Ultimate Guide: 12 Incredible Things to Do in Brno, Czech Republic

Are you planning a trip to the heart of Moravia? Finding things to do in Brno is easier than you might think. This vibrant city offers a perfect mix of history, modern architecture, and student energy. It is often less crowded than Prague but just as charming.

You will find medieval castles sitting next to functionalist villas. The underground labyrinth is full of secrets. Local cafes serve some of the best coffee in Europe. Whether you love history or nature, Brno has something for you.

Quick pick for History: Špilberk Castle
Quick pick for Families: VIDA! Science Centre
Quick pick for Architecture: Villa Tugendhat
Quick pick for Views: Old Town Hall Tower

Key Takeaways

Book Villa Tugendhat tickets at least 2-3 months in advance.
Use the comprehensive public transport system; tickets are cheap and valid on trams and buses.
Don't miss the underground tours, but bring a light jacket as it is cold down there.
Visit the Vegetable Market early in the morning for the best local vibe.

Historic Sights & Top Attractions in Brno

Start your journey with the most iconic landmarks. The city center is compact and walkable. You can easily see several of these top sights in a single day.

Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Historic fortress Why go: This castle dominates the skyline. It was once a royal castle and later a harsh prison known as the "Dungeon of Nations." Today, it houses the Brno City Museum. Best for: History buffs and panoramic views. Where: Hilltop west of the city center. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; museum entry varies. Getting there: Walk up the hill from Husova Street. Tip: Read our guide on visiting Spilberk Castle for exhibit details.
Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: UNESCO World Heritage Site Why go: It is a masterpiece of functionalist architecture designed by Mies van der Rohe. The open-plan layout and onyx wall are world-famous. It is the only monument of modern architecture in the Czech Republic on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Černá Pole neighborhood. Time: 90 minutes (tour necessary). Cost: Higher end; book months in advance. Getting there: Tram 9 to Tomanova. Tip: Tickets sell out fast, so check booking availability early.
Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Gothic church Why go: The twin towers are the symbol of Brno. The interior is stunning, but the tower climb is the real highlight. You get a sweeping view over the red rooftops. Best for: Photographers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the towers. Getting there: A short walk from Zelný trh. Tip: Listen for the noon bells at 11:00 AM—a local tradition recalling the 1645 Swedish siege.
Name: Old Town Hall (Stará radnice) Type: Historic tower Why go: The tower offers arguably the best view of the city center. In the passage, you will see the famous "Brno Dragon" (a taxidermy crocodile) and a wheel. These are legendary symbols of the city. Best for: 360-degree views. Where: City center, near Zelný trh. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Central pedestrian zone. Tip: Learn about climbing the tower to time your visit for sunset.
Name: Ossuary at the Church of St. James Type: Dark tourism Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. The underground space holds the remains of over 50,000 people. The arrangement is respectful yet eerie. Best for: Those who like unique or macabre history. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 30–40 minutes. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Located right next to St. James Church. Tip: Combine this with other underground tours for a full experience.

Relaxing Spots, Culture & Hidden Gems

Brno is not just about old buildings. It has a vibrant modern culture and plenty of green spaces. Here are some excellent ways to experience the local lifestyle.

Name: Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) Type: Market square Why go: This square has been a marketplace since the 13th century. Locals buy fresh produce and flowers here daily. Underneath the square lies a labyrinth of medieval cellars you can explore. Best for: Foodies and explorers. Where: Central Brno. Time: 1 hour (plus tour time). Cost: Market is free; Labyrinth has an entry fee. Getting there: Just below the Cathedral. Tip: Visit in the morning for the best market atmosphere.
Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Historical experience Why go: This was a classified nuclear fallout shelter for the city's elite during the Communism era. Now it is a museum and hostel. The temperature is constant, and the exhibits are fascinatingly retro. Best for: Cold War history fans. Where: Beneath Špilberk Castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is on Husova Street. Tip: See our list of other hidden gems in Brno if you enjoy offbeat sights.
Name: Brno Reservoir (Brněnská přehrada) Type: Nature/Recreation Why go: Locals call it the "Brno Sea." It is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or taking a boat cruise. You can take a boat all the way to Veveří Castle, a romantic ruin above the water. Best for: Summer days and relaxing. Where: Northwest edge of Brno. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free access; boat tickets vary. Getting there: Tram 1 or 3 to Přístaviště. Tip: Check out our guide to reservoir activities before you go.
Name: VIDA! Science Centre Type: Interactive museum Why go: This is a fantastic playground for curious minds. It features over 170 exhibits on physics, biology, and chemistry. It is hands-on and very English-friendly. Best for: Families with kids and rainy days. Where: Near the exhibition center (Výstaviště). Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Reasonable family tickets. Getting there: Tram 1 toward Ečerova. Tip: For more ideas, read about family activities in Brno.
Name: Brno Cafe Culture Type: Culinary experience Why go: Brno is famous for its coffee scene. It rivals Vienna but with a modern, hipster twist. You will find everything from espresso bars to cozy living-room style cafes. Best for: Resting your feet and people watching. Where: All over the city center. Time: As long as you like. Cost: 60–90 CZK for a cappuccino. Getting there: Walk around Jakubské náměstí or Veveří. Tip: Discover where to go in our article on famous cafes in Brno.

Best Day Trips Near Brno

If you have more than two days, explore the South Moravian region. The transport connections are excellent. You can use the official DPMB public transport system or regional trains.

Name: Moravian Karst & Punkva Caves Type: Nature getaway Why go: This protected landscape area features over 1,000 caves. The Punkva Caves tour includes a boat ride on an underground river. You can also view the bottom of the Macocha Abyss. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: North of Brno. Time: 5–7 hours. Cost: Tours require tickets; booking ahead is essential. Getting there: Train to Blansko, then bus. Tip: See more options for easy day trips from Brno.
Name: Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape Type: UNESCO World Heritage Why go: Often called the "Garden of Europe," this huge parkland connects two stunning chateaux. It is perfect for cycling and wine tasting. The architecture is romantic and grand. Best for: Couples and cyclists. Where: South of Brno, near the Austrian border. Time: Full day. Cost: Park is free; chateau tours cost money. Getting there: Train or bus from Brno main station. Tip: Visit the Salon of Wines in Valtice to taste Czechia's top-rated wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brno worth visiting for tourists?

Yes, absolutely. Brno offers an authentic Czech experience without the extreme crowds of Prague. It has UNESCO sights, excellent nightlife, and a compact, walkable center. Prices are generally lower than in the capital, making it a great value destination.

How many days do you need in Brno?

Two full days are perfect for seeing the main city sights like Špilberk Castle and Villa Tugendhat. If you want to explore the underground, enjoy the reservoir, or take a day trip to the Moravian Karst, plan for three to four days.

What is the best time to visit Brno?

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September) are ideal. The weather is mild, and the parks are beautiful. Summer offers outdoor festivals, while December features a charming and less crowded Christmas market compared to Prague.

Is Brno safe for solo travelers?

Brno is very safe for travelers, including solo visitors. The city center is well-lit and lively. Basic precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas are advised, just like in any European city. For more info, check the Go To Brno tourism portal.

Brno is a city that surprises many visitors. It balances a rich history with a youthful, modern energy. From the depths of the ossuary to the heights of the Old Town Hall tower, there are so many memorable things to do in Brno.

Take time to enjoy the coffee culture and explore the neighborhoods outside the center. Whether you visit for a weekend or a week, you will find plenty to keep you busy. Ready for a challenge? Start your trip by climbing the Old Town Hall tower for the perfect introduction to the city's layout.

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.
Brno-Tuřany Airport — Official airport authority; unverified source.
DPMB - Brno Public Transport — Public transport authority; unverified source.