12 Must-See Hidden Modernist Sites in Brno

Brno is often called an open-air museum of functionalism. The city grew rapidly between the world wars. Architects used steel, glass, and concrete to create a new world. Many of these buildings are still used today. Some are cafes, while others are private homes or schools. Here are the top 12 sites you should not miss.

• Quick Pick: Best Overall - Villa Stiassni
• Quick Pick: Best for Coffee - Era Café
• Quick Pick: Best Free Site - Colony Nový Dům
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Jurkovič House

1. Name: Villa Stiassni Type: sight Why go: This L-shaped villa was a home for a wealthy textile family. It later served as a luxury hotel for government guests. You can explore the grand interiors and the massive garden. Best for: History buffs and garden lovers. Where: Pisárky district. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: 200–300 CZK. Getting there: Take Tram 1 to the Výstaviště stop. Tip: Read more on how to visit Villa Stiassni before you go.
2. Name: Jurkovič House Type: museum/indoor Why go: This house is a mix of folk art and early modernism. It was the home of architect Dušan Jurkovič. The colorful wood and stone details are unique in Brno. Best for: Fans of colorful, decorative architecture. Where: Žabovřesky. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150–200 CZK. Getting there: Take Trolleybus 34 or 36 to the Wilsonův les stop. Tip: Check for Jurkovic House tickets early as tours are small.
3. Name: Era Café Type: experience Why go: Era Café is a functionalist icon with a famous red spiral staircase. It was designed by Josef Kranz in the 1920s. The large windows let in beautiful natural light. Best for: Coffee lovers and interior photographers. Where: Černá Pole. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a coffee (60–100 CZK). Getting there: Take Tram 9 or 11 to the Tomanova stop. Tip: Sit on the upper floor for the best view of the design.
4. Name: Avion Hotel Type: sight Why go: This is one of the narrowest hotels in Europe. It was built on a plot only 8 meters wide. The architect Bohuslav Fuchs used vertical space perfectly. Best for: Fans of clever urban design. Where: City Center (Česká street). Time: 15 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Walk from the main square (Náměstí Svobody). Tip: Look up to see how the windows create a sense of space.
5. Name: Moravian Bank (Komerční banka) Type: sight Why go: This building features a stunning glass-brick ceiling in the main hall. It is a prime example of commercial functionalism. The facade is simple but the interior is grand. Best for: Fans of industrial materials. Where: Náměstí Svobody. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free (it is a working bank). Getting there: Located in the main city square. Tip: Visit during banking hours to see the interior ceiling.
6. Name: Brno Exhibition Centre (Pavilion A) Type: viewpoint/nature Why go: This massive complex was built in 1928 for a major exhibition. Pavilion A has a giant parabolic arch made of concrete. The grounds are full of other modernist pavilions. Best for: Walking and seeing large-scale architecture. Where: Pisárky. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by event; grounds are often accessible. Getting there: Tram 1 or 2 to Výstaviště. Tip: Check the event calendar to see if the pavilions are open.
7. Name: Colony Nový Dům Type: neighborhood Why go: This is an experimental housing estate from 1928. It consists of 16 small functionalist houses. It shows how architects planned for modern living in the past. Best for: Urban planning enthusiasts. Where: Žabovřesky. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (outdoor walking tour). Getting there: Tram 1 to the Bráfova stop. Tip: Respect the privacy of the residents as these are private homes.
8. Name: Vesna Vocational School Type: sight Why go: Designed by Bohuslav Fuchs, this school was very modern for its time. It features clean lines and large windows for light. It represents the social goals of modern architecture. Best for: Fans of social history and design. Where: Jaselská street. Time: 15 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: A short walk from the Obilní trh tram stop. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby quirky statues in the center.
9. Name: First Moravian Savings Bank Type: sight Why go: This building on Jánská street has a beautiful white facade. It uses the "curtain wall" technique with lots of glass. It is a masterpiece by architects Fuchs and Wiesner. Best for: Seeing the center's commercial history. Where: Jánská street. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Malinovského náměstí tram stop. Tip: Look at the ground floor shops to see original details.
10. Name: Zemanova kavárna (Zeman's Café) Type: experience Why go: This is a faithful replica of a famous 1926 functionalist café. The original was demolished but rebuilt later. It sits in a lovely park setting. Best for: A relaxing break in a historic setting. Where: Koliště park. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a meal or drink. Getting there: Walk from the Janáček Theatre. Tip: The outdoor terrace is perfect for a summer afternoon.
11. Name: Central Cemetery Ceremonial Hall Type: sight Why go: This hall was designed by Bohuslav Fuchs in 1926. It is a solemn and beautiful example of modernism. The use of light and simple shapes is very moving. Best for: Those seeking quiet and reflection. Where: Brno South. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter the cemetery grounds. Getting there: Tram 2 or 5 to the Ústřední hřbitov stop. Tip: Check the Brno Central Cemetery official site for opening hours.
12. Name: Villa Löw-Beer Type: museum/indoor Why go: This villa belonged to the parents of Greta Tugendhat. It has a beautiful art nouveau style with early modern touches. You can walk through the garden to see Villa Tugendhat. Best for: Families and history lovers. Where: Černá Pole. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 150–250 CZK. Getting there: Tram 9 or 11 to the Dětská nemocnice stop. Tip: This is one of the best offbeat museums in the city.

Where to Find Functionalist Neighborhoods in Brno

Brno is divided into several areas that each have a unique feel. For the best hidden modernist architecture in Brno, start in the Pisárky district. This area is full of lush greenery and large villas. It feels like a quiet escape from the busy city center. You can walk from the Exhibition Centre up the hill to find many private gems.

Another key area is Černá Pole. This was the first modern residential district in Brno. It is home to both famous and lesser-known villas. Walking through these streets feels like stepping back into the 1930s. The gardens here are well-kept and the streets are very peaceful. It is a great place for a slow afternoon stroll.

The city center also holds many modernist surprises. Look between the older baroque buildings to find functionalist facades. Many of these are shops or office buildings. They show how Brno modernized its historic core. If you want a break from architecture, visit the Kamenna Ctvrt for a different bohemian vibe. It provides a nice contrast to the clean lines of modernism.

Planning Your Modernist Architecture Tour for 2026

Planning a trip to see hidden modernist architecture in Brno is easy. Most sites are reachable by the excellent tram system. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on any vehicle. Check the DPMB website for the latest schedules. In 2026, many sites will have digital guides available for your phone.

Many villas require booking in advance. This is especially true for interior tours. We recommend booking at least two weeks before your visit. Some sites only offer tours on weekends. Always check the official website of each attraction before you arrive. This will save you time and disappointment.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for your tour. Many of the best buildings are located on hills or long streets. Brno is a very safe city for walking. You can easily spend a whole day exploring different districts. If you need a rest, head to the secluded spots at Brno Dam for some nature. It is a great way to end a day of sightseeing.