The History of Cafe Louvre and Einstein Visits

Cafe Louvre opened its doors in 1902 on Národní Street. It quickly became a center for the German-speaking intellectual elite. The cafe was known for its billiards, chess, and high-level debates. It was more than just a place to drink coffee. It was a sanctuary for free thought and academic exchange.

Albert Einstein arrived in Prague in 1911 to teach physics. He joined the "Louvre Circle," a group of philosophers and scientists. They met weekly in the cafe's private rooms. Einstein famously enjoyed the intellectual stimulation found within these pink walls. He often played his violin here during social gatherings.

The cafe also hosted literary giants like Franz Kafka and Max Brod. However, the cafe faced dark times during the communist era. It was forcibly closed in 1948 and remained shut for decades. Thankfully, it was restored and reopened in 1992. Today, it maintains its original Belle Époque charm for visitors to enjoy.

9 Best Historic Literary Cafes in Prague

Prague's cafe culture is legendary and deeply rooted in its history. Many of these spots served as offices for famous novelists. You can still experience this atmosphere today throughout the city. Here are the top historic cafes you should visit on your next trip.

• Best overall: Cafe Louvre
• Best for views: Cafe Slavia
• Best for architecture: Grand Cafe Orient
• Best for breakfast: Cafe Savoy

1. Name: Cafe Louvre Type: Historic Sight Why go: Experience the exact spot where Einstein and Kafka worked. Best for: History buffs and traditional Czech atmosphere. Where: Národní Street, New Town. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram 9 or 22 to Národní třída. Tip: Try the traditional hot chocolate or the apple strudel.
2. Name: Cafe Slavia Type: Literary Cafe Why go: It is a symbol of Czech national awakening. Best for: River views and people watching. Where: Opposite the National Theatre. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the Old Town Square. Tip: Look for the famous painting of the "Absinthe Drinker" inside.
3. Name: Cafe Savoy Type: Experience Why go: The neo-Renaissance ceiling is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Best for: A high-end breakfast or brunch. Where: Vítězná, Malá Strana. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Higher end. Getting there: Cross the Legion Bridge from the National Theatre. Tip: You should compare breakfast options before booking your table.
4. Name: Cafe Imperial Type: Experience Why go: Famous for its stunning Art Deco ceramic tile interior. Best for: Fine dining and elegant surroundings. Where: Na Poříčí, New Town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Near Náměstí Republiky metro station. Tip: Reservations are essential as it is very popular.
5. Name: Grand Cafe Orient Type: Architectural Sight Why go: It is the only Cubist cafe in the world. Best for: Fans of unique 20th-century design. Where: House of the Black Madonna, Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from Powder Tower. Tip: Don't miss the Cubist-style furniture and light fixtures.
6. Name: Kavárna Obecní dům Type: Sight Why go: Located inside the Municipal House, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau. Best for: Feeling like royalty in a grand setting. Where: Náměstí Republiky. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Higher end. Getting there: Use metro line B to Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Visit after a tour of the official city landmarks nearby.
7. Name: Cafe Montmartre Type: Local Experience Why go: Known as the "Cabaret Montmartre," it was a bohemian haunt. Best for: A quiet, authentic atmosphere away from crowds. Where: Řetězová street, Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Hidden in the narrow streets near Charles Bridge. Tip: It is one of the best cafes for reading books in Prague.
8. Name: Kavárna Adria Type: Architectural Sight Why go: Located in a unique Rondocubist building. Best for: A terrace view over Jungmannovo náměstí. Where: Jungmannova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Exit at Můstek metro station. Tip: The terrace is great for summer afternoons.
9. Name: Cafe Lucerna Type: Experience Why go: Located in the historic Lucerna Palace near an iconic sculpture. Best for: Seeing David Černý’s upside-down horse statue. Where: Vodičkova, near Wenceslas Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from Wenceslas Square. Tip: The palace often hosts live jazz music in the evenings.

Tips for Visiting Historic Cafes in Prague

Visiting these cafes is a highlight of any trip to the city of Prague. To make the most of your visit, consider the timing. Most historic cafes are busiest during breakfast and mid-afternoon. Try visiting on a weekday morning for a quieter experience.

While many cafes accept walk-ins, reservations are recommended for famous spots. This is especially true for Cafe Imperial and Cafe Savoy. Most staff speak excellent English and are used to international guests. Always check if a service charge is included in your bill.

Many of these cafes also serve authentic traditional Czech food. You can enjoy a full meal alongside your coffee. This is a great way to experience local culture in a beautiful setting. Remember to bring a book or a journal to truly embrace the literary spirit.