Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites in Brno

The history of Brno is visible in its towering castles and gothic churches. These sites offer the best views of the city. You can walk through centuries of military and religious history in just one afternoon. Most of these attractions are located within the compact city center. This makes it very easy to explore them on foot.

• Quick Pick: Best for Views - Špilberk Castle
• Quick Pick: Best Free Sight - Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul (Exterior)
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Old Town Hall

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: It is the most famous fortress in Moravia. It offers panoramic views and deep history. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Špilberk Hill, City Center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free to walk the grounds; paid for museum and casemates. Getting there: A short uphill walk from Husova street. Tip: Read our Spilberk Castle visiting guide for tour times.
2. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: This Gothic masterpiece dominates the skyline. Its bells ring noon at 11 AM to honor a local legend. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free for the main nave; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Walk up from the Cabbage Market. Tip: Climb the tower for the best view of the city center.
3. Name: Old Town Hall Type: Experience Why go: You can see the famous "Brno Dragon" and the bent turret. It is the oldest secular building in the city. Best for: Families and quirky history. Where: Radnická street. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free to see the dragon; paid for tower access. Getting there: Located right next to the Cabbage Market. Tip: Look for the "wheel" hanging next to the dragon in the entrance.

Modern Architecture and Cultural Attractions

Brno is world-renowned for its functionalist architecture. It was a center for modern design in the early 20th century. Today, it also hosts modern science centers and peaceful green spaces. These sites show the forward-thinking side of the city. Make sure to book your tickets early for the most popular spots.

1. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a masterpiece of modern architecture by Mies van der Rohe. Best for: Design and architecture enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Take tram 3, 5, or 9 to the Dětská nemocnice stop. Tip: Check our Villa Tugendhat guide to book 3-4 months in advance.
2. Name: VIDA! Science Centre Type: Indoor Why go: It features over 180 interactive exhibits. It is a great place to spend a rainy day with children. Best for: Families and science fans. Where: Near the Brno Exhibition Centre. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram 1 to the Výstaviště - hlavní vstup stop. Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the largest school crowds.
3. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Type: Experience Why go: It is a beautiful park-like area. It holds the graves of famous people like composer Leoš Janáček. Best for: Quiet walks and history. Where: Vídeňská street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 2 or 5 to the Ústřední hřbitov stop. Tip: Check the official site for a map of famous graves.

Underground Wonders and Unique Experiences

Brno has a massive network of tunnels and cellars. These underground spaces were used for storage, defense, and even burial. They offer a unique look at the city's past. Exploring these sites is one of the most memorable things to do. Most tours are guided and very informative.

1. Name: Ossuary at the Church of St. James Type: Unique Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. It contains the remains of over 50,000 people. Best for: Dark tourism fans. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Learn more in our guide to Brno underground tours.
2. Name: Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market Type: Experience Why go: These medieval cellars show how food was stored centuries ago. It includes an old pillory and wine cellar. Best for: History lovers. Where: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is in the lower part of the market square. Tip: Wear a jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
3. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Museum Why go: This was a top-secret nuclear shelter. You can explore the technical rooms and see Cold War artifacts. Best for: History buffs. Where: Husova street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located at the base of Špilberk Hill. Tip: Visit the bunker's retro milk bar for a unique snack.

Vibrant Squares and Local Markets

The life of Brno happens in its squares. You will find markets, festivals, and great coffee everywhere. Locals love to spend time outdoors here. These areas are perfect for people-watching and trying local food. Don't forget to try the famous Moravian wine while you are here.

1. Name: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody) Type: Neighborhood Why go: It is the social heart of the city. You can see the controversial black astronomical clock here. Best for: Local atmosphere and events. Where: City Center. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Most tram lines pass through or near here. Tip: Be there at 11 AM to try and catch a glass marble from the clock.
2. Name: Cabbage Market (Zelný trh) Type: Market Why go: This market has been active since the 13th century. It is the best place to buy fresh fruit, flowers, and local honey. Best for: Foodies and shoppers. Where: City Center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to browse. Getting there: A two-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: After shopping, visit one of the best specialty coffee shops in Brno nearby.

Best Nature and Day Trips Near Brno

If you have extra time, explore the areas surrounding the city. Moravia is famous for its beautiful nature and caves. These trips are easy to reach by public transport or car. They offer a great break from the urban environment. Nature lovers should not miss these spots.

1. Name: Moravian Karst Type: Day Trip Why go: It is a stunning protected landscape with over 1,100 caves. The Punkva Caves include a boat ride on an underground river. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: North of Brno. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate (includes transport and cave tickets). Getting there: Take a train to Blansko, then a local bus. Tip: See our Moravian Karst day trip guide for booking info.