Explore the Charles Bridge
A scenic view of the historic Charles Bridge
Deposit Photos

Navigating The Charles Bridge : Answers to common questions

  • Washrooms: Public restrooms are not available on the bridge but can be found in nearby areas.
  • Hours of Operation: The bridge is open at all times, but it can be very crowded during the day, especially in tourist season.
  • Important Information: Early morning or late evening visits offer a quieter experience with beautiful lighting for photography.
  • Admission Fee: No admission fee to walk across the bridge.
  • How Long to Visit: Time spent on the bridge varies; visitors often take 30 minutes to an hour to enjoy the views and atmosphere.
  • Parking: No parking available directly at the bridge; nearby public parking or public transport is recommended.
  • Family Friendly: A great attraction for families, offering scenic views and access to street performers and vendors.
  • Photography: Photography is a popular activity on the bridge, with many iconic views and statues.
  • WIFI: No public WIFI available directly on the bridge.
  • Picnic Area: No picnic areas on the bridge, but nearby Kampa Park offers space for outdoor meals.
  • Handicap Accessible: The bridge is accessible to pedestrians and offers flat surfaces for easy walking.
  • Pets: Pets can be taken on the bridge but should be kept on a leash due to the crowds.
  • Guided Tours: No guided tours specific to the bridge, but it is often included in city walking tours.
  • Restaurant or Cafe: No dining facilities on the bridge, but street vendors sell snacks and there are numerous restaurants nearby.
  • Gift Shop: Souvenir vendors are common on the bridge, selling a variety of local crafts and goods.

    Please note all times and prices subject to change. Please check the offical website for details.

    More in our list of Things To Do In Prague

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    Map for The Charles Bridge

    Did You Know?

    During its history, The Charles Bridge has survived numerous floods, including a major flood in 2002, which was one of The most devastating natural disasters in Prague's modern history. The bridge's resilience is a testament to its sturdy Gothic architecture and its ongoing maintenance and preservation.

    There is a popular legend associated with The statue of St. John of Nepomuk on The bridge. Touching The statue is supposed to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague.

    The bridge is decorated with 30 statues and statuaries, most of which are in Baroque style and were added between 1683 and 1928. However, The originals have been gradually replaced by replicas for preservation, with The originals now housed in The National Museum.

    The Charles Bridge was commissioned by Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1357. It's said that The initial stone was laid at precisely 5:31 am on July 9, 1357, because Charles IV was a strong believer in numerology and chose The specific time for its palindrome-like sequence (1-3-5-7-9-7-5-3-1).

    The Charles Bridge was The only means of crossing The Vltava river in Prague until 1741. This made it a crucial pathway for trade between Eastern and Western Europe.

    Travel Information for
    Prague Visitors

    Time Zone: Prague operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

    Weather: Prague experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 20°C (68°F), but can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Winters are cold, often dipping below 0°C (32°F), and snow is common. Spring and autumn are generally milder and are popular times to visit.

    Population: Prague has a population of about 1.3 million people, making it the largest city in the Czech Republic.

    Size: The city covers an area of approximately 496 square kilometers (191 square miles).

    Language: The official language is Czech. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but not as much in less touristy places.

    Currency: The Czech Republic uses the Czech koruna (CZK). While some places accept Euros, it's more common to pay with korunas.

    Safety: Prague is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions, especially in crowded areas and when using public transportation.

    Tipping: In restaurants, it's customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% if you're satisfied with the service. Tipping in bars is less common, but appreciated.

    Electricity and Plugs: The Czech Republic uses Type C and Type E plugs, and the standard voltage is 230 V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz. Visitors from countries with different standards may need an adapter.

    Water: Tap water in Prague is safe to drink and is of high quality.