Bridges in Prague: The Most Famous Ones You Shouldn’t Miss
Bridges in Prague are far more than just practical links between the banks of the Vltava River – they are also some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Each one has a unique atmosphere, a different perspective of the skyline, and a story to tell. Some are world-renowned historic icons, while others serve as vital traffic arteries. Some stand out for their modern architecture, and a few have even become known as Prague love bridges.
If you’re wondering how many bridges are in Prague, which ones are worth your time, where to find the famous bridge in Prague with locks, or where to get the best views, read on.
How Many Bridges Are There in Prague?
Prague is famously known as the "City of a Hundred Spires," but it could easily be called the city of hundreds of bridges. Officially, there are said to be over 600 bridges and bridge-like structures, if you include overpasses and smaller footbridges.
If we focus only on bridges in Prague that cross the Vltava River, there are currently over 30. However, this includes not only bridges that connect both riverbanks, but also those that lead to islands – such as the bridge to Žofín (Slovanský Island), the arched footbridge to Children’s Island in Smíchov, or the access to Císařská louka.
The Zbraslav Bridge is the one located furthest upstream, while geographically the last crossing within Prague is the Trojská footbridge. The oldest is Charles Bridge, and the newest is the Dvorecký Bridge. And the number is definitely not final.
Let’s take a look at the most significant ones.
The Most Famous Bridges in Prague
1. Charles Bridge – The legend
The most iconic, most photographed and also the most crowded. Simply put, this is the main bridge in Prague that draws visitors from all over the world. Charles Bridge is the oldest standing bridge across the Vltava, with its foundation stone laid by Charles IV in 1357 (according to legend, at a precise palindromic time: 135797531). Architecturally, it’s an open-air gallery – the medieval stone structure is lined with 30 Baroque statues and sculptures by renowned artists. It is no surprise that this Prague bridge has starred in countless international films.
Our tip: Get there early. Around sunrise, when mist rises from the river, you’ll have not only perfect light for photos but also a rare moment of calm.
2. Mánes Bridge – Subtle, but full of detail
Located right next to Charles Bridge, Mánes Bridge is a vital link between the Rudolfinum and Klárov. While it may look simple at first glance, a closer look reveals unique architectural details, including elements of Czech Cubism on its pillars, such as the figurative friezes depicting the lives of Vltava swimmers and fishermen.
Why go there: Besides its architecture, this is one of the best spots for that classic “postcard view” of Charles Bridge with Prague Castle in the background.
3. Legion Bridge – A Stop in the Middle of the River
This elegant bridge connects the National Theatre with the foot of Petřín Hill. Compared to Charles Bridge, it’s much calmer, yet the views are just as impressive – overlooking the National Theatre, Prague Castle and nearby islands.
Our Tip: Halfway across, take the stairs (or the elevator) down to Střelecký Island – the perfect spot for a summer picnic or a relaxed evening by the water.
4. Čech Bridge – The shortest, but hard to miss
At just 169 metres, Čech Bridge is the shortest bridge in Prague, but visually one of the most striking. This Art Nouveau iron structure creates a direct axis between the luxury Pařížská Street and the Letná hillside.
Our Tip: Look up as you cross. The bridge is guarded by four magnificent bronze winged statues perched atop high columns.
5. Troja Bridge – Elegance of the 21st century
Built in 2014 near Prague Zoo, Troja Bridge is a modern engineering highlight. Its unique network arch design allows it to span the river in a single elegant curve without any pillars in the water.
Our Tip: Visit after dark when the entire structure is beautifully illuminated, highlighting its modern geometry.
6. Nusle Bridge – The brutalist giant with metro
A striking example of brutalist architecture, Nusle Bridge connects the city centre with Pankrác and spans the entire Nusle Valley at a height of over 40 metres. What makes it unique is that metro line C runs inside the bridge itself, while thousands of cars drive across its roof every day.
Tip for Romantics: The "Love Lock Bridge" in Prague
Among the many bridges in Prague, there is also a well-known romantic location often referred to as the "love lock bridge Prague" or "Prague bridge with locks".
This small footbridge, located near the Velkopřevorský Mill on Kampa Island, is covered in padlocks left by couples as a symbol of their love. Although it’s not a major bridge, it has become one of the most photographed romantic spots in the city.
Other Prague bridges worth mentioning
If you head to the northern part of Prague, you’ll come across the Trojská footbridge. The current one opened in 2020, replacing an older structure that collapsed years ago. Today, it serves as an important connection between Stromovka park, the zoo and the botanical garden.
A true historical gem is the Negrelli Viaduct, the oldest railway bridge in Prague and the second oldest bridge in the city after Charles Bridge. With more than a hundred arches, it has survived floods, two world wars and is still in daily use.
Another iconic structure is the Railway Bridge below Vyšehrad, famous for its dark steel construction and the rhythmic "thundering" of passing trains.
Finally, for those who like records, there is the Barrandov Bridge. This brutalist giant is the busiest traffic artery in the Czech Republic, with an incredible 140,000 cars crossing it every single day.
