Charles Bridge

Begun in 1357 under Emperor Charles IV, Charles Bridge was for centuries the only bridge across the Vltava in Prague. It is lined with thirty statues of saints, added mainly in the Baroque period, and guarded by Gothic bridge towers at both ends.

Walking across it, with Prague Castle rising ahead, is one of the defining moments of a Prague holiday. Look for the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, whose bronze plaque has been polished by visitors touching it for luck, and climb the Old Town Bridge Tower for a view along the bridge.

By midday the bridge fills with artists, musicians and tour groups. Come at sunrise for photographs, or after dark when the castle is lit up behind it.