Historic Landmarks & Views

Start your journey with the skyline icons of Brno. These sites define the city's silhouette. They are steeped in history and offer the best views. Most are located right in the compact city center.

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Fortress & Museum Why go: It dominates the hilltop overlooking the city. Once a feared prison, it is now a grand museum complex. The casemates (prison dungeons) are fascinating to explore. Best for: History buffs and panoramic views. Where: Špilberk Park (City Center). Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Interiors are paid; grounds are free. Getting there: Walk up the hill from Husova Street. Tip: Read our complete Spilberk Castle guide before you climb the hill.
2. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Religious Site Why go: The twin neo-Gothic towers are visible from everywhere. The interior is stunningly ornate. You can climb the towers for a unique view of the castle opposite. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the towers. Getting there: A short walk from the main train station. Tip: Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul at noon to hear the bells ring (they ring at 11 AM due to a local legend).
3. Name: Old Town Hall (Stará radnice) Type: Viewpoint & Sight Why go: It features the legendary "Brno Dragon" (a hanging crocodile). The gothic portal has a famous crooked pinnacle. The 63-meter tower offers the absolute best view of the Old Town. Best for: Photographers. Where: Radnická Street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Modest entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Located between Vegetable Market and Freedom Square. Tip: Check Old Town Hall opening hours, especially if you want sunset photos.

Famous Brno Underground Sites

Brno has an entire world beneath its pavement. The city invested heavily in opening these historical subterranean spaces. They are cool, slightly eerie, and unforgettable. These tours are very popular in summer.

4. Name: Labyrinth under Vegetable Market Type: Underground Tunnels Why go: Explore medieval cellars used for food storage and alchemy. The tour showcases how people lived centuries ago. Guides wear period costumes to enhance the mood. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Paid guided tour. Getting there: Entrance is on the square itself. Tip: See what to expect in the Labyrinth under Vegetable Market.
5. Name: Ossuary at St. James Church Type: Historical/Macabre Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. It holds the remains of over 50,000 people. The arrangement of bones is artistic and respectful. Best for: Unique history seekers. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Entrance is next to St. James Church. Tip: Learn about the history inside the Brno Ossuary at St. James.
6. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Mausoleum Why go: The unique air ventilation naturally mummified the monks buried here. You can see preserved bodies from the 17th century resting on the ground. It is a somber but fascinating experience. Best for: Dark tourism enthusiasts. Where: Capuchin Square. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Near the Vegetable Market. Tip: Read about the mummies in our Capuchin Crypt guide.

Modern Architecture & Art

Brno is a hotspot for functionalist architecture. It is also home to vibrant art galleries. These attractions show the city's intellectual side. Advance booking is often necessary for the top sites.

7. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: UNESCO Architecture Why go: This is a masterpiece of modernism by Mies van der Rohe. The open-plan design and onyx wall are world-famous. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Brno. Best for: Architecture students and fans. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 90 minutes (tour). Cost: High; booking required months ahead. Getting there: Tram 9 to Tomanova. Tip: Check Villa Tugendhat ticket availability at least 3 months in advance. You can also read more on the UNESCO website.
8. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Cold War History Why go: This was a secret nuclear fallout shelter for the city's elite. Now it is a retro hostel and museum. You can roam the narrow corridors and inspect vintage equipment. Best for: Cold War history buffs. Where: Under fanatic Špilberk hill. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Entrance on Husova Street. Tip: Grab a drink at the retro "milk bar" inside.
9. Name: Moravian Gallery (Místodržitelský palác) Type: Art Museum Why go: It is the second-largest art museum in the Czech Republic. The collections range from medieval art to contemporary design. The settings in historical palaces are beautiful. Best for: Art lovers and rainy days. Where: Moravské náměstí. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Collection fees vary; some permanent exhibits are free. Getting there: City center, near St. Thomas Church. Tip: Plan your visit with our guide to visiting the Moravian Gallery in Brno.

Relaxation & Family Fun

Need a break from history? Brno offers great outdoor spaces and family activities. These spots are perfect for relaxing. They are busiest on sunny weekends.

10. Name: Brno Reservoir (Brněnská přehrada) Type: Nature/Recreation Why go: Locals call it the "Brno Sea." You can swim, rent paddleboards, or take a boat cruise. It is surrounded by forests and beaches. Best for: Summer chills and families. Where: Bystrc district. Time: Half-day or full-day. Cost: Free access; boats cost extra. Getting there: Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: Take a boat trip to Veveří Castle nearby. See our Brno Reservoir boat guide.
11. Name: Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) Type: Public Square/Market Why go: This is the vibrant heart of the city. Farmers sell fresh produce here daily (except Sunday). The square features a monumental baroque fountain and cafes. Best for: Local vibes and coffee. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to browse. Getting there: Walk downhill from the train station. Tip: Visit the "Cosmic" truck for iconic coffee.
12. Name: VIDA! Science Centre Type: Interactive Museum Why go: This is a massive playground for learning. It has over 170 interactive exhibits on physics, biology, and more. It is fun for both kids and adults. Best for: Families with children. Where: Near the Exhibition Centre. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Tram 1 to Výstaviště. Tip: Read more on Go To Brno or check our full VIDA! Science Centre review.

Essential Travel Tips for Brno

Brno is easy to navigate. The city center is a pedestrian zone. Here is what you need to know for a smooth trip.

• Public Transport: The system is excellent. It includes trams, buses, and trolleybuses. You can tap your credit card directly inside the vehicle to buy a ticket. For schedules, verify with DPMB.
• The BRNOPAS: This tourist card offers great value. It includes free entry to the Ossuary, the Labyrinth, and the Castle museum. It also covers public transport for the duration of the card.
• Money: The currency is the Czech Crown (CZK). Most places accept cards, but carry cash for small markets.
• Safety: Brno is generally very safe. Use common sense around the main train station late at night.