What is the Kamenná čtvrť Artist Colony?

Kamenná čtvrť, often called "Kamenka," has a fascinating history. It began in the 1920s as a colony for poor workers. They built small houses in the abandoned quarry. The space was tight, leading to a dense and cozy layout. Over time, the demographic shifted significantly.

In the 1960s and 70s, artists and students moved in. They loved the low costs and the secluded feel. They transformed the old shacks into creative studios. Today, it remains a hub for the city's creative community. It is a place where neighbors know each other well.

The architecture is unlike anything else in Brno. You won't find grand boulevards or modern glass towers here. Instead, you see colorful facades and DIY gardens. Every corner offers a new photo opportunity. It is a living piece of Brno's alternative culture.

12 Best Things to Do Near Kamenná čtvrť Artist Colony

To help you plan, here are the top picks for your visit. These include spots within the colony and nearby attractions.

• Best overall: Exploring the streets of Kamenka
• Best for families: Anthropos Pavilion
• Best rainy-day: Villa Stiassni
• Best free: Červený kopec Viewpoint

1. Name: Kamenná čtvrť Streets Type: Neighborhood Why go: To experience the unique bohemian atmosphere and architecture. Best for: Photographers and slow travelers. Where: Kamenná čtvrť neighborhood. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take bus 44 or 84 to the "Anthropos" stop and walk up the hill. Tip: Please be quiet as people live in these tiny homes.
2. Name: Duck Bar Type: Experience Why go: This is the social heart of the colony with great local beer. Best for: Meeting locals and enjoying live music. Where: Central part of Kamenná čtvrť. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low (price of a beer). Getting there: Located in the middle of the colony. Tip: Check their social media for impromptu concert schedules.
3. Name: Červený kopec Viewpoint Type: Nature Why go: It offers one of the best panoramic views of Brno and Špilberk Castle. Best for: Sunset watchers and hikers. Where: Just above the colony. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk uphill from the Duck Bar. Tip: Bring a blanket for a sunset picnic on the grass.
4. Name: Villa Stiassni Type: Architecture Why go: A stunning functionalist villa with a massive garden nearby. Best for: History buffs and design lovers. Where: Hroznová street, near the colony. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A 15-minute walk or short bus ride. Tip: Read a Villa Stiassni architecture guide before your visit to appreciate the details.
5. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest cemetery in the city and holds famous Czech figures. Best for: Quiet walks and history. Where: Vídeňská street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 2 or 5 from the city center. Tip: Visit the Brno Central Cemetery official site for a map of famous graves.
6. Name: Anthropos Pavilion Type: Museum Why go: See a life-sized mammoth and learn about prehistoric humans. Best for: Families with children. Where: Pisárky park area. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus 44, 84, or 52 to "Anthropos" stop. Tip: The surrounding park is perfect for a walk by the river.
7. Name: Riviera Swimming Pool Type: Experience Why go: A huge outdoor pool complex set in a former riverbed. Best for: Cooling off during hot summer days. Where: Near the Brno Exhibition Centre. Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus 44 or 84. Tip: It gets very crowded on weekends, so go on a weekday morning.
8. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: History Why go: Explore a former nuclear shelter built into the hillside. Best for: Adventure seekers and Cold War history fans. Where: Near Husova street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram to "Šilingrovo náměstí". Tip: Book a tour of the 10-Z Bunker nuclear shelter in advance as slots fill up.
9. Name: Capuchin Monastery Type: Unique Why go: See the naturally mummified bodies of monks in the crypt. Best for: Those interested in the macabre. Where: Capuchin Square (Kapucínské náměstí). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Short walk from the main train station. Tip: Learn more about the Capuchin monastery mummies in Brno before going.
10. Name: Stránská skála Type: Day Trip Why go: A unique limestone cliff with caves and prehistoric significance. Best for: Nature lovers and amateur geologists. Where: Eastern edge of Brno. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 10 to the end of the line. Tip: Follow a Stránská skála nature hike map to find the hidden caves.
11. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Iconic Why go: The dominant fortress of the city with amazing views and museums. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free for grounds, paid for interiors. Getting there: Walk up from Husova street. Tip: Check the Go To Brno portal for summer open-air concerts at the castle.
12. Name: Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) Type: Market Why go: Buy fresh local produce and explore the labyrinth underneath. Best for: Foodies and explorers. Where: City center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to browse. Getting there: Tram 4, 9, or 12. Tip: Visit the Brno Ossuary nearby if you enjoy underground sites.

Practical Tips for Visiting Kamenná čtvrť in 2026

Getting to Kamenná čtvrť is easy using public transport. You can check schedules on the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website. The area is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and hilly. The quarry walls can be slippery after rain.

Respect the residents who live in the colony. It is a quiet residential area, not a theme park. Avoid peering into windows or taking photos of people without asking. Most locals are friendly but appreciate their privacy. The atmosphere is most magical in the late afternoon.

In 2026, many sites in Brno require online booking. This is especially true for architectural tours like Villa Tugendhat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Always check official websites for the latest opening hours. Brno is a very safe city for travelers at all times.