Why Visit the Best Riverside Cafes Plzeň Offers?

Plzeň’s rivers provide a natural escape in the heart of the city. The Radbuza and Mže rivers are the most popular for dining. These areas have seen a lot of development recently. You can now find modern bistros and cozy terraces everywhere.

The atmosphere at these cafes is very relaxed. Locals love to gather here after work. It is a great place to experience the real city vibe. You can see people cycling, skating, or just walking their dogs. The water keeps the air cool even on hot summer days.

Many of these spots offer more than just food and drink. Some host live music or outdoor cinema nights. This makes them cultural hubs as well as cafes. Visiting these places helps you support local businesses and artists.

10 Best Riverside Cafes Plzeň: Your 2026 Guide

Here are our top picks for the best riverside cafes Plzeň has today. We have included a mix of styles to suit every traveler. Check our quick picks below for a fast choice.

• Best for culture: Papírna Plzeň
• Best for families: Mlýnská Strouha
• Best for views: Kalikovský Mlýn
• Best for beer: Pivovar Proud

1. Name: Papírna Plzeň Type: Cultural center and cafe Why go: This former paper mill is now a cool industrial space. It has a large terrace right on the Radbuza river. Best for: Art lovers and fans of industrial design. Where: Slovany district, near the main station. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the main train station. Tip: Check their schedule for cultural events and exhibitions.
2. Name: Mlýnská Strouha Type: Park cafe Why go: Located in a beautiful park that was once a mill race. It is very close to the main square. Best for: Families and quick city breaks. Where: City center, near the Marriott hotel. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Republic Square. Tip: Read our Mlýnská Strouha park guide for more history.
3. Name: Kalikovský Mlýn Type: Restaurant and cafe Why go: This historic mill sits on the Mže river. It offers a very peaceful and traditional atmosphere. Best for: Romantic dinners or quiet afternoons. Where: Near the Lochotín district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram number 1 or 2 to the Palackého náměstí stop. Tip: Try their traditional Czech desserts with your coffee.
4. Name: Náplavka k světu Type: Seasonal pop-up bar Why go: This is a vibrant community space on the Radbuza bank. It features recycled furniture and a very friendly vibe. Best for: Young travelers and social atmosphere. Where: Anglické nábřeží. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: It is located right in the city center by the river. Tip: This spot is usually only open from May to September.
5. Name: Štruncovy Sady Cafe Type: Park bistro Why go: It is located where the Mže and Radbuza rivers meet. The surrounding park is perfect for a walk. Best for: Active travelers and sports fans. Where: Near the Doosan Arena stadium. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walk through the park from the city center. Tip: Combine your visit with a relaxing walk in Štruncovy Sady.
6. Name: Bistro v Pohybu Type: Modern bistro Why go: A stylish spot with great coffee and healthy snacks. It has a lovely view of the Radbuza river. Best for: A healthy lunch or brunch. Where: Denisovo nábřeží. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk along the river from the city center. Tip: Their avocado toast is a local favorite.
7. Name: Restaurace na Ostrově Type: Island restaurant Why go: It is literally on an island in the Mže river. You are surrounded by water on all sides. Best for: Unique locations and nature lovers. Where: Roudná district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Cross the small bridge near the Tyršův Bridge. Tip: It is a very quiet spot, perfect for escaping city noise.
8. Name: Pivovar Proud Type: Brewery taproom Why go: Located in a historic power plant building by the river. They serve experimental beers and great coffee. Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts. Where: At the confluence of the Mže and Radbuza. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk through the brewery gates from the city side. Tip: Try their limited edition seasonal brews.
9. Name: Café v Parku (Homolka) Type: Neighborhood cafe Why go: This cafe is further south along the Radbuza. it is very green and peaceful. Best for: Locals and long-distance walkers. Where: Slovany/Homolka area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Take tram number 1 to the Slovany terminus and walk down. Tip: It is a great stop if you are on a long river walk.
10. Name: Bistro u Matouše Type: Lakeside bistro (Near Plzeň) Why go: While not on the main rivers, it is by the Bolevec ponds. These are the city's favorite water spots. Best for: Day trips and swimming. Where: Bolevec district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Take tram number 4 to the end of the line. Tip: Bring your swimsuit in the summer months.

How to Plan Your Plzeň Riverside Visit

Most riverside cafes in Plzeň are seasonal. They usually open in April and close in October. Always check their social media before you go. The official municipal portal often lists seasonal events. Many spots accept credit cards, but some small kiosks might be cash-only.

Evening is the most popular time for these cafes. If you want a quiet spot, try visiting on a weekday morning. The weekends can get very busy, especially if the weather is sunny. Most places are very casual, so no special dress code is needed.

Safety is generally not an issue along the rivers. The paths are well-lit and popular with families. If you are looking for more options, check out restaurants with outdoor seating by the river in Plzeň. This will give you even more choices for your trip.

Nearby Water Activities and Day Trips

If you enjoy the river cafes, you might like other water activities. The city has many riverside cycling routes that connect these spots. You can rent a bike and visit three or four cafes in one afternoon. The terrain is mostly flat and very easy to ride.

For a bigger adventure, head to the Hracholusky Dam. It is about 20 kilometers from the city. It offers boat trips and many more waterfront dining options. It is a perfect day trip for anyone who loves being near the water.

The Bolevec pond system is another great choice. It is located on the northern edge of the city. These ponds are surrounded by forests and have sandy beaches. You can find several small bistros and refreshment stands there during the summer.