Spilberk Castle opening hours and prices in 2026

The castle operates on a seasonal schedule that changes throughout the year. From April to September, the grounds stay open longer for summer visitors. During winter months, the casemates and exhibitions have shorter visiting windows. Always verify the current times on the Go To Brno portal before your hike. Most exhibitions open at 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM daily.

Prices depend on which areas of the fortress you wish to explore. You can buy a combined ticket for the castle and the casemates. Individual tickets are also available for specific museum exhibitions. Discounts are usually offered to children, students, and seniors over 65. Expect to pay between 150 and 350 CZK for most standard adult entries.

If you plan to see multiple sites, look for the Brno ID card. This can provide better value for your best things to do in Brno itinerary. Cash and cards are both accepted at the main ticket office. However, having some local currency is helpful for small souvenir stands. Always keep your physical or digital ticket handy for inspections between sections.

Before you go: The ultimate preparation checklist

Preparation is key to enjoying this steep hillside attraction. You should review the Spilberk Castle and casemates details to choose your preferred tour. Some tours are guided while others allow for self-paced exploration. Booking online can save you time during the busy summer peak season.

• Tickets: Purchase online to skip the main ticket office queue.
• Documents: Bring a valid student ID for significant price discounts.
• Weather: Check the forecast as the hilltop is very windy.
• Money: Carry some Czech Koruna for small onsite cafes.
• Footwear: Choose sturdy walking shoes for the steep cobblestone paths.

If you are traveling with a family, check for family ticket bundles. These bundles often cover two adults and up to three children. Accessibility is limited in the older casemates due to narrow stairs. Families with strollers should stick to the main courtyard and ramparts. This ensures everyone stays safe and comfortable during the visit.

On the day: Checklist for your castle visit

Getting to the castle is part of the adventure in Brno. You can walk from the city center or take public transport. Use the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site to find the nearest tram stop. The walk up Husova street is scenic but can be quite tiring. Plan for at least two to three hours to see everything.

• Transport: Take tram 12 to the Silingrovo namesti stop.
• Navigation: Pick up a free map at the information center.
• Hydration: Bring a water bottle for the walk up the hill.
• Photography: Visit the lookout point near the bells for city views.
• Timing: Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled casemate tour.

While you are there, explore the various courtyard levels. Each level offers a different perspective of the Brno skyline. You might see the St. James Ossuary area from the northern walls. Take your time to read the informative plaques located around the perimeter. These provide context for the castle's role as a defensive fortress.

What not to pack for your visit

The castle has strict rules to protect its historic structures. Large bags can be difficult to carry through the narrow prison tunnels. There are no large lockers available for oversized suitcases at the gate. Travel light to make the climb and the tour much easier. Small backpacks are usually permitted inside the museum sections.

• Large Luggage: Avoid bringing suitcases or heavy hiking packs.
• Drones: Flying drones over the castle grounds is strictly prohibited.
• Professional Gear: Tripods require a special permit for commercial use.
• Glass Bottles: Use plastic or metal reusable bottles for safety.
• Pet Supplies: Dogs are allowed on the grounds but not in exhibitions.

If you have extra bags, leave them at your hotel or the train station. The history of Spilberk Castle prison involves tight spaces that large bags will block. Being mindful of these rules helps preserve the site for others. It also speeds up the security check process at the entrance.

Common mistakes when visiting Spilberk Castle

Many tourists make simple errors that can ruin their afternoon. Avoiding these mistakes will make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable. One common error is arriving too late in the day. The casemates often close earlier than the main castle courtyard areas.

• Missing the Casemates: Forgetting that these require a separate or combined ticket.
• Ignoring the Clock: Not realizing that last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
• Wrong Shoes: Wearing high heels or flip-flops on the uneven stones.
• Skipping the Museum: Only looking at the view and missing the prison history.
• Transport Errors: Walking the long way up when the park paths are faster.
• No Water: Forgetting that there are few shops once you reach the top.

Another mistake is failing to check for special events or concerts. The castle often hosts summer festivals that might close certain sections. Always look at the official calendar before you finalize your plans. This ensures you get the full experience without any unexpected closures.