The Legend of the Old Town Hall Brno Dragon

The Old Town Hall Brno dragon is not a mythical beast. It is actually a large stuffed crocodile. Legend says it once lived in the Svratka River. It terrified the local people for many years. A brave man finally killed it using a clever trick. He hid lime inside an animal skin. The dragon ate it and died soon after.

Another famous legend involves the wooden wheel. A carpenter made a bet in a local pub. He claimed he could make a wheel in one day. He also said he would roll it to Brno. He succeeded and the wheel still hangs in the hall. These stories make the building very special for locals.

Look closely at the stone portal outside. The middle spire is crooked. The architect was angry with the city council. They did not pay him enough for his work. He made the spire bent as a permanent protest. You can see this funny detail from the street.

10 Best Attractions and Experiences in Brno

Brno has something for everyone. You can explore dark tunnels or enjoy sunny castle views. Most sights are in the walkable city center. Here are the top ten places to visit during your trip.

1. Name: Old Town Hall Dragon & Tower Type: Iconic sight Why go: See the famous dragon and climb the tower for city views. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Radnická street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the dragon; small fee for tower. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: The tourist office is located right inside the same building.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: This massive fortress was once a famous prison. You can explore the casemates and enjoy the park. Best for: History buffs. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibit. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova street. Tip: Learn more about visiting Špilberk Castle before you go.
3. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Viewpoint Why go: The twin towers define the city skyline. The bells ring at 11 AM instead of noon. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry; fee for tower. Getting there: Short walk from the Vegetable Market. Tip: Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul for the best sunset photos.
4. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Museum Why go: This is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram 3 or 5. Tip: You must book Villa Tugendhat tickets months in advance.
5. Name: Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market Type: Unique experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels. It is located deep under the city streets. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Zelný trh square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Enter from the main square. Tip: The Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market stays cool even in summer.
6. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Unique experience Why go: See the naturally mummified remains of monks and nobles. It is a very quiet and respectful place. Best for: Dark tourism fans. Where: Capuchin Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Walk from the train station. Tip: Read about the Capuchin Crypt history to understand the mummification process.
7. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Unique experience Why go: It is the second largest ossuary in Europe. Thousands of bones are arranged in artistic patterns. Best for: Those seeking unique sights. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Walk from Rašínova street. Tip: The Brno Ossuary has a very peaceful atmosphere despite its nature.
8. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Museum Why go: This was a secret nuclear shelter for the city elite. You can take a guided tour of the tunnels. Best for: Cold War history. Where: Under Špilberk Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Enter from Husova street. Tip: There is a retro bar inside the bunker for drinks.
9. Name: Veveří Castle Type: Day trip Why go: This royal castle sits on a cliff above the water. It is one of the oldest castles in Moravia. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Brno Reservoir area. Time: Half-day. Cost: Small fee for grounds. Getting there: Take a boat from the reservoir. Tip: Combine this with a boat trip during the summer months.
10. Name: Brno Reservoir Type: Nature Why go: A popular place for swimming and relaxation. You can walk along the banks or rent a boat. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Bystrc district. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: Visit the nearby zoo if you have extra time.

How to Visit the Old Town Hall Brno Dragon

The Old Town Hall is very easy to find. It is located in the heart of the historic center. You can reach it in five minutes from the main station. The passage with the dragon is open all day. You do not need a ticket to see the dragon or the wheel.

If you want a better view, climb the tower. It is 63 meters high and offers a great panorama. You can see the Cathedral and the Castle clearly. The stairs are narrow but the view is worth it. The tower is usually open from April to October.

The building also houses the official tourism portal office. You can get maps and brochures here. The staff speak English and are very helpful. They can help you book tours for other city sights. It is the best place to start your Brno adventure.

Practical Tips for Exploring Brno in 2026

Brno is a very walkable city for most visitors. However, you might need Brno public transport for further sights. The trams are frequent and very reliable. You can buy tickets with a contactless card on the tram. Just tap when you enter and exit.

The best time to visit is during late spring or autumn. The weather is mild and the crowds are small. Summer can be hot but the reservoir is perfect then. Winter brings beautiful Christmas markets to the main squares. The city is lively throughout the entire year.

Do not forget to try the local food and beer. Moravia is also famous for its white wine. Many restaurants serve traditional Czech dishes like goulash. Prices in Brno are lower than in Prague. This makes it a great value destination for travelers.