Quick Picks: The Top Coffee Spots at a Glance

Are you in a hurry to find your next latte? Here are our top recommendations for various travel styles. These spots represent the very best cafes in Český Krumlov for specific needs.

• Best Overall: Kolektiv (Specialty coffee and modern vibes)
• Best View: Café Hrádek (Located right by the castle tower)
• Best for Families: Monastery Garden Bistro (Plenty of outdoor space)
• Best for Rainy Days: Antikvariát a káva (Cozy books and warm drinks)

If you want more details on beans and brewing, check out our guide on where to find specialty coffee in Český Krumlov. Otherwise, keep reading for our full list of must-visit locations.

The 11 Best Cafes in Český Krumlov to Visit

We have selected these locations based on quality, atmosphere, and service. Each of these spots offers a unique taste of the city. Whether you want a quick espresso or a long brunch, you will find it here.

1. Name: Kolektiv Type: experience Why go: This is the premier spot for specialty coffee lovers. They offer a minimalist interior and high-quality beans. Best for: Modern coffee enthusiasts. Where: Latrán district. Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: 70–150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the main castle gate. Tip: Try their seasonal filter coffee for a unique flavor.
2. Name: Masná 130 Type: experience Why go: Located in a beautifully renovated historic building. It combines great design with incredible homemade cakes. Best for: Design lovers and dessert fans. Where: Masná street, Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 80–200 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the Town Square. Tip: Their poppy seed cakes are a local favorite.
3. Name: Driml Coffee Type: local favorite Why go: A local roastery that takes coffee very seriously. It is often less crowded than the main tourist spots. Best for: Authentic local atmosphere. Where: Near the bus station. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: 60–120 CZK. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the center. Tip: Buy a bag of freshly roasted beans to take home.
4. Name: Café Hrádek Type: viewpoint Why go: It sits right at the base of the Castle Tower. The views of the town rooftops are unmatched. Best for: Sightseeing breaks. Where: Český Krumlov Castle second courtyard. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 90–180 CZK. Getting there: Enter the main castle complex. Tip: Grab a seat by the window for the best photos.
5. Name: Egon Schiele Café Type: museum Why go: Part of the famous art center. It has an artistic, bohemian vibe that reflects the town's history. Best for: Art lovers and culture seekers. Where: Inside the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 70–160 CZK. Getting there: Located on Široká street. Tip: Visit after exploring the Schiele Art Centrum galleries.
6. Name: Kafemlejnek Type: sight Why go: One of the best riverside cafes in Český Krumlov. You can watch rafts float by on the Vltava. Best for: Relaxing by the water. Where: Parkán street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: 80–190 CZK. Getting there: Walk down the narrow alleys toward the river. Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting.
7. Name: Monastery Garden Bistro Type: nature Why go: Set in a quiet, green garden away from the crowds. It is peaceful and very relaxing. Best for: Quiet mornings and families. Where: The Monastery complex. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 70–250 CZK. Getting there: Follow signs for the Monasteries in Latrán. Tip: Check out the nearby herb gardens after your coffee.
8. Name: Ideal Coffee Type: local favorite Why go: A tiny, charming spot that focuses on quality over quantity. The staff is very knowledgeable about their craft. Best for: A quick, high-quality espresso. Where: Kájovská street. Time: 20–30 minutes. Cost: 55–110 CZK. Getting there: Near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: This is a great spot for a "to-go" coffee while exploring.
9. Name: Antikvariát a káva Type: unique Why go: It is a bookstore and cafe combined. The smell of old books and fresh coffee is wonderful. Best for: Bookworms and solo travelers. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: 60–140 CZK. Getting there: Located on the main road to the castle. Tip: Look for English language books in the back corner.
10. Name: Nonna Gina Type: experience Why go: While it has Italian roots, it serves some of the best pastries in town. Their cannoli are legendary. Best for: Sweet cravings. Where: Klášterní street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 80–170 CZK. Getting there: Near the Monastery entrance. Tip: Pair your pastry with a strong Italian-style espresso.
11. Name: Apotheka Cafe Bar Type: unique Why go: Set in an old pharmacy building. It has a moody, historic atmosphere with unique decor. Best for: Afternoon coffee that turns into cocktails. Where: Latrán. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: 90–220 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Look at the old medicine bottles on the shelves.

Riverside Gems and Hidden Courtyards

The layout of the city makes for some spectacular cafe settings. Many of the best cafes in Český Krumlov take advantage of the Vltava River. Sitting on a terrace while watching the water is a classic Krumlov experience. You can find many of these spots on Parkán street. This area is famous for its historic buildings that back directly onto the river.

If you prefer a quieter vibe, look for hidden courtyards. Many Renaissance buildings have inner gardens that are open to the public. These spaces offer a cool escape during the hot summer months. They are often tucked away behind heavy wooden doors. Don't be afraid to peek inside interesting entrances in the Old Town.

For those who want a break from the crowds, consider visiting local favorites in Český Krumlov. These spots are often just one street away from the main tourist path. You will find better prices and a more authentic feel. The quality of coffee in these hidden gems is often surprisingly high.

Practical Tips for Your Coffee Break

Most cafes in the center now accept credit cards. However, it is always wise to carry some Czech Koruna (CZK). Smaller shops or those further from the center might be cash-only. Tipping is common but not mandatory. Usually, rounding up the bill or adding 10% is appreciated for good service.

Opening hours can vary by season. During the peak summer months, cafes stay open late. In winter, some smaller spots might close earlier or on certain weekdays. Always check the official tourism portal for holiday schedules. This ensures you won't arrive at a closed door.

If you are looking for a full meal after your coffee, there are many options. You can explore authentic restaurants in Český Krumlov for traditional Czech cuisine. Many of these places also serve excellent local desserts. Combining a coffee break with a historic walk is the best way to see the city.