Top Underground Sights in Brno

Brno is famous for its extensive subterranean world. Many of these sites were forgotten for centuries. Today, they are open for tours and exploration. You can see how people stored food and stayed safe during wars. These sites are perfect for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

1. Name: Labyrinth under Vegetable Market Type: sight Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels used for food storage and alchemy. Best for: History buffs and families. Where: Zelný trh (Vegetable Market square). Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Approximately 200 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the main train station or take any tram to Zelný trh. Tip: Book tickets on the official site in advance during peak summer months.
2. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: sight Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe, holding the remains of over 50,000 people. Best for: Fans of dark tourism and unique history. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Around 160 CZK. Getting there: A short 5-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Visit the Brno Ossuary early in the day to avoid crowds.
3. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: experience Why go: This former nuclear shelter was built for the city's elite during the Cold War. Best for: Modern history enthusiasts. Where: Husova street. Time: 60-90 minutes. Cost: 180-240 CZK. Getting there: Walkable from the city center near Špilberk Hill. Tip: The 10-Z Bunker also has a retro bar inside for a unique drink experience.
4. Name: Mintmaster’s Cellar Type: sight Why go: Learn about the history of coin minting in the royal city of Brno. Best for: Educational trips. Where: Dominican Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located right in the historical center. Tip: Visit the Mintmaster’s Cellar as part of a combined ticket for multiple underground sites.

Historic Landmarks Near the Labyrinth under Vegetable Market

After exploring the depths, the surface of Brno offers stunning architecture. The city center is compact and very walkable. You can see gothic towers and baroque facades within a few blocks. Many of these sites offer great views of the Moravian landscape. Make sure to keep your camera ready for the unique statues.

• Name: Old Town Hall Type: sight Why go: See the famous "Brno Dragon" and climb the tower for panoramic city views. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Radnická street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Located just off the Vegetable Market. Tip: Look for the crooked gothic pinnacle on the entrance portal.
• Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: This iconic gothic cathedral dominates the Brno skyline and features beautiful stained glass. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free entry to the nave; fee for towers. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the Labyrinth. Tip: The bells ring noon at 11:00 AM to honor a local legend.
• Name: Capuchin Monastery Type: sight Why go: View the naturally mummified remains of monks and local nobility in the crypt. Best for: Those interested in religious history. Where: Capuchin Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Around 100 CZK. Getting there: Two minutes from the Vegetable Market. Tip: Read the history of the Capuchin Monastery mummies before you enter.

Modern Architecture and Cultural Gems

Brno is a hub for 20th-century functionalist architecture. It is home to world-famous villas and experimental designs. The city also features many modern art installations in public spaces. These sites provide a great contrast to the medieval cellars. You can easily spend a full day exploring these creative spots.

1. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: sight Why go: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of modern architecture by Mies van der Rohe. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černopolní street. Time: 90 minutes. Cost: 300-400 CZK. Getting there: Take tram 3 or 5 from the center. Tip: You must book months in advance on the UNESCO official site for interior tours.
2. Name: Quirky Brno Statues Type: experience Why go: Walk through the city to find the giant astronomical clock and the horse statue. Best for: Fun photos. Where: Various locations in the center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow a statue walking route through the old town. Tip: Try to catch a glass marble from the clock at 11:00 AM.
3. Name: Villa Stiassni Type: sight Why go: Explore a luxurious 1920s villa with a beautiful garden and government history. Best for: Garden lovers. Where: Pisárky district. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take tram 1 toward Bystrc. Tip: Check the Villa Stiassni guide for seasonal garden events.

Best Day Trips from Brno City Center

If you have more time, explore the areas surrounding the city. There are medieval castles and natural wonders just a short ride away. The local transport system makes these trips very easy. Most sites are reachable within 30 to 60 minutes. These locations offer a peaceful break from the urban bustle.

• Name: Veveří Castle Type: day trip Why go: One of the largest and oldest castle complexes in Moravia, overlooking the Brno Reservoir. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: 15 km northwest of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Varies by tour type. Getting there: Use the Brno Public Transport boat in summer or bus 303. Tip: Learn about Veveří Castle legends before your visit.
• Name: Stránská skála Type: nature Why go: A unique limestone hill with prehistoric caves and great views of the city. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Eastern edge of Brno. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 10 to the Stránská skála stop. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the Stránská skála hike as paths are rocky.