomical Tower in the Klementinum complex was completed in 1722 under the direction of Jesuit astronomer and rector František Retz. The 68-meter-high tower was designed for astronomical observations and was equipped with the latest scientific equipment by Jesuit scholars.

The tower is also beautifully decorated, including a statue of Atlas carrying the celestial sphere, created by sculptor Matthias Bernard Braun. The tower played a significant role in the development of astronomical research in Bohemia during the 18th century.

There is no separate ticket just for the tower, you’ll need to take the whole guided tour of Klementinum, but the bonus is seeing the beautiful baroque library and Klementinum chapel. I’d definitely recommend booking ahead, because the tickets seems to be sold out on the day. You also get better deal and save a bit that way.

What you can see from the top: Streets around Klementinum with Clam Gallase Palace in the distance, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle & Petrin Hill

• Address: Klementinum 190, 110 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: Daily: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 380, Students and Seniors: CZK 230, Children (6-15 years): CZK 230, Children under 6: Free (when booking online or 450 CZK on site, when available)

8. St.Nicholas Church Tower (Lesser Town)

The history and use of this tower is quite unusual. The St. Nicholas Church Tower was completed in 1755 as part of the Baroque church of the same name designed by architects Christoph Dientzenhofer and his son Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer.

The tower is 79 meters tall and was initially used as a bell tower and later was also used as an observation tower for town fire watchers.

But, what’s even more fascinating, is that in the later part of the 20th century, the tower was used by the State Security (StB) for surveillance purposes and to spy on the nearby American Embassy. You can see the top room set up as it was during the Communist time, as well as the humble flat of the watch tower bell ringer below.

What you can see from the top: The Lesser Town Square (of the many historic squares in Prague), fantastic side view of St. Vitus Cathedral, slopes of Petrin Hill and the Petrin Hunger Wall and the pretty Lesser Town streets

• Address: Malostranské náměstí 556/29, 118 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: April to September: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, October to March: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 190, Seniors (65+): CZK 130, Children and Students (10-26 years): CZK 130,

9. St. Vitus Cathedral Tower

This tower is part of the largest and most beautiful church in Prague – St. Vitus Cathedral.

The cathedral was built in phases, the first one started in 1344 by architects Matthias of Arras and later Peter Parler. The tower reached its current height of 96.5 meters in the late 14th century, though the cathedral itself remained unfinished for centuries.

It was finally completed in the 19th and early 20th centuries under the guidance of architects Josef Mocker and Kamil Hilbert. The cathedral tower has the largest bell in the Czech Republic, called Zikmund, from 1549.

To see the tower, you’ll need to get a separate ticket as the main Prague Castle ticket doesn’t include it. To be perfectly honest, if you want to just see the outside of Prague Castle (which is free) and then get the amazing views from the top of the cathedral, this is a perfect ticket combination!

What you can see from the top: The cathedral itself and the Prague Castle Squares and buildings surrounding the cathedral. There is also a great view of the whole Prague, but most areas (like the Charles Bridge or the Old Town Square are in the distance). Side view of Petrin Hill and the Petrin Tower.

• Address: Prague Castle, III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1
• Opening Times: April to October: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, November to March: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 250, Students and Seniors: CZK 150, Children (6-15 years): CZK 150, Children under 6: Free

10. New Mill Water Tower

I’ve enjoyed visiting this tower, because it’s a bit different to the others. Whilst you can’t see the typical Prague landmarks from the top here, you get to experience the history of the tower, fire fighting and the development of Prague’s water supply and done in a very modern way, through light display, film and colourful pictures.

The New Mill Water Tower was built in 1658 on the remnants of an earlier Renaissance tower destroyed by a flood in 1655.

It might not look it, but was designed in the Baroque style and as a water tower was part of the city’s water supply system pumping water from the Vltava River and distributing it to the Lower New Town.

I found it slightly hilarious, that water towers were apparently very prone to burning down! I mean how, when they are full of water, right? This was because in the winter they had to keep a very low fire at the bottom of the tower to prevent the water pipes from freezing and to make sure that the water was warm enough to run the pipes to get to the wells in the town. And quite often the fire got out of hands (I’m guessing the tower keeper fell asleep!) and burned down the tower.

This tower was in full working order until the late 19th century when modern waterworks started to be used and the tower was no longer needed.

What you can see from the top: There is a view of Vltava river, nearby church, roof tops of old houses, but you won’t see any famous historic landmarks nearby. The top of the tower has a large room with glass windows and seats, so that you can admire the view and stay for a while. There is no access to the outside.

• Address: Nové mlýny 827/3A, 110 00 Praha 1
• Opening Times: Daily: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 190, Students and Seniors: CZK 130, Children (6-15 years): CZK 130, Children under 6: Free

11. New Town Hall Tower at Charles Square

The New Town Hall Tower was built in the 14th century, and finished in 1356, during the time of King Charles IV.

The tower is part of the New Town Hall, which was built for a new part of the city that King Charles IV decided to build because Prague was getting too crowded.

The tower is nearly 70 metres tall and you will need to climb 221 stairs, as there is no lift. There is an information about the tower history and one floor level is dedicated to regular art exhibitions. When I visited, there was a fabulous exhibition of black and white photos of the nearby houses.

What you can see from the top: Charles Square, nearby streets and roof tops and also Vitkov Memorial in Zizkov, Zizkov Tower and the rest of Prague in a distance. This tower is too far to see Charles Bridge or Old Town Square.

• Address: Karlovo náměstí 1/23, Praha 2
• Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday: Closed + also closed during the winter season from mid December till the Easter weekend.
• Ticket: Adults: CZK 80, Students and Seniors: CZK 60, Children (6-15 years): CZK 60, Children under 6: Free

12. Žižkov Television Tower

I’ve left the tallest tower as the last. You can see it from practically everywhere in Prague and it’s the most modern tower we have. The Žižkov Television Tower was built between 1985 and 1992, designed by architect Václav Aulický and structural engineer Jiří Kozák.

It’s 216 meters tall and the tower’s futuristic design was somehow completed in 2000 by adding ten sculptures of crawling babies by artist David Černý.

It’s the only tower in Prague, where you can view the city from, have lunch in a restaurant, drink in a bar or even stay the night in the one-bedroom hotel above the viewing level.

What you can see from the top: Understandably, there is no access to outside, but it means that it’s a bit tricky to take good photos through the double-glazed windows. Because of the regular water condensation, the window could also be quite difficult to see through. Saying that, there is a great view of Zizkov District Area, including the Old Jewish Cemetery in Zizkov. The tower is too far to get a detailed views of Prague Castle, Petrin Hill or the centre, but you can of course see them in the distance.

Because this tower is open until midnight, it’s also a great tower to see Prague at night and to do some star gazing on a clear night.

• Address: Mahlerovy sady 1, 130 00 Praha 3
• Opening Times: Daily: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
• Tickets: Adults: CZK 300, Students and Seniors: CZK 200, Children (3-15 years): CZK 200, Children under 3: Free

This blog post was originally written on 14 October 2024 and last updated on 2 April 2026