Two new outdoor cinema series launch in Prague’s coolest spots

Prague’s summer culture scene is alive and well as two favorite spots, CAMP and Kasárna Karlín, kick off their warm-weather programs. These venues blend classic film, architectural exploration, and a lively community vibe.

Starting this week, both places offer new ways to experience the city: one has a revamped “silent” cinema, and the other features a film series on actual trains.

After a break, Kasárna Karlín is back in action with a fresh approach. The popular summer cinema returns with a twist: films will be played through headphones, giving audiences a big-screen experience without bothering the neighbors. The headphones are free to borrow, and blankets are available, too.

“We prefer the traditional shared screening experience,” says program director Jan Touš, “but the headphone model offers a new level of comfort. This is our first year trying this format, and we’re curious about the audience’s reaction.”

The cinema kicks off on Wednesday, July 16, with a special showing of Ecce homo Homolka, Jaroslav Papoušek’s cult Czech comedy, recently digitized thanks to the National Film Archive. Director Michal Bregant will give a talk before the 9 p.m. screening.

The program continues through July with a mix of international hits and Czech favorites, all with English subtitles. Highlights include Grand Budapest Hotel (July 18), The Big Lebowski (July 22), Corpus Christi (July 24), and Black Swan (July 28). All screenings start after 8:30 p.m. Tickets (150 CZK) can be purchased on-site the same day.

Across the river, the Center for Architecture and Metropolitan Planning (CAMP) is launching a summer season under the theme Connected City. Its free open-air cinema returns every Tuesday with films that revolve around trains.

The lineup complements CAMP’s exhibition on Prague’s future infrastructure and includes classics like Closely Watched Trains, Alois Nebel, Before Sunrise, and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. These films showcase how railways shape landscapes, cities, and lives.

In addition to cinema, CAMP’s summer program includes guided architecture tours by bike, tram, boat, and on foot through areas of Prague usually closed to the public. Visitors can check out the Michle depot, the Troja Basin, or take a behind-the-scenes look at Prague’s main train station and the new dispatching center.

“This year’s CAMP Tours focus on movement through the city and through time,” says Ondřej Boháč, director of Prague’s Institute of Planning and Development. “We want to show people how mobility and architecture connect in everyday life.”

On August 23, CAMP will also host the Archirun—a unique urban race and tour. The family-friendly route covers about 8 km, takes participants through hidden architectural gems, including the Vyšehrad Casemates and the Czech Television headquarters.