Why Old Town Hall Tower Views Are Best in Brno
Brno is a city full of hidden gems and rich history for every curious traveler to explore. One major highlight of any trip is experiencing the famous Old Town Hall Tower views from above. This historic site offers a unique perspective of the beautiful red roofs and winding city streets. You will find that the climb provides a perfect introduction to the layout of the Moravian capital.
History and Legends of the Building
The Old Town Hall is the oldest and most famous secular building in the entire city. This historic landmark has served the local people of Brno since the early thirteenth century. You will find this beautiful building located very close to the bustling main vegetable market. This ancient structure holds many fascinating secrets and several very famous local urban legends today.
Look closely at the stone portal located at the main entrance of the building. You will see a crooked middle turret sitting directly above the heavy wooden door. Master builder Anton Pilgram designed this unique Gothic feature many long centuries ago. Legend says he made the turret crooked because the city council refused to pay him.
Inside the main passage, a large dragon hangs from the ceiling to greet every visitor. Locals once believed this beast was a real monster that terrorized the city residents. It is actually a stuffed crocodile that was given to the city as a special gift. You can read more about these local stories on the Go To Brno official tourism website.
You will also see a large wooden wheel displayed on the wall near the dragon. A local carpenter made this wheel on a bet back in the year sixteen thirty-eight. He chopped a tree and finished the wheel in just one single day. Then he rolled the wheel all the way from Lednice to the city of Brno.
Stunning Old Town Hall Tower Views and Landmarks
The Old Town Hall Tower views provide a full three hundred and sixty-degree panorama of Brno. You can easily see the twin spires of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul from the top. The Spilberk Castle stands tall on the opposite hill against the blue Moravian sky. These iconic landmarks look absolutely stunning when viewed from sixty-three meters high in the air.
From this height, you will appreciate the complex layout of the historic city center below. The colorful houses of the Zelný trh market square look like small toys from above. You can watch the daily life of the city unfold from your peaceful vantage point. This perspective helps you understand how the city has grown over the many centuries.
On very clear days, you can see far beyond the modern city limits and suburbs. The distant hills of the Pálava region may appear on the southern horizon for you. You will also spot the modern skyscrapers located in the southern part of the city. This mix of old and new architecture makes the view very interesting for photographers.
The tower gallery is narrow but offers enough space to stop and take many photos. You should bring a good camera lens to capture the details of the church spires. The red tiled roofs create a beautiful pattern that looks great in any travel album. Most visitors spend at least twenty minutes just admiring the different sides of the city.
What to Expect During the Climb
Climbing the historic tower requires a moderate amount of physical effort from every visiting tourist. You must navigate exactly one hundred and seventy-three steps up the tower to reach the gallery. The staircase is mostly made of old wood and winds steeply toward the top. You should wear comfortable walking shoes to ensure your safety during the entire ascent.
The staircase can feel quite narrow when other visitors are coming down the same path. You will find several small windows along the way that offer quick cooling breezes. These openings also provide early glimpses of the street level far below your feet. Take your time during the climb to avoid getting too tired before the top.
The final section of the climb involves a slightly steeper set of stairs for visitors. Once you reach the top, you step out onto a protected wooden viewing gallery. The wooden floor may creak slightly, but the structure is very solid and safe. High railings ensure that everyone can enjoy the view without feeling any fear of heights.
There is no elevator available inside this historic building for those with limited mobility. You should be prepared for a traditional tower climbing experience when you arrive here. Most people find the physical effort is well worth the incredible reward at the end. The descent is much faster but requires focus on the narrow and winding wooden steps.
Practical Information for Your 2026 Visit
Visiting the tower is a simple and affordable activity for most international travelers. In 2026, standard ticket prices are approximately one hundred Czech koruna per adult. You can purchase your tickets at the tourist information center located downstairs. They accept both cash and major credit cards for your convenience at the counter.
You should check the official Old Town Hall opening hours before planning your daily itinerary. The tower usually opens at ten in the morning and stays open late. During the summer months, you can enjoy the view until ten in the evening. This allows you to see the city lights during the warm nights.
The entrance to the tower is located through the main arched passage on Radnická street. You will see the famous dragon hanging right next to the ticket office door. The staff at the City of Brno information desk are very helpful. They can provide maps and extra details about other local historical attractions nearby.
Try to visit during the early morning hours to avoid the largest tourist groups. Sunset is also a very popular time for visitors wanting to see the golden light. If you visit in 2026, expect some small crowds during the peak summer weekends. Planning for a midweek visit will give you more space on the narrow gallery.
Comparing Other Brno Viewpoints
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Brno offers many different places for high-altitude sightseeing throughout the entire city area. You might also enjoy searching for other panoramic views in Brno during your stay. The view from the Spilberk Castle lookout offers a much wider perspective of the parks. However, the Old Town Hall puts you directly above the historic city center.
The tower of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is another great option. It sits on a hill, so the total height feels much more impressive. However, that climb is often more crowded and has more restrictive opening hours. The Old Town Hall is generally easier to access for a quick visit. You will find it is the most central viewpoint in the city.
For a more natural setting, you can visit the hills surrounding the city center. Many locals prefer the quiet atmosphere of the parks for watching the sun set. You can find several great sunset spots in Brno that do not require climbing stairs. These locations are perfect for a relaxing evening with a nice picnic.
Ultimately, the Old Town Hall Tower provides the best balance of history and scenery. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Visit Czechia recommended destinations. You will leave with a better understanding of the city and many great photos. Make sure to include this climb in your 2026 travel plans for Brno.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many steps are in the Old Town Hall Tower?
There are exactly one hundred and seventy-three steps leading to the top gallery. The staircase is made of wood and winds steeply inside the historic structure. Most healthy visitors can complete the climb in about five to ten minutes. There are small windows along the way for resting.
Is there an elevator in the Brno Old Town Hall?
No, there is no elevator available for visitors inside the Old Town Hall Tower. The building is a protected historic monument from the thirteenth century. Access to the viewing platform is only possible by climbing the wooden stairs. People with mobility issues should visit the ground floor instead.
What is the best time to visit the tower for photos?
The best time for photography is during the golden hour before the sun sets. This provides soft light over the red roofs and the nearby cathedral spires. Early morning is also good for avoiding the large crowds of tourists. The tower stays open late during the summer for night views.
Can I buy tickets for the tower online?
Tickets are usually purchased directly at the tourist information center on the ground floor. You can pay with cash or credit cards at the main counter. In 2026, it is rarely necessary to book in advance for individuals. Large groups should contact the office ahead of time for arrangements.
The Old Town Hall Tower views remain one of the best experiences in Brno for 2026. You will enjoy a perfect mix of local legends and stunning city panoramas. The climb is a great way to see the heart of Moravia from above. Make sure to bring your camera and enjoy this historic landmark today.
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.