Top Things to See: Old Town Hall and Brno Dragon

The Old Town Hall is the oldest secular building in the city. It serves as a central point for tourists. You can find maps and helpful guides at the information center inside. The building features a beautiful Gothic portal with a famous bent pinnacle.

Inside the entrance passage, you will see the legendary dragon. Legend says it once terrorized the local people. Today, it is a favorite spot for photos. Don't forget to look for the wooden wheel hanging nearby as well.

• Quick Picks:
• Best Overall: Old Town Hall and Brno Dragon
• Best for Families: Brno Reservoir
• Best Rainy-Day: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market
• Best Free: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

1. Name: Old Town Hall and Brno Dragon Type: sight Why go: It is the most iconic landmark in Brno. You can see the legend of the Brno Dragon hanging in the passage. The tower offers a 360-degree view of the city. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Radnická street, City Center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the passage; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Check the Old Town Hall tower admission prices before you go for the best sunset views.
2. Name: The Bent Pinnacle Type: sight Why go: This architectural oddity sits above the main entrance. The master builder was angry about his pay. He purposely bent the middle turret of the Gothic portal. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Radnická street. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the entrance of the Old Town Hall. Tip: Look closely at the intricate stone carvings around the portal.
3. Name: The Brno Wheel Type: sight Why go: This wooden wheel represents a famous local bet. A carpenter claimed he could make it and roll it to Brno in one day. It hangs next to the dragon in the passage. Best for: Fans of local folklore. Where: Old Town Hall entrance. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the main archway of the Old Town Hall. Tip: Read the plaque nearby to learn the full story of the bet.

Historic Landmarks and Iconic Sights

Brno has a rich history visible in its massive fortresses. The skyline is dominated by a castle and a grand cathedral. These sites offer a glimpse into the military and religious past of Moravia. You should plan at least half a day to see these major landmarks.

Walking between these sites is easy. Most are located within the pedestrian zone. You can use the Brno Public Transport system for longer distances. The city is very walkable and safe for visitors.

1. Name: Spilberk Castle Type: sight Why go: This former royal castle became a notorious prison. You can explore the dark Spilberk Castle and casemates. The castle grounds offer peaceful parks and great views. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Spilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for museum and casemates. Getting there: Walk up the hill from Husova street. Tip: Visit the lookout point for a view of the Cathedral.
2. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: This Gothic cathedral is a symbol of the city. It is famous for ringing its bells at 11 AM instead of noon. This tradition dates back to the Swedish siege in 1645. Best for: Religious history and views. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave; small fee for the Cathedral towers. Getting there: Walk from the Vegetable Market. Tip: The interior is beautiful, so take a moment for quiet reflection.
3. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: sight Why go: It is a masterpiece of modern architecture. This building is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Best for: Design and architecture fans. Where: Černopolní street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Expensive; must book months in advance. Getting there: Take tram 3 or 5 to the Dětská nemocnice stop. Tip: Check the Villa Tugendhat guide for last-minute garden tickets.

Brno Underground and Unique Experiences

Brno hides another world beneath its streets. The city has a complex network of cellars and tunnels. Some were used for food storage, while others have a darker history. These underground tours are perfect for hot summer days or rainy afternoons.

The city also features modern quirks. You will find unusual statues and clocks in the squares. These sites often spark debate among locals and tourists alike. They make Brno a truly unique destination in Central Europe.

1. Name: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market Type: experience Why go: Explore medieval cellars deep below the square. The Labyrinth under Vegetable Market shows how people stored food and wine. You can even see an old alchemy lab. Best for: Families and curious travelers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is located at the lower part of the market square. Tip: Wear a light jacket as the underground is cool year-round.
2. Name: St. James Ossuary Type: experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. It holds the remains of over 50,000 people. The atmosphere is solemn and hauntingly beautiful. Best for: Fans of dark tourism. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Visit the St. James Ossuary late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
3. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: This black stone monument looks like a bullet. Every day at 11 AM, it releases a glass marble. People gather around to try and catch it as a souvenir. Best for: Modern art fans and kids. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: It is in the main city square. Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early if you want to catch a marble.

Nature and Day Trips Near Brno

If you have more time, explore the surroundings of Brno. The region of Moravia is famous for its natural beauty. You can find deep caves and beautiful lakes just a short ride away. These trips are great for getting some fresh air.

Public transport makes these day trips very easy. You can use the official tourism portal to plan your routes. Many sites are accessible by train or bus from the main station. It is a great way to see more of the Czech Republic.

1. Name: Brno Reservoir Type: day trip Why go: This is the favorite recreation spot for locals. You can take a boat trip across the water. It is perfect for swimming, hiking, or just relaxing by the shore. Best for: Nature lovers and families. Where: Bystrc district. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Free for the park; small fee for boats. Getting there: Take tram 1 to the Přístaviště stop. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby castle.
2. Name: Veveří Castle Type: day trip Why go: This romantic castle overlooks the reservoir. It was once a hunting lodge for Moravian margraves. The views from the bridge are stunning. Best for: Romantic outings and hikers. Where: Near the reservoir. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee for the courtyard and interiors. Getting there: Take a boat from the reservoir or bus 303. Tip: Check the seasonal opening hours before visiting in winter.
3. Name: Moravian Karst Type: day trip Why go: This area features over 1,000 caves. The Punkva Caves allow you to take an underground boat ride. It is one of the most popular Moravian Karst day trips. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Blansko. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate; booking caves in advance is essential. Getting there: Take a train to Blansko, then a local bus. Tip: Bring very warm clothes as the caves are around 8 degrees Celsius.