Travelers riding the Elbe Cycle Route (Elberadweg) who wish to take the train for their arrival or departure between Dresden and Prague must prepare for significant restrictions in 2026. Due to modernization work on the Hirschmühlen Viaduct in Schmilka and cable construction, the section of the track between Bad Schandau and Schöna (border) will be completely closed at times.
Overview of the main closure periods:
- until November 2027: Complete closure every Monday (except public holidays) from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Closures, from 9:10 a.m. to 5:10 p.m. each day:
- Wednesday, September 30 to Sunday, October 4
- Tuesday, October 6
- Tuesday, November 3 to Sunday, November 8
- Tuesday, November 10 to Friday, November 13
- Tuesday, December 1
Information for Cyclists
- Long-Distance Trains (EC Dresden – Prague): During full closures, trains on this section are canceled or replaced by buses towards Ústí nad Labem. Please note that bicycle transport is often not possible in replacement buses or is very limited.
- S-Bahn (S1): The S-Bahn line 1 (Meißen - Dresden - Bad Schandau - Schöna) terminates early in Bad Schandau during the closures.
- Alternative: Plan your journey so that you pass through the affected sections outside the closure periods (before 9:00 a.m. or in the evening). Additionally, the Bag & Bike shuttle service operates daily between Dresden and Prague during the season at 8:30 a.m. from Dresden Main Station. Furthermore, travelers can opt for long-distance buses (unfortunately, no e-bike transport available).
Recommendation: Be sure to check your connection shortly before departure in the DB Navigator app or at bahn.de, as replacement timetables are updated at short notice.
More information about the construction project in the Upper Elbe Valley can be found here.