Spot the best hotels near Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge is the grand stone link between Prague’s Old Town and the Lesser Town, offering a walk through history that feels like a fairy tale. Crossing the Vltava River, this 14th-century masterpiece is lined with 30 statues of saints that keep watch over everyone passing by. Strolling along its cobblestones gives you the best views of the city skyline and the castle, especially when the morning mist hangs over the water. It is a place where local artists and musicians create a lively atmosphere, making every crossing feel like a small celebration of Czech culture.

To fully experience the Charles Bridge, arrive at dawn or late in the evening to beat the crowds and see the statues in the best light.

Planning your walk across the river

You can access the bridge at any time of day or night as it remains open 24 hours a day. While walking across is free, you will need to pay a small entry fee if you wish to climb the Old Town Bridge Tower or the Lesser Town Bridge Tower for a view from above. These towers generally open at 10:00 and close at various times depending on the sunset.

The bridge is roughly 516 metres long and about 10 metres wide, making it a comfortable stroll unless it is peak tourist season. Most people spend about 30 minutes to 1 hour here, depending on how many photos they take. Since the surface is made of cobblestones, it is a good idea to wear flat shoes. Please check the official site for current opening times for the towers and any scheduled maintenance.

Sculptures and Gothic architecture to look out for

The bridge is decorated with a continuous alley of 30 statues and statuaries, most of which are in the Baroque style. The most famous figure is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk; look for the spot where the bronze has been rubbed shiny by millions of hands for good luck. While the statues you see today are mostly replicas to protect them from the weather, the originals are safely tucked away in the National Museum.

At either end, the massive Gothic towers served as both fortifications and decorative gateways. The Old Town Bridge Tower is often cited by experts as one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Europe. As you walk, you will also see local painters and musicians who have official permits to perform and sell their work along the 16 arches of the structure.

The history behind the stones

Construction began in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV and was not fully completed until the beginning of the 15th century. There is a local legend that egg yolks were mixed into the mortar to make the bridge stronger, which might explain why it has survived so many floods over the last 600 years.

Until 1841, this was the only way to cross the river in the city, making it a vital trade route between Eastern and Western Europe. It has witnessed coronations, battles, and executions throughout its long life. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protected for its immense cultural value.

It is easy for you to find your way around Charles Bridge, and you will find plenty of places to stay right on its doorstep. Whether you want to wake up to river views or hide away in a cobbled alley, there are many options for you to reach this historic crossing.

Where to stay nearby

If you want to be as close as possible to the action, look for accommodation in Malá Strana, also known as the Lesser Town. This area sits at the western end of the bridge and is full of boutique hotels and quiet courtyards that feel like a step back in time. It is a great choice if you prefer a slower pace but still want to be within a 5-minute walk of the river. On the opposite side, Staré Město, or Old Town, is better for those who want to be in the thick of the city's energy. You will find everything from luxury suites to budget-friendly hostels tucked into the winding streets. Staying here means you are only 400 yards from the Old Town Square, making it simple to explore the most popular spots on foot.

Getting to the bridge

You can reach the bridge easily from Prague Main Station by taking the red metro line (C) to Muzeum, then transferring to the green metro line (A) to Staroměstská, which leaves you with a flat 500-metre walk to the entrance. If you are coming from the airport, the Airport Express bus drops you at the city centre, where a quick 10-minute tram ride on Line 17 or Line 18 will get you to the Karlovy lázně stop. Most of the paths leading to the bridge are pedestrianised, though the centuries-old cobblestones can be a bit bumpy for those using strollers or wheelchairs.

Walking across Charles Bridge at dawn feels like stepping back into a fairytale. To stay right in the heart of this magic, find your ideal hotels near the river with eDreams. You can easily compare hotels that match your style and pick out the best deals without any fuss. Simply browse through our top picks and book the hotel that feels right for your Prague adventure. Start your journey today and enjoy the best of the city just a few feet from your door.