Understanding the Brno Public Transport Zones Explanation

The Brno public transport system is highly efficient. It relies on a numbered zone system to calculate fares. The most important numbers for you are 100 and 101. These two zones cover the entire city of Brno. Most top things to do in Brno fall here.

Zone 100 represents the historic city center. Zone 101 covers the outer residential and industrial districts. When you buy a city ticket, it is usually valid for both. This 100+101 combination is the standard for urban travel. You can find more details on the DPMB official site.

If you travel outside the city, the numbers change. Neighboring towns have three-digit codes like 610 or 510. Your fare increases as you cross more zone boundaries. Always check the map at the stop before boarding a regional bus. This ensures you have the correct coverage for your journey.

10 Key Locations and Zones in Brno for Travelers

Here is a breakdown of popular spots and their zones. Use this list to plan your transit budget effectively. Most visitors find that a basic city ticket covers their entire stay. However, regional trips require extra planning.

• Best overall: Zone 100 (City Center)
• Best for families: Brno Zoo (Zone 101)
• Best rainy-day: VIDA! Science Centre (Zone 100)
• Best free: Špilberk Castle Grounds (Zone 100)

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: This fortress offers the best views of the city. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Zone 100 (City Center). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free for grounds; paid for museum. Getting there: Walk from Husova street or take bus 80. Tip: Visit at sunset for amazing photos.
2. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Sight Why go: It is a world-famous example of modern architecture. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Zone 100 (Černá Pole). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (booking required). Getting there: Tram 3, 5, or 9 to Dětská nemocnice. Tip: Book tickets months in advance via the UNESCO site.
3. Name: Brno-Tuřany Airport Type: Experience Why go: This is the main gateway for international flights. Best for: Arriving and departing travelers. Where: Zone 610 (Outer Zone). Time: 20 minutes from center. Cost: Requires a 3-zone ticket. Getting there: Take bus E76 from the main station. Tip: Check the airport authority for bus schedules.
4. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Type: Sight Why go: It is the final resting place of famous composer Leoš Janáček. Best for: Quiet walks and history. Where: Zone 101 (South Brno). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Trams 2 or 5 to Ústřední hřbitov. Tip: Use the official cemetery site to find specific graves.
5. Name: Brno Reservoir (Přehrada) Type: Nature Why go: Enjoy boat trips and lakeside beaches in summer. Best for: Families and outdoor fans. Where: Zone 101/510 boundary. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free for the area; paid for boats. Getting there: Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: A standard city ticket works if you stay at the docks.
6. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: Iconic towers that define the Brno skyline. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Zone 100 (Petrov Hill). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry; small fee for towers. Getting there: Short walk from the main train station. Tip: The bells ring noon at 11:00 AM here.
7. Name: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market) Type: Market Why go: Buy fresh local produce and see the Parnas fountain. Best for: Foodies. Where: Zone 100 (City Center). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to browse. Getting there: Any tram going to the center. Tip: Visit the underground labyrinth located beneath the square.
8. Name: Austerlitz Battlefield (Slavkov) Type: Day trip Why go: Site of Napoleon’s most famous victory. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Zone 600 (Regional). Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Requires a 4-zone ticket. Getting there: Regional bus from Brno main station. Tip: Check the Brno city guide for tour options.
9. Name: Veveří Castle Type: Sight Why go: A romantic royal castle overlooking the water. Best for: Hikers and couples. Where: Zone 510 (Regional). Time: 3 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Take the ferry from the reservoir or bus 303. Tip: The ferry is part of the IDS JMK system.
10. Name: Brno Main Station (Hlavní nádraží) Type: Experience Why go: The central hub for all transit zones. Best for: Orienting yourself. Where: Zone 100. Time: N/A. Cost: Free. Getting there: Almost all tram lines pass here. Tip: Use the yellow validation machines before boarding.

Practical Tips for Navigating Brno Zones

Buying tickets in Brno is now easier than ever. You can use your contactless bank card on any bus or tram. This system is called "Pipni a jed" (Tap and Go). It automatically calculates the best fare based on the Brno public transport system zones you visit.

If you prefer physical tickets, look for yellow vending machines. You must validate these tickets immediately after boarding. Failure to validate can lead to a heavy fine. Inspectors in plain clothes frequently check passengers on all lines. They will ask to see your ticket or scan your card.

For those staying longer, a 24-hour or 72-hour pass is great. These passes cover both Zone 100 and 101. They allow unlimited travel on trams, buses, and trolleybuses. You can also learn how to buy SMS tickets if you have a local SIM card. This is a handy backup for late-night travel.