Top 13 Cultural Attractions in Brno You Must Visit

Brno is the vibrant capital of Moravia. It offers a perfect mix of medieval history and modern architecture. Cultural attractions in Brno are diverse and often less crowded than in Prague. You can explore mysterious underground tunnels in the morning. By afternoon, you might be touring a UNESCO modernist villa.

The city feels authentic and lived-in. Prices are generally lower here than in other major European cities. Most sights are walkable from the main train station. This guide highlights the top spots for culture lovers. We cover everything from ancient castles to nuclear bunkers.

Quick Picks for Every Traveler:

Best View: Old Town Hall Tower
Best History: Špilberk Castle
Best Architecture: Villa Tugendhat
Best for Thrills: St. James Ossuary

Key Takeaways

Book Villa Tugendhat tickets at least 3-4 months in advance.
Combined tickets for Špilberk Castle save money and time.
Most city center sights are within 15 minutes walking distance.
Underground tours can be chilly; bring a light jacket even in summer.

Iconic Historical Landmarks in the City Center

These landmarks define the city skyline. They serve as excellent starting points for your navigation. You will likely see their towers from almost anywhere in town. Most visitors begin their journey at one of these three locations.

Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Fortress & Museum Why go: This hilltop fortress has dominated the city for centuries. It served as a royal castle and a feared prison of nations. You can explore dark casemates and enjoy panoramic views. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Špilberk Park (hilltop). Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Approx. 160–300 CZK. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova Street or take a small tourist bus. Tip: Buy a combined ticket to see Špilberk Castle history and tickets for the casemates and tower together.
Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Gothic Cathedral Why go: Known locally as Petrov, this cathedral sits on a rocky promontory. Its twin spires are a symbol of Brno. The interior features stunning Baroque architecture and stained glass. Best for: Architecture lovers and quiet reflection. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry to church; small fee for towers. Getting there: A short uphill walk from Zelný trh. Tip: Climb the tower for one of the best views from the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul over the city center.
Name: Old Town Hall Type: Historic Tower & Info Center Why go: This represents the secular heart of medieval Brno. The Gothic portal has a famous crooked pinnacle. Inside the passage, hangs the legendary "Brno Dragon" (a taxidermy crocodile). Best for: City views and legends. Where: Radnická Street. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the tower climb. Getting there: Located directly between Zelný trh and Freedom Square. Tip: Ask the staff about the legend of the Old Town Hall Brno dragon before climbing the 63-meter tower.

The Mysterious Brno Underground

Brno hides fascinating secrets beneath its pavement. The city has recently opened several underground historical sites to the public. These attractions offer a cool escape during hot summer days. They reveal a darker side of local history.

Name: Ossuary at St. James Church Type: Crypt & Burial Site Why go: This is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. It holds the remains of over 50,000 people. The arrangement of bones is respectful yet hauntingly beautiful. Best for: Dark tourism enthusiasts. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 140 CZK. Getting there: Next to St. James Church in the pedestrian zone. Tip: Check the opening times for the St. James Ossuary Brno entrance as capacity is limited.
Name: Labyrinth under Vegetable Market Type: Medieval Cellars Why go: Discover how food and beer were stored centuries ago. The tour leads you through a complex system of cellars. Guides explain the history of light, heating, and medieval torture. Best for: Families and curious explorers. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market). Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Approx. 160 CZK. Getting there: Entrance is right on the market square. Tip: Book your Labyrinth under Vegetable Market tours in advance for English language slots.
Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Nuclear Shelter Why go: Experience the Cold War atmosphere firsthand. This shelter was built to protect the city’s elite during a nuclear attack. Today it serves as a retro hostel and museum. Best for: Modern history fans. Where: Husova Street. Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Approx. 150 CZK. Getting there: Located at the foot of Špilberk Hill. Tip: Grab a retro drink at the milk bar inside the 10-Z Bunker Brno nuclear shelter after your tour.
Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Mummified Burial Vault Why go: The unique air circulation here naturally mummified the monks. You can see their bodies preserved in their original robes. It is a somber but fascinating cultural experience. Best for: Cultural history. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK. Getting there: Just below the Cathedral. Tip: Be respectful as you visit the Capuchin Crypt and mummies Brno.

Masterpieces of Modernist Architecture

Brno is a global capital of Functionalism. Architects in the 1920s and 30s transformed the city's appearance. Clean lines, glass walls, and open spaces define this style. These villas attract architecture students from around the world.

Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: UNESCO Monument Why go: Designed by Mies van der Rohe, it is a masterpiece of modern living. The onyx wall and retractable glass windows were revolutionary. It is the only UNESCO modern architecture site in the country. Best for: Design and architecture aficionados. Where: Černopolní Street. Time: 90 minutes (guided tour). Cost: Approx. 400 CZK (garden is cheaper). Getting there: Tram 9 to Tomanova stop. Tip: Read a Villa Tugendhat visiting guide months ahead; tickets sell out instantly. Official info is available at the UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat page.
Name: Villa Stiassni Type: Government Villa Why go: This villa is shaped like an "L" and features a massive garden. It often hosted prominent state guests and politicians. The interiors retain a grand, official 1920s atmosphere. Best for: Visitors who missed out on Tugendhat tickets. Where: Hroznová Street. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Approx. 220 CZK. Getting there: Trolleybus 38 to Marie Pujmanové. Tip: The weekend Villa Stiassni architecture tour is less crowded than other sites.

Museums and Cultural Hubs for Art & Science

Culture in Brno goes beyond old buildings. The city celebrates its artistic and scientific heritage deeply. You can find world-class galleries and exhibitions here. These spots are perfect for rainy afternoons or curious minds.

Name: Moravian Gallery Type: Art Museum Why go: It is the second-largest art museum in the Czech Republic. It spans multiple buildings, including the Governor's Palace. Collections range from Gothic art to contemporary graphic design. Best for: Visual art lovers. Where: Moravské náměstí & Husova. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Permanent exhibitions are often free. Getting there: Tram stop Moravské náměstí. Tip: Look for the giant horse statue with long legs outside the Governor's Palace.
Name: Mendel Museum Type: Science Museum Why go: Gregor Mendel discovered the laws of genetics in this very abbey. The museum is located within the Augustinian Abbey complex. Exhibits explain his experiments with peas and bees interactively. Best for: Science geeks and students. Where: Mendlovo náměstí. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Approx. 100 CZK. Getting there: Tram 1 to Mendlovo náměstí. Tip: Visit the actual garden foundation where his greenhouse once stood.

Easy Cultural Day Trips Near Brno

The region of Moravia offers incredible sights just outside the city limits. Public transport is reliable and affordable. You can easily see castles or caves and return for dinner. Check DPMB - Brno Public Transport for local connections.

Name: Lednice-Valtice Complex Type: UNESCO Landscape Why go: This massive parkland connects two stunning chateaux. It is known as the "Garden of Europe." You can bike between the castles or take a boat. Best for: Romantics and outdoor lovers. Where: 50km south of Brno. Time: Full day. Cost: Park is free; chateau tours vary. Getting there: Train to Břeclav, then bus to Lednice. Tip: Visit the Minaret tower in the park for a great view.
Name: Moravian Karst Type: Natural Caves Why go: Explore the Punkva Caves and the Macocha Abyss. You can take a boat ride on an underground river. It is a stunning geological wonder. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: 30km north of Brno. Time: Half to full day. Cost: Approx. 250 CZK for caves. Getting there: Train to Blansko, then bus. Tip: Cave tours require reservation in the summer season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top cultural attractions in Brno for a one-day trip?

For a single day, prioritize the city center. Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul and Špilberk Castle. Walk through the Vegetable Market and see the Old Town Hall. If time permits, tour the Ossuary at St. James Church.

Is the Brno underground worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely. The Labyrinth under Vegetable Market and the 10-Z Nuclear Bunker offer unique experiences. They provide a rare glimpse into medieval history and 20th-century cold war tension. They are also great for cooling off in summer.

Do I need to book Villa Tugendhat in advance?

Yes, booking months in advance is essential for the interior tour. Tickets sell out very quickly upon release. However, you can often visit the garden and see the exterior without a long-term reservation in summer.

Brno offers a rich cultural experience without the overwhelming crowds of other capitals. From the depths of the Capuchin Crypt to the heights of Špilberk Castle, there is history everywhere. The functionalist villas add a modern layer to this medieval city. Plan your route to group nearby sights together.

Check the Go To Brno portal for current events before you fly. Whether you enjoy art, history, or science, cultural attractions in Brno will surprise you.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.

Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
Brno-Tuřany Airport — Official airport authority; unverified source.
DPMB - Brno Public Transport — Public transport authority; unverified source.