Old Town Bridge Tower Experience

The Old Town Bridge Tower is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Emperor Charles IV commissioned this gate in the late 14th century. It served as a triumphal arch for Czech kings. Today, it stands as one of the most beautiful medieval gateways in Europe.

You will climb exactly 138 stone steps to reach the top gallery. The staircase is narrow and winds upward in a tight spiral. Most healthy visitors find the climb manageable but slow. You should take your time on the ancient stone steps.

The view from the top is truly breathtaking. You can see the entire length of the bridge from above. This is the best spot to photograph the statues against the river. You will also see the spires of the Old Town Square.

For a deeper look at the options, check our guide on Old Town Bridge Tower vs Lesser Town Bridge Tower views. This comparison helps you pick the right side for your photos. Many travelers prefer this tower for its central location. It remains a top choice for sunset seekers in 2026.

Lesser Town Bridge Tower Highlights

On the opposite side lies the Lesser Town Bridge Tower. This site actually consists of two distinct towers. The smaller tower is Romanesque and dates back to the 12th century. The taller Gothic tower was built much later in 1464.

Climbing this tower involves 146 steps to reach the observation deck. The interior features interesting historical exhibits about the bridge history. You can learn about the floods that shaped the city. These displays make the climb feel much shorter.

The view from here focuses on the Prague Castle complex. You get a clear line of sight to St. Vitus Cathedral. The red rooftops of Mala Strana look stunning from this height. It is a favorite spot for architectural photographers.

You should consider Charles Bridge towers tickets price and climbing difficulty before visiting. The Lesser Town side often feels less crowded than the Old Town side. This makes it a peaceful alternative for morning visits. You can enjoy the scenery without fighting for space.

Climbing Charles Bridge Towers: 2026 Prices

Visiting these towers requires a paid ticket for each entrance. In 2026, a standard adult ticket costs approximately 190 CZK. Reduced prices are available for seniors, students, and children. Families can often purchase a discounted group ticket for better value.

Opening hours generally follow the sunlight throughout the year. During the summer, towers stay open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Winter hours are usually shorter, closing around 6:00 PM. Always check the Prague.eu portal for daily updates.

Consider the "Early Bird" discount if you are an early riser. Visiting during the first hour of opening often saves you 50%. This is a great way to save money while avoiding crowds. It also provides the best light for morning photography.

• Adult Ticket: 190 CZK
• Reduced Ticket: 130 CZK
• Family Ticket: 450 CZK
• Multi-tower passes are sometimes available seasonally.

Comparing the Views and Difficulty

Choosing between the two towers depends on your visual goals. The Old Town tower offers the classic "bridge-long" view. You see the curve of the bridge and the castle beyond. This is the view most people recognize from postcards.

The Lesser Town tower provides a more intimate look at the castle. You are much closer to the historic Mala Strana district. This tower is slightly taller and offers a higher perspective. Both towers are among the best viewpoints in Prague for tourists.

In terms of difficulty, both climbs are quite similar. The stairs are stone, narrow, and sometimes a bit slippery. There are no elevators in either of these historic structures. Visitors with mobility issues may find the climb very challenging.

If you enjoy climbing, you might also like the St. Vitus Cathedral tower climb. It is much higher and more physically demanding. However, the Charles Bridge towers are easier for a quick visit. They provide a perfect middle ground for most tourists.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Timing is everything when climbing Charles Bridge towers. Sunset is the most popular time for a reason. The golden hour light makes the Vltava River glow. Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before the sun sets.

Check the weather forecast before you purchase your tickets. Rain can make the stone steps quite slick and dangerous. High winds may also affect your comfort on the open galleries. Clear days offer visibility that stretches for miles across Bohemia.

Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the climb. The medieval stones are worn smooth from centuries of use. Avoid carrying large backpacks as the passages are very narrow. Small bags or cameras are perfectly fine for the ascent.

After your climb, explore the surrounding areas for more beauty. You can find best sunset spots in Prague nearby along the riverbank. The Visit Czechia website has more regional travel tips. Enjoy the magic of Prague from these historic heights.