Exploring Brno: The Hidden Gem of the Czech Republic
Brno, the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, is a cultural and historical hub that offers a perfect mix of modern life and rich traditions. Situated in the southeastern part of the country, Brno is often overshadowed by Prague, but those who venture here discover a unique charm and plenty of exciting things to see and do.
What to Do in Brno
Start your exploration of Brno by visiting Špilberk Castle, a 13th-century fortress that now houses a museum. With its panoramic views of the city, it’s a great place to learn about Brno’s history. Another must-see is the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, one of the city’s iconic landmarks, located on Petrov Hill. From here, visitors can admire sweeping views of the city’s skyline and learn about the building's Gothic and Baroque architectural history.
For modern art enthusiasts, the Moravian Gallery offers a diverse collection of visual art. Brno is also known for its functionalist architecture, most notably the Villa Tugendhat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Tours of the villa offer a glimpse into this architectural masterpiece of the early 20th century.
In the evenings, the city’s café culture comes alive, and Brno boasts a vibrant nightlife, with various bars, breweries, and music venues offering entertainment well into the night. You’ll find bustling streets around the Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody), Brno's main square, where locals gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Brno's Culinary Specialties
Brno’s cuisine reflects the broader Moravian region, known for hearty dishes and traditional Czech flavours. One of the city’s staples is svíčková, a dish made of beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with dumplings and cranberries. Another popular choice is vepřo knedlo zelo, a meal consisting of roasted pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut.
If you prefer something sweet, try the traditional koláče, small pastries filled with fruit, cheese, or poppy seeds. Don’t miss out on tasting the local beer, as the Czech Republic is known for some of the best brews in the world. Brno has its own microbreweries where you can sample a variety of craft beers.
Day Trips from Brno
Brno is also an excellent base for day trips. One of the most popular excursions is to the Moravian Karst, a nature reserve with over 1,100 caves and gorges. The Punkva Caves are particularly famous, where you can take a boat ride on an underground river. Another great destination is Lednice-Valtice, a stunning chateau surrounded by lush gardens, part of a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
For wine lovers, the South Moravian wine region is just a short drive away. You can spend a day exploring the vineyards and tasting excellent Czech wines, particularly their whites, such as Riesling and Grüner Veltliner.
How Expensive is Brno?
Compared to Western Europe, Brno is quite affordable. A meal at an average restaurant will cost around 150–250 CZK (around $6–10 USD), while a beer costs about 40 CZK ($2 USD). Accommodation varies, with hostels costing about 300–500 CZK ($12–20 USD) per night, and mid-range hotels offering rooms for 1,200–2,500 CZK ($50–100 USD) per night.
Public transportation is efficient and cheap, with a 24-hour pass costing around 100 CZK ($4 USD). Taxis and ride-hailing services are also reasonably priced, but public transport will get you almost anywhere you need to go in the city.
Tips for Visitors
For anyone planning a trip to Brno, here are a few key tips:
Language: While Czech is the primary language, many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Currency: The local currency is the Czech koruna (CZK), not the Euro.
Weather: Brno experiences a temperate climate, so if visiting in winter, pack warmly, as temperatures can dip below freezing.
Getting Around: The public transport system is excellent, so there's no need for a car in the city.
Cultural Etiquette: Brno is a laid-back city, but tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary.
