Things To Do
in Brno
Brno sits in a Moravian valley at the confluence of the Svratka and Svitava rivers. It blends medieval charm with a modern, design-forward vibe and a thriving student culture. The city center showcases Gothic, Baroque, and modernist architecture, with lively cafés, markets, and parks around every corner.
Brno serves as a gateway to Moravian wine, caves, and nature, all within a compact, walkable downtown.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Café Mistral, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and aromatic coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to the Špilberk Castle, soaking in the stunning views of the city from its fortress walls. Explore the castle's rich history and enjoy the surrounding gardens before heading into the heart of Brno.
After a morning of exploration, indulge in lunch at one of the local eateries on Zelný trh, where you can savor traditional Czech dishes. Post-lunch, visit the iconic Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, marveling at its neo-Gothic architecture and climbing the tower for panoramic views. Continue your cultural journey at the nearby Brno City Museum, which showcases the city's art and history.
As the sun sets, wander through the vibrant streets of the historic center, stopping for a drink at a cozy bar like Bar, který neexistuje. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Czech beer and goulash to round off your culinary experience. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the river, taking in the serene atmosphere of Brno at night.
Begin your day with a visit to the Moravian Gallery, where you can admire an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. After soaking in the creative atmosphere, grab a light brunch at a nearby café, enjoying fresh local ingredients. Spend some time wandering through the nearby streets, appreciating the street art and sculptures scattered throughout the area.
In the afternoon, visit the Villa Tugendhat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a guided tour of this architectural masterpiece designed by Mies van der Rohe. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, reflecting on the innovative design and rich history of the villa. Afterward, stroll through the lush gardens of Lužánky Park, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility.
As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner at a sophisticated restaurant that specializes in Czech cuisine with a modern twist. Post-dinner, catch a performance at the National Theatre Brno, experiencing the local arts scene firsthand. End your night with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, enjoying stunning views of the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way ticket (public transit) | $1-2 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with a rich mix of history and modern culture.
- Excellent base for exploring Moravian wine, caves, and castles.
- Weather can be variable; some attractions require advance booking.
- Tourist crowds peak in summer and during university holidays.
- "Dobrý den" - Hello/Good day
- "Prosím" - Please
- "Děkuji" - Thank you
- "Kde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mluvíte anglicky?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kolik to stojí?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Brno
Visit one of these nice places.
Two spires silhouette against a morning sky; sweeping views over Brno.
Medieval fortress with vantage points overlooking the city and Gothic towers.
Historic square with colorful facades, fountains, and the distinctive astronomical clock.
Iconic modernist architecture; exteriors provide clean lines and strong geometry.
Elevated parkland with city views and the observatory structure.
Food in Brno
Brno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef sirloin in a creamy root-vegetable sauce served with dumplings; a Moravian benchmark.
Must-Try!
Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut; a Czech comfort classic.
Crispy fried pork served with dumplings and cabbage; a popular Moravian dish.
Crispy potato pancakes often served with sour cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central square offering seasonal produce, baked goods, and local snacks.
Casual stalls offering Czech snacks, sandwiches, and international bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and a friendly greeting such as Dobrý den is standard.
Address people using formal language with titles in first meetings; avoid loud behavior in public.
Wait to be seated in restaurants that require it and try local dishes in order from mild to strong flavors.
Safety
Tipping in Brno
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; occasional showers; great for city walks and photography.
Warm days with long evenings and occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan sunset vantage points.
Cooler air and colorful foliage; comfortable for outdoor exploring and markets.
Cold with possible snow; festive lights in December; indoor cultural events are plentiful.
Brno at Night
Hiking in Brno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular limestone hills with trails and city views just west of Brno.
A renowned cave system with scenic gorges and guided tours near Blansko, about 20-25 km north.
Short drives to river valleys and forested trails suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Brno by plane.
Brno’s local airport offers domestic and limited international flights; easy 20-30 minute drive to the city center.
Major international hub; connected to Brno by high-speed rail and buses.
Large international hub about 1.5-2.5 hours away by train or road trip; convenient for long-haul connections.
Regional airport about 2 hours away by road; alternative gateway for some destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group with a strong student presence from Masaryk University and local colleges.
A large and active student population contributes to the city’s culture and nightlife.
Growing communities attracted by universities, tech, and research institutions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local teams and city leagues; FC Zbrojovka Brno is a recognizable club with avid local support.
Czech love for hockey with local clubs in Brno; occasional matches attract crowds.
Brno’s flat to rolling terrain is ideal for cycling and training routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Czech dishes can be vegetarian or easily adjusted; look for dumplings, mushroom dishes, and cheese plates; request meat-free stocks in soups, and many cafes offer veggie soups and salads.