Why Choose the Smichov Side for Your Walk?

The Smichov district is located in the Prague 5 area. It was once a heavy industrial zone. Today, it is one of the city's most exciting neighborhoods. The riverside area, known as Hořejší nábřeží, has seen a major revival. It offers a more relaxed vibe than the east bank. You will see fewer tour groups and more locals here. It is a great place to see how people really live in Prague today.

Walking on the Smichov side gives you better views of the Vyšehrad fortress. The sun sets behind the Smichov hills, creating a beautiful golden hour. You can find many floating bars and cultural spaces along the water. The area is also very flat and easy to walk. If you have already visited the Naplavka riverbank, this side will feel like a new discovery. It is less polished but more authentic.

In 2026, many of the old stone cells in the embankment walls have become galleries. You can stop for a coffee or a craft beer inside these unique spaces. The Smichov side is also closer to the Staropramen brewery. This means you are never far from a fresh glass of local lager. It is a fantastic choice for a morning walk or an evening date. The path connects easily to other parts of the city by tram or ferry.

10 Best Stops on Your Smichov Riverside Walk

This list highlights the most iconic and interesting spots along the route. Each location offers something different for your journey. Use these picks to plan your afternoon by the Vltava.

• Quick Picks:
• Best Overall: Hořejší nábřeží Embankment
• Best for Families: Children's Island
• Best Rainy-Day: Staropramen Brewery
• Best Free: Railway Bridge Views

1. Name: Hořejší nábřeží Type: Sight Why go: This is the heart of the Smichov riverside. It features wide paths and renovated stone vaults. Best for: People watching and sunset views. Where: Smichov Embankment. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the circular glass doors in the wall; these are cool cafes and galleries.
2. Name: Jazz Dock Type: Experience Why go: A modern glass building floating on the river. It is the best place for live music in the area. Best for: Music lovers and evening drinks. Where: Janáčkovo nábřeží. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate (check ticket prices for shows). Tip: Book a table by the window to see the river while you listen to jazz.
3. Name: The Railway Bridge (Železniční most) Type: Viewpoint Why go: A massive iron structure that is a local icon. It has a pedestrian walkway with great photo spots. Best for: Photographers and industrial fans. Where: Connecting Smichov to Výtoň. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit at sunset to see the bridge silhouette against the sky.
4. Name: Manifesto Market Anděl Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: A trendy outdoor food hub with many different cuisines. It often features a small pool or seasonal decorations. Best for: Lunch or dinner. Where: Near the Anděl metro station. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: This is a cashless market, so bring your credit card.
5. Name: Children's Island (Dětský ostrov) Type: Nature/Park Why go: A dedicated island for play and relaxation. It has great playgrounds and a quiet atmosphere. Best for: Families with kids. Where: Access via a bridge near Janáčkovo nábřeží. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: It is a great spot to see the river locks in action.
6. Name: Staropramen Brewery Visitor Center Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the history of one of the world's most famous beers. The tour is interactive and modern. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: Nádražní 84. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Usually 200-300 CZK. Tip: The tour usually includes a beer tasting at the end.
7. Name: MeetFactory Type: Experience/Art Why go: An international center for contemporary art founded by David Černý. It is located in a gritty industrial building. Best for: Art fans and hipsters. Where: Ke Sklárně (South Smichov). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibition. Tip: Check their website for concert schedules before you visit.
8. Name: Botel Admiral Type: Experience Why go: A classic boat hotel moored on the Smichov bank. It offers a unique nautical atmosphere. Best for: A romantic dinner or unique stay. Where: Hořejší nábřeží. Time: 1.5 hours for a meal. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Even if you don't stay there, the restaurant is open to the public.
9. Name: Císařská louka (Imperial Meadow) Type: Day trip Why go: A large island used for sports and relaxation. It feels like being in the countryside while in the city. Best for: Sports, picnics, and getting away from buildings. Where: South end of Smichov. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: You can take a small ferry (P5) to get here from the main embankment.
10. Name: Shooter's Island (Střelecký ostrov) Type: Nature/Park Why go: While technically between the banks, it is easily reached from the Smichov side. It offers amazing views of the Charles Bridge. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Middle of the river. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Check out the Shooter's Island access for the best entry points.

Explore more best bars on Prague riverside during your walk. You can find many options on the official Prague.eu tourism portal.

Practical Tips for Your Smichov Riverside Adventure

Planning your visit is easy with a little preparation. The Smichov side is very accessible by public transport. You can take the B-line (yellow) metro to Anděl station. From there, it is a short five-minute walk to the river. Many trams also stop at Zborovská or Palackého náměstí, which is just across the bridge. Check the official Prague official site for the latest transport updates.

Timing is important for the best experience. The riverbank is most active from April to October. In the summer, you will find many pop-up bars and events. However, a winter riverside walk in Prague can also be magical. The crowds are much thinner, and the frosty river looks beautiful. Most cafes in the embankment walls stay open year-round.

Accessibility is a strong point for this route. The paths are paved and mostly level. This makes it a good choice for travelers with mobility needs. For more details, see our guide on Prague riverside accessibility. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be uneven in some sections. Most places on the Smichov side are dog-friendly as well.

Best Views Along the Smichov Embankment

The Smichov side is famous for its panoramic vistas. One of the best views is looking across at the Dancing House. From the Smichov bank, you can see the whole building's unique shape. It looks especially good when the lights come on at night. This is a top spot for architecture fans. You can find many Vltava river embankment views that are unique to this side.

Another highlight is the view of Vyšehrad. The ancient fortress sits high on a rock on the opposite bank. From Smichov, you get a clear view of the twin spires of the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul. This view is best in the late afternoon. The sun hits the church towers and makes them glow. It is much more peaceful than looking at the Prague Castle from the crowded Old Town.

Finally, don't miss the view from the Railway Bridge. As you walk across, you can see the river stretching out in both directions. You will see rowing teams practicing and small ferries crossing. It captures the active, living spirit of the city. Make sure your phone is charged for all the photos you will take. The Smichov side truly offers some of the most underrated sights in the Czech capital.