Discover the Hidden Treasures of Prague: Your Ultimate Guide to Czechia’s Arcades!
A Labyrinth of Shortcuts: Prague, the Czech Capital of Arcades
It’s no wonder that the Czech capital, Prague, is a treasure trove of exquisite arcades. The largest, most beautiful, most opulent, and the most impressive arcades are clustered in the city center, especially around the iconic Wenceslas Square. What sets Prague’s arcades apart is their ability to serve as self-contained sanctuaries, concealing magnificent artistic masterpieces, cultural hubs, and delightful dining options.
Our “Tour de Arcades” kicks off in the bustling heart of Prague’s central shopping district. Wenceslas Square features a key tram route, lively underground metro connections (lines A, B, and C), and is enveloped by an array of shops, banks, cafés, and hotels. The historical National Museum stands tall at one end, casting a radiant glow across the square when night arrives.
The most stunning and renowned arcade can be found within the Lucerna Palace, which offers a charming cinema and music venue, along with spots to grab a coffee, enjoy a drink at the bar, buy local delicacies, or explore beautiful Czech glass and porcelain. During the season, a charming retro paternoster lift operates, whisking visitors up to the rooftop, where breathtaking views of Prague await. The rooftop also serves as a venue for concerts and a variety of cultural events.
The roof is currently undergoing renovations and is not accessible.
As you wander through the Lucerna Palace arcade, don’t miss the chance to admire its centerpiece—an exceptional sculpture by the acclaimed artist David Černý. A horse hangs upside down from the ceiling, with Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech lands, riding on its belly. Celebrations honoring Saint Wenceslas take place throughout the country, with one noteworthy event occurring in Kutná Hora, the main setting of the globally acclaimed video game Kingdom Come: Deliverance II.
The Lucerna Arcade flows seamlessly into another stunning arcade situated within the elegant Art Nouveau building of U Nováků. This is the second-most historic arcade in Prague, featuring restaurants ideal for lunch or dinner, a theater, design showrooms, a jewelry maker, and even a charming chocolate shop. One particularly interesting stop is a shop dedicated to vintage cameras, binoculars, and microscopes—perfect for those seeking a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir from the Czech Republic.
To the Cinema and the Rose Garden
While you’re in this vibrant part of Prague, don’t miss crossing the tram tracks to reach the dazzling Světozor Arcade. Here you can indulge in a visit to a renowned patisserie and ice cream shop, and hidden below, you’ll find one of Prague’s finest art cinemas, where you can also purchase artistic and retro film posters—a truly unique memento from your travels! The highlight of Světozor Arcade is a glass dome that is beautifully decorated with a radiant mosaic and the name Tesla. Underneath, you’ll encounter a crossroads: to your right lies the Stýblo Palace with its own arcade, and to the left is the Franciscan Garden, which, during its blooming season, fills the air with the delightful scent of roses. The genius loci here is distinctly special—definitely worth your time!
Which Other Arcades to Explore in Prague?
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Hrzánská Arcade: Conveniently located near Old Town Square, this historically significant arcade recently underwent extensive renovations, reopening to the public in 2024. It now serves as a dynamic hub for fashion, art, and design. Visitors can explore galleries, shops, cafés, and venues for cultural events. Here, you can purchase exquisite Czech artistic and hand-blown glass, beautiful jewelry, stylish leather handbags, and high-end Czech cosmetics.
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Koruna Arcade: Nestled at the corner of Wenceslas Square and Na Příkopě Street, this arcade showcases stunning Art Nouveau details, featuring elaborate plasterwork and a breathtaking glass dome that contributes to its unique charm. It offers a diverse selection of shops, cafés, and restaurants, creating a welcoming environment for both shopping and relaxation.
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Platýz Arcade: Connecting Národní Třída street to Uhelný Trh square, this historic arcade boasts a picturesque courtyard adorned with archways, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Within, you’ll discover antiquarian bookshops, galleries, cafés, and stores offering artistic items—an ideal retreat for a coffee or lunch break.
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Černá Růže: A passageway linking Na Příkopě Street to Panská Street, this is one of the most stunning arcades in Prague. Ideal for shoppers, it features high-end boutiques and is conveniently located next to the Mucha Museum in the Savarin Palace, making it a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated shopping experience.
Guided tours of Prague’s marvelous arcades are available as well. For further details, you can find more information here.
Arcades in Brno, Ostrava, and Liberec
Beautiful arcades are also a delightful feature in Brno, the Czech Republic’s second-largest city. The Alfa Arcade, situated in a functionalist building on Svobody Square, offers a charming range of shops, cafés, and restaurants. Another noteworthy arcade-like area is Vaňkovka, Brno’s most frequented shopping destination, conveniently located next to the main train station.
In Ostrava, you can wander through the Rozkvět Arcade, which connects Masaryk Square with 28. října Street. This arcade features a variety of shops and cafés, and its functionalist architecture and central position make it an essential landmark in Ostrava. Another remarkable arcade worth exploring is the Jiří Myron Arcade, located within the Jiří Myron Theatre, boasting a café and an art gallery.
In Liberec, the capital of North Bohemia, celebrated for its beautiful nature, artistic glass creations, and both winter and summer sports, you will discover the Svět Arcade, linking Pražská Street with Dr. E. Beneš Square. Its architecture merges Art Nouveau with modernist features, bestowing it with a distinctive character. If you find yourself in Pardubice—famous for its sweet gingerbread and the grand Gočár-designed Automatic Mills—don’t overlook the Machoň Arcade, renowned as one of the most beautiful arcades in the Czech Republic.
