The Magic of Prague's Hidden Passageways

The city center is like a giant labyrinth. Architects built many passages, or "pasáž," in the early 20th century. These were designed to be grand shopping arcades. They protected people from rain and snow. Today, they are shortcuts that only locals know. Many are listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. They feature beautiful glass ceilings and Art Deco details. Walking through them feels like stepping back in time. You will see a different side of the city's history here.

Courtyards are just as special as the passages. In the Old Town, many buildings share a central open space. These courtyards were often used for trade or stables. Now, they house quiet restaurants and small boutiques. They offer a break from the noise of the street. You can sit and enjoy a coffee in total silence. These spaces are essential for a true Prague experience. They show how the city has grown over many centuries.

10 Secret Passages and Courtyards in Prague to Visit

Here are the best hidden spots to include on your walking tour. Each one has a unique story to tell. Use this list to find the most beautiful secret passages and courtyards Prague has to offer.

• Best overall: Lucerna Passage
• Best for families: Wallenstein Garden
• Best rainy-day: Světozor Passage
• Best free: Platýz Court

1. Name: Lucerna Passage Type: experience Why go: See the famous upside-down horse sculpture by David Černý. This Art Nouveau arcade is a cultural hub. Best for: Art lovers and photographers. Where: New Town near Wenceslas Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to walk through. Getting there: Metro A or B to Můstek. Tip: You can find a more detailed David Černý walking route to see more of his work.
2. Name: Platýz Court Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest Renaissance courtyard in Prague. It feels like a quiet Italian piazza in the middle of the city. Best for: History buffs and coffee breaks. Where: Between Národní street and Uhelný trh. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from Můstek metro. Tip: Look for the owl statue near the entrance; it was used to signal if gambling was allowed.
3. Name: Světozor Passage Type: experience Why go: Famous for its beautiful stained-glass window and great ice cream. It connects the busy street to a hidden garden. Best for: Foodies and families. Where: Opposite Lucerna Passage. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (plus the cost of ice cream). Getting there: Exit at Můstek metro station. Tip: Buy a scoop of fruit sorbet at the Ovocný Světozor shop.
4. Name: Týn Courtyard (Ungelt) Type: sight Why go: A fortified merchant yard from the 11th century. It is incredibly peaceful and full of historic charm. Best for: Medieval history and quiet dinners. Where: Old Town, behind the Týn Church. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Old Town Square. Tip: Visit in the evening when the lanterns are lit for a romantic atmosphere.
5. Name: Koruna Palace Type: sight Why go: A stunning example of late Art Nouveau architecture with a golden crown on top. The interior dome is breathtaking. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: The corner of Wenceslas Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right at Můstek metro entrance. Tip: Look up at the glass dome to see the intricate geometric patterns.
6. Name: Nový Svět Type: neighborhood Why go: A tiny, winding street that looks like a village from a fairy tale. It is tucked away near the Castle. Best for: A quiet walk away from tourists. Where: Hradčany district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 22 to Brusnice. Tip: Check our Nový Svět guide for the best local cafes in this area.
7. Name: Wallenstein Garden Type: nature Why go: A grand Baroque garden hidden behind high walls. It features peacocks and a mysterious "dripstone" wall. Best for: Nature lovers and kids. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Metro A to Malostranská. Tip: This is one of the many hidden gardens in Prague worth exploring in spring.
8. Name: Vinárna Čertovka Type: experience Why go: It is the narrowest street in Prague. It is so thin that it has its own traffic light for pedestrians. Best for: A quick, fun photo. Where: Near the Charles Bridge in Malá Strana. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Read more about Vinárna Čertovka before you go to learn its history.
9. Name: Pasáž českého designu Type: museum/indoor Why go: A passage dedicated to modern Czech design and art. It functions like an open-air gallery. Best for: Shopping and modern art. Where: Inside the Czech National Bank building. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near Náměstí Republiky. Tip: The displays change often, so there is always something new to see.
10. Name: Adria Palace Type: sight Why go: Unique "Rondocubist" architecture that you won't find anywhere else. The courtyard is grand and impressive. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Jungmannovo náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Můstek or Národní třída. Tip: Visit the cafe on the first floor for a great view of the square.

Practical Tips for Finding Hidden Spots

Finding secret passages and courtyards Prague takes a bit of practice. Many entrances look like simple doorways to shops or offices. Look for the word "Pasáž" written above the entrance. Most of these spaces are open during daylight hours. They usually close around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM. Always be respectful of the residents who live in these buildings. Keep your voice low when walking through residential courtyards.

The best way to explore is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes because the ground is often cobbled. Many passages are located in the New Town and Old Town. You can easily walk from one to another in a few hours. Use the official city tourism portal for maps. It is also helpful to download an offline map. This will help you find the small side streets where entrances are hidden. Don't be afraid to walk through an open gate if it looks public.

Planning Your Hidden Prague Itinerary

Start your morning in the New Town near Wenceslas Square. This area has the highest density of grand passages. You can visit Lucerna, Světozor, and Koruna in one loop. Then, walk toward the river to find the quieter courtyards of the Old Town. These are perfect for finding a lunch spot away from the main square. The atmosphere changes from grand Art Deco to cozy medieval styles. It is a great way to see the city's evolution.

In the afternoon, cross the river to Malá Strana. This side of the city is famous for its hidden gardens and narrow alleys. Places like Wallenstein Garden and Nový Svět offer a slower pace. These spots are perfect for relaxing after a busy morning of sightseeing. You can finish your day with a visit to a hidden wine bar. Many of these are tucked away in courtyards near the Charles Bridge. This itinerary ensures you see the best of Prague's secrets.