Prague, the enchanting capital city of the Czech Republic, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history, and its thriving literary scene. It’s a haven for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and lovers of cultural exploration. I recently embarked on a three-day journey to Prague with a specific mission: to explore the city’s bookstores and immerse myself in its literary treasures. Join me as I recount the highlights of my book-centric adventure through the charming streets of Prague.
My literary escapade began with a visit to the historic district of Nové Město, where I found myself wandering into the celebrated Globe Bookstore and Café. Nestled within an atmospheric building, this haven for book lovers boasted an extensive collection of English-language books, ranging from classic literature to contemporary works. With a steaming cup of coffee in hand, I perused the shelves, discovering hidden literary treasures and spying on what fellow book enthusiasts were reading.
Continuing my journey, I strolled across the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with striking statues and bustling with street artists and vendors. The bridge offered breathtaking vistas of the Vltava River and led me to the heart of Prague’s literary scene, the iconic Shakespeare and Sons bookstore. Located near the Charles Bridge, this delightful independent bookstore offered a captivating ambiance and a carefully curated selection of books. From bestsellers to rare finds, the shelves beckoned me to explore various genres and indulge my literary appetite.
I also ventured into the neighborhood of Nové Město, where I stumbled upon the cozy and intimate Knihkupectví a antikvariát Spálená, a renowned bookstore and antiquarian nestled in the heart of the city. This unassuming establishment was a literary sanctuary, filled with hidden literary gems and a welcoming atmosphere. The shelves of Spálená were lined with an impressive array of books, spanning various genres, languages, and eras. It was clear that this bookstore held a passion for both new and rare, out-of-print volumes. From classic literature to contemporary fiction, poetry, art, history, and more, there was something to pique the interest of every book enthusiast.
Located in a vibrant and busy neighborhood, Knihobot.cz was rather hard to find. Thankfully, while researching the most interesting bookstores in Prague, I found a short video of someone showing exactly how to get there. The bookstore’s inviting atmosphere immediately caught my attention as I stepped through its doors. Instead of traditional shelves lined with books you have to browse through, Knihobot.cz presented a different concept: books arranged in the rainbow order. I wasn’t able to find any books in English, but it’s a perfect place for those who want a well taken care of, second-hand book in Czech.
I had the pleasure of discovering a hidden gem for book lovers who are also coffee enthusiasts: Ouky Douky Coffee. The fusion of creativity and comfort created a captivating ambiance, inviting visitors to unwind and savor their coffee experience. One part of the cafe is a bar with delicious lemonade and big tables, perfect for conversations over food. The other part allows visitors to sit in comfortable chairs and relax while surrounded by books.
However, the best coffee (I will even go on a whim and say that no one has ever made better coffee) I had the pleasure of drinking was in a tiny cafe located in Staré Město – Café Ebel. Located in a corner, near a more popular cafe, it offers a tiny moment of relaxation. With its elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and delightful menu, Café Ebel proved to be a haven of sophistication and charm. It was a place where one could share insights, exchange recommendations, and appreciate the nuances of a well-crafted cup of coffee.
The last bookstore I saved in my Notes app, was Luxor. With its vast collection of books, cozy atmosphere, and charm that captured the essence of Prague’s literary spirit, Luxor is a must-visit for anyone who loves books. As I entered, I was immediately struck by the sheer magnitude and diversity of the bookstore’s collection. Three floors of shelves bending under the heavy weight of books, with one solely dedicated to English literature?
It’s a perfect place to test the strength of your arms. Luxor’s commitment to celebrating the written word was evident in its dedication to both local and international literature. The store prominently showcased Czech authors, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich literary heritage of the country. At the same time, it offered an extensive selection of works from around the world, providing a gateway to global literature and fostering cultural exchange.
My three-day literary adventure in Prague allowed me to indulge my passion for books and coffee while exploring the city’s historic streets and charming neighborhoods. Each bookstore offered a unique experience and a chance to discover Prague’s rich literary tapestry. This journey through Prague’s bookstores not only satisfied my bookworm soul but also deepened my connection with the city’s literary heritage.
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