Explore the Austerlitz Battlefield Slavkov u Brna History
The Austerlitz Battlefield Slavkov u Brna is a legendary site in Moravia. It marks where Napoleon Bonaparte won his greatest victory in 1805. This conflict is known as the Battle of the Three Emperors. Today, the area offers a mix of deep history and peaceful landscapes. You can easily reach these sites from the city of Brno. Many travelers include this as one of their places to visit near Brno. It is a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Plan your visit to see where European history changed forever.
Quick Picks for Your Austerlitz Visit
Short on time? Use these quick picks to plan your perfect morning or afternoon trip. These selections cover the most iconic spots on the historic battlefield. You can find more details on the Visit Czechia website.
- Best Overall: Cairn of Peace Memorial
- Best for Families: Slavkov Castle Gardens
- Best for Views: Zuran Hill
- Best Free Site: Santon Hill
- Best for History: The Old Post Office
Top 10 Sites at Austerlitz Battlefield Slavkov u Brna
The battlefield covers a large area east of Brno. Each site offers a unique perspective on the 1805 conflict. You will find monuments, museums, and stunning viewpoints. Most locations are well-marked for visitors. Exploring the Austerlitz Battlefield Slavkov u Brna takes you back in time. Here are the top ten sites to visit.
- Name: Slavkov Castle (Austerlitz Castle) Type: Sight/Museum Why go: This baroque palace is where the armistice was signed. It features a dedicated museum about the battle. Best for: History lovers and architecture fans. Where: Slavkov u Brna town center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate (paid entry for interiors). Getting there: Train or bus from Brno Central. Tip: Don't miss the extensive French-style gardens behind the castle.
- Name: Cairn of Peace (Mohyla míru) Type: Sight/Memorial Why go: It is the first peace monument in Europe. The Art Nouveau chapel offers a moving tribute to fallen soldiers. Best for: Reflection and local history. Where: Prace Hill, south of Slavkov. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free for the grounds; small fee for the museum. Getting there: Best reached by car or cycling trails. Tip: The multimedia exhibit inside is very modern and informative.
- Name: Zuran Hill Type: Viewpoint Why go: Napoleon commanded his troops from this exact spot. It offers a panoramic view of the entire battlefield. Best for: Photographers and military strategists. Where: Near the village of Podolí. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right off the main road to Olomouc. Tip: Look for the bronze map showing troop positions.
- Name: Santon Hill Type: Nature/Sight Why go: This steep hill served as a key French artillery position. It survived heavy fighting during the battle. Best for: Hiking and scenic views. Where: Tvarožná village. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by bus from Brno to Tvarožná. Tip: The small chapel at the top is a great photo spot.
- Name: The Old Post Office (Stará pošta) Type: Experience/Dining Why go: Napoleon stayed here after his victory. It is now a restaurant and a small museum. Best for: A historical lunch break. Where: Near the village of Jezera. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Price of a meal. Getting there: Best by car or bike. Tip: Try the traditional Moravian dishes served in the historic rooms.
- Name: Spálený mlýn (Burnt Mill) Type: Sight Why go: This is the site where Napoleon met Emperor Francis I. They discussed the peace terms here under a lime tree. Best for: Fans of diplomatic history. Where: Near the village of Hostěrádky-Rešov. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short drive from Slavkov. Tip: It is a quiet spot, perfect for a quick stop.
- Name: Annual Historical Reenactment Type: Unique Experience Why go: Every December, hundreds of people recreate the battle. It is one of the largest events of its kind in Europe. Best for: Families and action seekers. Where: Fields near Tvarožná. Time: Full day. Cost: Usually free for spectators. Getting there: Special shuttle buses often run from Brno. Tip: Dress very warmly as Moravian winters are freezing.
- Name: Křenovice Village Russian Headquarters Type: Sight Why go: General Kutuzov stayed here before the battle. You can see a statue of the famous Russian commander. Best for: Understanding the Allied perspective. Where: Křenovice village. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by train on the Brno-Slavkov line. Tip: Visit the local church where many soldiers are buried.
- Name: Chapel of St. Anthony Type: Viewpoint/Sight Why go: It offers a different angle of the town and battlefield. It is a peaceful spot away from the main crowds. Best for: A quiet walk. Where: On a hill overlooking Slavkov u Brna. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from Slavkov town center. Tip: The walk up the hill is steep but rewarding.
- Name: Slavkov Town Square Type: Sight/Market Why go: The town square is charming and full of history. It features the beautiful Church of the Resurrection. Best for: Local culture and snacks. Where: Center of Slavkov u Brna. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Main stop for all transport from Brno. Tip: Visit the local bakery for traditional Czech pastries.
Planning Your Austerlitz Battlefield Trip
Visiting the battlefield is easy if you plan ahead. Most people start their journey from the city of Brno. You can find detailed schedules on the Go To Brno portal. Many travelers choose day trips from Brno by train for convenience. Trains run frequently to Slavkov u Brna throughout the day. The ride takes about 30 minutes. Once there, you can walk to the castle and town sites.
To see the outer monuments, a car is very helpful. Cycling is also a popular way to explore the area. There are well-marked bike paths connecting the main hills. If you visit in winter, check for special event dates. The reenactments usually happen on the weekend closest to December 2nd. Always check the weather before heading out to the open fields. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on grass and gravel.
Explore More Places to Visit Near Brno
Moravia is full of incredible historical and natural sites. After visiting Austerlitz, consider seeing the best castles near Brno. The region is famous for its rolling hills and vineyards. You might enjoy the Mikulov wine region guide for a relaxing day. For those who love nature, the Moravian Karst and Punkva Caves are spectacular. These caves are just a short drive north of the city.
Another top destination is the Lednice-Valtice complex day trip. This UNESCO site features massive gardens and stunning chateaus. It is often called the Garden of Europe. If you have more time, explore the Veveri Castle and reservoir. It is located right on the edge of Brno. Moravia offers something for every type of traveler in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Austerlitz Battlefield from Brno?
You can take a train or bus from Brno Central Station to Slavkov u Brna. The journey takes about 30 minutes. For the outer battlefield sites like the Cairn of Peace, a car or bicycle is recommended. Some local buses also serve the smaller villages near the monuments.
Is the Austerlitz Battlefield worth visiting for non-history fans?
Yes, the area is very scenic and peaceful. The Slavkov Castle gardens are beautiful for a walk. Many of the viewpoints, like Zuran Hill, offer great views of the Moravian countryside. It is a perfect escape from the busy city life of Brno.
When is the Battle of Austerlitz reenactment held?
The reenactment takes place every year in late November or early December. It commemorates the anniversary of the battle on December 2nd, 1805. It is a major event with hundreds of participants in period uniforms. Be sure to book accommodation in Brno early for this weekend.
The Austerlitz Battlefield Slavkov u Brna is a powerful reminder of Europe's past. From the grand Slavkov Castle to the quiet Cairn of Peace, there is much to explore. Whether you are a history enthusiast or just looking for a nice day trip, this area will not disappoint. Remember to check out other places to visit near Brno during your stay. Enjoy your journey through the heart of Moravia!
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.
