Planning Your Brno Reservoir Boat Ride

The boats at Brno Reservoir are operated by the local transport company, DPMB. These vessels are unique because they run entirely on electricity. This keeps the water clean and the ride very quiet. You can find the latest schedule and ticket prices online before you go.

The main season typically runs from late April until early October. Boats depart frequently from the Bystrc harbor area. You can buy tickets at the harbor windows or via a mobile app. For the most accurate transit info, check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website. It is helpful to arrive 15 minutes before your planned departure.

If you have a multi-day city pass, you might get a discount on the boat fare. Always keep your ticket until you finish your journey. The staff will check tickets as you board the vessel. Most boats have two decks, including an open-top area for the best views.

12 Top Stops and Experiences on the Water

This list includes the best stops along the reservoir and a few nearby must-see spots. Use this to plan your full day itinerary. Each stop offers something different, from sandy beaches to medieval walls. You can find more details in our Brno sightseeing guide for a complete trip.

• Name: Bystrc Přístaviště Type: Sight Why go: This is the main starting point for all boat trips. Best for: Logistics and snacks. Where: Bystrc District. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to enter harbor area. Tip: Buy an all-day boat ticket here to save money if you plan to hop on and off.
• Name: Veveří Castle Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the oldest and largest castle complexes in Moravia. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Northern end of the reservoir. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee for interiors. Tip: Consider walking from Brno Reservoir to Veveri Castle for great forest views.
• Name: Kozí horka Type: Experience Why go: This area has gentle slopes and is perfect for a swim. Best for: Families and sunbathers. Where: West bank of the reservoir. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: You can rent pedal boats or stand-up paddleboards here.
• Name: Sokolské koupaliště Type: Activity Why go: It is a hub for beach volleyball and summer sports. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Near the Bystrc start point. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free access to most areas. Tip: There are many small kiosks here serving cold Czech beer and fried cheese.
• Name: Rokle Type: Nature Why go: A quiet stop surrounded by thick forests and hiking trails. Best for: Hikers. Where: Mid-way up the reservoir. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: Follow the yellow trail for a scenic walk through the trees.
• Name: Obora Type: Experience Why go: This stop leads to a large deer park and forest area. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Eastern bank. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Tip: Stay quiet to increase your chances of seeing wild deer in the woods.
• Name: Mečkov Type: Nature Why go: One of the most narrow and scenic parts of the river canyon. Best for: Relaxing views from the boat. Where: Near Veveří Castle. Time: 15 minutes (boat pass). Cost: Included in boat fare. Tip: Have your camera ready as the boat passes under the high cliffs.
• Name: Zoufalka Type: Sight Why go: A picturesque bridge and narrow passage near the castle. Best for: Landscapes. Where: Just below Veveří Castle. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: This is a great spot to get off the boat and walk the rest of the way to the castle.
• Name: Rakovec Type: Experience Why go: A large grassy area perfect for picnics and relaxing. Best for: Low-key afternoons. Where: South end, near Bystrc. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Tip: It is less crowded than Sokolské koupaliště on weekends.
• Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: The iconic fortress overlooking Brno city center. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Brno City Center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Check out our Spilberk Castle sightseeing guide for tour details.
• Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Sight Why go: A world-famous example of functionalist architecture and a UNESCO site. Best for: Design fans. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: High (booking required). Tip: Read these Villa Tugendhat booking tips to secure a ticket months in advance.
• Name: Moravian Karst Type: Day trip Why go: Incredible limestone caves and the deep Macocha Abyss. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: 30 km north of Brno. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Tip: Book cave tours in advance on the Visit Czechia portal.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Voyage

To make the most of your Brno Reservoir boat ride, timing is everything. Weekends in July and August are very busy. If you can, visit on a weekday morning. The first boat usually leaves around 9:00 AM. This allows you to see the castle before the midday heat.

Sun protection is vital when sitting on the top deck. There is very little shade while the boat is moving. Bring water and a hat for the journey. Most boats have a small bar where you can buy drinks. However, options for full meals are limited until you reach the main stops.

The reservoir area is very safe for solo travelers and families. Paths are well-marked and easy to follow. If you enjoy saving money, look for free things to see in Brno after your boat trip. The city has many parks and monuments that cost nothing to enjoy.