Landmark
Old Town Bridge Tower
Photo via TripAdvisor (zuv)Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Old Town Bridge Tower stands at the eastern end of Charles Bridge, serving as a grand gateway from the Old Town to the Lesser Town. Built in the late 14th century under Emperor Charles IV, this Gothic tower is one of the most beautiful in Europe, adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs. Visitors climb 138 spiral steps to the top for breathtaking views of the bridge, the Vltava River, and the Prague Castle skyline. The tower's facade features statues of St. Vitus, Charles IV, and Wenceslas IV, along with symbolic carvings. Inside, a small exhibition tells the story of the tower's construction and history. It's a must-visit for photographers and history buffs, offering a perspective of Prague that few other vantage points provide.
Don't miss
- Panoramic views from the top of the tower
- Gothic sculptures on the eastern facade
- Cannonball damage from the 1648 siege
- The interior exhibition on the tower's history
- The intricate stone carvings above the archway
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Old Town Bridge Tower
You can visit on your own (paid entry, check official site for current fees. tickets can be purchased on site). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inPrague Trike & e-Scooter Tour: Castle Viewpoints & Charles Bridge5★ · 117 travelers~0 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →
Most bookedPrague Old Town, Medieval Underground and Dungeon Historical Tour4.6★ · 4,663 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$31 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrague´s Old Town, Jewish Quarter and Charles Bridge Private Tour5★ · 13 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$130 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- The climb is steep and narrow; take your time and let others pass.
- Best photos from the top are of Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.
- Buy tickets at the ground floor entrance; no advance booking needed.
- The top can be windy; bring a jacket even in summer.
A bit of history
The tower was built between 1357 and 1380 as part of the fortifications for Charles Bridge. It survived the 1648 Swedish siege, which left cannonball marks still visible on the western side. The tower also served as a prison and a watchtower.
Common questions
How many steps are there to the top?
There are 138 spiral steps.
Is the tower open year-round?
Yes, but hours vary by season. Check the official website for current times.
Can I visit both the Old Town and Lesser Town towers?
Yes, but each requires a separate ticket. The Old Town Tower is the more popular one.
Are there toilets inside?
No, there are no toilets inside the tower.
Is it worth the climb?
Absolutely. The view is one of the best in Prague.
Can I bring a backpack?
Yes, but be careful on the narrow stairs.
More attractions in Prague
