Visiting the Cathedral of St Peter and Paul

The Cathedral of St Peter and Paul is more than just a church. It is the spiritual heart of the city. Its twin towers are visible from almost everywhere in Brno. The interior features stunning Baroque decorations and a deep, peaceful atmosphere. You can also visit the crypt to see ancient foundations.

One of the most famous facts about the cathedral is its bell schedule. The bells ring for noon at 11:00 AM every day. This tradition dates back to the Thirty Years' War. Legend says a clever bell ringer saved the city from a siege. He rang the bells early to trick the attacking army into leaving.

Climbing the towers is a highlight for many visitors. The stairs are narrow, but the reward is a panoramic view of the city. You can see the red roofs of the Old Town and the distant hills. It is the perfect place to start your sightseeing tour in 2026.

11 Must-See Sights Near the Cathedral

There are many incredible places to see within walking distance of the cathedral. This list covers the best experiences for every type of traveler. From underground labyrinths to hilltop fortresses, Brno offers a unique mix of history and culture.

• Quick Pick: Best View - Denis Gardens
• Quick Pick: Best for History - Špilberk Castle
• Quick Pick: Best Unique Experience - Brno Ossuary
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - Old Town Hall

1. Name: Cathedral of St Peter and Paul Type: Iconic sight Why go: To see the famous 11 AM noon bell and climb the towers for views. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free for the nave; small fee for towers/crypt. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the original 12th-century masonry.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: This former royal castle and prison offers deep historical insights. Best for: Families and history lovers. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate fee for exhibitions. Getting there: 15-minute uphill walk from Petrov. Tip: Check out the casemates for a spooky look at old prison cells.
3. Name: Denis Gardens Type: Viewpoint/nature Why go: It is a peaceful park with the best views of the cathedral and South Brno. Best for: Relaxing and sunset views. Where: Just below the cathedral. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Direct access from the cathedral square. Tip: Look for the obelisk commemorating the end of the Napoleonic Wars.
4. Name: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) Type: Neighborhood/market Why go: To experience a traditional farmers' market that has operated for centuries. Best for: Foodies and local atmosphere. Where: 3 minutes from Petrov. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Walk down the hill from the cathedral. Tip: Try the seasonal fruit or local Moravian wine from the stalls.
5. Name: Old Town Hall Type: Iconic sight Why go: To see the famous "Brno Dragon" (a crocodile) and the twisted Gothic turret. Best for: Quirky legends. Where: Near the Cabbage Market. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free for the dragon; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Short walk from Zelný trh. Tip: Read the legend of the dragon before you visit.
6. Name: Labyrinth Under the Cabbage Market Type: Unique local experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels deep underground. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Below Zelný trh. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Entrance is on the Cabbage Market square. Tip: Book labyrinth tickets in advance during summer.
7. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: Unique local experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe after Paris. Best for: Those interested in dark history. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the cathedral. Tip: Visit the Brno Ossuary early to avoid crowds.
8. Name: 10-Z Nuclear Bunker Type: Museum/indoor Why go: A Cold War-era bunker built to protect the city's elite. Best for: Modern history fans. Where: At the foot of Špilberk Hill. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the cathedral. Tip: Take the 10-Z bunker tour to see the functioning diesel generator.
9. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Museum/indoor Why go: A world-famous example of functionalist architecture and a UNESCO site. Best for: Design and architecture fans. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Higher fee. Getting there: Take a tram from the center (about 15 mins). Tip: Secure your Villa Tugendhat tickets months in advance.
10. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: Iconic sight Why go: To see the controversial black stone clock that releases a glass marble daily. Best for: Quirky photos. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 7-minute walk from Petrov. Tip: Be there at 11 AM sharp to try and catch a falling marble.
11. Name: Veveří Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A romantic castle overlooking the Brno Reservoir. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Edge of the city. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Small fee for grounds. Getting there: Take a boat from the Brno Reservoir stop. Tip: Combine the visit with a scenic boat trip across the water.

Practical Tips for Your Brno Trip

Brno is a very walkable city, especially in the historic center. Most sights near the Cathedral of St Peter and Paul are just minutes apart. Wear comfortable shoes because the streets around Petrov are paved with cobblestones. The area is safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings in crowded markets.

For longer distances, use the excellent public transport system. You can find schedules on the official DPMB website. Trams are the most common way to get around. You can buy tickets using a contactless card directly on the vehicle.

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Brno Central Cemetery. It is the final resting place of many famous locals. For official tourist information, the Go To Brno portal is a helpful resource. It offers maps and event listings for your stay.