The 10 Best Viewpoints in Brno You Must Visit
Brno is a city of hidden hills and historic towers. It offers some of the most stunning vistas in the Czech Republic. Whether you love old architecture or green landscapes, you will find a perfect spot here.
Finding the best viewpoints in Brno is easy if you know where to look. The city center is compact and walkable. Most major sights are located on elevated ground or feature high towers.
In this guide, we will explore the top spots for photography and relaxation. You can learn where to find the best panoramic views of Brno for your 2026 trip. Let's start with the most iconic landmarks.
Iconic Sights: The Best Viewpoints in Brno Center
The historic center holds the most famous landmarks. These spots provide a classic look at the city's red roofs. You can easily reach these locations on foot from the main square.
Most of these sites charge a small fee for tower access. However, the views are worth every penny. You will see the blend of Gothic, Baroque, and modern styles.
Be sure to check the weather before you climb. Clear days offer views that stretch far into the Moravian countryside. Here are the top picks for the city center.
- Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: It offers a massive fortress atmosphere with wide bastions. Best for: History buffs and sunset lovers. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free for grounds; small fee for tower. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova street. Tip: Visit Špilberk Castle in the late afternoon for the best light.
- Name: Old Town Hall Tower Type: Sight Why go: It is the oldest secular building with a 63-meter tower. Best for: 360-degree views of the main square. Where: Radnická street. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Two-minute walk from Zelný trh. Tip: Look for the famous Brno dragon in the entrance passage.
- Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: The twin towers are the most recognizable part of the skyline. Best for: Seeing the Petrov district from above. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for tower access. Getting there: Walk up the steps from Capuchin Square. Tip: The Cathedral bells ring noon at 11 AM due to local legend.
- Name: Denis Gardens Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It is a beautiful park terrace right under the Cathedral. Best for: Relaxing with a view of Špilberk. Where: Between Petrov and Husova. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via ramps from Nádražní street. Tip: This is one of the best free viewpoints in the city.
Natural Escapes: Panoramic Views from Brno Parks
Brno is surrounded by lush hills and public parks. These areas offer a break from the busy streets. They are perfect for a long walk or a picnic with a view.
Many locals visit these spots for exercise and fresh air. You can see the city from a distance, which helps you appreciate its size. The contrast between the green trees and city lights is beautiful.
These locations are usually free to enter. They are great options for budget travelers. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for the forest paths.
- Name: Kraví hora Type: Nature Why go: A large park with a planetarium and great southern views. Best for: Families and stargazing. Where: Masaryk District. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Tram 4 to the final stop. Tip: Check out the outdoor swimming pool here during the summer months.
- Name: Hády Hill Type: Nature Why go: A former limestone quarry with dramatic cliffs and city vistas. Best for: Hikers and nature photographers. Where: Northeastern edge of Brno. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Bus 27 or 78 to the Velká Klajdovka stop. Tip: Visit the nearby Lamacentrum to see friendly alpacas.
- Name: Villa Tugendhat Garden Type: Experience Why go: A unique view of the city through the lens of modern architecture. Best for: Fans of design and UNESCO heritage. Where: Černá Pole. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for garden entry. Getting there: Take Tram 3 or 5 to Dětská nemocnice. Tip: Book Villa Tugendhat tickets months in advance for interior tours.
Hidden Gems and Modern Lookout Towers
If you want to avoid crowds, try these modern lookout towers. They offer a different perspective of the Moravian landscape. Some are located in the middle of dense forests.
These structures are often architectural marvels themselves. They provide a high vantage point above the tree line. You can see the rolling hills of the South Moravian region.
Always check the opening seasons for these towers. Some may close during the winter months for safety. They are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adventure.
- Name: Holedná Lookout Tower Type: Experience Why go: A tall, steel tower located in a wild deer park. Best for: Seeing wildlife and the reservoir. Where: Jundrov/Kohoutovice forest. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a bus to Stará dálnice and walk through the park. Tip: Use the DPMB public transport app to plan your forest route.
- Name: St. James’ Church Tower Type: Sight Why go: It is one of the tallest church towers in the country. Best for: Looking down on the busy Rašínova street. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located right behind the main Freedom Square. Tip: The church also houses a famous ossuary beneath the ground.
- Name: Ostrá horka Lookout Type: Experience Why go: A quiet spot in the Soběšice district with a historic stone base. Best for: A peaceful escape from the city noise. Where: Soběšice. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Bus 43 or 57 to the Dohnalova stop. Tip: This site marks the first point of the Austrian-Hungarian land survey.
Historic Sights Near Brno for Great Views
Sometimes the best viewpoints in Brno are actually just outside the city. A short trip can lead you to ancient castles and peaceful lakes. These spots offer a wider view of the region.
Day trips are easy thanks to the excellent local train and bus network. You can combine a visit to a historical site with a scenic walk. It is a great way to see the Moravian countryside.
The Brno Reservoir area is especially popular in the summer. You can take a boat ride and then climb up to a castle. It is a classic Brno experience for every traveler.
- Name: Veveří Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A romantic castle overlooking the Brno Reservoir and forests. Best for: Day trippers and photographers. Where: 15km northwest of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate for castle entry. Getting there: Take a boat from Bystrc or Bus 303. Tip: Visit the Brno Reservoir area for hiking trails after the castle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is the best time to visit viewpoints in Brno?
The best time is during the golden hour, just before sunset. In 2026, many towers like the Old Town Hall offer extended evening hours in summer. Clear autumn days also provide the best visibility for seeing the distant Alps from certain high points.
Are there any free viewpoints in Brno?
Yes, several of the best viewpoints are completely free. Denis Gardens, Kraví hora, and the Holedná Lookout Tower do not charge admission. You can also enjoy the bastions of Špilberk Castle for free, though the interior museum and tower require a ticket.
Is it hard to walk to the viewpoints in Brno?
Most city center viewpoints require a short but steep walk. The Old Town Hall and Cathedral towers have many steps and no elevators. However, spots like Denis Gardens are accessible via paved ramps, making them easier for those with limited mobility.
Brno is a city that rewards those who look up. From the historic spires of the Cathedral to the modern steel of Holedná, the variety is amazing. You can find a spot that fits your pace and budget easily.
We hope this list helps you find the best viewpoints in Brno for your next visit. Don't forget to bring your camera and a bottle of Moravian wine. For more planning tips, check out the official Go To Brno portal for the latest event schedules.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
- City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
- Brno-Tuřany Airport — Official airport authority; unverified source.