Historic Landmarks & City Icons

Start your journey in the historic center. These landmarks define the city skyline and hold centuries of stories. Most are within walking distance of Freedom Square.

• Name: Špilberk Castle
  Type: Fortress & History Museum
  Why go: This massive fortress dominates the skyline. It served as a royal castle and later as a notorious prison. The views from the ramparts are incredible.
  Best for: History buffs and photographers.
  Where: Hilltop west of the center.
  Time: 2–3 hours.
  Cost: Paid entry for exhibitions; grounds are free.
  Getting there: Walk up the hill from Husova Street.
  Tip: Don’t miss the casemates. Read our guide to Špilberk Castle and Casemates for tour details.
• Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
  Type: Religious Site & Viewpoint
  Why go: Its twin neo-Gothic spires are visible from everywhere. The interior is stunning, but the tower climb is the real highlight. You get a panoramic view over the red roofs.
  Best for: Views and architecture.
  Where: Petrov Hill.
  Time: 45 minutes.
  Cost: Small fee for the tower.
  Getting there: A short walk from the train station.
  Tip: The noon bells ring at 11:00 AM. This tradition dates back to the Thirty Years' War sieges.
• Name: Old Town Hall
  Type: Historic Tower & Legend
  Why go: It is the oldest secular building in town. The tower offers a 360-degree view of the city center. In the passage, you will see the legendary "Brno Dragon" hanging from the ceiling.
  Best for: City views and local legends.
  Where: Radnická Street.
  Time: 30–60 minutes.
  Cost: Small fee for tower entry.
  Getting there: Located just off the main market square.
  Tip: Look for the twisted pinnacle above the entrance portal. Learn more about the Old Town Hall and Brno Dragon before you visit.

Underground Mysteries & Modernism

Brno hides fascinating secrets beneath its pavement and boasts world-class modern architecture. These sites offer a deeper look into the city's unique character.

4. Name: Villa Tugendhat
   Type: Modern Architecture (UNESCO)
   Why go: This functionalist masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Designed by Mies van der Rohe, it revolutionized modern living. The glass walls and onyx wall are breathtaking.
   Best for: Design lovers and architecture fans.
   Where: Černá Pole district.
   Time: 90 minutes (guided tour).
   Cost: Higher end; requires booking months in advance.
   Getting there: Tram line 9 to Tomanova.
   Tip: Tickets sell out very fast. Check our advice on Villa Tugendhat tickets and guide options early.
5. Name: St. James Ossuary
   Type: Historical Crypt
   Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. The remains of over 50,000 people are arranged here. The atmosphere is solemn and visually striking.
   Best for: Those interested in dark tourism.
   Where: Under St. James Church.
   Time: 30–40 minutes.
   Cost: Moderate entry fee.
   Getting there: Located on Jakubské náměstí.
   Tip: Visit the St. James Ossuary in Brno during a weekday to avoid weekend queues.
6. Name: Labyrinth Under Vegetable Market
   Type: Underground Tunnels
   Why go: Explore medieval cellars used for food storage and alchemy. The tour takes you 212 steps below the bustling square. You will see period costumes and ancient preservation methods.
   Best for: Families and explorers.
   Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market).
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Entrance is right on the market square.
   Tip: Wear a light jacket. It is chilly down in the Labyrinth Under Vegetable Market even in summer.

Local Culture, Quirks & Nightlife

Experience the local vibe through quirky monuments and a vibrant evening scene. The city is known for its young population and creative spirit.

7. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock
   Type: Public Art
   Why go: This black stone monument is controversial and shaped like a bullet. Every day at 11:00 AM, it releases a glass marble. Catching one is a rare souvenir.
   Best for: A quick photo and a fun challenge.
   Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody).
   Time: 10 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Central tram hub.
   Tip: It is notoriously hard to read. Check our guide on how to read the Brno Astronomical Clock beforehand.
8. Name: The Bar Scene
   Type: Nightlife & Gastronomy
   Why go: The city has one of the best cocktail scenes in Europe. Many bars have unique themes, from circuses to literary dens. Prices are generally lower than in Prague.
   Best for: Couples and groups of friends.
   Where: City center streets.
   Time: Evening to late night.
   Cost: Varies by venue.
   Getting there: Walkable center.
   Tip: Discover top spots in our Brno nightlife guide for specific recommendations.
9. Name: Mendel Museum
   Type: Science Museum
   Why go: Gregor Mendel founded genetics right here in the Augustinian Abbey. The museum explores his life and experiments with peas. It is inspiring for science enthusiasts.
   Best for: Students and intellectuals.
   Where: Mendlovo náměstí.
   Time: 1–2 hours.
   Cost: Affordable.
   Getting there: Tram to Mendlovo náměstí.
   Tip: The garden where his greenhouse stood is nearby. It is a peaceful spot to relax.

Nature Escapes & Day Trips Near Brno

If you have extra time, head just outside the city limits. You can find deep caves and expansive lakes within a short tram or bus ride.

10. Name: Brno Reservoir (Prýgl)
    Type: Nature & Recreation
    Why go: Locals love this large lake for swimming and boating. You can take a boat cruise to Veveří Castle. It overlooks the water and feels like a fairytale.
    Best for: Summer relaxation and hiking.
    Where: Northwest edge of the city.
    Time: Half-day.
    Cost: Free access; boat tickets cost extra.
    Getting there: Tram line 1 to Přístaviště.
    Tip: Plan a combined trip to the Brno Reservoir and Veveří Castle for a full day out.
11. Name: Moravian Karst
    Type: Nature Day Trip
    Why go: This protected area features over 1,000 caves and gorges. The highlight is the Punkva Caves boat ride on an underground river. You can also view the Macocha Abyss from above.
    Best for: Nature lovers and families.
    Where: Blansko district (north of Brno).
    Time: Full day.
    Cost: Tours require paid tickets.
    Getting there: Train to Blansko, then bus.
    Tip: Booking in advance is crucial. Learn how to get to Moravian Karst from Brno easily.