Passages in Czechia: The World Under a Roof Welcomes You

Passages lend cities a unique atmosphere. Not only do they serve as convenient shortcuts, sparing you the trouble of walking around entire blocks, but they also hide true treasures—artistic, architectural, and culinary. So, step right in—these are places you'll appreciate, especially when the weather takes a turn for the worse.

A Labyrinth of Shortcuts: Prague, the Czech Capital of Arcades

It comes as no surprise that the Czech capital, Prague, is full of stunning arcades. The largest, most beautiful, most luxurious, and grandest ones are found in the city centre, particularly around Wenceslas Square. What makes Prague’s arcades so special is that they are self-contained worlds, hiding breathtaking artistic gems, fantastic cultural venues, and excellent dining spots.

Our "Tour de Arcades" begins right in the heart of Prague’s central commercial hub. Wenceslas Square is intersected by a major tram route, has busy underground metro junctions (lines A, B, and C), and is surrounded by a fan of shops, banks, cafés, and hotels. The entire space is crowned by the historic National Museum building, which glows in all directions when night falls.

The most spectacular and well-known arcade is in the Lucerna Palace, where you can visit a famous cinema or music club, grab a coffee, stop by a bar, shop for delicacies, or browse Czech glass and porcelain. During the season, a retro paternoster lift is also in operation, taking you up to the rooftop, which offers a breathtaking view of Prague. The rooftop also hosts concerts and other cultural events.

While passing through the Lucerna Palace arcade, make sure to stop at its centrepiece—one of the finest sculptures by the renowned artist David Černý. Hanging upside down from the ceiling is a horse, with Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech lands, sitting on its belly. Saint Wenceslas is honoured in numerous celebrations across the country. One worth visiting is the one in Kutná Hora, the main setting of the world-famous video game hit Kingdom Come: Deliverance II.

The Lucerna Arcade is directly connected to another arcade running through the beautiful Art Nouveau House U Nováků. Prague’s second-oldest arcade is home to restaurants perfect for lunch or dinner, a theatre, design showrooms, a jewellery maker, and even a chocolate shop. A particularly intriguing stop is a shop selling vintage cameras, binoculars, and microscopes—an excellent place for anyone looking for a truly unique gift from the Czech Republic.

To the Cinema and the Rose Garden

If you find yourself in this part of Prague, don’t hesitate to cross the tram tracks to the other side, where Světozor Arcade awaits. Here, you can stop by a renowned patisserie and ice cream shop, and in the basement, you’ll find one of the best art cinemas in Prague, where you can also purchase artistic and retro film posters—another truly unique souvenir from your travels! The centrepiece of Světozor Arcade is a glass vault adorned with a radiant mosaic and the inscription Tesla. Walking beneath it, you’ll reach a crossroads: on the right, Stýblo Palace with its arcade, and on the left, Franciscan Garden, which, in season, is filled with the scent of blooming roses. The genius loci here is truly unique—highly recommended!

Which Other Arcades to Explore in Prague?

Hrzánská Arcade: Located near Old Town Square, this historically valuable arcade underwent an extensive renovation and was reopened to the public in 2024. It has been transformed into a hub of fashion, art, and design. Visitors will find galleries, shops, cafés, and spaces for cultural events. You can purchase Czech artistic and hand-blown glass, jewellery, designer leather handbags, and luxury Czech cosmetics.
Koruna Arcade: Situated at the corner of Wenceslas Square and Na Příkopě Street, this arcade boasts Art Nouveau decor, with elaborate stucco details and a glass dome that create a unique atmosphere. It offers a variety of shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it an inviting place for shopping and relaxation.
Platýz Arcade: Connecting Národní Třída street with Uhelný Trh square, this historic arcade features a picturesque courtyard with archways, providing a peaceful retreat in the bustling city centre. It is home to antiquarian bookshops, galleries, cafés, and stores selling artistic items. A favourite spot for those seeking a break from the city's rush—highly recommended for a coffee or lunch stop.
Černá Růže: A passageway linking Na Příkopě Street with Panská Street, this is one of Prague’s most beautiful arcades. It is a popular shopping destination featuring high-end boutiques. Located next to the Mucha Museum in the Savarin Palace, it is a must-visit for those interested in elegant shopping experiences.

Guided tours of Prague’s arcades are also available. More information can be found here.

Arcades in Brno, Ostrava, and Liberec

You can also find beautiful arcades in Brno, the second-largest city in the Czech Republic. The Alfa Arcade, located in a functionalist building on Svobody Square, offers a variety of shops, cafés, and restaurants. Another notable arcade-like space is Vaňkovka, Brno’s most visited shopping gallery, situated right next to the main train station.

In Ostrava, you can explore Rozkvět Arcade, which connects Masaryk Square with 28. října Street. It features shops and cafés, and its functionalist architecture and central location make it a key landmark of Ostrava. Another arcade worth visiting is Jiří Myron Arcade, located within the Jiří Myron Theatre, which includes a café and an art gallery.

In Liberec, the capital of North Bohemia, known for its nature, artistic glass, and both winter and summer sports, you will find Svět Arcade, linking Pražská Street with Dr. E. Beneš Square. Its architecture blends Art Nouveau and modernist elements, giving it a unique character. And if you’re visiting Pardubice, famous for its sweet gingerbread and the grand Gočár-designed Automatic Mills, don’t miss Machoň Arcade, one of the most beautiful in the Czech Republic.