You had it all planned out. Endless wandering through the small cobblestone lanes in the Old Town. The scenic views from the Prague Castle. The Charles Bridge. The camera is in your bag, the route is set, you put your walking shoes on. And then: it is raining. We have seen quite a few disappointed faces throughout the years, but don't worry – we always found something to do for you. And in case you want to prepare for all eventualities even before you arrive, just keep on reading for our list of cozy cinemas and cafés, libraries, film festivals and indoor markets. Perfect for gray autumn afternoons!

BIO OKO – Bar and Cinema

Prague is a great city for cinephiles. There are quite a lot of independent cinemas showing original versions with Czech (and sometimes even English) subtitles, but Bio Oko remains my favorite. The bar has a very cozy, artsy feel to it and I often meet my friends an hour before the movie starts to enjoy a good glass of wine and the great music they are usually playing there. The cinema hall features different seating options like canvas chairs or beanbags, so make sure you get there in time to find the best nook for the hours to come. Bio Oko is hosting numerous festivals throughout the year, just check their website for upcoming events. The film brunches are highly recommended as well – if you send them a text message they will bring coffee, cakes, and other treats directly into the screening hall.

Films and food? Perfect for a rainy afternoon... Picture: Bio Oko

Bio Oko. Františka Křížka 460/15, Prague 7 (Tram 1, 8, 12, 25)

Klementinum, Shakespeare & Sons, Ouky Douky – A few for the Bookworms

The New York Times recently explained why libraries are everywhere in the Czech Republic. Klementinum is one of the most beautiful historic examples. Dating back to the 16^th century the beautiful baroque building is home to the Czech National Library. Guided tours through the majestic halls are offered every 30 minutes from 10 am (220 CZK/140 CZK for high school and university students under 26). Be careful: opening hours change in autumn!  

Picture: Bruno Delzant

Klementium. Karlova 1, Prague 1, open daily 10.00-19.00 (March-October), 10.00-18.00 (November/December), 10.00-16.30 (January/February)

If you feel like stocking up your bookshelf afterward just cross the Charles Bridge and stop by Shakespeare & Sons, a nicely curated English bookshop (small selections of German and French books also available). I never leave this place without a book and usually, I spend quite some time reading in one of the cozy armchairs downstairs before I decide what it's going to be that day. Their sections on politics and history are especially well stocked I feel – so why not educate yourself about this part of Europe while on it?

Picture: Shakespeare & Sons/Facebook

Shakespeare & Sons. U Lužického semináře 10, Prague 1, open daily 11.00-19.00

You might want to grab a hot chocolate now and spend some time in a dimly lit café while waiting for the rain to stop... I always liked Ouky Douky a lot, a crossover between an antique bookshop and a café – kind of a timeless place. And before I hear objections: yes, there are certainly places with more efficient service, better coffee and food options around. Try for example Café Jedna on the ground floor of the National Galerie's Veletržní palác (and go see the top-class exhibitions!).

Picture: OukyDouky/FB

Ouky Douky. Janovského 1118/14, Prague 7, open daily 8.00-24.00

Picture: Café Jedna

Café Jedna. The National Gallery, Veletržní palác, Dukelských Hrdinů 530/47, Prague 7, open daily 9.30-22.00

Shop for Souvenirs at MINT market

Ok, ok, this is not a hangout spot – but you might want to spend even a rainy autumn day somewhat productively while on vacation. So why not shop for souvenirs at the MINT weekend market just a five minutes walk away from Sir Toby's? You certainly don't want to go home with some fake Bohemian crystal or the Russian Matryoshka dolls they keep on selling here even though there is no connection at all, really... MINT weekend markets just started off a few months ago and offer original Czech fashion, jewelry, and design every Saturday from 9-18.00 in hall 13 (yes, sure, it is indoors).

Picture: MINT Market/FB

MINT market. Bubenské nábř. 13, Prague 7

Do you feel like coming over for a visit now? Have a look at our autumn & winter specials and get your 25% discount! We are looking forward to meet you and show you our Prague.