SMICHOV TRANSFORMS: NEW STATION, NEW NAME
The Smíchov station in Prague is transforming its name to Nádraží Smíchov. This decision was taken by the Prague councillors to align with the future construction of a new transport terminal and the ongoing renovation of the station itself. Nearby public transport stops will also adopt this new name. The Smíchov district, located on the west bank of the Vltava River, is undergoing a profound urban and infrastructural transformation. From a historically industrial and railway area, it is becoming a modern and well-connected hub thanks to a massive redevelopment plan.
Why this change?
The main reason is to make the name clearer and more consistent, as the new terminal will link trains, metro, city and intercity buses and trams in one place. According to the Deputy Mayor of Prague, Zdeněk Hřib, the name “Nádraží Smíchov” (meaning literally “Smíchov station” in Czech) better reflects the importance of this transport hub while maintaining a connection with the historical tradition of the station.
What will change in concrete terms?
The station will officially change its name and all nearby tram and bus stops will be updated accordingly. The metro station Smíchovské nádraží will also be renamed Nádraží Smíchov to ensure consistency.
In addition, the new terminal will be built in the immediate proximity of the current railway station and will replace the bus stop Na Knížecí. The project is planned to be multi-level. From the street level (Nádražní Street) you will access the underpasses that lead directly to the railway tracks. On the second level there will be the new railway station, located approximately at the same level as the current one. Below, above the station will be built the new bus station. Under the terminal there will be direct access to the metro.
A large P+R (Park and Ride) car park will also be created to the west of the railway station.
In addition, it is possible to state that the reconstruction will inevitably cause traffic restrictions at Smíchov. One of the most significant impacts will be on the tram network, as some trams passing through the area may be temporarily suspended or diverted to alternative routes. This may cause inconvenience to commuters and will require an adjustment of the timetable and available lines until the completion of the works.
However, once the project is completed, the new infrastructure will significantly improve links between trains, metro, buses and trams, making travel more efficient and integrated.
Timing and costs
The construction of the new terminal will cost around CZK 8 billion (excluding VAT). In parallel, the Railway Administration (SŽ) is investing one billion to modernise the railway station and is planning the reconstruction and extension of the main hall.
The works should start next year, since the municipality has already obtained all the necessary permits for the construction.
A bit of history
Smíchov station has a long history and has been a reference for Prague’s rail transport since its opening in 1862. Originally built as the city’s second main station, it has always been a crucial hub for rail connections, both urban and regional.
In its early years, the station was a key hub for rail traffic between Prague and West Bohemia, facilitating trade and passenger transport between the capital and other major cities. However, during the Second World War, the original buildings suffered significant damage and, instead of being restored, were demolished to make room for a new structure.
The current station building dates back to the 1950s, when Czechoslovakia was under communist rule. The architecture reflects the functional style of the time, with simple lines and practical design, typical of the infrastructure built in that period.
Today, Smíchov station is one of the busiest railway junctions in Prague, along with the main train station (Hlavní nádraží) and Masaryk station (Masarykovo nádraží). In addition to regional and long-distance trains, it is also connected to the Prague metro (line B), trams and buses, making it a key interchange point for commuters and travellers.
With the future renovation and construction of the new terminal, Smíchov is set to become even more important in the city’s transport landscape, becoming a modern and integrated hub, able to better manage passenger flows and improve urban mobility.
The future
In addition to the modernisation of the station, the whole area of Smíchov is changing face with the Smíchov City project, one of the most ambitious urban development plans in Prague. The objective is to transform what was a railway marshalling area into a modern and livable neighbourhood, with new residential buildings, offices, green spaces and commercial areas.
This new urban district includes modern and sustainable buildings, designed to accommodate both housing and work spaces, green areas and public squares, to improve the quality of life in the neighbourhood, and finally includes the enhancement of sustainable mobility, with more accessible cycle paths and pedestrian routes.
The change of name and modernisation will not only improve transport efficiency, but also update one of the city’s key points, making it more modern and functional. These changes will make Smíchov a strategic point for mobility in Prague, making travel more efficient and easier for commuters and tourists. In addition, with the creation of the new district, the district will take on a central role in the urban landscape of Prague, combining modernity and functionality in one great transformation.
Sources: https://www.idnes.cz/
