Fancy a cup of Coffee with a slice of history? Here are some of the most beautiful historic cafes in Europe!

Beautiful Historical Cafes in Europe

Cafes remain the centerpiece of European culture and tradition for centuries.

Beloved meeting points for political, literary, and artistic elites and important centers of cultural and political exchanges, the cafes were more than just a place for a daily cup of coffee.

Some of these historic European cafes survived and thrived the wars and significant social changes and are no less than living heritage sites.

With priceless stories, rich legacy, period architecture and design, opulent and traditional interiors, and historic ambiance these retro cafes offer a rich tapestry of historical and cultural heritage.

A visit to one of these famous cafes is like stepping back in time and a unique opportunity to experience the coffee culture in Europe while relishing a cup of coffee with a traditional pastry.

This article talks about the most beautiful old cafes in Europe vouched by seasoned travelers that demand your attention, especially if you are a coffee lover like me.

Le Procope, Paris, France

If you ask me about the best cafe in Europe, I’d pick Le Procope!

Established in 1686 by Sicilian chef Procopio Cutò in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Café Procope is not only the oldest cafe in Paris or Europe but the oldest in the entire world.  

Once a famous haunt of distinguished artists, intellectuals, and politicians like Rousseau, Benjamin Franklin, Victor Hugo, Marie-Antoinette, Napoleon Bonaparte, Oscar Wilde, and Voltaire because of its proximity to Comedie Francoise, Le Procope became the first-ever literary coffeehouse in the world.

Steeped in history, it’s here that revolutionaries like Georges Danton, Jean-Paul Marat, and Maximilien de Robespierre would meet here during the French Revolution.

The cafe beautifully retains its old-world glory, charm, and character even after a major renovation in 1988.

From the Age of Enlightenment to the French Revolution to Romanticism to Realism to the Modernist Period to Contemporary Period, Le Procope has seen it all!

The façade, roof, and wrought iron balconies of the cafe have been listed in the historical monuments.

You can still see the hat Napolean left here, Voltaire’s favorite table, the ancient wallpaper dating back to 1830, and many other historical pieces – visiting Le Procope is like a walk back in time.

There’s no better place to experience the history, tradition, and culture of France than this historic cafe.

From coq au vin to tarte tatin to sole meunière to crème brûlée – the menu features French classics.

Insider Tip: Don’t just go for a cup of coffee. I’d suggest enjoying a traditional French meal it’s known for. Reservation is recommended.

Location: 13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006 Paris, France

Café de Flore, Paris, France

Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

Easily one of the most historic cafes in Europe is the iconic Cafe de Flore. This charming cafe has been around since the 1880s, radiates Parisian charm, and actually lives up to Parisian expectations.

As such, it’s no surprise that this cafe has become a hotspot for tourists and locals alike over the years.

What makes Cafe de Flore so unique is its history. Famous patrons like Pablo Picasso, Remy de Gourmont, and other writers, philosophers, and painters have been regulars throughout the cafe’s existence!

Plus, when it comes to food, Cafe de Flore’s menu is full of delicious French classics.

The onion soup is perfect for warming you up on a colder day, or you can opt to eat their delicious desserts, with a cup of silky smooth hot chocolate!

Insider Tip: Regardless of what you plan on ordering, make sure to be there at least 10 minutes before it opens to avoid long lines and secure a table because Cafe de Flore is a must-visit for anyone visiting Paris!

Location: 172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France

Caffè Florian, Venice, Italy

Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

Caffè Florian is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Venice, Italy. Found right on St. Mark’s Square, Caffè Florian is a must-visit historic European cafe.

Serving coffee here since the 1700s, it’s one of the oldest coffee houses in Europe. In fact, it’s counted among the oldest coffee houses in the world.

The café has been a favorite among many acclaimed artists and writers such as Charles Dickens, Casanova, Andy Warhol, and Clark Gable.

It’s renowned for its opulent, historic decor and atmosphere, with ornate frescoes on the walls, gilded mirrors, and marble tables.

Alongside its coffee, the menu at Caffè Florian includes light snacks and delicate sandwiches. They also serve an array of delicious desserts, pastries, and a selection of wines and spirits.

If you’re looking for an indulgent cup of coffee, try the Caffè Anniversario Florian. It’s made with rich coffee and hot chocolate, infused with Florian zabaione liqueur, and topped with whipped cream and crushed amaretto biscuits.

With its stunning decor and old-world atmosphere, you need to visit Caffe Florian when spending two days in Venice.

Insider Tip: Visit in the evening when the wonderful live music adds to the vibe. No matter where you choose to sit, outdoors or indoors, make sure you walk through the cafe so you don’t miss out on stories from the glorious past tucked in every nook and cranny.

Location: P.za San Marco, 57, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Gran Caffè Gambrinus, Naples, Italy

Amber from Amber Everywhere

In the bustling city of Naples, Italy is the historic Gran Caffè Gambrinus, founded in 1860. It has become a meeting point for intellectuals, including Oscar Wilde, Ernest Hemmingway, and Gabriele D’Annunzio.

The space is beautiful, with marble flooring and stunning light fixtures. There is likely to be a crowd anytime you visit, so be prepared to navigate the lines. 

Located just a short walk from the Teatro San Carlo, Gran Caffé Gambrinus is a beautiful venue where composer Johann Christian Bach once performed.

Throughout the history of the Gran Caffé Gambrinus, it has been common for composers, musicians, and other artists to visit the cafe before their performance.  

When visiting Gran Caffé Gambrinus, be sure to try a rum-soaked baba, a pastry shaped like an elongated muffin and stuffed with Nutella or other fillings.

Pair it with a cappuccino if you visit in the morning, or espresso if it’s later in the afternoon. You can have your coffee at a table in the luxurious dining area or stand in the mirrored gallery near the pastries.

Insider Tip: You can pitch in the beautiful Neopolitan tradition of Caffè Sospeso at Gran Caffé Gambrinus.

Location: Via Chiaia, 1, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Pedrocchi Café, Padua, Italy

Lisa of Travel Connect Experience

One of the most beautiful cities in the Veneto region of northern Italy is Padua.

Padua is overshadowed by the presence of big neighbors such as Venice and Verona, which attract most travelers. But Padua has unique features that make it stand out as one of the best cities to travel to in Italy.

Among these features are the cafes. Hidden in the pretty medieval old town of this portico-filled city are many cute cafes that entice you to stop by.

Forget the espresso coffee gobbled at the counter in seconds. In cafes in Padua, you sit, chat, and hang out, it’s a cultural thing. This is all thanks to the historic Café Pedrocchi, which paved the way.

Antonio Pedrocchi renovated his father’s store with the help of a famous architect and made it one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in Italy. The monumental café in the heart of Padua’s historic center opened in 1831.

Caffé Pedrocchi became a landmark not only for Paduans but also for travelers and intellectuals from all over the world. Even Sthendal stopped by and mentioned it in one of his works.

The café is divided into two floors and has several halls, each with a different function. The most interesting is the “green hall,” which was originally designed to provide shelter from the cold for those who needed it.

Today the hall can also be accessed without having to order from the menu. Students who pass by are offered coffee.

The specialty of the place is precisely Pedrocchi coffee, made with cream, milk, mint syrup, and cocoa.

Insider Tip: Choose outdoor seating and enjoy people-watching along with Pedrocchi coffee.

Location: Via VIII Febbraio, 15, 35122 Padova PD, Italy

Café Louvre, Prague, Czechia

Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Café Louvre is a historical restaurant in Prague known for the famous guests that passed its doors over the years.

The café still maintains the same design and atmosphere it had when personalities like Albert Einstein, Franz Kafka, and Karel Čapek used to meet here.

Café Louvre opened for the first time in 1902, at the same location where it is today, near the National Theatre in Prague.

The building is very elegant, with high ceilings and windows, chandeliers, and wooden furniture. There are a few old objects decorating the café, such as the antique cash register or the epoch photographs on the walls.

If you are a foodie and want to go on a food tour in Prague make sure to include Café Louvre on your list.

Not just because you will enjoy the same premises as Kafka or Einstein, but also for their delicious traditional Czech food such as svickova (braised beef with dumplings served in a white creamy sauce with cranberry jam).

Insider Tip: This one, like other famous historical cafes, gets crowded pretty quickly, so making a reservation helps!

Location: Národní 22, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

Majestic Café, Porto, Portugal

Cláudia & Jorge from Portugal Things

Café Majestic is the most beautiful coffee shop in Porto (Portugal) and is often referred to as one of the most beautiful in the world.

Besides being stunning, it is a historic landmark of the city. It dates back to 1924 when it was a hub for artists, writers, and intellects. Important politicians, writers, and actors used to be regular customers of the café.

It is decorated in an art nouveau style, with luxurious chandeliers, marble columns, Flemish mirrors, and plaster-decorated ceilings. Nowadays, it still preserves its original Belle Époque style.

One of the best things to do when visiting Porto is go to the Café Majestic and enjoying an expresso (short, strong coffee) with a pastel de nata (custard tart). It is a place to relax, appreciate the art, and people watching.

Insider Tip: This cafe is expensive compared to other places, so we advise you to eat a sweet and hot beverage. You will be better served in other places that are much cheaper and better to eat in Porto.

Location: Rua Santa Catarina 112, 4000-442 Porto, Portugal

New York Café, Budapest, Hungary

Milijana of World Travel Connector 

New York Cafe in Budapest, Hungary is one of the most beautiful & famous cafes in the world.

Classy New York Cafe officially carries the nickname ‘the most beautiful cafe in the world’. 

The lavish New York Cafe has a luxurious and spacious interior that can receive up to 2000 guests. The interior is designed in the Italian-Renessaince style with high ceilings, marble columns, beautiful frescoes, sparkling chandeliers, and a piano.

The New York Cafe got its name after New York Insurance Company which built the building for its headquarters in Europe in 1894. The headquarter held the cafe within the building. 

The cafe was a popular meeting point for rich people, intellectuals, and artists (musicians, writers, and poets) at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20 century.

New York cafe is a must-visit in Budapest. It offers a unique dining experience in a highly extravagant ambiance. So, when in Budapest, head to the iconic New York Cafe for breakfast or lunch.

There are many fancy items on the menu. However, for an authentic Hungarian experience, choose Hungarian coffee with back sour cherry palinka, chili, and cream for breakfast.

Or order traditional Hungarian beef goulash or chicken paprikash for lunch. After all, Hungarian goulash and paprikash are among the most famous food in the world. 

This historic cafe is a part of today’s 5-star New York Palace hotel, near the Jewish District and Andrassy Avenue in the center of Budapest. It is open from 8 am to 12 am from Monday to Sunday. 

Insider Tip: New York Cafe is a top tourist attraction in Budapest. So, except queues. Reserve your table in the cafe in advance to skip the lines.

Location: Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9-11, 1073 Hungary

Café Central, Vienna, Austria

Lowri from Many Other Roads

Located in Vienna, one of the best European cities for coffee lovers, Cafe Central is one of the most historic and beautiful cafes in Europe.

From its grand interior to its exquisite brews, this cafe has been a hotspot for locals and visitors alike since it first opened in 1876.

Cafe Central has seen many patrons come through its doors over the years, including famous writers, musicians, and scientists.

This cafe was once a meeting place for some of the most important thinkers of the time, including Sigmund Freud, Gustav Klimt, Ludwig Wittgenstein, and many more.

Cafe Central has an inviting atmosphere with warm tones, luxurious furniture, and beautiful chandeliers.

It is a great place to relax, have a chat and enjoy some of the delicious local coffees and teas.

If you’re feeling peckish, they also offer tasty pastries and cakes. A must-try dish here is the Apple Struddle!

Whether you’re looking for a place to meet friends or simply take in the beautiful surroundings of this historic cafe, Cafe Central has something for everyone.

Insider Tip: If you can, grab a table by the window to make the most of your time here. And be ready for the long wait times, especially on weekends.

Location: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Wien, Austria

Café Sacher Wien, Vienna, Austria

James Ian from Travel Collecting 

The Sacher Café in central Vienna is not only a beautiful café, but it’s also the home of the Sacher Torte.

This famous cake is a moist chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam in the middle covered in chocolate ganache and it’s absolutely delicious. So what better place to taste it than at the place where it was born?  

The legend goes that the Sacher Torte was created by the hotel’s pastry chef, Franz Sacher, who was asked by the prince to create a special dessert for his guests because the official court pastry chef was sick.

And so a legendary dessert was born.

As you enter the café, it’s like stepping back in time. The décor is a classic old-world café with a black and white tiled floor, plush red velvet banquettes, ornate chandeliers, and mirrors everywhere.

They also have a multitude of awards on display behind the counter.  In summer, there is a popular outdoor section where you can sit and soak up the Viennese sun.

If you’d like to people watch, I recommend trying for an outdoor table if it’s warm enough, but indoors is also beautiful. 

Insider Tip: For a truly decadent experience, combine a slice of Sacher Torte with a hot chocolate. An alcoholic version is available if you like.

Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Wien, Austria

Café Tomaselli, Salzburg, Austria

placesofjuma

Café Tomaselli is unquestionably one of Austria’s most stunning traditional coffee establishments.

It is the oldest coffee establishment in Austria and is located at Alter Markt No. 9 in Salzburg, near some of the best boutique hotels in Salzburg.

It’s difficult to imagine, yet its history spans back to 1700. In the same year, Johann Fontaine was granted permission by the authorities to create the first “Kaffeausschank” in Salzburg, where he established Café Staiger.

Later, in 1852, Johanna Staiger sold the café to Carl Tomaselli, the son of the tenor Giuseppe Tomaselli of Milan, whose family had ties to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

It’s also interesting to know that a “Ladies’ Salon” was established in 1891 when previously only males were permitted to enter the coffee shop.

The Café Tomaselli is currently managed by the 5 generations of the Tomaselli family. During your visit, you will receive a true taste of Austrian history. But that’s not all!

The bakery, where the finest cakes, strudels, slices, pies, and pastries are created according to the old tradition, is also a highlight not to be missed.

Really recommended is to order an Esterhazy cake and also the Dobos cake.

Insider Tip: Visit in the morning and have breakfast with a stunning view from the terrasse.

Location: Alter Markt 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Chocolatería San Ginés, Madrid, Spain

Gabi from Under Flower Sky

Cholocateria San Gines is a famous cafe that you cannot miss in Madrid. Having a central location near Plazza Mayor attracts lots of tourists and locals alike. It takes place in the passage of San Gines and often has long lines.

It was actually opened in 1890 as a restaurant but since 1894 it specializes in churros with hot chocolate.

A delicious breakfast becomes more than this. The churros are a typical Spanish delicacy, made of dough.

These long sticks are deep-fried and usually served with hot chocolate. The hot chocolate is perfect for dunking in the traditional Spanish way.

You can also get coffee, tea, and various cakes in both bars- one is only for takeaways. Souvenirs of any kind are available, including mugs and t-shirts.

San Gines Caffe works 24 hours a day. It’s a small place, decorated with green panels and lots of mirrors. Marble tables accompany the green velvet chairs.

Insider Tip: Along with the combo of chocolate and churros, you must also taste their delicious chocolate truffles.

Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Café Métropole, Brussels, Belgium

Caroline Muller from Veggiewayfarer

Café Metropole is a beautiful Art Nouveau café located in the – now closed for renovations – eponymous hotel.

This beautiful café dates back to 1890 when it was bought by the Wielemans brothers who were renowned brewers in the Brussels area.

Their aim was simple: to promote their locally brewed beers. A few years later, the café was booming and the brothers decided to purchase the building next door and turn it into the luxury Métropole Hotel which hosted the likes of Einstein, Kate Bush, and even the King of Belgium.

For many years the hotel was one of the best places to stay in Brussels, that all changed however in 2022 when the doors were permanently closed.

The café however is still enticing visitors across the globe!

The house favorite is an indulgent hot chocolate with a generous dollop of sweet whipped cream.

Insider Tip: Weather permitting, park yourself on the terrace and indulge in some of the best people-watching on offer in Brussels.

The café is a comfortable 15-minute walk from the Grand Place of Brussels.

Location: Pl. De Brouckère 31, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Cafe Maiasmokk, Tallinn, Estonia

Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights

One of the best things to do in Tallinn is to visit Maiasmokk Cafe. This cafe dates back to 1864, which makes it the oldest one in Estonia.

But its history started even before. In the early 1800s, the owner of the time operated a bakery on the same grounds, which he eventually turned into Maiasmokk Cafe.

Maiasmokk Cafe offers hot drinks and cakes as well as main courses. One of the highlights of a visit to the coffee house is heading to the bakery counter, where you can choose from delicious cakes and pastries.

If you’re looking for a traditional Estonian treat, try the Vastlakukkel. Those cream-filled buns are usually served for Carnival in February, but you might also find them at other times of the year.

Insider Tip: While visiting Maiasmokk Cafe, make sure to check out the marzipan museum on the ground floor. Here, you can discover more than 200 marzipan figures. You might even see staff creating their own small sculptures if you’re lucky!

Location: Pikk 16, 10123 Tallinn, Estonia

Conditori La Glace, Copenhagen, Denmark

Founded in 1870 by Nicolaus Henningsen in Copenhagen, Conditori La Glace remains the oldest and most celebrated patisserie in Denmark.

This iconic cafe plus confectionery is known for its sumptuous selection of delectable freshly baked delights – pastries, ice creams, cookies, desserts, elaborate cakes, and of course coffee.

The traditional taste and vibe of La Glace are unmatched. They still retain the original recipes that have been followed for almost six generations.

Relishing a piece of classic Danish pastry (wienerbrød) or a delicious cookie (småkager) with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea or hot chocolate traditionally served in a pot to be refilled in their quaint old rooms is an exquisite experience.

Konditori La Glace has rustic décor with period furnishings and furniture dating to the 17th and 18th centuries that imparts an opulent and genuine historic ambiance.

Insider Tip: Try their classic in-house specialty – Sportskage (Sports Cake). Mind you, there’s nothing sporty about this cake. It’s a pure indulgence.

Location: Skoubogade 3, 1158 København, Denmark

Bewley’s Oriental Cafe, Dublin, Ireland

Emer and Nils from Let’s Go Ireland

Bewley’s Oriental Cafe on Grafton Street in Dublin, Ireland, is an institution. The exterior and interior of this cafe were designed with such great extravagant care that Bewley’s continues to impress people almost 100 years after it first opened its doors.

Approaching the cafe, you will notice the colorful Egyptian-style mosaics embellishing the exterior of the building. These were inspired by the recent sensational discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun.

The interior is equally as impressive. The six vibrant stained glass windows, created by the renowned Irish artist Harry Clarke, are arguably the cafe’s prized possession.

Depicting the Corinthian, Doric, Ionic, and Composite styles of classical architecture, and adorning flowers, exotic birds, and more to these, gives Bewley’s interior a very unique and beautiful flair.

Insider tip: If you are looking for a particular ambiance, then the James Joyce Room, the Poets’ Corner, or one of the many open fireplaces might be perfect for you. Enjoy artisan cakes and savor a freshly brewed cup of coffee or Bewley’s Irish Breakfast tea.

Location: 78-79, Grafton Street, Dublin, D02 K033, Ireland

Bettys Café Tea Rooms, Harrogate, Yorkshire, England

Cristina from My Little World of Travelling

Betty’s Cafe Tea Room in Harrogate is one of the most beautiful historic cafes in the north of England. The cafe was opened in 1919, and although the decor has changed a little bit since then, they still serve delicious sweet treats.

Its elegant and luxurious decoration makes you feel like you are in a traditional afternoon tea room.

At Betty’s, you will find a wide range of delicious cakes – from French macaroons and vanilla slices to fruit tarts and spongy chocolate cakes. However, you will also find savory options such as eggs benedict.

For the ultimate experience at Betty’s, book a private afternoon tea with friends at the Imperial Room.

The afternoon tea menu comes in a silver three-tiered stand with a wide range of exquisite cakes, including the classic sultana scones, and sandwiches such as the British traditional chicken coronation and cucumber sandwich.

It also includes a generous teapot with Betty’s bespoke English breakfast tea.

Insider Tip: Betty’s is popular among locals and travelers, therefore, it is worth going to the cafe as soon as it opens, especially on a weekend when it is not surprising seeing a big queue to get into the cafe.

You can’t leave Harrogate without visiting this beautiful cafe.

Location: 1 Parliament St, Harrogate HG1 2QU, United Kingdom

Britons Arms, Norwich, England

Anisa from Norfolk Local Guide

The Briton Arms is one of the oldest buildings in Norwich dating back to the 14th century situated on Elm Hill, one of the prettiest streets in England.

A terrible fire destroyed the rest of the buildings on Elm Hill, but somehow the Briton Arms survived.

It reopened as a cafe in 2021 after the previous business did not make it through the pandemic.

Now they serve breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, Sunday roasts, and the occasional evening meal. They also have an excellent selection of teas and cakes.  

All their food is prepared fresh daily so their offerings may be slightly different each time you go. You will find their prices very reasonable.

I love their English breakfast, especially the black pudding. They let you order each component separately so that you get just the right amount of food for you. If you don’t want to have beans or black pudding you don’t have to.

Insider Tip: Soak in the charm and history of Elm Hill, the gorgeous cobbled medieval street after you finish your coffee and cake at Briton Arms.

Location: 9 Elm Hill, Norwich NR3 1HN, United Kingdom

This concludes our list of the most beautiful historic European cafes. Did we miss the one you visited? Let us know and we’ll feature it in our roundup of the iconic coffee houses in Europe.

Save Our Guide to Iconic Europe Cafes on Pinterest

The post The Oldest & the Most Beautiful Cafes in Europe appeared first on Travel Melodies.