Why Prague’s Charles Bridge is a Must-See Landmark

1 September 2025

When you think of Prague, what’s the first image that comes to mind? Maybe it's the fairytale-like Prague Castle or the astronomical marvel of the Orloj clock. But if there's one landmark that captures the soul of this enchanting city, it’s Charles Bridge.

This historic gem isn’t just a way to cross the Vltava River—it’s a living, breathing piece of history, packed with stories, legends, and some seriously breathtaking views. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking for that perfect Instagram shot, Charles Bridge is an absolute must-see.

So, why exactly is Charles Bridge worth all this hype? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into everything that makes this iconic bridge one of the most magical spots in Prague.

A Bridge with a Story: The History of Charles Bridge

First things first, let’s talk history. No, not the boring textbook kind—this is the legend-filled, slightly mysterious, and undeniably fascinating kind.

Charles Bridge was commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357, replacing the older Judith Bridge, which was destroyed by a flood. The bridge took nearly half a century to complete, and legend has it that egg yolks were mixed into the mortar to strengthen the structure. (Yep, medieval engineering had some pretty wild tricks up its sleeve!)

For centuries, Charles Bridge was the only connection between Prague Castle and the Old Town, making it a crucial trade route. Today, it’s a charming pedestrian-only bridge, drawing thousands of visitors daily—and for good reason.

A Bridge Built at an Oddly Specific Time

Here’s a fun fact: The foundation stone of Charles Bridge was laid at exactly 5:31 AM on July 9, 1357. Why such precision? Because King Charles IV, who was deeply into astrology and numerology, believed that the sequence 1357 9/7 5:31 would bring good luck and stability to the structure.

Did it work? Well, considering the bridge is still standing strong over 660 years later, I’d say he was onto something!

The Stunning Gothic Architecture

One look at Charles Bridge, and you’ll instantly see why it’s so beloved. The bridge is 515 meters long and features 16 grand arches, all built in classic Gothic style. Walking across it feels like stepping back in time.

But the real showstoppers?

The Majestic Towers

At both ends of the bridge stand two breathtaking Gothic towers:

- The Old Town Bridge Tower – Considered one of the world’s most beautiful Gothic gateways, this tower offers one of the best panoramic views of Prague. Climbing its 138 steps might make your legs burn, but the view from the top is absolutely worth it.

- The Lesser Town Bridge Towers – These two towers, slightly smaller but no less stunning, mark the entrance to the picturesque Mala Strana (Lesser Town). Walking through them feels like entering a medieval fantasy world.

The 30 Statues That Tell a Story

The bridge is adorned with 30 baroque-style statues, each with its own story. Some of them are replicas—because let’s be real, after centuries of floods and battles, even stone gets tired—but the originals can still be found in the National Museum.

The Most Famous Statue: St. John of Nepomuk

One statue stands out from the rest: St. John of Nepomuk. Legend has it that he was thrown off the bridge in 1393 for refusing to reveal the queen’s confessions to the king.

Now, if you’re feeling superstitious, here’s a tip: Touch the plaque beneath his statue, and it’s said you’ll return to Prague someday. (Hey, it’s worth a shot, right?)

The Best Time to Visit Charles Bridge

While Charles Bridge is stunning anytime, there are definitely better and worse moments to experience it.

- Sunrise: If you want to capture the bridge in all its mystical glory without the crowds, set your alarm early. Seeing the first golden rays of sunlight over the Vltava River is pure magic.
- Sunset: The warm glow over the city creates an ultra-romantic setting—perfect for couples and photographers.
- Midday: Unless you enjoy battling crowds like you're in a medieval jousting tournament, avoid the bridge at peak hours. It gets swarmed with tourists and street performers.

Want a pro tip? Visit during winter—not only will you find fewer crowds, but if you're lucky, you might even experience the bridge dusted in snow, making it look straight out of a fairytale.

The Bridge Comes Alive with Artists and Buskers

Charles Bridge is not just a historic monument; it’s an open-air gallery and a hub of artistic energy. As you stroll across, you’ll find painters, musicians, street performers, and artisans selling handmade jewelry and souvenirs.

Love live music? You might just hear some of the best jazz and classical musicians performing for passersby. There’s something incredibly special about listening to music with Prague Castle towering in the background.

Charles Bridge at Night: A Completely Different Vibe

If you think Charles Bridge is enchanting during the day, wait until you see it at night. As the streetlights cast a soft glow over the statues and the city skyline lights up, the bridge transforms into a fairytale setting.

The best part? No massive crowds. It’s the perfect time to take a peaceful, reflective walk and soak in the atmosphere. Who knows—you might even feel like you're starring in your own historical drama.

Fun Facts About Charles Bridge That Will Impress Your Friends

Still not convinced Charles Bridge is something special? Here are a few fun facts to win you over:

- It was originally called Stone Bridge or Prague Bridge until it was renamed Charles Bridge in the 19th century.
- The bridge has survived multiple floods, battles, and wars, yet it still stands strong.
- During World War II, Charles Bridge was used as a barricade to slow down German troops.
- There’s a hidden sword buried somewhere in the bridge, believed to protect the city during times of crisis.

Why You Absolutely Have to See Charles Bridge

Let’s be real—if you’re visiting Prague and skip Charles Bridge, have you even been to Prague? This iconic landmark isn’t just a place to snap a few photos and move on. It’s a spot where history, legends, and beauty come together to create one of the most magical experiences in Europe.

Whether you’re chasing sunrises, searching for legendary statues, or just looking to soak up the incredible atmosphere, Charles Bridge will leave you completely spellbound.

So, the next time you find yourself in Prague, take a slow, unhurried stroll across Charles Bridge. Feel the centuries-old stones beneath your feet, listen to the melodies of street musicians, and let the bridge whisper its long-held secrets into your ears. Trust me—you won’t regret it.