The Rise of Functionalism in Brno

Functionalism flourished in Brno during the interwar period. The city grew rapidly after the birth of Czechoslovakia. Architects wanted to create a new style for a new nation. They focused on utility, light, and modern materials. This movement turned Brno into an open-air museum of modernism. You can learn more through the official Go To Brno tourism portal.

Passages were a key part of this urban planning. They allowed people to walk through blocks of buildings. These arcades featured shops, cinemas, and apartments. They were designed to be bright and airy. Architects like Bohuslav Fuchs led this creative wave. His work defined the look of the city for decades.

Today, these arcades remain vital social hubs. They house independent boutiques and cozy coffee spots. Walking through them feels like stepping back in time. You can see the original brass fittings and curved glass. It is a unique experience for any traveler. Most of these sites are free to enter and explore.

10 Must-See Alfa Pasáž and Functionalist Arcades

Brno offers a dense collection of architectural wonders. Most are located within a short walk of each other. Use this list to plan your route through the city center. Here are our top picks for 2026.

• Best overall: Alfa Pasáž
• Best for history: Pasáž Jalta
• Best for coffee: Era Café
• Best free activity: Pasáž Rozkvět

1. Name: Alfa Pasáž Type: Iconic sight Why go: It is the most famous example of a functionalist passage in Brno. The multi-level glass roof creates a stunning play of light. You can find an architecture guide to Alfa Passage Brno to see its hidden details. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Poštovská 6, City Center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from Náměstí Svobody. Tip: Visit the Alfa Cinema inside for a vintage movie experience.
2. Name: Pasáž Jalta Type: Indoor arcade Why go: This passage has a rich history as a luxury destination. It was recently renovated to restore its former glory. The marble floors and elegant lighting are breathtaking. Best for: Luxury window shopping. Where: Dominikánské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the New Town Hall. Tip: Look for the small art galleries on the upper floors.
3. Name: Hotel Avion Type: Iconic sight Why go: Designed by Bohuslav Fuchs, this is one of the narrowest hotels in Europe. It is a masterpiece of spatial design on a tiny plot. The facade is a classic example of the functionalist style. Best for: Architecture students. Where: Česká 20. Time: 15 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Take any tram to the Česká stop. Tip: Check if the ground-floor cafe is open for a quick peek inside.
4. Name: Pasáž Omega Type: Indoor arcade Why go: This modern building stands as a contemporary take on the passage tradition. It features a massive glass wall overlooking the main square. You can see many quirky statues and sculptures in Brno nearby. Best for: Modern shopping. Where: Náměstí Svobody. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is located on the main square. Tip: Head to the top floor for a great view of the square.
5. Name: Typos Pasáž Type: Local experience Why go: This passage feels like a secret courtyard in the city. It connects two major streets and houses a popular club. It is located near the 10-Z Bunker nuclear shelter. Best for: Evening drinks and nightlife. Where: Jezuitská 7. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Walk from Malinovského náměstí. Tip: Visit in the evening when the neon signs light up.
6. Name: Pasáž Rozkvět Type: Indoor arcade Why go: It is a historic passage that was modernized with functionalist elements. It provides a useful shortcut between the main square and the station. Best for: Quick errands and snacks. Where: Náměstí Svobody. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter from the south side of the main square. Tip: Try the local pastries in the small bakeries here.
7. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Museum Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the pinnacle of functionalist residential architecture. You might also enjoy the nearby Jurkovič Villa hidden gem. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černopolní 45. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Around 400 CZK for a tour. Getting there: Tram 9 to Tomanova stop. Tip: Book your tickets at least 3-4 months in advance.
8. Name: Era Café Type: Local experience Why go: This cafe is a functionalist dream with a famous spiral staircase. It was designed by Josef Kranz in the 1920s. It is one of the best cafes in Brno functionalist passages lovers should visit. Best for: Coffee and cake. Where: Zemědělská 30. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a coffee. Getting there: Tram 9 or 11 to Zemědělská. Tip: Sit on the upper floor to appreciate the geometry.
9. Name: Dům umění (House of Arts) Type: Museum Why go: This building was stripped of its ornaments to become a functionalist landmark. It hosts cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Malinovského náměstí 2. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Tram 1, 2, or 4 to Malinovského náměstí. Tip: The park behind the building is great for a rest.
10. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Crematorium Type: Day trip Why go: This is a masterpiece by Ernst Wiesner. It is considered one of the finest functionalist buildings in the country. You can check the Brno Central Cemetery official site for visiting hours. Best for: Quiet reflection and architecture. Where: Vídeňská 96. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 2 or 5 to Ústřední hřbitov. Tip: Respect the solemn nature of the site while taking photos.

Planning Your Architectural Walk in Brno

Exploring Brno is easy because the center is compact. You can see most arcades on foot in one afternoon. Wear comfortable shoes as some streets have old cobblestones. The city is very safe for solo travelers and families alike.

Public transport is efficient and covers all major sites. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on any tram. Check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site for schedules. Trams run frequently until late at night.

Many arcades have specific opening hours for shops. However, the passages themselves often stay open late. Early morning is the best time for photos without crowds. Sunday can be quiet as some smaller shops may close. Always carry a small amount of local currency for smaller cafes.