Where is the Alfa Pasaz located in Brno?

The Alfa Pasaz is nestled in the historic core of Brno. It connects two major streets: Poštovská and Jánská. This area is entirely pedestrian-friendly and easy to navigate on foot. You will find it just east of Náměstí Svobody, the city's main square. The building itself is a masterpiece of 1930s functionalist design.

Getting there by public transport is very simple. Take any tram that stops at "Hlavní nádraží" or "Zelný trh." From there, it is a short five-minute walk through the cobblestone streets. You can check the latest tram schedules on the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website. This helps you avoid long waits during the colder months.

The arcade is surrounded by other famous landmarks. It is close to the Old Town Hall and the Vegetable Market. This makes it a perfect stop during a day of sightseeing. Many people miss it because the entrances look like standard shop fronts. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct glass and steel frames of the era.

Step-by-Step Guide to finding the Alfa Pasaz functionalist arcade

Follow these steps to ensure you reach the heart of the arcade without getting lost. The process is straightforward if you know what visual cues to look for. Most people spend about 20 to 30 minutes exploring the interior. There is no cost to enter the public walkway of the passage.

1. Start at Náměstí Svobody: Stand by the astronomical clock and face east toward the buildings. This is the best starting point for navigation.
2. Walk down Jánská Street: Head away from the square for about 150 meters. Look for the large "Kino Alfa" neon sign above a doorway. Typical cost: Free.
3. Enter the Passage: Walk through the heavy glass doors. You will immediately see the multi-level balconies and the glass roof. Avoid the mistake of thinking it is a private office building.
4. Explore the levels: Use the stairs or the central walkway to see the different shops. Time: 10 minutes for a quick walkthrough.
5. Exit via Poštovská: Continue straight through the passage to come out on the opposite street. This gives you a full view of the functionalist layout.

If you are coming from the train station, the Poštovská entrance is actually closer. Walk up Masarykova street and turn right onto Poštovská. Look for the building number 6. A common mistake is walking too far toward the Orlí street intersection. If you see a large post office, you have gone slightly too far south.

What to prepare before visiting the arcade

Before you head out, there are a few things to keep in mind. The arcade is a living space with active businesses. Respecting the local flow of traffic is important for a good experience. Most shops inside open around 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. However, the passage itself often stays open later for cinema-goers.

• Check the weather: The arcade is covered, making it a great rainy-day activity.
• Camera settings: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the impressive vertical lines.
• Small change: Some small cafes inside may prefer cash for minor purchases.
• Comfortable shoes: The floors can be slick when wet, so wear shoes with good grip.

Use this simple decision guide for your visit. If you want a quiet experience with no crowds, visit before 10:00 AM on a weekday. If you want to see the arcade at its liveliest, go on a Friday afternoon. For those interested in the alternative guide to Brno, the evening hours offer a cooler vibe with local film fans. Always check the official Go To Brno portal for any special events or temporary closures in 2026.

Exploring other hidden passageways in Brno center

Brno is famous for its network of indoor walkways. Finding the Alfa Pasaz functionalist arcade is often just the beginning of a larger tour. These passages were designed to protect shoppers from the elements. They also create a unique shortcut system through the dense city blocks. Many of these routes date back to the early 20th century.

Once you finish at Alfa, you can easily walk to other nearby spots. The hidden passageways in Brno center offer a mix of Art Nouveau and Modernist styles. Each one has a different character, from quiet courtyards to bustling shopping hubs. Some even lead to underground areas or hidden bars.

Don't forget to look for the secret courtyards to visit in Brno old town while you are nearby. These spaces are often tucked behind heavy wooden doors. They provide a peaceful escape from the tram noise of the main streets. Exploring these layers of the city gives you a much deeper understanding of Moravian urban life.

Troubleshooting common problems when visiting

Even with a guide, you might run into a few hurdles. The most common issue is finding the arcade closed during public holidays. In 2026, check the local calendar for Czech national holidays before planning your walk. Most businesses inside will be shut, though the main passage might remain accessible.

• Can't find the entrance: Look for the "Alfa" name written in stylized letters above the doors.
• Getting lost inside: The passage is a simple "L" shape; just keep walking to find an exit.
• Poor lighting for photos: Visit around noon when the sun is directly above the glass roof.
• Shops are closed: Many boutiques close for lunch between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM.
• Language barrier: Most staff in the cafes speak basic English, but a "Dobrý den" goes a long way.
• Accessibility: The ground floor is flat, but upper levels may require using narrow stairs.