How Many Stairs in Charles Bridge Towers: Old Town

The Old Town Bridge Tower is a beautiful Gothic gateway on the eastern side. You will find exactly 138 stone steps leading to the top gallery. The climb is narrow but manageable for most healthy travelers in 2026. This tower was built by Peter Parler in the late 14th century.

Climbing this historic tower provides a truly great view of the Old Town. You can see the Tyn Church and the winding streets from the gallery. The staircase features several small landings to rest during your ascent. It remains a top spot for photography during the early morning hours.

This tower served as a defensive fort and a grand triumphal arch. You should check the Prague.eu site for current opening times. Most visitors spend about thirty minutes exploring the gallery at the top. The history here is visible in every carved stone and narrow window.

The stairs are made of dark stone and feel very authentic. Some steps may be uneven due to centuries of heavy tourist foot traffic. Keep a steady pace as you navigate the spiral sections of the climb. The reward at the top is worth every single step you take.

Climbing the Lesser Town Bridge Tower

The west side of the bridge features the Lesser Town Bridge Tower. This tower is actually the taller of the two connected structures here. It contains 146 steps leading directly to the panoramic viewing gallery. These stairs are slightly more modern than the Old Town side tower.

The view from here focuses on the charming Mala Strana district. You will get an amazing perspective of the massive Prague Castle complex. Many people prefer this tower because it often feels much less crowded. It is a vital part of any Charles Bridge towers climb comparison for tourists.

The tower stands right next to the much older Judith Tower. You can see the architectural differences between the two buildings very clearly. Tickets are usually available at the entrance for immediate entry most days. Expect to pay around 190 CZK for a standard adult ticket.

The climb starts through a small wooden door near the bridge entrance. You will pass through a few historic rooms before reaching the stairs. These rooms often house small exhibits about the history of the bridge. Take a moment to read the displays while you catch your breath.

Comparison of the Tower Climbs

Both towers offer a similar level of physical challenge for visitors. The Old Town tower has 138 steps for you to navigate. Meanwhile, the Lesser Town tower requires climbing 146 steps to reach the top. Both staircases are spiral and made of very heavy historic stone.

The Old Town side feels more enclosed and truly historic. Its stairs show signs of wear from many centuries of constant use. The Lesser Town tower feels slightly more spacious in some specific sections. You should wear comfortable shoes for both of these historic climbs.

If you have limited time, choose the Old Town tower first. It offers the iconic view of the bridge crossing the Vltava river. However, the Lesser Town tower provides much better views of the castle. Many tourists enjoy Old Town Bridge Tower versus Lesser Town Tower debates.

The lighting for photos is better in the morning for Old Town. Conversely, the Lesser Town tower shines during the late afternoon sun. Consider your photography goals before deciding which tower to climb first. Both towers provide excellent value for the modest entry fee.

Tips for Visiting Prague Towers in 2026

Plan your visit for early morning to avoid the summer heat. The towers typically open at 10:00 AM during the peak season. Arriving early ensures you have the viewing gallery to yourself. This is the best time for clear photos of Prague.

You can save money by purchasing a multi-tower combo pass. This ticket covers several historical sites across the beautiful city center. Check the buying combo tickets for Prague towers guide for details. It is a great way to see more for less.

Always carry a small bottle of water during your tower climb. The stairwells can become quite warm during the peak summer months. There are no elevators in either of these historic bridge towers. Accessibility is limited for those with significant mobility issues.

Staff members are usually available at the base of each tower. They can answer questions about current capacity and ticket prices. Most towers now accept contactless card payments for your convenience. This makes the entry process much faster for busy travelers.

Checklist for Your Bridge Tower Visit

Use this helpful checklist to prepare for your tower climb. Having the right gear makes the entire experience much better. You will enjoy the views more when you are comfortable. Prague is a very walkable city but quite steep.

Check these items before you head to the Charles Bridge. Many shops nearby sell essentials if you forget any items. The bridge area is always busy with tourists and locals. Proper preparation ensures a stress-free visit to these landmarks.

These tips apply to both towers located on the bridge. Each structure has its own unique charm and long history. Make sure to visit both towers during your Prague stay. You will gain a full appreciation for the city skyline.