Top Castles and Chateaus to Visit Near Brno

Moravia is famous for its diverse architectural styles. You can find everything from medieval defensive forts to romantic summer residences. Many of these sites are listed as UNESCO World Heritage locations. Visiting these places to visit near Brno allows you to see the true heart of the Czech Republic. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Best overall: Lednice Chateau
• Best for families: Špilberk Castle
• Best for history buffs: Pernštejn Castle
• Best for wine lovers: Mikulov Castle

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Fortress Why go: This iconic landmark dominates the Brno skyline and offers incredible views. It served as a royal castle and a notorious prison. Best for: History enthusiasts and families. Where: Brno city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 150-300 CZK). Getting there: Walk from the city center or take a local tram. Tip: Visit the casemates for a spooky look at the old prison cells.
2. Name: Veveří Castle Type: Medieval Castle Why go: It sits on a rocky promontory overlooking the Brno Reservoir. It is one of the largest castle complexes in the country. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: 15 km northwest of Brno. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Low to Moderate. Getting there: Use the Veveří Castle and reservoir boat service during summer. Tip: The view from the bridge leading to the castle is perfect for photos.
3. Name: Pernštejn Castle Type: Gothic Fortress Why go: Known as the "Marble Castle," it has never been conquered in its history. Its fairytale appearance makes it a favorite for film crews. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Nedvědice village. Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Follow our Pernštejn Castle tour guide for train details. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steep stairs.
4. Name: Lednice Chateau Type: Neo-Gothic Palace Why go: Part of a massive UNESCO complex, it features stunning English gardens and a unique minaret. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful sites in Europe. Best for: Romantic couples and photographers. Where: Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate to High. Getting there: Book a Lednice-Valtice complex day trip from Brno. Tip: Take a boat ride through the park to see the Minaret from the water.
5. Name: Valtice Chateau Type: Baroque Palace Why go: This was the seat of the Liechtenstein family. It houses the National Wine Center in its historic cellars. Best for: Wine connoisseurs. Where: Valtice town. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Easy train or bus connection from Brno. Tip: Try the wine tasting program in the chateau cellars.
6. Name: Mikulov Castle Type: Renaissance Palace Why go: It stands on a high cliff in the middle of a charming wine town. The castle features a giant wine barrel and beautiful libraries. Best for: Scenic views and culture. Where: Mikulov. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Use our Mikulov wine region guide for transport tips. Tip: Walk up to the Holy Hill (Svatý kopeček) nearby for the best castle views.
7. Name: Slavkov u Brna (Austerlitz) Type: Baroque Chateau Why go: This is the site where Napoleon stayed during the Battle of the Three Emperors. The gardens are inspired by Versailles. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Slavkov u Brna. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Visit the Austerlitz battlefield area by train or car. Tip: Visit during the battle reenactments in early December.
8. Name: Boskovice Castle Type: Empire Chateau & Ruins Why go: You get two experiences in one town: a refined Empire-style palace and a rugged Gothic ruin. Best for: A varied day trip. Where: Boskovice. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct bus or train from Brno. Tip: Explore the historic Jewish quarter in Boskovice after the castle.
9. Name: Lysice Chateau Type: Baroque Palace Why go: It is famous for its unique colonnade garden walk and rich weapon collections. Best for: Garden enthusiasts. Where: Lysice village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Car is fastest, or bus via Blansko. Tip: The garden is especially beautiful in late spring.
10. Name: Kunštát Castle Type: Early Gothic/Renaissance Why go: It is one of the oldest castles in Moravia and features a unique dog cemetery. Best for: Travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path spots. Where: Kunštát. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Bus from Brno. Tip: Check out the local pottery shops in the town.

Planning Your Castle Tours Near Brno

Most castles near Brno are open from April to October. Some sites like Špilberk stay open year-round with limited hours. It is wise to check the Go To Brno portal for seasonal updates. Many castles offer multiple tour routes in different languages. Booking your tickets online for 2026 is highly recommended for popular sites like Lednice.

Public transport in the region is excellent and affordable. You can reach most destinations using the day trips from Brno by train network. The South Moravian integrated transport system (IDS JMK) covers buses and trains. For local city travel, refer to the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site. Always carry some cash for smaller entrance fees or local snacks.

If you plan to visit several sites, consider staying in Brno for a week. This allows you to explore the best castles near Brno without rushing. The city offers a great mix of modern food and historic charm. You can find more inspiration on the Visit Czechia website. Remember that many castles are closed on Mondays, so plan your schedule accordingly.

Essential Tips for Exploring Moravian Heritage

Moravia is not just about buildings; it is about the experience. Many castles are surrounded by vineyards or lush forests. Combining a castle tour with a local wine tasting is a classic Moravian activity. This region is very safe for solo travelers and families alike. Most staff at major sites speak English, especially at UNESCO locations.

Photography is usually allowed in the exterior areas and gardens. However, many interiors require a special permit or forbid flash. Always respect the local rules to help preserve these historic treasures. Wear sturdy walking shoes as many castle paths are made of old cobblestones. These stones can be slippery when wet or uneven to walk on.

Accessibility varies greatly between the different sites. Modernized chateaus like Lednice have better facilities for those with limited mobility. Older fortresses like Pernštejn have many narrow stairs and steep slopes. If you have specific needs, check the official castle websites before traveling. Most sites offer basic refreshments, but bringing water is always a good idea.