Prague 8, known as Karlín, is the oldest suburb of Prague, situated next the historical centre of Prague. Karlín is surrounded by the Vltava River on one side and Vítkov Hill with the National Monument on the other.
Karlín was established as a Prague suburb in 1817 and has undergone several developmental phases over the past 200 years. The last major change was due to floods in 2002, which almost destroyed the entire district. As a result, the face of the former worker’s quarter has greatly changed after many reconstructions during the past ten years. Today, the modern buildings in Karlín are home to many start-up companies. The district is a paradise for bohemians and hipsters and there are plenty of pleasant cafés, restaurants and bars.
Places to see in Karlín
Karlín is an area full of contrasts. Karlín Square is dominated by the Church of Ss Cyril and Methodius, which reminds of old Romanesque churches. On the contrary, on the Rohan Embankment you will find the Nile House and the Danube House, modern office buildings constructed at the beginning of the new millennium. The Forum Karlín, a multifunctional building with excellent acoustic, which was designed for cultural and social events, is another modern building in Karlín.
Since 1945, the Musical Theatre Karlín, which was built in the building of the former variety theatre, has become the symbol of Karlín. The stage of the theatre has hosted a number of prominent Czech actors and actresses and is today considered one of the most popular musical theatres in the Czech Republic.
Karlín is also well known for the old building of Invalidovna, which was built in 1737 as a dormitory for war veterans (invalids) and their families. The architecture of the large Baroque complex was inspired by the National Residence of the Invalids of Paris.
The City of Prague Museum, which is devoted mainly to Prague’s history, is another interesting place to visit in Prague 8.
Sport and nature
Water parks and swimming options
Aquacentrum Šutka (throughout the year), Stírka and Ládví outdoor swimming pools (in the summer season).
Hiking
Some of the best hiking options in the area include the trails to the Ďáblice grove or the valley of the Bohnice and Čimice Streams. These trails are easy to hike and they are both marked and unmarked.
The Forest of Memories (Les Vzpomínek), which is part of the Ďáblice Cemetery, is filled with an air of nostalgic atmosphere. However, there are no tombstones, but only memorial maples, lime trees and bird cherries in the forest.
Breakfast, lunch or dinner in Karlín
Karlín houses a great number of bars, restaurants and cafés. Eska, a restaurant with a bakery, has been one of the most popular establishments in Karlín for years. They prepare meals in the traditional way, using methods such as fire-roasting, fermentation and drying. Polévkárna offers home-made soups and Green Factory serves fresh delicious salads.
Lovers of Asian cuisine should definitely visit the Vietnamese snack bar called Red Hot Chili Karlín or Sushi Time restaurant.
Vegetarian and vegan dishes are served at Mlsná kavka restaurant with their ever-changing menu as well as at the Indian restaurant called Beas Dhaba.
Pivovarský klub, popular with both locals and tourists, offers traditional Czech dishes and a wide range of beers. The modern and stylish Café Gate combines Czech and foreign cuisines.
More than just a cup of coffee
People travel across the whole city to Karlín for a cup of fine coffee or tea. The café suitably called My Cup of Coffee (Můj šálek kávy) is a place that stood at the birth of the new face of Prague 8. Tea Mountain tea shop serves traditional teas, although its interior is rather modern and minimalist. Kafe Karlín and Havran Café are other popular establishments in the district.