Visit Brno: What are the best things to do and see in the second largest city of the Czech Republic?
Nicknamed the "Little Vienna" or the "hidden Heart of Europe", Brno is the second largest city in Chequia and the second most interesting too! Because if Prague is the historic capital of Bohemia, Brno is that of Moravia – the second historical region of the Czech Republic. Visit Brno will allow you to cross the history of the region and discover a dazzling architecture!
If you have already seen Prague, Brno is therefore an ideal destination for a weekend or more, at any time of the year. If you're wondering what to do in Brno, here is the answer with this guide of the best things to do in Brno in 2 or 3 days.
1. Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral
Photo credit: Flickr – Miroslav Petrasko
Built at the top of the Petrov hill, the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral is the jewel of the city of Brno and the whole country – it is even represented on coins. Rebuilt in the 18th century after the city’s seat by the Swedes, the interior of the temple is mainly baroque while the exterior is of Gothic style.
2. Castle Špilberk
Photo credit: Max Pixel
Faced with the Petrov hill, Špilberk fortress (Spielberg in German) dominates the city. Founded in the middle of the 13th century, it was first a symbol of protection and security for the inhabitants before becoming a symbol of oppression under the Austro-Hungarian Empire: it became a well-known state prison known as “the prison of nations” because the Italian nationalists, in particular, were imprisoned there. Today, it welcomes the museum of the city – which makes it a high cultural place in Brno.
3. Namesti Svobody
Photo credit: WikiMedia- Millenium187
Visit Brno without lingering on the central square of the city is impossible: it is the heart of the historic city, quiet in the morning when it fills with locals coming to enjoy a morning coffee in one of the many establishments of the square, then effervescent at night when Czech beer and Morave wine replaces the coffee in the pubs!
In addition, the square is a witness to the history of the city: surrounded by old buildings, rich in heritage. It is also here that there is a modern and very surprising monument: a high black stone, which works as an astronomical clock, and that delivers a small memory every day to the most patient. She is the subject of many jokes, you will know why by discovering her!
4. La Villa Tugendhat
Photo credit: WikiMedia – Daniel Fišer
The City of Tugendhat is the only monument of modern architecture in the Czech Republic, listed in UNESCO World Heritage. This functional style icon was designed by German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and was built in 1930. Today it is a tourist attraction and if you want to visit it, you will have to book your tickets (on the official website ) more than two months in advance! However, it is possible to walk and admire the villa from its garden for the modest sum of 50 crowns (2€).
It was also in this villa that the divorce between Chequia and Slovakia occurred in 1993.
5. Lužánky Park
Photo credit: WikiMedia - Millenium187
Not far from Villa Tugendhat is Lužánky Park, one of the oldest and largest parks in Brno. It was founded in the 18th century by Emperor Joseph II. It is one of the best places in the city to relax and rest: the place is covered with trees, flowers, with a small artificial river that flows into its bosom.
For the little story, this park welcomed the anniversary celebration of Napoleon in 1809 – when the city was occupied by the French army, in war against Austria.
6. Úvozna Restaurant
Photo credit: Page Facebook Uvozna
This restaurant offers delicious burgers and not a typical Czech cuisine, yet it is a must to discover the talent of the region: meat comes from local butchers, bread and pastries from a family bakery in Brno, all the rest is homemade! Of course, it offers delicious Czech beers.
7. Bar, který neexistuje
Photo credit: Page Facebook Ktery Neexistuje
What to do in Brno? Go drink a beer at the bar that doesn’t exist, of course! This is the name of this bar, the coolest in the whole city of Brno – nominated for many prizes including the best, the best Czech bar in the country! A must-see in the city, where many locals come to spend their evenings in a good atmosphere with talented barmaids: we advise you to test cocktails!
How to get to Brno?
The best way to get to Brno is to take the train (České dráhy) or the bus (Regiojet) from Prague or another nearby city. It is also possible to fly to visit Brno, but it often involves a stopover in another city – do not hesitate to check the flights on our partner’s website Skyscanner .
Where to stay in Brno?
To help you find a cheap hotel in Brno, you can read our guide on areas where to stay in Brno , or do a quick search this hotel comparison .
Main photo: WikiMedia – Norbert Aepli
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