Top Free Things to Do in Brno for History Lovers

Brno has a rich history that stretches back many centuries. You do not need a large budget to appreciate its architectural beauty. Walking through the city center feels like visiting an open-air museum. Many of the most iconic sites offer free access to their exterior areas and grounds. This allows you to soak in the atmosphere and take great photos for free.

• Best overall: Špilberk Castle Grounds
• Best for views: Denis Gardens
• Best for families: Brno Dragon at Old Town Hall
• Best free hidden gem: Brno Central Cemetery

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Grounds Type: sight Why go: This massive fortress dominates the city skyline and offers incredible history. While the museum inside costs money, you can walk the massive ramparts and gardens for free. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Špilberk Hill, city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free (grounds only). Getting there: A short uphill walk from Husova street. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting over the city. You can learn more about visiting Spilberk Castle in Brno before you go.
2. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: This Gothic masterpiece is the most recognizable landmark in the city. You can enter the main nave for free to admire the stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free (main cathedral). Getting there: Walk up from the Cabbage Market. Tip: Listen for the bells at 11:00 AM; they ring early to honor a local legend.
3. Name: Old Town Hall & Brno Dragon Type: experience Why go: See the famous "Brno Dragon" (actually a crocodile) and the legendary wheel hanging in the passage. These symbols are central to local folklore and completely free to view. Best for: Families and curious travelers. Where: Radnická street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right between the main squares. Tip: Look at the crooked turret on the outside portal; the sculptor did it on purpose!
4. Name: Cabbage Market (Zelný trh) Type: market Why go: This lively square has been a marketplace since the 13th century. You can browse the stalls of local farmers and see the ornate Parnassus Fountain without spending anything. Best for: People-watching and local culture. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Two minutes from the main train station. Tip: Visit in the morning to see the market at its most active. Check the official tourism portal for seasonal event schedules.

Free Nature and Outdoor Activities in Brno

Brno is one of the greenest cities in the Czech Republic. You can easily escape the urban bustle without leaving the city limits. The local parks and nature reserves are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Most of these areas are easily accessible by public transport. They offer a great way to see how locals spend their free time.

1. Name: Denis Gardens (Petrov) Type: viewpoint Why go: This is arguably the best spot to get a panoramic view of south Brno. The park is beautifully landscaped with colonnades and benches. Best for: Couples and sunset seekers. Where: Below the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from any central point. Tip: It is one of the best viewpoints in Brno for a picnic.
2. Name: Brno Reservoir (Přehrada) Type: nature Why go: This huge lake is the city's favorite summer playground. You can walk the long shoreline, watch the boats, or relax on the grassy beaches for free. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Bystrc district. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1 or 11 to the Přístaviště stop. Tip: Read about Brno Reservoir recreational activities to plan your route. You can find transport info at DPMB - Brno Public Transport.
3. Name: Holedná Game Reserve Type: nature Why go: This unique forest park allows you to see wild deer and mouflon roaming freely. There is also a tall lookout tower that provides views of the surrounding hills. Best for: Wildlife fans and families with kids. Where: Between Kohoutovice and Žebětín. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus 52 or 50 to the Stará dálnice stop. Tip: Keep quiet to increase your chances of seeing the animals up close.
4. Name: Mariánské údolí Type: nature Why go: A beautiful valley featuring several ponds and limestone cliffs. It is a peaceful spot for a long walk or a bike ride in a forest setting. Best for: Hiking and escaping the crowds. Where: Líšeň district. Time: 2-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take bus 55 to the Mariánské údolí terminus. Tip: Follow the blue trail for the most scenic views of the water.

Modern Art and Quirky Landmarks in Brno

Brno is famous for its unusual and sometimes controversial statues. These modern additions to the historic center always spark a conversation. Exploring these pieces is one of the most fun free things to do in Brno. You can find them scattered across the main squares. They make for excellent and unique travel photos.

1. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: This black, bullet-shaped monument is unlike any other clock in the world. Every day at 11:00 AM, it releases a glass marble that you can try to catch for free. Best for: Fans of modern art and collectors. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: The heart of the city center. Tip: People start lining up at the holes around 10:45 AM to catch the marble. You can find more hidden gems and unusual Brno sights in our full guide.
2. Name: Statue of Courage (Jobst of Moravia) Type: sight Why go: An 8-meter tall bronze statue of a knight on a horse with very long legs. It is a favorite photo spot and a symbol of Moravian pride. Best for: Photography. Where: Moravian Square (Moravské náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from Freedom Square. Tip: Stand directly under the horse's head and look up for a "surprising" perspective.
3. Name: Moravian Gallery Courtyards Type: experience Why go: While the main exhibitions have fees, the beautiful courtyards of the Governor's Palace and Pražák Palace are often free to enter. They often feature modern art installations. Best for: Art lovers on a budget. Where: Various central locations. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (courtyards). Getting there: All are within walking distance in the center. Tip: Check the top museums and galleries in Brno for free entry days, which usually happen once a month.

Free Day Trips and Cultural Sites Near Brno

If you have more time, consider exploring the outskirts of the city. There are several significant cultural sites that offer free entry or viewing. These locations provide a deeper look into the history of Moravia. Many are just a short trip from the city center. They are perfect for those who want to see more than just the main tourist trail.

One excellent option is the Brno Central Cemetery. It is the largest cemetery in the Czech Republic and serves as a beautiful park. Many famous Czech personalities are buried here in ornate tombs. It is a peaceful place for a respectful walk. You can reach it easily by tram from the main station.

Another great free activity is visiting the exterior of Villa Tugendhat. This UNESCO site is world-famous for its functionalist design. While tours are expensive and sell out months in advance, you can see the building from the street or the garden gate. This allows you to appreciate the architecture without the high price tag. For more information on the region, visit Visit Czechia.