Top Sites in Your Brno Underground Labyrinths Guide

Brno offers a diverse range of underground experiences. You can choose between historical cellars, religious crypts, or modern bunkers. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Best Overall: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market
• Best for History: 10-Z Bunker
• Best for Families: Špilberk Casemates
• Best for Photos: Žlutý kopec Reservoirs

1. Name: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market Type: sight Why go: This is the largest underground system in Brno. It features deep cellars used since the Middle Ages. You can learn about history of Brno underground labyrinth vegetable market on a guided tour. Best for: General history lovers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 60 minutes. Cost: 180-220 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the main station. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the floors are uneven.
2. Name: Ossuary at the Church of St. James Type: experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. It holds the remains of over 50,000 people. Visit the St. James Church Brno ossuary for a truly unique atmosphere. Best for: Dark tourism fans. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: 160 CZK. Getting there: Five-minute walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Photography is allowed but be respectful.
3. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: sight Why go: This was a top-secret nuclear shelter for the city's elite. You can explore the machinery and living quarters. Check out the 10-Z bunker hostel and tours for an overnight stay. Best for: Cold War history buffs. Where: Husova street. Time: 60-90 minutes. Cost: 180 CZK. Getting there: Near the Špilberk park entrance. Tip: Use the provided vintage coats if you feel cold.
4. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: sight Why go: This crypt contains naturally mummified monks from the 18th century. The unique ventilation system preserved the bodies. The Capuchin crypt mummies Brno is a somber but fascinating site. Best for: History and religious interest. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 100-120 CZK. Getting there: Near the Vegetable Market. Tip: Read the inscriptions on the coffins for personal stories.
5. Name: Mint Master’s Cellar Type: sight Why go: It shows the history of coin minting in Brno. The cellar sits beneath the New Town Hall. It features interactive displays for all ages. Best for: Families with children. Where: Dominikánské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Look for the old city seals on display.
6. Name: Špilberk Castle Casemates Type: sight Why go: These were once the most feared prison cells in Europe. The dark tunnels were used for military storage and prisoners. It is a very atmospheric part of the fortress. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Špilberk Castle. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: 160 CZK. Getting there: Walk up the hill from Husova street. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the castle tower.
7. Name: Žlutý kopec Water Reservoirs Type: sight Why go: These massive brick tanks look like underground cathedrals. They are a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering. They recently opened to the public in 2024. Best for: Architects and photographers. Where: Žlutý kopec (Yellow Hill). Time: 60 minutes. Cost: 250-300 CZK. Getting there: Take bus 38 or 39. Tip: Tickets sell out weeks in advance, so book early.
8. Name: New Town Hall Cellars Type: experience Why go: These cellars offer a quieter look at municipal history. They often host temporary art exhibitions. The masonry is very well preserved. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Dominikánské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Usually free or low cost. Getting there: Behind the Mint Master's Cellar. Tip: Check for evening events or wine tastings.

How to Use This Brno Underground Labyrinths Guide

Planning a trip to the Brno underground requires some preparation. Most sites have limited capacity for each tour. You should book your tickets online before you arrive. Use the how to buy tickets for Brno underground tours guide for help. This ensures you do not miss out on popular spots.

The temperature underground is constant throughout the year. It usually stays around 10 to 12 degrees Celsius. Even in summer, you will need a light jacket. Wear sturdy shoes as many floors are made of stone or brick. Some tunnels have low ceilings, so watch your head.

Getting around Brno is very easy with public transport. You can check schedules on the DPMB website. Most underground sites are within walking distance of each other. If you need more general info, visit Go To Brno for maps. They have a central office near the Old Town Hall.

History and Myths of the Brno Tunnels

The Brno underground was not built all at once. It grew over centuries to meet different needs. Medieval citizens used cellars to store food and beer. During wars, these spaces became vital shelters for the population. Each tunnel has a story to tell about survival.

Local legends also haunt these subterranean spaces. You might hear about the Brno dragon and wheel legends during your tour. Some say secret passages connect the castle to the city center. While many are myths, the scale of the tunnels is very real. Archaeologists are still finding new chambers today.

The rediscovery of the St. James Ossuary was a major event. It had been forgotten for over two hundred years. Workers found it by accident during a routine survey in 2001. Now, it stands as a reminder of the city's complex past. These sites help us understand the people who lived here before.

Best Day Trips to Nearby Underground Wonders

If you have more time, explore the area around Brno. The Moravian Karst region is famous for its caves. These offer a more natural underground experience. They are located just a short drive or train ride away. Here are three excellent day trip options.

1. Name: Punkva Caves Type: day trip Why go: These are the most famous caves in the Czech Republic. You can take a boat ride on the underground Punkva River. It also includes a view of the Macocha Abyss. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Blansko region. Time: 2 hours (tour only). Cost: 250-300 CZK. Getting there: Train to Blansko, then a local bus. Tip: Book months in advance for the boat tour.
2. Name: Výpustek Cave Type: day trip Why go: This cave has a unique military history. It served as a secret fallout shelter during the Cold War. You can see the heavy blast doors and command center. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: Near Křtiny. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: 180 CZK. Getting there: Bus from Brno toward Jedovnice. Tip: The cave is very large and quite damp.
3. Name: Veveří Castle Cellars Type: day trip Why go: This castle overlooks the Brno Reservoir. The cellars are often used for wine storage and tastings. Visit the Brno reservoir and Veveri castle for a full day out. Best for: Couples and hikers. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: 4-5 hours (including castle). Cost: 150 CZK. Getting there: Take a boat from the reservoir dock. Tip: Visit in autumn for the best wine events.