Why Brno is the Capital of Coffee Culture

Brno has a long history of intellectual and social gatherings in coffee houses. During the early 20th century, the city was a hub for modernist architecture. This led to the creation of unique spaces that still exist today. You can learn more about famous cafes in Brno city center through our detailed guides. These venues often served as meeting points for artists and writers.

The atmosphere in these cafes is hard to replicate elsewhere. High ceilings and large windows are common features. Many owners have carefully restored original furniture to maintain the historical feel. Visiting these spots is one of the top things to do in Brno for any traveler. You can find more official info at the Go To Brno tourism portal.

9 Historical Cafes with Atmosphere in Brno

Here are our top picks for a truly atmospheric coffee break in the city. These locations were chosen for their history, design, and quality of service.

• Best overall: Café Savoy
• Best for architecture: Kavárna ERA
• Best for art lovers: Café Morgal
• Best for traditional sweets: Zemanova kavárna

1. Name: Café Savoy Type: Grand Imperial Cafe Why go: It features stunning neo-Renaissance ceilings and a grand 19th-century vibe. Best for: A luxurious breakfast. Where: Jakubské náměstí, City Center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from the main square. Tip: Look up at the ceiling to see the restored historic paintings.
2. Name: Kavárna ERA Type: Functionalist Landmark Why go: It is a masterpiece of modern architecture with a famous spiral staircase. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take Tram 9 or 11 to the Tomanova stop. Tip: Combine this with a visit to Villa Tugendhat nearby.
3. Name: Zemanova kavárna a cukrárna Type: Traditional Patisserie Why go: This spot has served traditional Czech pastries since 1937. Best for: Authentic local cakes like Větrník. Where: Josefská street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: Try the handmade chocolates sold at the counter.
4. Name: Café Placzek Type: Modernist Cafe Why go: It occupies a beautiful First Republic building with elegant interior design. Best for: A quiet afternoon read. Where: Minoritská street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the pedestrian zone of the city center. Tip: Their brunch menu is highly rated by locals.
5. Name: Café Morgal Type: Artistic/Museum Cafe Why go: Located in a former governor's palace, it features Baroque frescoes. Best for: An artistic atmosphere. Where: Moravian Gallery building. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the Church of St. Thomas. Tip: Check out the gallery exhibitions after your coffee.
6. Name: Café Momenta Type: Historic Square Cafe Why go: It offers great views of the Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) and the Parnas Fountain. Best for: People watching. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walkable from any central location. Tip: Sit outside in summer to enjoy the market buzz.
7. Name: Padowetz Type: Historic Hotel Cafe Why go: This cafe is part of a famous historic hotel building from the 1830s. Best for: Traditional coffee and dessert. Where: Near the Main Station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Directly opposite the main train station. Tip: It is a great place to wait for your train in comfort.
8. Name: Kavárna v Uměleckoprůmyslovém muzeu Type: Museum Cafe Why go: It is located inside the Museum of Applied Arts with a stunning atrium. Best for: Design fans. Where: Husova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the Špilberk castle park. Tip: The interior was redesigned by famous contemporary artists.
9. Name: Café Pilát Type: Unique Historical Space Why go: It sits in a building with Gothic and Renaissance elements near the cathedral. Best for: A romantic evening vibe. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Walk up the hill from Zelný trh. Tip: They offer excellent Mediterranean-inspired dishes alongside coffee.

Planning Your Visit to Brno's Best Cafes

Brno is a very walkable city, especially in the historic center. Most historical cafes with atmosphere in Brno are within 15 minutes of each other. You can use the excellent tram system for further locations. Check schedules on the official DPMB public transport website. Trams run frequently and are very reliable.

Most cafes are open from early morning until late evening. Some may require a reservation on weekends. It is common to spend a long time over one cup of coffee. Czech cafe culture encourages relaxing and socializing. You will rarely feel rushed by the staff.

Historic Cafes Near Brno for a Day Trip

If you have more time, explore the surrounding Moravian region. Many nearby towns feature historic chateaus with their own cafes. These spots offer a regal atmosphere and beautiful park views. They are perfect for a half-day trip from the city center.

• Name: Cafe Slavkov Type: Chateau Cafe Why go: Located in the Austerlitz Chateau where Napoleon stayed. Best for: History buffs. Where: Slavkov u Brna (20km from Brno). Time: 3-4 hours (including travel). Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 30-minute train or bus ride from Brno. Tip: Walk through the French-style gardens after your meal.
• Name: Chateau Rajec Cafe Type: Aristocratic Cafe Why go: A classic manor house setting with a very peaceful vibe. Best for: A quiet escape. Where: Rajec nad Svitavou. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct train from Brno Main Station (45 mins). Tip: Visit during the camellia blooming season in early spring.