Exploring the Legends of Old Town Hall Brno

The Old Town Hall Brno is more than just a building. It is a collection of local myths. When you enter the passage, look up. You will see a large crocodile hanging from the ceiling. Locals call it the Brno Dragon. Legend says it once terrorized the citizens. A clever man eventually trapped it using animal hide and lime.

Next, look at the stone portal at the entrance. One of the small turrets is clearly bent. The story says the architect was angry. The city council did not pay him enough money. He decided to leave a permanent mark of his frustration. This crooked spire is now a famous symbol of the city. It shows the unique humor of the people here.

Inside the hall, you can find a large wooden wheel. A local carpenter once made a bet. He claimed he could make a wheel in one day. He also had to roll it from Lednice to Brno. He succeeded, and the wheel remains on display. These stories are a great way to start your tour. They give the city a magical feeling that you won't forget.

12 Top Things to Do Near Old Town Hall Brno

Brno offers a mix of medieval history and modern culture. Most of these sites are within walking distance of the center. You can explore deep underground tunnels or climb high castle walls. There is even a UNESCO world heritage site nearby. Here are the top things to see and do during your visit.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Old Town Hall Brno
• Best for families: Špilberk Castle
• Best rainy-day: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market
• Best free: Denis Gardens Viewpoint

1. Name: Old Town Hall Brno Type: sight Why go: It is the city's historic core. You can see the dragon and the crooked turret. The tower offers a 360-degree view of the red roofs. It is the best place to understand the city's past. Best for: History lovers. Where: Radnická Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for tower. Getting there: Walk from the main station. Tip: Visit the tourist office inside for a free map from the official City of Brno portal.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: sight Why go: This fortress sits on a hill overlooking the city. It was once a famous prison for political rebels. You can tour the dark casemates and enjoy the gardens. It is a symbol of the city's strength. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for interiors. Getting there: Walk up from Husova Street. Tip: Visit Špilberk Castle at sunset for the best photos.
3. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: experience Why go: This is a masterpiece of modern architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The design is clean and uses expensive materials like onyx. It changed the way people think about living spaces. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High; book months in advance. Getting there: Take tram 3 or 5 from the center. Tip: If tickets are sold out, you can still visit Villa Tugendhat gardens for a lower price.
4. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: The twin towers of this cathedral dominate the skyline. The interior is beautiful and peaceful. The bells ring noon at 11:00 AM every day. This honors a trick played on an invading army. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry; small fee for towers. Getting there: Short walk from the Vegetable Market. Tip: Climb the towers of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul for a close-up view of the spires.
5. Name: St. James Ossuary Type: experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Thousands of bones are arranged in artistic patterns underground. It is a moving and slightly eerie experience. The lighting and music create a unique atmosphere. Best for: Dark history fans. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Walk to Rašínova Street. Tip: The St. James Ossuary is cool inside, so bring a light jacket.
6. Name: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market Type: experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels. You will see how people stored food and wine centuries ago. There are even displays of old punishments and alchemy labs. It is hidden right beneath the busy market. Best for: Curious explorers. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Enter from the Vegetable Market square. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market as floors are uneven.
7. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: museum Why go: This was a secret nuclear fallout shelter. It was built for the city's elite during the Cold War. You can walk through the technical rooms and see old equipment. It feels like stepping back into the 1950s. Best for: History buffs. Where: Under Špilberk Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Entrance is on Husova Street. Tip: There is a retro bar inside where you can get a snack.
8. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: sight Why go: This crypt holds the mummified remains of monks and nobles. The air circulation naturally preserved the bodies. It is a somber place that reflects on life and death. You can see the simple lifestyle of the Capuchin order. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Capuchin Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Walk two minutes from the main station. Tip: Read the famous inscription about mortality at the entrance.
9. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: It looks like a giant black bullet. This modern clock is made of polished stone. Every day at 11:00 AM, it releases a glass marble. People gather around to try and catch it. Best for: Unique photo ops. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the main city square. Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early if you want to catch a marble.
10. Name: Veveří Castle Type: day trip Why go: This castle is located by the Brno Reservoir. It is surrounded by beautiful forests and water. You can take a boat trip to reach it. It offers a great break from the city streets. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: 15km outside the center. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Small fee for grounds. Getting there: Take tram 1 and then a ferry or bus. Tip: Plan a Veveří Castle trip during the summer months.
11. Name: Parnas Fountain Type: sight Why go: This Baroque fountain is the center of the Vegetable Market. It features many statues of mythical figures. It has been a meeting spot for locals for centuries. The surrounding market is great for fresh fruit. Best for: Relaxing and people-watching. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Old Town Hall. Tip: Buy some local Moravian strawberries from the stalls nearby.
12. Name: Denis Gardens Type: viewpoint Why go: This park offers the best view of the Cathedral and Špilberk Castle. It is a very romantic spot with colonnades and benches. It is the perfect place to watch the city lights at night. Best for: Couples. Where: Near Petrov Hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up from Husova or Nádražní Street. Tip: It is a great spot for a morning coffee with a view.

Practical Tips for Your Brno Adventure

Brno is a very walkable city. Most major sights are concentrated in the historic center. You can reach the Old Town Hall Brno in just a few minutes from the station. If you need to go further, the public transport is excellent. Trams and buses run frequently throughout the day and night.

For the best experience, visit between May and September. The weather is warm and the outdoor markets are full of life. Many attractions have shorter hours in winter. Always check the Go To Brno website for current events. They list festivals and special museum nights that happen throughout the year.

Keep in mind that some sites require advance planning. Villa Tugendhat is the most popular spot. You often need to book tickets several months ahead. Other sites like the underground labyrinth are easier to visit. Most places accept credit cards, but having some Czech Koruna is helpful for small stalls.