Old Town Bridge Tower: The Gateway to History

The Old Town Bridge Tower is a masterpiece of Gothic design. It was built in the late 14th century under Emperor Charles IV. This tower stands at the entrance to the bridge from the Old Town side. It is often considered one of the most beautiful Gothic gates in Europe. You can see detailed carvings of saints and kings on its exterior facade.

To reach the top, you must climb 138 stone steps. The staircase is narrow and winds upward in a spiral. There is no elevator available in this historic structure. As you climb, you can stop at different levels to catch your breath. Each level features small exhibits about the Charles Bridge history and statues that line the crossing.

The view from the gallery is breathtaking. You look directly down the length of the bridge. From here, you can see the flow of tourists and the many street performers. It is the best place to see the UNESCO World Heritage site from above. The perspective makes the statues look like tiny chess pieces on a grand stone board.

Lesser Town Bridge Tower: A Different Perspective

On the opposite side of the river lies the Lesser Town Bridge Tower. This site actually consists of two towers of different heights. The taller tower is the one open to the public for climbing. It was built in the mid-15th century to match the style of the Old Town side. It serves as the gateway to the beautiful Mala Strana district.

Climbing the Charles Bridge towers for views on this side offers a better look at Prague Castle. The castle looms large over the nearby rooftops. You can see the spires of St. Vitus Cathedral clearly from the viewing deck. This tower is often less crowded than its counterpart across the river. It provides a more peaceful experience for those who dislike large groups.

The tower is connected to a smaller, older tower by a stone gate. This smaller tower was once part of the original Judith Bridge. When you visit, you are walking through layers of medieval history. Many visitors include this stop when seeing other famous landmarks in Prague. It is a perfect spot for capturing the sunset over the city's historic domes.

Is Climbing the Charles Bridge Towers for Views Worth It?

After visiting both towers, the answer is a clear yes. The views are some of the most famous in the Czech Republic. However, the experience is not for everyone due to the physical effort required. Here is a breakdown of what to expect during your visit.

• Pros: Unbeatable views of the Vltava River, great photography angles, and historical exhibits inside.
• Cons: No elevators, narrow and steep stairs, and separate tickets required for each tower.

Verdict: This activity is a must for photographers and history lovers. The price is reasonable for the quality of the view. It provides a great escape from the crowded bridge deck below.

Best for: Travelers who want the best Instagram shots of Prague. It is also great for those who enjoy medieval architecture.

Skip if: You have mobility issues or suffer from severe claustrophobia. The spiral stairs are very tight in certain sections.

Alternative: If you cannot do stairs, the Petrin Lookout Tower has an elevator and offers a higher elevation.

Practical Details for Your 2026 Visit

Planning your visit correctly can save you both time and money. Tickets for the towers usually cost around 190 CZK for adults. You can purchase them at the entrance or through the official city tourism portal. A great tip is to arrive within the first hour of opening. Many towers in Prague offer a 50% discount for early visitors.

The best time for lighting is during the golden hour before sunset. The stone statues glow in the warm light, making for perfect photos. If you want to avoid the heat and the crowds, early morning is also excellent. This is the best time to walk across Charles Bridge for photos before the towers even open. Most people spend about 30 to 45 minutes inside each tower.

Be aware of a common pitfall: the towers require separate tickets. Buying a ticket for the Old Town side does not grant entry to the Lesser Town side. If you plan to visit both, check for a combined ticket option. Also, keep your belongings secure in the narrow stairwells. The tight spaces can make it easy for bags to snag on the ancient stone walls.