Charles Bridge travel guide
- Introduction to Charles Bridge
- History of Charles Bridge
- Unique features of Charles Bridge
- Located in Prague, the Czech Republic
- How to get to Charles Bridge
- Best time to visit Charles Bridge
- Charles Bridge tours & tickets
- Top tours & tickets to Charles Bridge
- Car rentals near Charles Bridge
- Where to stay near Charles Bridge
- Top hotels near Charles Bridge
- Other top attractions in Prague
- Map of attractions in Prague
History of Charles Bridge
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.
Unique features of Charles Bridge
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 Prague, the Czech Republic
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!
How to get to Charles Bridge
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!
Best time to visit 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.
Charles Bridge tours & tickets
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.
Top tours & tickets to Charles Bridge
For a hassle-free experience at Charles Bridge, consider booking a guided tour to this top attraction in Prague. Among the most recommended tour is the Prague Off-The-Beaten-Path Small-Group Tour For Only 4 People, starting at 80 EUR.
With an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 154 travelers, this tour ranks among the most popular Activities in the city. This activity fills up quickly, so make sure to reserve your slot in advance.
Explore additional top-rated tours and tickets to Charles Bridge for more options and comparisons.
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Car rentals near Charles Bridge
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.
Where to stay near Charles Bridge
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.
Top hotels near Charles Bridge
Make the most of your visit to Charles Bridge by staying nearby at one of the top hotels in Prague. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Charles Bridge, but you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy the excellent amenities and exceptional service provided by these accommodations.
For a delightful 3-star stay near Charles Bridge, check out Hotel Atos, located only 0.5 miles (0.9 km) from the attraction. This hotel has earned a remarkable 7,975 out of 5 stars from 4 guests. A stay at Hotel Atos starts at approximately 44 EUR per night.
If a 4-star hotel is more your style, check out the chic Residence Bologna, only 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the stone bridge. With an outstanding 10,016 out of 5 stars from 4 satisfied guests, this hotel is one of the best-rated stays near Charles Bridge. One night at this hotel costs from 57 EUR per night.
For the ultimate luxury stay near Charles Bridge, the 5-star Eurostars Thalia is a top choice, nestled just 0.4 miles (0.6 km) from Charles Bridge. With an impressive average rating of 10,016 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews, this remarkable hotel promises an unforgettable stay with rates starting at 95 EUR per night.
Explore all your options and find the best hotel in Prague near the Charles Bridge below.
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Other top attractions in Prague
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.
Map of attractions in Prague
Your next adventure is waiting for you in the city of Prague. Explore the map to discover all the popular attractions you’ll visit on your unforgettable vacation in the Czech Republic.
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