The Best Travel Guide to Brno

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Czech Republic

Brno

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Brno

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The guide was updated: 2018-07-31

With a skyline dominated by the imposing Špilberk Castle and the soaring twin-spires of the Peter and Paul Cathedral, Brno has an attractive and historic city centre. The name, Brno, might sound like a crossword anagram, but the Czech Republic’s second largest city and capital of Moravia is a vibrant, yet traditional, place. Brno boasts stunning architecture, great museums, a crypt, a gorgeous lake – just a tram ride away – and an exciting, beer-filled bar scene without heaving crowds.

Facts

Population:	377,440
Currency:	1 Czech crown or koruna (Kč or CZK) = 100 hellers or haléřů
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	General emergency: 112 Fire service: 150 Ambulance: 155 Police: 158 Municipal police: 156
Newspapers:	Právo Brnensky denik Lidové Noviny
Website:	www.brno.cz
Opening hours:	Shops and banks are open 9am-5pm on weekdays. Most banks are closed on Saturdays. Museums are open 10am-6pm and are usually closed on Mondays.
Tourist information:	Informační centrum Radnická 8, Brno +420 542 427 150 www.ticbrno.cz info@ticbrno.cz Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-6pm, Sat-Sun and holidays 9am-6pm

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Section in Brno

In the town centre, easy and fun to explore on foot, tourists can enjoy great museums, historical venues and other interesting sites. Brno is also a very green city with lots of parks and lakes where visitors can chill out and just forget about everyday life.

Špilberk Castle (hrad Špilberk)

Situated on a rocky hill overlooking the city, Špilberk Castle was originally a royal castle, then converted into a huge Baroque fortress and secure prison known as the ‘Dungeon of Nations’ because of its international guest list of rebels against the oppressive Habsburg regime.

Brno City Museum – Měnínská Brána

With Spilberk Castle as its beautiful seat, the Brno City Museum was founded in 1904 and it's one of the main cultural venues in the city. "Gateway to Time", for example, is a long-running archaeological exhibition showing visitors primeval localities and medieval finds from Brno and surroundings.

The Cathedral Of St. Peter And Paul

Located on the top of the hill known as Petrov, the free-standing Romanesque basilica was rebuilt as a Gothic cathedral in the 13th century and then converted to the Baroque style in the 18th century. The twin spires are depicted on the Czech 10Kč coin.

Capuchin Monastery And Crypt

Discover the history of the Capuchin order - and have a somehow morbid experience - while paying a visit to this venue, where you will get the chance to see the Capuchin monastery’s crypt! Here, mummified bodies of 150 monks are displayed and preserved naturally since 1784 in the dry atmosphere (visitors will also notice that many were buried with their boots on).

Villa Tugendhat

This spot was the first UNESCO world heritage site-listed monument of modern architecture in the Czech Republic, and only the fourth worldwide to receive such a distinction: this fact alone should convince you to discover it as soon as possible. This glass-fronted villa was designed in 1928 by the famous German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and its minimalistic design is still relevant and charming. Make sure to book a visit to Villa Tugendhat even months before your get there.

Brno Reservoir

This is a popular resort and an ideal place for all kinds of water sports: the banks are lined with sport facilities, restaurants and pubs. Moreover, the reservoir/lake stretches up for 15 km to the lost-in-time hamlet of Veverská Bityská. A ferry boat chugs between Brno and Veverská Bítýška from April to September and will take you to this beautiful site.

Veveří Castle

Brno’s second castle soars above the reservoir, surrounded by the suggestive Podkomorské woods. It is a Gothic royal castle which was also used as a hunting lodge, hosting today many cultural and social events.

Old Town Hall (Stará radnice)

This is the oldest secular building in Brno, combining various architectural styles, and was also the seat of the city administration from the 14th century to 1935. In the passage of the tower, you will also notice the famous Brno Dragon (actually a crocodile) and a wheel hanging from the ceiling.

VIDA!

When in Brno, VIDA! science centrum is a great choice for a rainy afternoon: this spot is particularly children-friendly, so come here with your family and have some fun together while learning interesting science-related facts!

Zoo Brno

This is another option for a day of extreme fun for the whole family: here, you will have the chance to see majestic polar bears, tigers and pandas in real life. Wear comfortable shoes, and grab something to eat and a blanket for a picnic.

10 - Z

Do you want to learn more about the dark past of this area, going back to its communist past? Then, pay a visit to 10-Z, code name for the top secret nuclear bunker situated right in the heart of Brno. This is definitely a unique experience.

Labyrinth under Zelný trh square

This attraction is a large labyrinth of medieval hallways and mysterious, dark cellars. You can explore it during a tour offered by knowledgeable guides, dressed up in medieval clothes. Come here and discover the secrets of this spot!

Museum of Romani Culture

It's undoubtedly great to just walk around the city, grabbing some traditional food every now and then, but if you really want to get to know more about the culture of the place you are visiting, the best thing to do is to visit a museum like this one. Here you will admire numerous exhibitions regarding the origins of Romani people and what they have been through, especially in the last centuries.

BrainFAQ

Do you want to challenge your creativity and intelligence under pressure? Call some friends and spend a day at BrainFAQ, an escape game where you will face different scenarios and stories such as escaping from a psychiatric hospital unlocking mechanisms and solving puzzles!

Botanicka Zahrada (Botanical Garden)

You don't necessarily need to go far away from the city to enjoy a peaceful and natural environment: the renowned Botanical Garden, for example, is located right in the centre of Brno. Sit on a bench during a sunny day and have a chat with friends, or just contemplate the beauty around you.

Seg Agency

Brno is Czech Republic's second largest city, and consequently there are millions of things to do and see; a funny and fast way to do it is riding a Segway! Two hours will be enough to discover the most popular attractions in town, guided by an experienced guide who will make the trip even more interesting sharing anecdotes about different spots!

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