Charles Bridge travel guide

Charles Bridge, an iconic symbol of Prague, has a history dating back to the 14th century. It was commissioned by Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor, and its construction was overseen by architect Petr Parléř.

The bridge, originally called 'Stone Bridge' or 'Prague Bridge', got its current name in the late 19th century. It spans the Vltava river, connecting Prague's Old Town and Lesser Town. For many centuries, it served as the only means of crossing the river, making it an important route for trade between Eastern and Western Europe.

This gothic-style structure has withstood numerous floods and wars. Interestingly, egg yolks were mixed into the mortar to strengthen the construction. The bridge is adorned with 30 statues, most of them baroque-style, depicting various saints and patron saints. These were added much later towards the end of the 17th century.

Today, Charles Bridge is a pedestrian zone and a popular spot for tourists who enjoy the stunning panoramic views, the rich history, and the local artists and musicians who add to the unique charm of this historic monument.

Charles Bridge is renowned for its impressive array of 30 baroque-style statues and statuaries, each with a unique story of saints and patron saints, making it a true open-air gallery. It is also famed for its gothic-style bridge towers, the Old Town tower being considered one of the most striking examples of civil gothic-style architecture in the world. The bridge also features a unique 'bridge mark' in the tower on the Old Town side, which was used to measure the height of floods.

In addition to its artistic and architectural spectacle, Charles Bridge offers incredible panoramic views over the Vltava River and the cityscape of Prague, which is especially magical at sunrise and sunset. Lastly, the bridge's role as a popular meeting place adds a social feature to its charm. Street musicians, artists, and vendors contribute to a vibrant atmosphere, while the tradition of touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck adds a unique interactive element to the bridge experience.

Located in the dynamic Prague 1, the popular Charles Bridge is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Prague or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Czech Republic.

Prague is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Prague offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Prague and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Prague Castle, Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague Astronomical Clock, and Dancing House.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Prague has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Prague, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Czech Republic!

Charles Bridge is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Prague, the Czech Republic. If you're flying in, Václav Havel Prague Airport is approximately 6.8 miles (10.9 km) away from Prague. From there, you can easily reach Charles Bridge by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Prague, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Charles Bridge, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Charles Bridge, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Karlův most, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia, the Czech Republic.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Charles Bridge!

The best time to explore Charles Bridge is during the early morning hours or late in the evening. In spring and summer, these times offer a picturesque sunrise or sunset view of the historic bridge against Prague's skyline. These seasons also offer warm, favorable weather, enhancing your bridge exploration. Autumn is another beautiful season to visit, with the surrounding foliage enhancing the charm of the bridge. However, it's advisable to avoid winter as the bridge can get slippery. In terms of events, the bridge becomes livelier during the Prague Museum Night, usually held in June, where tourists can enjoy a unique night-time view of the bridge, along with music and entertainment. Tourists should note that the bridge tends to get crowded during the afternoon and early evening hours, so plan your visit accordingly for a more tranquil experience.

To truly enjoy your visit to Charles Bridge, joining a tour that features this popular stone bridge in Prague is highly recommended. As one of the Czech Republic's most iconic attractions, Charles Bridge draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Charles Bridge starting at just 2.99 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Charles Bridge and the Czech Republic's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Václav Havel Prague Airport and the city of Prague, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in the Czech Republic cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Prague and beyond.

Conveniently explore Charles Bridge and plenty more captivating attractions in Prague by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Charles Bridge and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Prague has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Charles Bridge below.

Aside from Charles Bridge, Prague is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Prague, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Prague Castle, Old Town Square, and St. Vitus Cathedral.

Prague Castle is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Prague, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 160,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Prague Castle is 119 08 Prague 1, Czechia.

Another appreciated attraction in Prague is Old Town Square. Like Prague Castle, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 100,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Staroměstské nám. , 110 00 Praha 1-Staré Město, Czechia.

St. Vitus Cathedral is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Prague. This church and top attraction in Prague has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 80,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of III. Nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1-Hradčany, Czechia.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Prague below.