20 Most beautiful historic cafés in Prague (2026)

Stunning cafés full of history, beautiful architecture, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Prague’s historic cafés have played an important role in the city’s cultural life. They were once the favourite meeting places of writers, artists, scientists, politicians, and many famous people.

As a local host, I always tell my guests the same thing: don’t leave Prague without visiting at least one historic café. It’s an experience you simply won’t get in a modern coffee shop.

Most of these cafés are right in the city centre, so you’ll never be far from one while sightseeing. They’re the perfect place to take a break, enjoy a coffee, and soak up the atmosphere before continuing your walk around Prague.

Yes, some of the most famous cafés are popular with tourists. But don’t let that put you off. Many are touristy for a good reason—they’re beautiful, full of history, and truly unique. If you prefer quieter places, I’ve also included several hidden gems where you’ll mostly meet locals.

Some historic cafés serve excellent breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, while others are best known for their coffee and homemade cakes. Personally, I’d recommend having your main meal at one of Prague’s fantastic restaurants and saving the cafés for a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon coffee with a traditional Czech dessert or an open-faced sandwich (chlebíček).

Every café on this list offers something special. Some will amaze you with their stunning architecture, others with fascinating stories or famous former guests. Together, they offer a chance to step back in time and experience a side of Prague that many visitors miss.

And after all, how many people can say they’ve enjoyed a coffee in the same place as Albert Einstein?

If coffee isn’t your thing and you prefer a pint of Czech beer, don’t worry. Prague’s historic pubs have just as many fascinating stories to tell.

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CAFÉS WITH A RICH HISTORY

CAFÉ SLAVIA

Café Slavia is  Prague’s most famous historic café. Open since 1884, it has welcomed generations of artists, writers, musicians, and politicians. With its elegant Art Deco interior and beautiful views of the National Theatre, the Vltava River, and Prague Castle, it’s easy to see why it remains one of the city’s most iconic cafés.

For more than a century, Café Slavia has been at the heart of Prague’s cultural life. Famous guests have included composers Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana, writer Jaroslav Hašek, film director Miloš Forman, former Czech president Václav Havel, writer Gabriel García Márquez, and  Hillary Clinton.

Unlike most of Prague’s historic cafés, Slavia stayed open after the Communist takeover in 1948. Although its interior changed over the years, it remained a favourite meeting place for artists and intellectuals. After the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968, it also became a well-known gathering place for political dissidents, including Václav Havel.

The café is a great choice at any time of day. Breakfast is served until 2 pm, and from 11 am you can enjoy traditional Czech and international dishes. Or simply stop by for a great coffee and one of the delicious homemade cakes. 

Address : Národní 1012/1, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ SLAVIA

CAFÉ LOUVRE

Café Louvre is one of Prague’s most famous historic cafés. Located on the first floor of an Art Nouveau building on Národní Street, it welcomes guests with high ceilings, large windows, and elegant halls full of old-world charm.

The café is a great choice at any time of day. You can enjoy a traditional Czech, English, or French breakfast, excellent coffee, homemade cakes, or the classic afternoon tea served here every day.

Founded in 1902 and inspired by the grand cafés of Paris, Café Louvre quickly became one of Prague’s leading intellectual meeting places. Writers, artists, philosophers, and scientists gathered here to exchange ideas. Among its most famous regular guests were Franz Kafka and Albert Einstein, who taught at the German University in Prague during his time in the city.

The café was forced to close after the Second World War and stood empty during whole communist era. After a careful restoration, it reopened in 1992 and once again became one of Prague’s most beautiful and beloved cafés.

Address : Národní 22, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ LOUVRE

CAFÉ IMPERIAL

Cafe Imperial is one of Prague’s most spectacular historic cafés. The elegant Art Deco exterior and the stunning Art Nouveau interior, covered with colourful ceramic mosaics, make it a place you won’t forget.

The menu focuses on traditional Czech cuisine with a modern touch, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. 

The building’s history dates back to 1383. After being destroyed during the Swedish siege of Prague, it was rebuilt in 1730 as the Black Eagle Hotel. In 1914, it became the Hotel Imperial, and the café quickly grew into one of Prague’s most fashionable meeting places. Famous guests included Franz Kafka, composer Leoš Janáček, and Czechoslovakia’s first president, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk. During the Second World War, the café became a popular meeting place for German officers stationed in Prague.

Like many of Prague’s historic cafés, Café Imperial closed after the Communist takeover in 1948. Today, it has been beautifully restored and is once again one of the city’s finest places to experience Prague’s grand café tradition.

Address : Na Poříčí 15, 110 00 Praha 1 – Nové Město

Website : CAFÉ IMPERIAL

GRAND CAFÉ ORIENT

Grand Café Orient is unlike any other café in Prague. It’s located inside the House of the Black Madonna, one of the finest examples of Czech Cubist architecture. From the outside, the building may not look very unusual, but step inside and you’ll discover something truly special.

On the first floor, you’ll find the world’s only original Cubist café. It first opened in 1912 and was designed by the famous Czech architect Josef Gočár, who also designed the building. Every detail, from the furniture to the lighting, reflects the unique Cubist style.

The café closed after just ten years when Cubism fell out of fashion. It wasn’t until 2005 that it reopened, carefully restored to its original beauty.

The café serves good coffee, cakes, and light meals. But let’s be honest – most people don’t come here just for the food. They come for the incredible interior and the chance to enjoy a coffee in a place that’s truly one of a kind.

Address : Ovocný trh 19, 110 00 Praha 1 – Staré Město

Website : GRAND CAFÉ ORIENT

CAFÉ MONTMARTRE

Café Montmartre is a cosy little café hidden away on a quiet street in Prague’s Old Town. It’s easy to walk right past without noticing it. That’s one of the reasons it never gets too crowded and it´s a real hidden gem. Instead of tourists, you’ll mostly find locals, students, artists, and writers. Even former Czech president Václav Havel was a regular here.

The café first opened in 1911. It was founded by singer and cabaret performer Josef Waltner, who named it after the famous Montmartre district in Paris. At the time, Montmartre was known as the heart of the city’s artistic and bohemian life, and Waltner wanted to bring a little of that atmosphere to Prague.

Before the First World War, Café Montmartre became a popular meeting place for Prague’s creative community. Writers, artists, and actors came here to meet and exchange ideas. It was also a favourite of German-speaking authors, including Franz Kafka, Max Brod, and Franz Werfel.

After the First World War, the café slowly lost its popularity. It finally closed during the Second World War and remained closed for the next 50 years. Following the restoration of the historic building, Café Montmartre reopened and once again became one of Prague’s most charming cafés.

Address : Řetězová 7, 110 00 Praha 1

MUNICIPAL HOUSE CAFÉ ( Kavárna Obecní dům )

The Municipal House Café is one of the most beautiful historic cafés in Prague. The moment you walk in, it’s easy to see why. Crystal chandeliers, colourful stained glass windows, beautiful mosaics, and elegant furniture make the whole place feel special. It’s one of those cafés where you can’t help looking around before you even order your coffee.

The café opened in 1912 and enjoyed its golden years during the 1920s, when it became a popular meeting place for Prague’s artists, writers, and intellectuals. Even Albert Einstein is said to have visited while he was living in Prague.

The café is part of the Municipal House, one of the city’s finest Art Nouveau buildings and a landmark that’s well worth visiting in its own right. (link)

Whether you’re just stopping for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake or planning a longer break, you’ll find plenty to choose from. The menu includes homemade desserts, ice cream, hot and cold drinks, as well as lunch and dinner options.

Address : Náměstí republiky 5/1090, 110 00 Praha 1 ( Republic Square )

Website : MUNICIPAL HOUSE CAFÉ

CAFÉ SAVOY

ust a short walk from Kampa Park and Petřín Hill, Café Savoy is one of Prague’s most elegant historic cafés. Housed on the ground floor of a beautiful Art Nouveau building, it welcomes visitors with marble details, dark wood panelling, soaring seven-metre ceilings, and stunning chandeliers. The atmosphere feels like stepping into the Belle Époque.

Cafe Savoy has been serving guests since 1893 and was inspired by the grand Viennese cafés of the time. Today, it’s one of the best places in Prague for breakfast. You can choose from a full English or American breakfast, along with homemade cakes and a menu featuring French-inspired dishes.

Address : Vítězná 5, 150 00 Praha 5 – Malá Strana

Website : CAFÉ SAVOY

MYŠÁK

Cukrárna Myšák is one of Prague’s most famous pastry shops. If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to go. The café is known for its delicious cakes, beautiful desserts, and elegant atmosphere.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Myšák was one of the trendiest places in Prague. It attracted actors, artists, and many other well-known figures. Even Czechoslovakia’s first president, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, was among its regular guests.

Very little of the original pastry shop has survived, apart from its beautiful marble staircase. However, the careful renovation has given Myšák a new lease of life while preserving its rich history. Today, it proudly continues a tradition that began more than 100 years ago.

Address : Vodičkova 710/31, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : MYŠÁK

CAFÉ ADRIA

Café Adria is hidden inside the beautiful Adria Palace, one of Prague’s most interesting historic buildings. Built in 1923–1924 for an Italian insurance company, the palace is a fine example of Czech Rondocubism, a unique architectural style that you won’t see anywhere else in the world.

Back in the 1920s, the second floor was home to the famous Reunion Café, a popular concert café where people came to enjoy music and social life. Today, the same beautiful space is home to Café Adria, which opened over 20 years ago.

It’s a lovely place to take a break from the busy streets outside. The café serves excellent coffee, homemade cakes, fresh salads, soups, and a daily menu with light meals. The prices are reasonable, making it a great choice if you’re looking for good food and coffee in the city centre.

Address : Národní 40/36, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ ADRIA

CAFÉS WITH A HISTORIC ATMOSPHERE

FANTOVA KAVARNA

If you’re arriving in Prague by train or heading home after your trip, don’t miss the chance to stop at Fanta’s Café. It’s one of the city’s most beautiful hidden spots and the perfect place for a coffee or a light snack.

The café is located inside Prague’s historic Main Railway Station, an impressive Art Nouveau building designed by architect Josef Fanta between 1901 and 1909. The highlight is the magnificent dome, decorated with beautiful paintings, ornamental details, and statues representing Czech towns once connected by railway.

This elegant space was originally the station’s main departure hall. After a new hall was built in the 1970s, it was left unused for many years. Thankfully, it has now been carefully restored and once again shows off its original beauty.

Address : Wilsonova 300, 110 00 Praha 2 – Vinohrady

Website : FANTOVA KAVÁRNA

FOYER CAFÉ

While you’re exploring the beautiful Art Nouveau Fanta Building, don’t miss another hidden gem – Foyer Café. With its high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and beautiful period details, it’s easy to forget you’re inside a busy railway station.

The café is famous for its elegant afternoon tea.  You can also choose from a delicious selection of pastries, gourmet sandwiches, fresh viennoiseries, and canapés. If you’re in the mood for something special, the café offers an impressive selection of more than 50 champagnes and wines.

Address : Wilsonova 308, 110 00 Praha 2 – Vinohrady

Website : FOYER CAFÉ

CAFÉ DE PARIS

Tucked away on a quiet square in the Lesser Town, Café de Paris is a charming family-run café/restaurant just a short walk from Charles Bridge and at the foot of Prague Castle. It’s located in the historic Maltese Palace, which dates back to the 12th century, adding even more character to the experience.

If you’re in the mood for French cuisine, this is the place to come. The menu is small, but every dish is carefully prepared. The house speciality is entrecôte, made using a secret recipe that has been passed down for almost 100 years.

Address : Velkopřevorské nám.4, 118 00 Praha 1- Malá Strana

Website : CAFÉ DE PARIS

CAFÉ BELLA VIDA

Although Café Bella Vida only opened in 2010, its charming interior feels as if it belongs to another era. The cosy atmosphere makes it easy to relax, and the outdoor terrace offers beautiful views of Charles Bridge.

The café serves excellent coffee and a selection of light meals made with fresh ingredients. If you’re not an early riser, you’ll love the breakfast menu. Breakfast is served until 12 noon on weekdays and until 1 pm at weekends, so there’s no need to rush.

Address : Malostranské nábřeží 3, 118 00 Praha 1

Website : BELLA VIDA CAFÉ

KAVÁRNA ČERNÁ MADONA

Café Černá Madona is located on the ground floor of the House of the Black Madonna. If you’ve already visited Grand Café Orient upstairs, don’t miss this beautiful café as well. Just like the rest of the building, every detail reflects the unique Cubist style.

There’s another Café Černá Madona on Na Poříčí Street, inside another remarkable Cubist building. Both cafés are worth a visit, not only for their stunning interiors but also for their excellent food. Along with coffee and homemade desserts, you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner.

Address : Celetná 34 and Na Poříčí 24, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : ĆERNÁ MADONA

CAFÉ MELVIN

Tucked away in the quiet streets below Prague Castle, Café Melvin is a small and intimate café with a peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to take a break after exploring the castle and escape the crowds for a while.

The building has a long history dating back to 1091. The café is located on the ground floor, with part of the space extending into the original underground cellars. At the back, you’ll even find a Gothic well, adding to the café’s unique historic charm.

On warm days, you can also enjoy your coffee outside on the terrace.

Address : Pohořelec 148/8, 118 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ MELVIN

CAFÉ MOZART

I almost left Café Mozart off this list. It’s one of the most touristy cafés in Prague, and the prices are definitely on the higher side. But in the end, I think it’s worth including.

The café is located on the first floor of a historic building overlooking Old Town Square. Inside, you’ll find an elegant interior, along with a collection of Meissen porcelain and antique clocks that add to its historic charm.

The real highlight, though, is the view. From the windows, you get one of the best views of Prague’s Astronomical Clock you’ll find anywhere in the city. If you’ve always wanted to watch the famous clock from above rather than standing in the crowd below, this is the place to do it.

Address : Staroměstské náměstí 481/22, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ MOZART

HIDDEN GEMS

CAFÉ RUDOLFINUM

If you’re planning to visit a concert or an exhibition at the beautiful Neo-Renaissance Rudolfinum, don’t miss the café inside. But you don’t need a ticket to stop by. You can simply pop in for breakfast, a light snack, or a coffee while exploring the city.

The café is set in the building’s elegant Column Hall, a bright and beautiful space with plenty of historic charm. Along with excellent coffee, you’ll find homemade sandwiches, cakes, and a tempting selection of desserts. It’s a lovely place to take a break before or after discovering Prague’s Old Town.

Address : Alšovo nábřeží 79/12, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ RUDOLFINUM

CAFÉ PLATÝZ

Café Platýz is one of Prague’s best hidden gems. Tucked away inside the passage of the historic Platýz Palace, you’ll hardly see any tourists here. Instead, it’s a favourite spot with locals who come to escape the crowds.

If you need a break from the busy streets of the city centre, this is the perfect place to relax. The café serves simple, tasty food, a good selection of wines, and excellent coffee at very reasonable prices. In summer, you can also enjoy the peaceful garden terrace.

Address : Národní 416/37, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : CAFÉ PLATÝZ

KAVARNA LUCERNA

Café Lucerna is one of Prague’s most beautiful grand cafés. It is a real hidden gem, quiet, away from tourist crowds, prices are very favorable.  It is tucked away inside the historic Lucerna Passage which was designed by the grandfather of former Czech president Václav Havel.  It is one of Prague’s Art Nouveau landmarks.

Step inside and you feel as if you have travelled back to the 1920s. Marble details, elegant chandeliers, and large arched windows give the café a timeless atmosphere. From the windows, you can also see David Černý’s famous upside-down horse sculpture hanging in the Lucerna Passage.

The café is a great place to slow down after exploring Wenceslas Square. You can enjoy a cup of quality coffee, a glass of wine, or choose from a selection of traditional Czech cakes and open-faced sandwiches. If you are lucky, you may hear live piano music.

Address : Štěpánská 61, 116 02 Praha 1

Website : KAVARNA LUCERNA

 TONY’S CAFÉ & BAR

 Just a few minutes’ walk from Old Town Square, you’ll find the beautiful five-star Hotel Paris Prague. Built in 1904, this Art Nouveau landmark is one of the city’s finest historic buildings.

Inside, you’ll discover Tony’s Café & Bar, an elegant café and restaurant with a stylish 1930s atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning coffee, a leisurely lunch, or a special dinner, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy great food and drinks in a beautiful setting.

Prices are higher than in most cafés around Prague, but the quality, service, and stunning interior make it well worth the splurge.

Address : U Obecního Domu 1080/1, 110 00 Praha 1

Website : TONY´S CAFÉ

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FAQ

Which is the most famous historic café in Prague?

Café Slavia is probably the best known. With more than 140 years of history, beautiful views of the National Theatre, and a long list of famous guests, it’s one of Prague’s true landmarks.

Which historic café has the most beautiful interior?

Many visitors choose Café Imperial for its breathtaking Art Nouveau interior covered with colourful ceramic mosaics. Grand Café Orient is another must-see, as it’s the world’s only original Cubist café.

Which historic café is best for breakfast?

Café Savoy is one of the most popular breakfast spots in Prague. Café Louvre and Café Slavia are also excellent choices if you enjoy a long, relaxed breakfast in elegant surroundings.

Which historic cafés are less touristy?

If you’d like to escape the crowds, try Café Platýz, Café Montmartre, Lucerna, or Café Melvin. These cafés are popular with locals and have a quieter atmosphere.

Which café did Franz Kafka visit?

Franz Kafka was a regular at several Prague cafés, including Café Louvre, Café Imperial, and Café Montmartre.

Which historic café has the best view?

Café Mozart offers one of the best views of Prague’s Astronomical Clock. Café Slavia overlooks the National Theatre, the Vltava River, and Prague Castle, while Café Bella Vida has beautiful views of Charles Bridge.

Are Prague’s historic cafés expensive?

Prices vary quite a lot. But generally they are not expensive.

Can I visit Prague’s historic cafés just for coffee?

Absolutely. Most historic cafés welcome visitors who simply want to enjoy a coffee and a slice of cake. Many also serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner if you’d like to stay longer.

Which historic café is best for traditional Czech cakes?

Cukrárna Myšák is famous for its pastries and desserts. Many other cafés also offer an excellent selection of traditional Czech cakes.

Do I need to book a table?

For breakfast, weekends, or popular times of day, it’s a good idea to make a reservation at cafés such as Café Savoy, Café Imperial, or Café Slavia. Smaller cafés usually have space, especially on weekdays.

Which café did Albert Einstein visit?

Albert Einstein was a regular guest at Café Louvre while he was teaching at the German University in Prague. He also visited the Municipal House Café, making both cafés a great choice if you’re interested in Prague’s scientific and cultural history.

How should I dress when visiting Prague’s historic cafés?

It depends on the café. Many historic cafés have a relaxed atmosphere, and smart casual clothing is perfectly fine. However, if you’re visiting elegant places like Café Imperial, Café Savoy, Tony’s Café & Bar, or the Municipal House Café, it’s worth dressing a little smarter to match the beautiful surroundings. There’s no formal dress code, but you’ll feel more comfortable in neat, casual clothes than in sportswear.

Which is the oldest café in Prague?

The oldest café still operating in Prague is Café Slavia which first opened in 1884. Other historic favourites include Café Savoy (1893), Café Louvre (1902), Café Imperial (1914), and Grand Café Orient (1912).

Can I have lunch or dinner in Prague’s historic cafés?

Yes. Many historic cafés are also excellent restaurants. Café Imperial, Café Savoy, Tony’s Café & Bar, Café Slavia, Grand Café Orient, and Café Černá Madona all serve lunch and dinner as well as coffee and cakes.

What should I eat in a historic café?

Most cafés serve homemade cakes, pastries, and traditional Czech desserts. Many also offer open-faced sandwiches (chlebíčky), soups, salads, and light meals. If you’re visiting Cukrárna Myšák, don’t miss the cakes. Café Savoy is famous for breakfast, while Café Imperial is known for its modern Czech cuisine.

How much does coffee and cake cost?

Prices depend on the café. In most historic cafés, expect to pay around CZK 70–120 for a coffee and CZK 90–180 for a slice of cake. Luxury cafés, such as Café Mozart or Tony’s Café & Bar, are usually more expensive.

Can I sit outside?

Yes, several historic cafés have outdoor seating during the warmer months.

Where are Prague’s historic cafés located?

Most of the famous cafés are in Prague’s historic centre. You’ll find many around Old Town, New Town, Malá Strana, and near Prague Castle. Several are also within walking distance of major attractions such as Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and the National Theatre.

Why should I visit a historic café in Prague?

Prague’s historic cafés are much more than places to have a coffee. For more than a century, they have been meeting places for writers, artists, scientists, and politicians. Visiting one is a chance to experience the city’s history, admire beautiful architecture, and enjoy a slower side of Prague that many visitors miss.

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