How to Visit the Old Town Hall Tower in Brno
Welcome to the heart of Moravia in the Czech Republic. The Old Town Hall tower Brno offers the best historical views of the city. You can see the entire historic center from the top gallery. This guide will help you plan your 2026 visit perfectly.
Planning Your Visit to the Old Town Hall Tower
The Old Town Hall is the oldest secular building in the city. It is located between the Vegetable Market and Freedom Square. You can easily find it by looking for the crooked stone pinnacle. This unique entrance portal is a famous landmark in Brno.
The building has served the city for many centuries. It was the center of city administration until 1935. Today, it serves as a cultural hub and tourist center. You will find the main information office right inside the courtyard.
The tower stands 63 meters tall and dominates the skyline. It is one of the best viewpoints in Brno for history lovers. You should plan for at least one hour for your visit. This allows time for the climb and the courtyard.
Visiting in 2026 is a great choice for travelers. The city has updated many of its historical displays. You can learn about the medieval history of Moravia here. The staff at the information center speak excellent English.
How to Buy Tickets and Check Entry Fees
Buying tickets for the tower is a very simple process. You must go to the tourist information center inside. The office is located in the main passage of the hall. You can pay with cash or a credit card.
In 2026, adult tickets cost approximately 100 to 120 CZK. Reduced prices are available for children and students. Seniors also receive a discount on the entry fee. Family tickets offer the best value for groups.
The tower usually opens daily at 10:00 AM. During the summer, it stays open until 10:00 PM. Always check the Old Town Hall Brno tower opening hours and tickets before you go. Hours may change for special holidays or events.
You can also check the official Go To Brno website for updates. This portal provides the latest news on city attractions. It is helpful to book ahead for large groups. Most solo travelers can just walk in and buy tickets.
Climbing the Stairs to the Top Gallery
Be ready for a physical climb when you visit the tower. There is no elevator available for visitors in this historic structure. You must use the stairs to reach the viewing platform. The path is well-maintained but can be quite narrow.
If you wonder how many steps in Old Town Hall tower Brno there are, the answer is 173. These steps are a mix of stone and sturdy wood. There are small windows along the way for fresh air. You can stop to catch your breath at these points.
The climb takes about five to ten minutes for most people. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the best experience. The wooden stairs can feel a bit steep near the top. Hold onto the handrails for extra safety during your ascent.
Once you reach the top, the space is somewhat small. Only a few people can stand on the gallery at once. This makes the experience feel very personal and quiet. Take your time to enjoy the fresh air and height.
What You Will See from the Tower Top
The observation deck offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city. You can see the iconic twin spires of Petrov Cathedral. It looks very close from this high vantage point. You can also see the massive walls of Spilberk Castle city views across the valley.
Look down to see the colorful roofs of the historic center. You can spot the busy crowds in the Vegetable Market below. The modern AZ Tower is also visible in the distance. It creates a sharp contrast with the old town buildings.
The view is perfect for photographers who love urban landscapes. You can see the rolling hills of Moravia on clear days. The surrounding greenery makes Brno look like a garden city. It is a great place to plan your next walk.
Many people consider this one of the most instagrammable places in Brno today. You can take great selfies with the red roofs behind you. The gallery railing is safe and provides a good camera rest. Capture the beauty of the Czech Republic from above.
Exploring the Legends of the Old Town Hall
The Old Town Hall tower Brno is famous for its local legends. Look up in the entrance passage to see the dragon. It is actually a large crocodile brought from far away. Locals believed it was a real dragon for many years.
Next to the dragon, you will see a large wooden wheel. A carpenter made this wheel and rolled it from Lednice. He did this in a single day to win a bet. It is a symbol of hard work and skill.
Do not forget to look at the stone portal outside. One of the stone pinnacles is clearly bent or crooked. The sculptor did this on purpose as a small revenge. He was not paid fairly for his beautiful work.
The courtyard often hosts small markets or concerts in 2026. You can see the Renaissance arcades designed by Italian architects. These details make the building a masterpiece of European history. Take a moment to enjoy the quiet atmosphere here.
Best Times for Photography and Sunset Views
Timing is everything for the best experience at the tower. Early morning visits offer the quietest atmosphere and soft light. You will avoid the large tour groups that arrive at noon. This is the best time for peaceful city observation.
Sunset is the most popular time for a reason. The sky turns orange and pink over the castle hill. It is one of the best sunset spots in Brno for couples. The city lights begin to flicker on as the sun dips.
In 2026, the tower stays open late during the summer months. Night views offer a different perspective of the urban layout. You can see the glowing clock faces on the nearby churches. The atmosphere is very romantic after the sun goes down.
Check the weather forecast on the Visit Czechia website before your trip. Clear days provide the best visibility for the distant mountains. Rainy days can make the gallery floor a bit slippery. Always prioritize safety while you are enjoying the high views.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many steps are in the Old Town Hall tower in Brno?
There are exactly 173 steps to reach the top gallery. The climb consists of stone and wooden stairs. It is a moderate climb that takes about 10 minutes. Most healthy visitors can complete the ascent without any major issues.
What is the Brno dragon in the Old Town Hall?
The Brno dragon is actually a preserved crocodile hanging from the ceiling. It was a gift to the city in the 17th century. Local legends claimed it was a monster living in the river. It remains the most famous symbol of Brno today.
Can I buy tickets for the Brno tower online?
Most visitors buy tickets directly at the tourist office in the courtyard. Online booking is sometimes available for special events or large groups. In 2026, it is best to visit the information center in person. They accept both cash and cards.
The Old Town Hall tower Brno is a must-see for every visitor. It combines fascinating legends with the best views in the city. Plan your climb for sunset to see the most beautiful colors. Enjoy your adventure in the wonderful city of Brno in 2026!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
- City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.