Why Visit Pernštejn Castle in 2026?

Pernštejn Castle is often called the "Marble Castle." This name comes from the local white marble used in its construction. The castle looks like something out of a fairy tale. It features narrow corridors and winding stairs. These were designed to confuse and trap invaders. In 2026, the castle remains a top destination for history lovers. It offers a glimpse into medieval life that few other places can match.

The castle is much more than just old stone walls. It is surrounded by lush forests and deep valleys. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful compared to busy city centers. You will feel like you have stepped back in time. If you enjoy historic fortresses, you might also like Veveri Castle via Brno Dam for another local adventure. Pernštejn is a must-see for anyone staying in South Moravia.

Visiting in 2026 is better than ever. Recent restorations have opened new parts of the gardens. The local infrastructure in Nedvědice has also improved for tourists. You can find better signage and more English-language materials. This makes the trip easy for international visitors. It is a perfect blend of history, nature, and Czech culture.

Top 10 Sights on a Pernštejn Castle Day Trip Guide

This list covers everything you need for a perfect day. We include the castle itself and the surrounding area. There is a mix of history, nature, and local culture. Use this Pernštejn Castle day trip guide to make sure you do not miss anything. If you have more time in the region, consider a Moravian Karst and Punkva Caves guide for your next outing.

• Best overall: Pernštejn Castle Interiors
• Best for families: The Castle Cellars
• Best for views: The High Tower
• Best free activity: Nedvědice Marble Trail

1. Name: Pernštejn Castle Interiors Type: Iconic sight Why go: See the original Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque rooms. The Knight's Hall is particularly impressive with its detailed carvings. You will learn about the powerful Pernštejn family. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Main castle building. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 200-300 CZK. Getting there: Follow the main path from the village. Tip: The guided tours are mandatory for the main rooms.
2. Name: The Renaissance Garden Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: These gardens were recently restored to their 19th-century glory. They feature unique water systems and exotic plants. The views of the castle from the garden are stunning. Best for: Photographers. Where: Southwest slope of the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: ~120 CZK. Getting there: Access is through the castle gates. Tip: Visit during the golden hour for the best light.
3. Name: The High Tower (Barborka) Type: Viewpoint Why go: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Highlands. You can see the Svratka river winding through the valley. It is the highest point of the fortress. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Central castle courtyard. Time: 30 mins. Cost: Usually included in the tour. Getting there: Accessible via steep stairs. Tip: Watch your head in the narrow medieval passages.
4. Name: Nedvědice Village Type: Neighborhood Why go: This charming village is the gateway to the castle. It has traditional Czech houses and cozy local pubs. It is a great place to rest after your hike. Best for: Local atmosphere. Where: At the foot of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: This is where the train station is located. Tip: Try the local trout at a village restaurant.
5. Name: The Marble Quarry Trail Type: Nature/Hiking Why go: This path leads you to the source of the castle's stone. You can see the white marble outcrops in the forest. It is a peaceful walk away from the crowds. Best for: Hikers. Where: Starts near the village center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green hiking markers. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be slippery.
6. Name: Porta Coeli Monastery Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning 13th-century convent located nearby. The Gothic portal is one of the most beautiful in Europe. It is a peaceful and spiritual site. Best for: Art history fans. Where: Předklášteří (near Tišnov). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: ~150 CZK. Getting there: Stop here on your train ride back to Brno. Tip: Check the opening hours as they vary by season. For more UNESCO-style history, see our Trebic UNESCO sites day trip.
7. Name: Tišnov Town Hall Type: Iconic sight Why go: Tišnov is the main town in the area. The town hall features beautiful sgraffito decorations. It shows the history of the region in art. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Tišnov main square. Time: 30 mins. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: 15 minutes by train from Nedvědice. Tip: Grab a coffee at the square while you wait for your train.
8. Name: Svratka River Valley Type: Nature Why go: The river creates a beautiful landscape for walking or cycling. You can follow the water from Nedvědice to Doubravník. It is very scenic in the autumn. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Runs through the entire valley. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walking paths run parallel to the train tracks. Tip: Look for the old stone bridges along the way.
9. Name: Church of the Holy Cross Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Located in Doubravník, this church is built from Pernštejn marble. It contains the tombs of the Pernštejn family. The interior is grand and solemn. Best for: History buffs. Where: Doubravník village. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: One train stop from Nedvědice. Tip: It is a great alternative if you want to see more than just one day in Olomouc from Brno.
10. Name: The Castle Cellars Type: Unique experience Why go: Explore the underground parts of the fortress. You can see how food and weapons were stored centuries ago. It is cool and dark, perfect for a hot summer day. Best for: Families with children. Where: Beneath the main palace. Time: 45 mins. Cost: Usually a separate small fee. Getting there: Entry from the main courtyard. Tip: Bring a light jacket even in summer.

How to Plan Your Journey from Brno

Getting to Pernštejn Castle from Brno is very simple. The best way to travel is by train. You should take the S3 line from Brno Main Station towards Tišnov. In Tišnov, you usually change to a local train heading to Nedvědice. The total journey takes about 60 to 80 minutes. For more help, read about South Moravia public transport tips before you go.

Once you arrive at Nedvědice station, the walk begins. It is a 20-minute uphill hike to the castle gates. The path is well-marked with yellow signs. You will walk through the village and then into the woods. The climb is moderate but can be tiring for some. Take your time and enjoy the forest air.

If you prefer to drive, the trip takes about 45 minutes. There is a paid parking lot near the castle entrance. However, the train is often more relaxing and scenic. You can see the Moravian countryside through the window. You can find more travel details on the Visit Czechia portal. Plan to arrive early to avoid the largest crowds.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

Timing is everything when visiting Pernštejn. The castle is usually open from April to October. In the winter, the interiors are often closed to the public. However, you can still walk around the exterior and the village. Check the official website for exact seasonal dates. Spring and autumn are the best times for hiking the local trails.

Booking your tickets in advance is a smart move. This is especially true for weekends and holidays. The castle limits the number of people on each tour. You do not want to arrive and find that all tours are full. You can usually book online through the national heritage portal. This saves you time and stress on the day of your trip.

Do not forget to bring comfortable walking shoes. You will be walking on cobblestones and forest paths. It is also a good idea to carry some cash. While the castle takes cards, some small village shops might not. Pack a bottle of water for the hike up the hill. There are restaurants in Nedvědice, but they can get busy at lunchtime.