The Rich History of Charles Bridge

The story of Charles Bridge began in 1357. King Charles IV laid the foundation stone at a precise time suggested by astrologers. This bridge replaced the older Judith Bridge, which was destroyed by a flood in 1342. For centuries, it was the only way to cross the Vltava River in the city. This made it a vital trade route between Eastern and Western Europe. You can learn more about its construction at the official city tourism portal.

The bridge is a masterpiece of Gothic engineering. It features 16 arches and is protected by three bridge towers. Throughout the years, it has witnessed historical events like the Thirty Years' War. The bridge is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage historic center of Prague. Its sandstone blocks have been repaired many times, yet its medieval character remains intact. Visiting here is like walking through a living museum of European history.

Today, the bridge is pedestrian-only. This allows visitors to admire the Baroque statues added in the 17th and 18th centuries. Each statue represents a saint or a religious figure important to the region. As you walk, you are following the path of kings who once took the Royal Route to the castle. Understanding this context makes your visit much more meaningful. It transforms a simple walk into a journey back in time.

10 Spots for Charles Bridge Photography and History

To capture the best of Charles Bridge photography and history, you must know where to look. The bridge offers different moods depending on your location. From high towers to the water's edge, every angle tells a story. Use this list to plan your photography route and historical exploration.

• Best overall: Sunrise from the Old Town Bridge Tower.
• Best for families: The Charles Bridge Museum.
• Best rainy-day: Exploring the bridge towers' interiors.
• Best free: Walking the bridge at midnight.

1. Name: Old Town Bridge Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is one of the most beautiful Gothic gates in the world. It offers a stunning aerial view of the bridge arches. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: Old Town side of the bridge. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approximately 190 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Staromestska metro station. Tip: Climb the stairs 20 minutes before sunset for the best light.
2. Name: Statue of St. John of Nepomuk Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the oldest statue on the bridge. It marks the spot where the saint was thrown into the river. Best for: History buffs and luck-seekers. Where: Middle of the bridge, north side. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the middle of the bridge. Tip: Touch the bronze plaque for good luck and a return to Prague.
3. Name: Kampa Island Park Type: Nature/Perspective Why go: This park offers a view of the bridge from below. You can see the massive stone pillars and arches clearly. Best for: Unique low-angle shots. Where: Lesser Town side, under the bridge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the stairs down from the bridge on the Lesser Town side. Tip: Visit in autumn for beautiful golden leaf frames.
4. Name: Lesser Town Bridge Towers Type: Architecture Why go: These two towers mark the entrance to the Mala Strana district. They offer a great historical contrast between different building styles. Best for: Architectural photography. Where: Lesser Town end of the bridge. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Tower entry is around 190 CZK. Getting there: Walk across the bridge from Old Town. Tip: The smaller tower is the oldest part of the entire bridge complex.
5. Name: Charles Bridge Museum Type: History/Indoor Why go: It is located in the original monastery of the Knights of the Cross. You can see models of the bridge's construction. Best for: Deep historical context. Where: Krizovnicke Square, Old Town side. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Around 170 CZK. Getting there: Located right next to the Old Town Bridge Tower. Tip: Your ticket often includes a small Vltava river cruise.
6. Name: Novotneho Lavka Type: Viewpoint Why go: This walkway offers the most famous side-on view of the bridge with Prague Castle in the background. Best for: Postcard-perfect photos. Where: Just south of the Old Town Bridge Tower. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Smetana Embankment. Tip: This is the best spot for night photography of the bridge.
7. Name: Strelecky Island Type: Nature/Perspective Why go: This island in the middle of the Vltava provides a distant, centered view of the bridge. Best for: Long exposure shots of the river and bridge. Where: Accessible via the Legions Bridge. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a tram to Narodni Divadlo and walk across the next bridge. Tip: Bring a tripod for sharp evening shots from the island tip.
8. Name: The Crucifixion and Calvary Statue Type: Iconic sight Why go: This statue features gold Hebrew letters. It has a complex history involving a 17th-century court case. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Near the Old Town end. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is the third statue on the right from Old Town. Tip: Look for the Hebrew inscription "Holy, Holy, Holy" in gold.
9. Name: Vltava Riverbank near Cihelna Type: Viewpoint Why go: This spot is famous for the swans that gather near the water. It creates a fairy-tale foreground for the bridge. Best for: Wildlife and landscape photography. Where: Lesser Town side, near the Franz Kafka Museum. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the Lesser Town bridge towers. Tip: Be respectful of the swans and do not feed them bread.
10. Name: St. Luthgard Statue Type: Art/History Why go: Often considered the artistically finest statue on the bridge. It was carved by Matthias Braun in 1710. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Lesser Town side of the bridge. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the south side of the bridge. Tip: Observe the deep shadows and emotional expressions in the Baroque carving.

Best Times for Photography and Avoiding Crowds

Timing is everything for Charles Bridge photography and history. During the day, the bridge is packed with thousands of tourists. To get a clear shot, you must arrive very early. Sunrise is the most popular time for professional photographers. The light hits the Old Town towers beautifully at this hour. You will find peace and a misty atmosphere that feels truly medieval.

Blue hour is another fantastic time for photos. This occurs just after sunset when the sky turns a deep indigo. The bridge lamps turn on, casting a warm glow on the stone statues. This contrast between blue and orange is perfect for your camera sensor. If you want more tips on where to go, check out our best panoramic viewpoints in Prague guide. It covers several spots that overlook the bridge.

Night photography offers a different perspective. After 10:00 PM, the crowds begin to thin out. The bridge becomes quiet and mysterious. You can use a long exposure to capture the movement of the few remaining pedestrians. This is also a great time to visit Old Town Square sightseeing highlights nearby. The city lights in 2026 are designed to be energy-efficient yet beautiful. Always bring a tripod for the best results at night.

Planning Your Visit to Charles Bridge in 2026

Visiting Charles Bridge in 2026 requires some planning. The bridge is free to cross 24 hours a day. However, the towers have specific opening hours. Most open at 10:00 AM and close at sunset. You can use a Prague sightseeing pass to save on tower entry fees. These passes often include public transport as well.

Public transport is the best way to reach the bridge. Use the Metro Line A to Staromestska or Malostranska. You can also take the scenic tram lines for Prague sightseeing, such as Tram 22. This tram offers a beautiful ride through the historic districts. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestones can be uneven and slippery when wet.

Combine your bridge walk with other major sites. The bridge is a natural link to the Prague Castle complex. You can also easily walk to the must-see historical monuments in Prague from either end. Remember to stay hydrated and watch your belongings in crowded areas. Prague is very safe, but busy spots attract pickpockets. Enjoy the history and the views at your own pace.