Smíchov

Smíchov

A pulsing Prague quarter on the left bank of Vltava

Today, Smíchov is more than ever a faithful picture of its name – there is nothing to “laugh about” (smích means laugh), but it is a mixture (smíchat means to mix) of people, architectural styles and landscape elements. In the historically poor quarter, a modern development with office buildings and shopping centres was built a few years ago.
The Anděl Metro Station is in the middle of the administration, entertainment and shopping centre of Smíchov. The office buildings alternate with beautiful parks with views of Prague, for example, Kinský Garden with the Musaion gazebo, or Sacré Coeur Park with St. Gabriel Church. The large island on Vltava called the Emperor’s Meadow invites for strolls, offering a splendid view of Vyšehrad. You should also visit the Smíchov embankment, where gastronomic festivals regularly take place.

When in Smíchov, make sure you visit the Bertramka Villa from mid-18th century, where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart used to stay, the neo-Renaissance Basilica of St. Wenceslaus or the Smíchov Synagogue, which is the only synagogue in Prague built in the functionalistic style. It is also home to the largest industrial brewery in Prague, the Staropramen Brewery, famous for its local lager. Beer has been brewed there since 1869, and you can learn about and taste its history in the local visitor centre.