Is Charles Bridge free?

Yes. Access to the bridge is completely free and it is open 24 hours a day. The towers have paid entry to climb to the viewing platform.

When was Charles Bridge built?

The first stone was laid on 9 July 1357, under the reign of Charles IV. Construction took decades and the bridge was the only crossing of the Vltava in Prague for over four centuries.

Why is it called Charles Bridge?

In honour of King Charles IV of Bohemia (1316-1378), who ordered its construction. Until 1870 it was simply called "the Prague Bridge"; it was then that it was given the official name Charles Bridge.

Jan Nepomuk was a priest and confessor to the Queen of Bohemia, executed in 1393 by order of King Wenceslaus IV. Legend has it that he was thrown into the Vltava for refusing to reveal the queen's confessional secrets. He was canonised in 1729 and is the patron saint of Bohemia.

Does touching the statue on Charles Bridge bring good luck?

According to local tradition, touching the relief on the base of the Jan Nepomuk statue (which depicts his fall into the river) brings good luck. The bronze in that area gleams from the constant contact of millions of hands.

What is the best time to visit Charles Bridge?

At dawn (5:00-7:00) for maximum tranquillity. At sunset for the best light. At night for the most intimate experience. Avoid the middle of the day during peak season. Charles Bridge connects the Old Town with Prague Castle and Mala Strana. It forms part of the Day 1 itinerary in Prague. Ten minutes on foot towards the Old Town is the Astronomical Clock.

Home/Blog/Charles Bridge in Prague: History, Legends and How to Visit (2026)

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Charles Bridge in Prague: History, Legends and How to Visit (2026)

History, legends and the best times to cross Prague's iconic Gothic bridge

Ion López Bidaguren

Art historian and licensed tour guide with over 17 years in tourism. Former educator at the Guggenheim Bilbao, guiding in Prague for 10+ years in Spanish, English and Italian.

March 11, 2026 · 5 min read

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