Top 10 Olomouc Riverside Cafes and Pubs to Visit

The riverside area has seen a major transformation recently. New embankments have created space for vibrant social hubs. Here are the top spots to enjoy the water. You can find more details in our Olomouc Naplavka embankment guide.

• Best overall: Bistro Náplavka
• Best for students: Ponorka
• Best for nature: Poděbrady Lake Bistro
• Best for coffee: Jazz Fresh Café

1. Name: Bistro Náplavka Type: Bistro/Cafe Why go: This is the heart of the modern riverside scene. It offers great views and a trendy atmosphere. Best for: Sunset drinks and light snacks. Where: On the new embankment near the city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the Tržnice tram stop. Tip: Try their homemade lemonades on a hot day.
2. Name: Jazz Fresh Café Type: Cafe Why go: It is one of the best coffee shops near Morava River in Olomouc. The interior is stylish and the coffee is top-tier. Best for: Morning caffeine or afternoon cake. Where: Near the river approach from the main square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Walkable from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Check their daily selection of fresh pastries.
3. Name: Letní kino Olomouc Type: Outdoor Bar/Cinema Why go: This outdoor space is iconic during the summer. It sits right by the old city walls and the water. Best for: Watching a movie or enjoying a beer under the stars. Where: Near the university buildings. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Cheap. Getting there: Follow the path from the best riverside views of Olomouc city walls. Tip: Bring a light jacket for late-night screenings.
4. Name: Hospůdka U Vodníka Type: Traditional Pub Why go: A classic local spot with a friendly vibe. It feels like a true Czech neighborhood pub. Best for: Traditional Czech lager and local stories. Where: Slightly north along the river path. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Very cheap. Getting there: Best reached by bicycle or a long stroll. Tip: They often have grilled meats on summer weekends.
5. Name: Restaurace Bristol Type: Restaurant/Pub Why go: Known for its craft beer and hearty Moravian food. It has a great terrace that overlooks the river area. Best for: A full dinner with quality drinks. Where: Near the Mlýnský potok branch of the river. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the city center in 10 minutes. Tip: Book a table on the terrace in advance.
6. Name: Long Story Short Eatery & Bakery Type: Experience/Cafe Why go: Located in a historic fort near the river. It has one of the most beautiful garden terraces in the city. Best for: Foodies and design lovers. Where: Near the university and the river park. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Premium. Getting there: Walk from the Museum of Art. Tip: Their brunch is considered the best in town.
7. Name: Ponorka (The Submarine) Type: Pub Why go: A legendary underground pub that is a staple of student life. It is located just steps from the riverside paths. Best for: Alternative vibes and late-night drinks. Where: Near the university district. Time: 2+ hours. Cost: Budget. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the river embankment. Tip: Don't expect fancy decor; it's all about the atmosphere.
8. Name: Coffee Library Type: Cafe Why go: Situated in the Palacký University library building. It offers a quiet view of the greenery near the water. Best for: Reading or working while enjoying a flat white. Where: Biskupské náměstí area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget. Getting there: Walk through the historic university district. Tip: It is usually quieter during university holidays.
9. Name: Poděbrady Lake Bistro Type: Day Trip/Bistro Why go: While just outside the city, it is a key riverside experience. You can take the walking route to Poděbrady Lake for a swim. Best for: A half-day nature escape. Where: Poděbrady lake, north of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Budget. Getting there: 15-minute bike ride or 45-minute walk. Tip: Rent a paddleboard before having a drink.
10. Name: Pivovar Chomout Type: Brewery/Pub Why go: A local craft brewery located near the river's entry into the city. It serves excellent unfiltered beers. Best for: Beer enthusiasts and cyclists. Where: Chomoutov district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Follow the Litovelske Pomoravi nature trail. Tip: Try the "Režná Bára" beer if it is on tap.

Why Explore the Morava River Embankment?

The Morava River is the lifeblood of the city. It provides a natural escape from the stone-paved streets of the center. Visitors can enjoy the unique architecture of the city walls from a new perspective. The Olomouc Tourism Portal highlights the river as a key recreational zone. Many locals use the paths for running or evening strolls. The atmosphere is always relaxed and welcoming. You will see families, students, and tourists sharing the space. It is the perfect place to experience the slower pace of Moravian life. The area also hosts various festivals and food markets throughout the year.

Best Times for Riverside Drinks in Olomouc

Timing your visit can change your experience. Summer is undoubtedly the peak season for riverside activity. From May to September, the outdoor terraces are full of life. Most venues open around noon and stay busy until late at night. Spring and autumn offer a quieter, more peaceful setting. You can see the changing colors of the trees along the water. Check the Visit Czechia - Olomouc page for seasonal event listings. Winter is less active, but some cafes offer cozy indoor seating with river views. Always check the weather, as the breeze by the water can be cool.

Planning Your Olomouc Riverside Route

Navigating the river area is very easy. Most of the top spots are within walking distance of each other. You can start at the main embankment near the market. From there, head north to explore the university district. If you feel adventurous, you can even try river rafting and boating in Olomouc. This gives you a view of the cafes from the water itself. The city is very bike-friendly, so renting a cycle is a great idea. Public transport is also efficient if you want to reach the outskirts. Most trams will take you within a short walk of the Morava.