Planning Your South Moravia Rail Adventure

South Moravia is a land of contrasts. You will see flat plains in the south and rocky hills in the north. The trains are modern, clean, and very reliable. Most routes depart from the Brno main railway station regularly. You do not need to book far in advance for regional trips.

The region is famous for its UNESCO sites and wine culture. Traveling by train allows you to enjoy the scenery without driving. You can watch the Pálava hills rise from the horizon. The golden fields of "Moravian Tuscany" are also visible from certain lines. It is a relaxing way to see the Czech countryside.

• Best overall: Brno to Mikulov
• Best for families: Brno to Blansko
• Best rainy-day: Brno to Znojmo
• Best free: Exploring Brno outskirts

9 Best Scenic Train Rides in South Moravia

These routes offer the most beautiful views in the region. Each journey provides a unique look at the Moravian landscape. Use these picks to plan your next weekend escape from the city.

1. Name: Mikulov Type: sight Why go: See the Pálava hills and white limestone cliffs. Best for: Wine lovers and photographers. Where: South of Brno. Time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Take the R13 or S3 line from Brno. Tip: Sit on the right side for the best castle views.
2. Name: Znojmo Type: experience Why go: Travel through the deep Dyje River valley. Best for: History buffs and hikers. Where: South-west Moravia. Time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Cost: 120-180 CZK. Getting there: Use the S8 line from Břeclav or direct buses. Tip: Visit the Town Hall Tower for panoramic views.
3. Name: Lednice Type: sight Why go: Explore the stunning Lednice-Valtice Complex day trip area. Best for: Couples and architecture fans. Where: Near the Austrian border. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 90-130 CZK. Getting there: Train to Břeclav, then a local connection. Tip: The local "Lednice Express" runs in summer.
4. Name: Blansko Type: nature Why go: Access the Moravian Karst and Punkva caves through lush forests. Best for: Nature lovers and kids. Where: North of Brno. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 50-80 CZK. Getting there: Frequent S2 trains from Brno. Tip: The train follows the Svitava river valley.
5. Name: Tišnov Type: experience Why go: See the hilly gateway to the Highlands and Pernštejn Castle. Best for: Castle explorers. Where: North-west of Brno. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 60-90 CZK. Getting there: Take the S3 line toward Žďár nad Sázavou. Tip: Stop at Porta Coeli monastery nearby.
6. Name: Kyjov Type: sight Why go: View the rolling "Moravian Tuscany" hills from the window. Best for: Landscape photography. Where: South-east Moravia. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 80-120 CZK. Getting there: Take the R19 or S6 line. Tip: Spring and autumn offer the best colors.
7. Name: Šumná (Vranov nad Dyjí) Type: day trip Why go: Dramatic views of the Vranov dam and canyon. Best for: Summer swimming and views. Where: Near Znojmo. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Train to Šumná, then a short bus. Tip: The castle looks amazing from the valley.
8. Name: Břeclav to Mikulov Local Type: experience Why go: A slow, scenic ride through the heart of vineyards. Best for: Slow travel fans. Where: Southern border. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 40-60 CZK. Getting there: Connect in Břeclav from Brno. Tip: Use a regional day pass for savings.
9. Name: Moravský Krumlov Type: sight Why go: See the Rokytná river meanders and the Slav Epic. Best for: Art and quiet nature. Where: West of Brno. Time: 50 minutes. Cost: 70-100 CZK. Getting there: S4 line from Brno. Tip: The walk from the station is very peaceful.

Practical Tips for Train Travel in Moravia

To enjoy the best scenic train rides in South Moravia, you need to know how to buy train tickets in Brno station. You can use the yellow machines or the ticket windows. Most staff speak basic English. You can also buy tickets on the Můj Vlak app.

The regional transport system is called IDS JMK. It covers trains, buses, and Brno city trams. You can check schedules on the DPMB website. Buying a 24-hour ticket is often the cheapest way to travel. This ticket works for all zones in the South Moravian region.

Try to travel during the weekdays to avoid crowds. Weekend trains to Mikulov and Lednice can be very busy. Most trains have large windows for viewing the scenery. Some newer trains even have power outlets and free Wi-Fi. Always check the platform number on the departure screens.