Historic City Center Routes

The heart of Brno is best explored on foot. Most major landmarks are clustered within a twenty-minute radius. These routes cover history, legends, and stunning architecture. Wear comfortable shoes, as cobblestones are common.

Start your journey near the main train station or Náměstí Svobody. You will find plenty of cafes for breaks along the way.

• Name: The Old Town Circuit Type: Historic Sightseeing Why go: This is the essential introduction to the city. You will see the Old Town Hall, the Dragon, and the Astronomical Clock. It captures the main squares and lively atmosphere. Best for: First-time visitors and history lovers. Where: Brno-střed (City Center). Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free (pay for tower entry). Getting there: Start at Náměstí Svobody (Tram 4 or 9). Tip: Look for the self-guided Brno city center walking tour to catch all the hidden details.
• Name: Špilberk Castle Climb Type: Viewpoint/History Why go: The walk up offers exercise and rewarding panoramic views. The castle grounds are peaceful and lush. It was once a feared prison but is now a cultural hub. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Hill overlooking the center. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; museum entry varies. Getting there: Walk up Husova Street west of the center. Tip: For the easiest route, check our guide on the walk to Spilberk Castle from city center.
• Name: Petrov Cathedral & Denis Gardens Type: Iconic Sight/Relaxation Why go: The twin spires of majestic Petrov dominate the skyline. The adjacent gardens offer terraces with views over southern Brno. It is romantic especially at sunset. Best for: Couples and sunset chasers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short uphill walk from Zelný trh. Tip: Consider walking up to Petrov Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Name: Underground Labyrinth Walk Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Explore the medieval cellars and ossuary beneath the bustling streets. It gives you a spooky yet fascinating perspective on history. It is a great option for rainy days. Best for: History buffs and rainy days. Where: Entrance near Zelný trh. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 180–350 CZK. Getting there: Located right in the Vegetable Market square. Tip: Book the Brno underground labyrinth walking tour in advance as slots fill up quickly.

Scenic Parks and Architectural Walks

Beyond the medieval core, Brno boasts impressive architecture and greenery. The city expanded significantly in the 19th and 20th centuries. These walks showcase a more modern and relaxed side of local life. Expect wide boulevards and leafy canopies.

For more information on the city's vibe, check the Go To Brno tourism portal.

• Name: Lužánky Park Loop Type: Park/Leisure Why go: It is the oldest public park in the Czech Republic. Locals jog, picnic, and play tennis here. The paved paths are perfect for strollers and casual strolling. Best for: Families and runners. Where: North of the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 or 6 to Pionýrská. Tip: The Luzanky Park walking paths are flat and accessible for everyone.
• Name: Kraví Hora & Planetarium Type: Viewpoint/Science Why go: This hill offers one of the best skyline views of the castle. It houses a swimming pool and a modern planetarium. The vibe is chill and very local. Best for: Evening walks and stargazing. Where: Masaryk Quarter. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Free (Planetarium separate). Getting there: Tram 4 to Kraví hora terminus. Tip: Explore the Kravi Hora park walking trails for hidden picnic spots.
• Name: Functionalist Architecture Route Type: Architecture/Urban Why go: Brno is famous for its functionalist villas, including the UNESCO-listed Villa Tugendhat. Walking through the Černá Pole neighborhood feels like a time-travel to the 1930s. The clean lines and white facades are striking. Best for: Design lovers and architects. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free (Villa interiors require tickets). Getting there: Tram 9 to Tomanova. Tip: Follow the marked functionalist architecture walking route in Brno to see the best exteriors. Learn more about Villa Tugendhat at UNESCO.

Nature Trails on the Outskirts

You don't have to leave the city limits to find dense forests. Brno is surrounded by hills and woodlands. Excellent public transport connects the center to these trailheads. These walks are ideal for weekends or sunny afternoons.

• Name: Brno Reservoir (Prýgl) Type: Nature/Water Why go: A massive dam surrounded by forests and beaches. You can walk along the shore or take a boat. It is the top summer destination for locals. Best for: Summer days and swimming. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: The Brno Reservoir walking trails connect to Veveří Castle for a longer hike.
• Name: Holedná Deer Park Type: Wildlife/Forest Why go: This is a fenced game reserve where trails wind through the forest. Visitors often spot mouflons and deer roaming freely. It feels wild but is safe and well-marked. Best for: Animal lovers and families. Where: Kohoutovice/Bystrc. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus 52 to Stará dálnice. Tip: Discover the walking trails in Obora Holedná deer park early for the best animal sightings.
• Name: Mariánské Údolí Valley Type: Nature/Valley Why go: A series of reservoirs nestled in a deep, wooded valley. The terrain is largely flat and follows the water. It is very popular for cycling and rollerblading too. Best for: Easy scenic hiking. Where: Brno-Líšeň. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus 55 to Mariánské údolí. Tip: Pack a lunch; restaurants are scarce inside the valley.
• Name: Stránská Skála Type: Geology/Hike Why go: A limestone rock formation rich in fossils and rare flowers. It offers a unique view over the industrial city parts. It is a National Nature Monument. Best for: Geology fans and short steep hikes. Where: Brno-Slatina. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 10 to Stránská skála. Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as the limestone can be slippery.