Is the View From Old Town Hall Tower Brno Worth It?

The Old Town Hall is the oldest secular building in Brno. Its tower stands 63 meters tall and dominates the skyline. When you reach the top, you get an unobstructed look at the red-tiled roofs of the city. It is one of the best attractions in Brno for photographers and history lovers alike.

• Pros: Stunning 360-degree views, very central location, and affordable ticket prices.
• Cons: No elevator access, narrow wooden stairs, and limited space on the viewing gallery.

Best for: Couples, photographers, and active travelers who want a quick city overview. Skip if: You cannot climb steep stairs or if you are traveling with a large stroller. Alternative: The tower of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul offers a similar height but a different perspective.

What to Expect During the Climb

To reach the top, you must climb exactly 173 steps. Most of these steps are made of wood and can feel quite narrow. The climb is not very long, but it can be tiring on a hot day. There are small landings where you can stop to catch your breath. The stairs are well-maintained, but they do creak as you walk.

The viewing platform at the top is a narrow stone gallery. It circles the entire tower, allowing you to see in every direction. Only a few people can pass each other at once on the balcony. If the tower is busy, you may have to wait for others to move. The height feels safe because of the thick stone walls and sturdy railings.

You can find the ticket office inside the tourist information center located at the base. The staff usually speaks English and can provide a map of the city. You should plan to spend about 30 to 45 minutes for the entire visit. This gives you plenty of time to climb and enjoy the scenery.

The Best View from Old Town Hall Tower Brno

The primary reason to visit is the view from Old Town Hall tower Brno. Looking south, you will see the twin spires of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. To the west, the massive Špilberk Castle sits on its green hill. These are the two most famous landmarks in the city. Seeing them from this height helps you understand the city layout.

Looking down, you can see the busy Vegetable Market (Zelný trh). You can watch the locals buying fresh produce and flowers from above. The colorful Baroque buildings look like toy houses from the tower gallery. On a clear day, you can even see the distant hills of the Pálava region. This makes it a great spot for landscape photography.

The tower is open late during the summer months. Watching the sunset from the gallery is a magical experience. The city lights begin to twinkle, and the atmosphere becomes very romantic. According to the official tourism portal, the tower is a highlight of any walking tour. Make sure your camera battery is charged before you start the ascent.

Seeing the Famous Old Town Hall Brno Dragon

Before you even start your climb, you will meet the city's most famous resident. The Old Town Hall Brno dragon hangs from the ceiling in the entrance passage. While it looks like a crocodile, locals have called it a dragon for centuries. It is the central figure in many local myths and legends.

Legend says the dragon once terrorized the citizens until a brave man defeated it with lime. Right next to the dragon, you will see a large wooden wagon wheel. This wheel is linked to another famous story about a carpenter who won a bet. You can learn more about the legend of the Brno dragon and wagon wheel inside the hall.

The entrance passage is free to enter, so you can see the dragon without a ticket. However, the tower entrance is right next to it. Most visitors stop for a photo with the crocodile before heading up. It is a quirky part of Brno's history that adds character to the building. The dragon has become a symbol of the city's unique spirit.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

In 2026, ticket prices remain very reasonable for international travelers. You can pay with a credit card or local Czech koruna at the desk. It is often cheaper to buy a combined ticket if you plan to visit other city towers. Check the official municipal portal for the latest price updates and special events. The tower sometimes hosts evening openings with live music.

To avoid the biggest crowds, try to visit on a weekday morning. The tower is most popular on Saturday afternoons and during the Christmas markets. If you visit in winter, dress warmly as the wind at the top can be very cold. The gallery is open to the elements, so a jacket is essential. There is no heating inside the tower staircase.

The Old Town Hall is located right in the heart of the pedestrian zone. You can easily reach it by taking a tram to the 'Zelný trh' or 'Náměstí Svobody' stops. Most of the city center is easy to walk. If you are coming from further away, use the local public transport. It is reliable and very easy to navigate for tourists.