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Charles Bridge: Prague's Iconic Stone Span

Walk across Prague's iconic Charles Bridge, a medieval masterpiece adorned with statues and steeped in history, connecting Old Town to Lesser Town.

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Charles Bridge, a historic stone arch bridge, gracefully stretches across the Vltava River, connecting Prague's Old Town and Lesser Town. Built in the 14th century under King Charles IV, it replaced the earlier Judith Bridge and has stood for centuries as a vital link and a symbol of the city. Adorned with Baroque statues and offering stunning views, it's a must-see for any visitor.

A brief summary to Charles Bridge

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Be aware of your belongings, especially during busy times, as pickpockets can be present.
  • Touch the bronze plaque beneath the statue of St. John of Nepomuk for good luck and to ensure your return to Prague.
  • Climb the Old Town Bridge Tower for panoramic views of the city and Charles Bridge.
  • Take your time to admire the statues and learn about the stories and symbolism behind each one.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Old Town Square, walk towards the Vltava River and follow the signs for Charles Bridge. The bridge is easily accessible on foot from most central locations in Prague. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your starting point in Old Town. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by metro, take line A or B to the Staroměstská station. From there, it's a short walk to Charles Bridge. Alternatively, several trams and buses stop near the bridge. A single public transport ticket costs 30 CZK (approximately €1.20) and is valid for 30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Prague. A short taxi ride from Prague city center to Charles Bridge typically costs between 160 CZK to 270 CZK (approximately €7-€11), depending on traffic and the taxi company. Ensure the taxi is licensed and uses a meter.

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Discover more about Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge (Karlův most) is a medieval stone arch bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague, Czech Republic. Its construction began in 1357 under the reign of King Charles IV, replacing the damaged Judith Bridge, and was completed in the early 15th century. Originally called Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge, it has been known as Charles Bridge since 1870. Until 1841, it was Prague's only Vltava River crossing, connecting Prague Castle to the Old Town. The bridge is 516 meters long and 10 meters wide, featuring 16 arches protected by ice guards. According to Czech legend, construction began on July 9, 1357, at 5:31 am, a time chosen by Charles IV's astrologers for its palindromic numerological significance. The bridge is adorned with 30 Baroque statues, added in the 17th and 18th centuries, depicting various saints and historical figures. The statue of St. John of Nepomuk is particularly famous; legend says touching the bronze plaque at its base brings good luck and guarantees a return to Prague. The Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Town Bridge Towers, located at each end, offer panoramic city views. Charles Bridge has undergone several restorations and has been a pedestrian-only zone since 1965.

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