Old Town Bridge Tower versus Lesser Town Tower: The Best View
Are you planning a trip to Prague in 2026? Charles Bridge has two stunning towers you can climb. Choosing between the Old Town Bridge Tower versus Lesser Town Tower is a common dilemma. Both towers offer unique views of the Vltava River and the city skyline.
The Old Town side is famous for its intricate gothic architecture. The Lesser Town side provides a gateway to the historic Malá Strana district. Each climb offers a different perspective on the "City of a Hundred Spires." This guide will help you decide which tower to visit first.
You might have limited time during your visit to the Czech Republic. Climbing both towers is possible but requires some physical effort. We have compared the views, costs, and experiences for you. Read on to find your perfect vantage point in Prague.
Views from the Old Town Bridge Tower
The Old Town Bridge Tower stands at the eastern end of the iconic Charles Bridge. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful gothic buildings in Europe. From the gallery, you get a perfect view of the bridge arches. You can see the Vltava River flowing beneath the historic stone structure.
This tower is excellent for capturing the skyline views in Prague during sunset. You will see the many towers of the Old Town Square in the distance. The orange rooftops of the city create a stunning backdrop for photos. It is the best spot to see the bridge's statues from above.
The interior of the tower also features historical exhibits about the bridge. You can learn about the construction of the tower during the 14th century. The climb consists of 138 stone steps winding up the tower. It is a narrow path but well worth the effort for the view.
Exploring the Lesser Town Tower
The Lesser Town Tower is located on the western side of Charles Bridge. It actually consists of two separate towers joined by a gothic gate. The taller tower was built in the 15th century to match the Old Town side. It provides a much closer look at the majestic Prague Castle.
Climbing this tower is slightly different because of the how many stairs in Charles Bridge towers you must navigate. There are roughly 146 steps to reach the viewing gallery here. The stairs are wooden and feel more rustic than the Old Town tower. You will find several landings where you can stop to catch your breath.
From the top, you look directly down into the charming streets of Malá Strana. The green dome of St. Nicholas Church is very prominent from this height. You can also see the Petřín Lookout Tower on the nearby hill. This side of the bridge is often less crowded during the morning hours.
Choosing Old Town Bridge Tower versus Lesser Town Tower
When comparing the Old Town Bridge Tower versus Lesser Town Tower, consider your photo goals. The Old Town tower is best for shots of the bridge itself. You get the classic angle of the bridge leading toward the castle. This is the view most people associate with Prague.
The Lesser Town tower is better if you want a detailed view of the castle. It feels more integrated into the surrounding neighborhood. You can see the people walking on the bridge from a closer angle. It is a fantastic spot for people-watching from above.
Both towers are part of the Visit Czechia tourism highlights for 2026. They are managed by the same city organization. This means the quality of the experience is high at both locations. Your choice may simply depend on which side of the river you are on.
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours 2026
In 2026, the standard entry fee for either tower is 190 CZK. You can often find discounts for students, seniors, and children. It is worth checking for buying combo tickets for Prague towers to save money. These tickets often include entry to multiple historic sites.
The towers typically open at 10:00 AM every day. Closing times vary depending on the season. During the summer, they stay open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Check the Old Town Bridge Tower official site for exact daily hours. Winter hours are usually shorter, closing around 6:00 PM.
We recommend visiting during the first hour of opening. This allows you to avoid the largest crowds. Sunset is also a popular time but expect more people. You can buy tickets directly at the entrance of each tower. Credit cards are widely accepted at the ticket desks.
Climbing Experience and Physical Requirements
The climb up these towers is not suitable for everyone. There are no elevators available in either structure. The staircases are narrow and can feel quite steep. If you have mobility issues, you may find the climb difficult. However, there are small rooms on different levels to rest.
The stone steps in the Old Town tower are quite solid. In contrast, the Lesser Town tower uses more wooden elements. Both towers have handrails to help you maintain your balance. It is important to wear comfortable walking shoes for the journey. Avoid carrying large backpacks as the passages are tight.
Once you reach the top, the viewing galleries are outdoors. They are protected by stone walls and metal railings. You will have plenty of space to walk around the perimeter. The fresh air at the top is very refreshing after the climb. Take your time and enjoy the 360-degree views of Prague.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bridge tower has the better view of Prague Castle?
The Lesser Town Tower offers a superior view of Prague Castle. It is located much closer to the castle hill. You can see the details of St. Vitus Cathedral clearly. For a full charles bridge towers climb comparison, this is the main highlight of the western side.
Can I buy a single ticket for both Charles Bridge towers?
You must usually buy separate tickets for each tower. However, Prague city tourism often offers multi-tower passes. These passes can save you money if you plan to visit many sites. Check at the ticket office for the latest 2026 combo deals.
Are there elevators in the Charles Bridge towers?
No, there are no elevators in either tower. Visitors must climb over 130 steps to reach the top. This makes the towers inaccessible for wheelchair users. The stairs are narrow and require a moderate level of physical fitness to climb safely.
Is it better to visit the towers in the morning or evening?
Morning visits are best for avoiding crowds and seeing the castle clearly. Evening visits offer spectacular sunset views over the river. The Old Town Bridge Tower is particularly famous for its golden hour photography. Choose the morning if you want a peaceful experience.
Both the Old Town Bridge Tower and the Lesser Town Tower are worth a visit. Your choice depends on whether you prefer bridge views or castle views. For the best 2026 experience, try to visit both using a combo ticket. Prague's skyline is truly magical from these historic heights.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.