Where to Find the Best Cafes in Brno Functionalist Passages

Brno's city center is compact and easy to walk. Most of these passages are located near the main squares. You can easily visit several spots in one afternoon. Each arcade has its own history and visual style. Here are the top picks for coffee lovers and architecture fans.

• Name: Cafe Alfa Type: Cafe Why go: It is a legendary spot located inside the most famous arcade. The interior keeps its original functionalist spirit. Best for: History buffs and classic coffee. Where: Alfa Pasáž, Poštovská street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 60–120 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Liberty Square (Náměstí Svobody). Tip: Look up at the glass ceiling of the Alfa Pasáž and functionalist arcades while you sip your drink.
• Name: Coffee Fusion Type: Local experience Why go: This cafe is known for having some of the best baristas in the city. It is located very close to the Jalta Passage. Best for: Specialty coffee enthusiasts. Where: Jánská street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 70–150 CZK. Getting there: Two minutes on foot from Malinovského Square. Tip: Try their batch brew for a taste of seasonal beans.
• Name: Cafe Jalta Type: Cafe Why go: Located in the newly renovated Jalta Passage, this cafe offers a modern take on Brno's heritage. The building is a masterpiece of the functionalist era. Best for: People-watching in a stylish setting. Where: Jalta Passage, Dominikánské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 80–200 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the New City Hall. Tip: Check the event board for local design pop-ups in the passage.
• Name: Tržnice Brno Passage Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: This passage leads to the indoor vegetable market. It features several small coffee stalls and a rooftop terrace. Best for: Fresh snacks and city views. Where: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry; coffee 60–100 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Zelný trh stop. Tip: Take the elevator to the top floor for a great view of the square.
• Name: Cafe Savoy Type: Iconic sight Why go: While not in a narrow passage, it is the ultimate functionalist cafe experience. It features high ceilings and massive windows. Best for: Grand European cafe atmosphere. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 1–1.5 hours. Cost: 100–300 CZK. Getting there: Behind the Church of St. James. Tip: This is a great spot for a traditional breakfast.
• Name: Monogram Espresso Bar Type: Cafe Why go: A tiny, award-winning shop near the Kapucínské square passages. It focuses on precision and quality. Best for: Quick, high-quality espresso. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 50–110 CZK. Getting there: Near the main train station. Tip: It is mostly standing room, so it is perfect for a coffee on the go.
• Name: Alfa Pasáž Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the heart of the architecture guide to Alfa Passage Brno. It is a multi-story arcade with shops and residential units. Best for: Photography and architecture fans. Where: Between Poštovská and Jánská streets. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Entry is visible from the main post office. Tip: Visit during the day to see the natural light through the skylights.
• Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Located just a short walk from the passage district. It offers a deep dive into the city's darker history. Best for: Rainy days and history lovers. Where: Husova street. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: 150–250 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Šilingrovo Square. Tip: There is a retro cafe inside the bunker entrance.
• Name: Špilberk Park Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: After visiting the best cafes in Brno functionalist passages, walk up here for fresh air. It offers the best views of the city's rooftops. Best for: Sunset walks. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free to walk the grounds. Getting there: Follow the paths from Husova street. Tip: Look for the path near the Pellicova street for the best photo angles.

Planning Your Functionalist Architecture Walk

To make the most of your visit, start early. Most passages open by 8:00 AM. Many cafes stay busy throughout the day. You can find more info on the Go To Brno official portal. The city is famous for its clean lines and simple shapes. This style is part of the same movement that created the UNESCO Villa Tugendhat. You will see these design elements everywhere in the center.

Walking is the best way to explore. The passages are often hidden behind heavy doors. Do not be afraid to walk inside. Most are public thoroughfares. If you need to travel further, use the local trams. You can check schedules on the DPMB website. Trams are frequent and very reliable in Brno. Most drivers and staff speak some English.

Consider the weather when planning. The passages are excellent shelters during rain or heat. They stay cool in the summer. In winter, they offer a warm break from the wind. Many cafes have outdoor seating in the passages. This allows you to enjoy the architecture while staying comfortable. Always keep a map handy to find the smaller entrances.