Charles Bridge (Karlův most) is the roughly 516-metre Gothic stone bridge linking Prague's Old Town with the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) across the Vltava. Commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, it was begun in 1357 and completed in 1402, making it the oldest surviving bridge over the river. Lined with about 30 Baroque saintly statues and framed by Gothic bridge towers at each end, it is the enduring symbol of the 'City of a Hundred Spires.' As of 2026 the bridge is fully open and free to cross at all hours; a long-planned major restoration of its arches and piers is still in preparation and does not affect crossing, though you may find renovation work around the Old Town approach (Křižovnické Square). Treat it as a leisurely walk rather than a ticketed attraction.
The statue of St John of Nepomuk (1683, the oldest on the bridge): touching the bronze relief on its base is said to guarantee your return to Prague, which is why it is polished mirror-bright by countless hands.
The Old Town Bridge Tower (Staroměstská mostecká věž): one of Europe's finest Gothic gateways; climb it for a panorama of the full 516 m span, Prague Castle, and the sea of red rooftops.
The procession of around 30 Baroque saints, mostly added in the 17th–18th centuries; many figures on the bridge today are copies, with originals preserved in museum lapidariums.
The two Lesser Town bridge towers and the atmospheric lanes and Kampa Island just beyond them on the Malá Strana side.
Sunrise and late-night visits: with the crowds gone, mist rising off the Vltava and the lit statues are the bridge at its most magical.
Good to know
CautionMidday in summer, Charles Bridge is the single highest-risk spot in Prague for pickpockets. Never keep a wallet in a back pocket; wear a zipped crossbody bag in front. When photographing or checking a map, step to the side rather than stopping in the crush.
CautionIf someone with a clipboard or tablet asks you to sign a 'charity' petition, walk on—an accomplice works your pockets while you sign. Likewise, avoid 'no-commission' private exchange booths near the bridge, which give poor rates; use banks or ATMs instead.
SeasonIn peak season (May–September) the deck is shoulder-to-shoulder at midday; Monday–Thursday and early morning or late evening are far quieter. In winter, river wind makes it feel much colder, and rain or frost leaves the cobbles slippery—dress and shoe accordingly.
RulesCrossing the bridge is free and open 24/7, but the Old Town and Lesser Town tower viewpoints are ticketed, reached by steep, narrow spiral stairs with no lift. Prices and hours change, so confirm the latest via Prague City Tourism's official seller (a 50%-off Early Bird ticket runs during the first hour after opening).
MannersStopping in the middle of the deck for long photo sessions badly blocks the flow. Buskers, portrait artists, and souvenir stalls create pinch points—take photos quickly from the edge, and firmly decline stall haggling or carriage/tour touts if you're not interested.
SafetyCyclists and e-scooters thread through the crowd, and while the bridge is well lit at night, occasional drunk revellers pass through. Keep your belongings close, move with a companion after dark, and wear low, non-slip shoes for the uneven cobblestones.
Practical info
Reach the Old Town side on foot from metro line A (green) Staroměstská, and the Lesser Town side from Malostranská; trams 1, 2, 17, 18 and 25 also stop nearby. The bridge itself is free and open around the clock, but the tower viewpoints' prices, opening hours and Early Bird availability can change—verify the latest with Prague City Tourism's official channels before your visit.
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