The Sweet Side of Moravia

Moravian hospitality is famous throughout the Czech Republic. In Olomouc, this hospitality often starts with a slice of cake and a coffee. The city center is filled with charming spots that feel like a step back in time. Many cafes are located in beautiful historic buildings near the main squares. You can enjoy authentic experiences in Olomouc by simply sitting and watching the world go by. Local residents take their coffee breaks seriously. It is a time to relax and enjoy life's simple pleasures. You should check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal food festival dates. These events often showcase even more local specialties.

10 Traditional Czech Cakes to Try in Olomouc Cafes

Here are the top traditional Czech cakes to try in Olomouc cafes during your visit. Each one offers a unique taste of local culture.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Větrník
• Best for families: Jablečný štrúdl
• Best unique local pick: Tvarůžkový moučník
• Best free/cheap: Kremrole from a market

1. Name: Větrník Type: Iconic pastry Why go: This is a giant choux pastry filled with vanilla and caramel cream. It is topped with a sweet caramel glaze. Best for: Caramel lovers. Where: Café 87. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 75-105 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square towards Denisova street. Tip: It is quite large, so consider sharing it with a friend.
2. Name: Medovník Type: Layer cake Why go: A classic honey cake with many thin layers and walnut cream. It is rich, soft, and very popular. Best for: Nut and honey fans. Where: Café Mahler. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 80-110 CZK. Getting there: Located right on the Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Tip: It pairs perfectly with a strong espresso.
3. Name: Makový koláč Type: Traditional tart Why go: A round yeast dough tart filled with sweet poppy seeds and topped with crumble. Best for: A traditional breakfast. Where: Local bakeries near Lower Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 35-55 CZK. Getting there: Walk to Dolní náměstí. Tip: Poppy seeds are a staple in Czech baking; don't miss this!
4. Name: Jablečný štrúdl Type: Fruit pastry Why go: Flaky pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and walnuts. It is a Central European staple. Best for: A lighter, fruity option. Where: Opera Café. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 65-95 CZK. Getting there: Located in the theater building on Upper Square. Tip: Ask for it to be served warm with whipped cream.
5. Name: Punčový řez Type: Sponge cake Why go: This "punch slice" is bright pink and soaked in rum-flavored syrup. It is very moist and sweet. Best for: Those who like colorful, sweet treats. Where: Café Amadeus. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 55-85 CZK. Getting there: Near the Archdiocesan Museum. Tip: The pink icing is very sweet, so skip the sugar in your tea.
6. Name: Kremrole Type: Cream roll Why go: A tube of crispy puff pastry filled with soft, snowy white meringue. Best for: A light snack on the go. Where: Seasonal markets on the Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 30-50 CZK. Getting there: Check the central market stalls. Tip: Eat it carefully to avoid getting meringue on your nose!
7. Name: Laskonka Type: Meringue sandwich Why go: Two coconut or walnut meringue discs joined by a rich buttercream. It is naturally gluten-free. Best for: Gluten-sensitive travelers. Where: Various small pastry shops in the center. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 45-65 CZK. Getting there: Explore the side streets off the main squares. Tip: The coconut version is the most traditional.
8. Name: Buchty Type: Sweet buns Why go: Square yeast buns filled with plum jam (povidla), poppy seeds, or curd. Best for: A cozy, home-style snack. Where: Traditional bakeries like Pekárna u Radnice. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 25-45 CZK per piece. Getting there: Near the Town Hall. Tip: Look for the ones dusted with powdered sugar.
9. Name: Tvarůžkový moučník Type: Unique local experience Why go: A surprising sweet-and-savory cake made with the famous Olomoucké tvarůžky cheese. Best for: Adventurous foodies. Where: Tvarůžková cukrárna. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 70-100 CZK. Getting there: Located on Denisova street. Tip: It is a local specialty you won't find anywhere else.
10. Name: Rakvička Type: Traditional biscuit Why go: A light, hollow egg-yolk biscuit shaped like a small coffin, topped with whipped cream. Best for: A quick, airy dessert. Where: Historic cafes near the Astronomical Clock. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 40-60 CZK. Getting there: Look for cafes facing the Town Hall. Tip: The name sounds dark, but the taste is light and sweet.

Best Historic Cafes in Olomouc City Center

Choosing the right venue is as important as the cake itself. Olomouc offers several historic locations that provide the perfect backdrop. Café 87 is famous for its chocolate cakes and Větrník. It has a modern yet cozy feel that locals love. Café Mahler offers a more traditional, elegant atmosphere. It is named after the composer Gustav Mahler who once lived in the city. For more about the city's heritage, visit Visit Czechia for travel inspiration. These cafes often have outdoor seating in the summer months. This allows you to enjoy your dessert while looking at the UNESCO monuments.

Practical Tips for Your Olomouc Cake Tour

Most cafes in Olomouc open early for breakfast and stay open until late evening. The best time for cake is usually the "odpolední káva" or afternoon coffee. This typically happens between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Expect to pay between 60 and 120 CZK for a generous slice of cake. Most central cafes now accept credit cards, but smaller bakeries might prefer cash. It is polite to leave a small tip of around 10% for good service. If you want to learn more about the local lifestyle, read about the history of cafe culture in Olomouc. This will help you appreciate the traditions behind every bite. Always check if a cafe has a "rezervace" (reservation) sign on the table before sitting.