Quick Picks: Best Brno Underground Experiences

Brno has many hidden spots to explore. Some are creepy, while others are full of technical history. Use these quick picks to help plan your day. You can find more things to do in Brno above ground as well.

• Best Overall: Ossuary at the Church of St. James
• Best for Families: Labyrinth under Cabbage Market
• Best Rainy-Day: 10-Z Bunker
• Best for History: Špilberk Castle Casemates
• Best Free View: Denis Gardens

Top 10 Brno Ossuary and Underground Tours

Brno’s underground network is vast and varied. Each site offers a unique perspective on Moravian history. Many of these locations are within walking distance of each other. This makes it easy to see several in one afternoon. Here are the top 10 sites to include on your itinerary.

1. Name: Ossuary at the Church of St. James Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. Best for: Photography and history lovers. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 160 CZK. Getting there: Five-minute walk from Freedom Square. Tip: The lighting is dim, so bring a steady hand for photos.
2. Name: Labyrinth under Cabbage Market Type: experience Why go: Explore a system of medieval cellars used for food storage and alchemy. Best for: Families with older children. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 180 CZK. Getting there: Located in the main market square. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs.
3. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: experience Why go: A former highly classified nuclear fallout shelter for the city's elite. Best for: Cold War history fans. Where: Husova street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Approx. 180 CZK. Getting there: Short walk from Šilingrovo náměstí. Tip: The temperature is always 14°C, so bring a jacket.
4. Name: Mint Master’s Cellar Type: museum Why go: Learn about the history of coin minting in the royal city of Brno. Best for: History buffs. Where: Dominikánské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK. Getting there: Near the New City Hall. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby unusual Brno sights.
5. Name: Špilberk Castle Casemates Type: sight Why go: These dark tunnels served as a terrifying prison for the Habsburg Monarchy. Best for: Fans of dark history. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 120 CZK. Getting there: A steep walk up from the city center. Tip: Read about visiting Špilberk Castle for full ticket details.
6. Name: St. Peter and Paul Cathedral Crypt Type: iconic sight Why go: See the foundations of the original Romanesque church. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Approx. 50 CZK. Getting there: Walkable from the main train station. Tip: Climb the towers afterward for the best viewpoints in Brno.
7. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: sight Why go: View the naturally mummified bodies of Capuchin monks. Best for: Those seeking a unique, somber experience. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK. Getting there: Located near the Cabbage Market. Tip: This is a place of rest, so maintain a quiet tone.
8. Name: Brno Reservoir Dam Type: day trip Why go: Explore the technical tunnels inside the massive dam wall. Best for: Engineering fans. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: 2-3 hours including travel. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: Take tram 1 to the Přístaviště stop. Tip: Check the reservoir activity guide for seasonal opening times.
9. Name: Villa Tugendhat Cellars Type: museum Why go: See the advanced 1930s air conditioning and engine rooms of this UNESCO site. Best for: Design and technology lovers. Where: Černopolní street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 350-400 CZK. Getting there: Tram 9 or 11 from the center. Tip: You must follow booking tips months in advance.
10. Name: Veveří Castle Tunnels Type: day trip Why go: Discover the secret passages of one of Moravia's oldest castles. Best for: Nature and history lovers. Where: Near Brno Reservoir. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Approx. 150 CZK. Getting there: Boat from the reservoir or bus from the city. Tip: This is one of the most easy day trips from Brno for families.

Planning Your Brno Ossuary and Underground Tours

Visiting the underground requires some preparation. Most sites offer tours in multiple languages. You should check the Go To Brno portal for current hours. Booking ahead is highly recommended for the Ossuary. This is especially true during the busy summer months. Group sizes are often limited to preserve the delicate environment.

Comfort is key when exploring tunnels. Underground temperatures stay cool even in summer. Wear layers to stay warm during longer tours. The floors can be uneven or damp in the Labyrinth. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid slipping. Most sites are not fully accessible for wheelchairs due to historic stairs. Check official sites for specific accessibility details.

Photography rules vary between locations. The Ossuary allows photos for a small fee. The Capuchin Crypt often forbids flash photography. Always ask your guide before taking pictures. This respects the sites and other visitors. Many underground locations are close to famous cafes in Brno. You can easily grab a coffee between your tours.

Exploring More Near Brno City Center

After your underground adventure, explore the surface. Brno has a vibrant atmosphere and rich culture. You can find many free things to do in Brno nearby. Walk through the historic center to see the Old Town Hall. Don’t miss the famous "Brno Dragon" hanging in the passage. The architecture here spans many centuries.

Public transport makes getting around very easy. You can use the DPMB public transport system for longer distances. Trams run frequently and cover all major sights. You can buy tickets at yellow machines or via mobile apps. This is the best way to reach the Brno Reservoir. It is a great spot for a relaxing afternoon walk.

If you have more time, visit the national tourism board site. Visit Czechia offers great tips for Moravia. You might enjoy the local wine scene in the evening. Brno is famous for its lively bars and hidden pubs. It is the perfect way to end a day of exploration.