Finally! Mapy.com got a feature that Czechs have been waiting for for years

Mapy.com (formerly Mapy.cz) has just added one of its most anticipated features – public transport route planning. And it’s not just about the Prague metro or a bus to the next village. The app can plan routes by train to Vienna, by bus to Berlin, and even combined transfers with trams, ferries, or cable cars. All in real-time, with delay information and the option to buy a ticket directly in the app. After rebranding to Mapy.com, Seznam is trying to show that Czech maps can compete with Google Maps.

No more searching for the ideal connection

The new planning works simply: you enter your destination, and Mapy.com will offer you several route variants with different departure times. You can choose whether you want to travel by train, bus, tram, or a combination of all. The app will take your preferences into account – if you’re traveling with a stroller, need an air-conditioned connection, or want to minimize the number of transfers, just check the box, and Mapy.com will adjust the route options.

The integration of real-time connection tracking is key. For selected lines, you can see not only delays but also where your bus or train is currently located. This allows you to calmly finish your coffee instead of waiting unnecessarily at the stop. This feature currently works only with selected carriers, especially within Prague’s public transport and some regional systems. For trains and long-distance buses, coverage is still partial.

Tickets directly in the app

Mapy.com strives to be a comprehensive assistant, not just a route planner. Therefore, where possible, the app will direct you to the official e-shop of the carrier. In Prague, this means a direct connection with PID Lítačka, and for long-distance connections, with the OneTicket platform. Where online purchase is not available, Mapy.com will at least display the ticket price and advise on how to buy it via SMS or from the driver.

Mapy.cz → Mapy.com Rebranding as Part of the Strategy

The addition of public transport planning is no coincidence. It is related to the rebranding of Mapy.cz to Mapy.com, which took place this spring. With this step, Seznam clearly declared its ambition to expand beyond the borders of the Czech Republic. The .com domain appears more global and opens doors to international users.

David Finger, Mapy.com Development Director, explained on the Seznam forum that acquiring the Mapy.com domain took months of negotiations and was not cheap. However, Seznam bet on a long-term strategy: if they want to compete with Google Maps or Apple Maps, they must be international.

What do you think about the new features in Mapy.com?

Source: Seznam Blog