Charles bridge
Praha 1 Hlavní město Praha Hlavní město Praha
🎧 English Audio Narration
Karlův most (Charles Bridge) is one of Prague’s most beloved and photographed landmarks spanning the Vltava River. Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV in 1357, this Gothic stone bridge replaced the older Judith Bridge, which was destroyed by floods. It connected Prague Castle with the Old Town and played a vital role in trade and travel in medieval Bohemia.
The bridge is a key stop along the Royal Route, the traditional coronation path of Bohemian kings, which winds from the Old Town to Prague Castle. Walking across it, you’re following in the footsteps of monarchs, nobles, and centuries of history.
Today, Charles Bridge is a lively open-air gallery, lined with 30 statues of saints, mostly added in the 17th and 18th centuries. While the originals are now preserved in museums, the replicas still evoke a powerful sense of history and spirituality. Look out for the statue of St. John of Nepomuk—legend says touching the bronze plaque brings good luck and ensures your return to Prague. Before entering the bridge from the Old Town side, take a moment to admire the imposing statue of Charles IV himself, a fitting tribute to the emperor who commissioned this iconic structure.
Flanked by two imposing towers—the Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Town Bridge Tower—Charles Bridgeoffers breathtaking views of the river, Prague Castle, and the city’s spires. The Old Town Bridge Tower can be climbed for a small fee—worth it for the stunning panoramic view over the bridge and beyond. Street musicians, artists, and vendors add to the vibrant atmosphere.
💡 Top Tip 💡
For a different perspective, choose from a variety of Vltava river cruises—whether it’s a classic sightseeing trip with Prague Boats using eco-friendly vessels, a cozy ride on a historic wooden boat with Prague Venice, a lively evening of live jazz on the Jazz Boat, or a private celebration aboard The Wave. Each offers unique views of Charles Bridge and Prague’s landmarks, plus a peaceful break from the crowds and fantastic photo opportunities.
📅 Plan your visit
🏰 Old Town Bridge Tower Entry
🕒 Opening Hours:
Jan–Mar & Oct–Nov: 10:00–18:00
Apr–May: 10:00–19:00
Jun–Sep: 9:00–20:30
Dec: 10:00–19:30
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at the tower entrance
🏰 Lesser Town Bridge Tower Entry
🕒 Opening Hours:
Jan–Mar & Oct–Nov: 10:00–18:00
Apr–May: 10:00–19:00
Jun–Sep: 9:00–20:30
Dec: 10:00–19:30
🎟 On-site: Tickets available at the tower entrance
⛴️ Boat Cruises
The Wave - private cruise
Experience Prague from a unique perspective with The Wave boat, offering private cruises on the Vltava River. Perfect for celebrations or relaxing with friends, enjoy breathtaking views of the city center from this stylish and modern vessel.
🕒 Duration: 3 or 5 hours
Prague Eco Boats
Prague Boats offers a wide variety of sightseeing and dining cruises on the Vltava River, featuring modern, eco-friendly vessels and exceptional service. Options range from short sightseeing trips to elegant lunch and dinner cruises.
🕒 Duration: 1 hour +
Jazz Boat
The Jazz Boat offers a unique and intimate Prague experience, combining a scenic Vltava River cruise with live jazz music performed by top Czech musicians. Enjoy a 2.5 hour journey past illuminated landmarks, accompanied by a delicious à la carte dinner and drinks, in a cozy, floating jazz club atmosphere.
🕒 Duration: 2.5 hour
Prague Venice Historical Boat
A charming 45-minute cruise aboard historic-style wooden boats, departing from beneath Charles Bridge. The route takes you along the Vltava River, through the picturesque Čertovka canal, and past hidden corners of Old Town, providing unique views of Prague’s most beautiful landmarks that can’t be seen from the banks.
🕒 Duration: 45 min
🍴Where to eat :
(Here are some suggestions. All are within 7 min walking from your current location).
[$]
Café Rudolfinum (Elegant Café in a Historic Setting) 4.0 ⭐
Smetana Q (Bistro & Modern European Cuisine) 4.3 ⭐
[$]
Kozlovna Apropos (Czech Restaurant & Pub) 4.5 ⭐
Café Slavia (Historic Czech Café) 4.6 ⭐
Alriso Risotteria Italiana (Italian restaurant focused on risotto & gluten-free cuisine) 4.4 ⭐
Marina Ristorante (Italian Cuisine on the Water) 4.4 ⭐
V Zátiší (Elegant fine dining blending Czech and international flavors) 4.7 ⭐
Mlýnec (Modern Czech fine dining with Vltava river views) 4.7 ⭐
[$$]
CottoCrudo (Modern Italian with Czech Influences) 4.5 ⭐
Alma (Modern Czech with Global Twist) 4.7 ⭐