Why Visit the Historic Passages and Arcades in Prague?

The historic passages and arcades in Prague are more than just shortcuts. They represent a unique era of urban planning. Most were built in the early 20th century. This was a time of great growth for the city. Architects wanted to create social spaces away from the street noise. Many of these areas are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in the city center.

Walking through these arcades feels like stepping back in time. You can see beautiful mosaics and elegant ironwork. Some passages house famous cinemas or traditional theaters. Others lead to secret gardens and parks in Prague that many people miss. They are essential for understanding the local lifestyle. Locals use them to find quiet cafes or specialty shops.

These spaces also showcase diverse architectural styles. You will find Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Functionalism side by side. Each passage has its own personality and history. Some were used as luxury shopping malls for the elite. Others served as cultural hubs for artists and thinkers. Exploring them is one of the most unique places in Prague to spend an afternoon.

Top 10 Historic Passages and Arcades in Prague

Prague has dozens of these walkways. Most are located in the New Town (Nové Město) and Old Town (Staré Město). Here are the top picks for your 2026 itinerary. These locations offer the best mix of art, history, and atmosphere.

• Best overall: Lucerna Passage
• Best for food: Světozor Passage
• Best for architecture: Adria Palace
• Best hidden gem: Platýz Courtyard

1. Name: Lucerna Passage Type: Sight & Experience Why go: This is the most famous arcade in Prague. It features the "Upside-Down Horse" sculpture by David Černý. The architecture is a mix of Art Nouveau and modernism. Best for: Iconic photos and vintage cinema. Where: New Town, near Wenceslas Square. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Metro A/B to Můstek station. Tip: Visit the Lucerna Music Bar or the rooftop deck if it is open.
2. Name: Světozor Passage Type: Experience Why go: It is famous for its massive stained-glass advertisement for Tesla. The passage connects the street to the peaceful Franciscan Garden. Best for: Local ice cream and retro vibes. Where: Vodičkova Street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram stop Václavské náměstí. Tip: Buy a traditional fruit sorbet at the iconic ice cream shop.
3. Name: Koruna Palace Type: Sight Why go: The passage features a stunning golden crown on top of the building. Inside, you will see a massive glass dome with beautiful statues. Best for: Late Art Nouveau architecture. Where: Corner of Wenceslas Square and Na Příkopě. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro Můstek exit. Tip: Look up to see the intricate glass work in the ceiling.
4. Name: Adria Palace Type: Sight Why go: This building is a rare example of Rondo-cubist architecture. The passage inside is elegant and leads to a famous theater. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Jungmannovo náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from Můstek. Tip: Check out the large astronomical clock in the main hall.
5. Name: Černá Růže (Black Rose) Type: Sight & Shopping Why go: It features a beautiful Art Deco staircase and high-end shops. It is one of the oldest shopping arcades in the city. Best for: Quiet shopping and historical interiors. Where: Na Příkopě street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the National Museum. Tip: The upper floors offer a great view of the passage structure.
6. Name: Platýz Type: Neighborhood & Market Why go: This is the oldest courtyard passage in Prague. It feels like a small village inside the city. It often hosts art markets and small exhibitions. Best for: Art galleries and peaceful coffee. Where: Národní třída. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro B to Národní třída. Tip: Look for the large iron ring on the wall used for tying horses.
7. Name: U Nováků Passage Type: Sight Why go: The facade features a famous mosaic of a village scene. Inside, it connects to several theaters and has a very local feel. Best for: Theatre history. Where: Vodičkova Street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 3, 9, 14, or 24 to Vodičkova. Tip: It is right next to the Lucerna passage, making it an easy double visit.
8. Name: Rokoko Passage Type: Sight Why go: This passage is part of the Rokoko Palace. It features elegant curves and connects Wenceslas Square to the Lucerna complex. Best for: Fashion boutiques and theater fans. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro A/B to Můstek. Tip: This is part of a larger network of hidden gems in Prague Old Town and New Town.
9. Name: Slovanský dům Type: Viewpoint & Nature Why go: It houses a modern shopping mall but features a historic garden in the back. The garden is filled with ancient plane trees and modern sculptures. Best for: A quiet break from the city noise. Where: Na Příkopě. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro B to Náměstí Republiky. Tip: The garden is a perfect spot for a summer picnic.
10. Name: Passage of the Czech National Bank Type: Sight Why go: This is a grand, high-ceilinged passage with massive marble columns. It feels very official and impressive. Best for: Photography and grand interiors. Where: Senovážná street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the Powder Tower. Tip: This area is often used in movies due to its timeless look.

Tips for Exploring Prague’s Hidden Walkways

Exploring the historic passages and arcades in Prague is easy if you plan ahead. Most are open during business hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Some stay open later if they contain theaters or restaurants. It is best to visit on a weekday morning to avoid the lunch rush. This allows you to take photos without many people in the way.

You can easily create a walking tour of these sites. Start at Wenceslas Square and work your way toward the Old Town. Many passages are connected to each other. For example, you can walk from Rokoko to Lucerna without going back outside. This is a great way to see David Cerny sculptures along the way. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the floors are often historic stone or tile.

Always respect the local businesses. Some passages are quiet office spaces or residential entrances. Keep your voice down and do not block the walkways. If you want to see more unique transit, look for a paternoster elevator in Prague nearby. These historic lifts are often found in the same types of buildings as the arcades. Check the official Prague tourism portal for any temporary closures or special events.