The Magic of Brno Dragon and Wheel Legends

The Brno Dragon is perhaps the most famous symbol of the city. Legend says a terrifying dragon lived by the Svratka River. It ate livestock and scared the local citizens. A brave butcher finally defeated it using a clever trick. He filled an animal hide with lime to stop the beast.

If you visit today, you will see the dragon is actually a crocodile. It was likely a gift from a visiting delegation centuries ago. You can learn more about why is there a crocodile in Brno at the Old Town Hall. It hangs from the ceiling to greet every guest who enters.

The wheel legend is equally fascinating. In 1635, a wheelwright made a bet in a local tavern. He claimed he could fell a tree and make a wheel in one day. He then rolled that wheel from Lednice to Brno before sunset. This incredible feat is still celebrated by locals every year.

11 Places to See Brno Dragon and Wheel Legends

Brno offers a mix of iconic sights and hidden gems. To see the best of the city, use the official Go To Brno portal for maps. Most legendary sites are within walking distance in the historic center. Here are the top eleven spots to experience the myths and history of Brno.

• Name: The Old Town Hall Dragon Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the home of the legendary crocodile. Best for: Families and first-time visitors. Where: Radnická Street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view the passage. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Look up as soon as you enter the arched passage.
• Name: The Brno Wheel Type: Iconic sight Why go: See the actual wheel from the legend of the wheel on the wall. Best for: History buffs. Where: Old Town Hall passage. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the dragon. Tip: The wheel is mounted high on the wall, so don't miss it.
• Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Iconic sight Why go: This massive fortress houses the city museum and dark casemates. Best for: Great views and history. Where: On the hill above the city. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate for museum entry. Getting there: A 15-minute uphill walk from the center. Tip: Visit the lookout tower for a 360-degree view of Brno.
• Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Viewpoint Why go: The bells here ring noon at 11:00 AM because of a local legend. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free for the nave; small fee for towers. Getting there: Short walk from the vegetable market. Tip: Climb the towers for the best photos of the Old Town.
• Name: The Brno Ossuary Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Best for: Those who like the macabre. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk to Jakubské náměstí. Tip: Book the Brno Ossuary tickets online to avoid queues.
• Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Unique local experience Why go: See the naturally mummified remains of monks and nobles. Best for: Brave travelers. Where: Capuchin Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Near the main train station. Tip: Read the Capuchin Crypt history before entering to understand the mummification.
• Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Unique local experience Why go: Explore a former nuclear fallout shelter from the Cold War. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Under Špilberk Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Entrance is near Husova Street. Tip: The 10-Z Bunker also has a retro bar inside.
• Name: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody) Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: The heart of Brno with the controversial astronomical clock. Best for: People watching. Where: City center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Most tram lines stop here. Tip: Be there at 11:00 AM to catch a glass marble from the clock.
• Name: Veveří Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A romantic royal castle overlooking the reservoir. Best for: Nature and history lovers. Where: 15km from the center. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Low for grounds; moderate for tours. Getting there: Take tram 1 then a boat or bus. Tip: Check the Veveří Castle opening times for seasonal tours.
• Name: Brno Reservoir Type: Nature Why go: A popular spot for swimming and boat trips. Best for: Families and summer visits. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free; boat tickets vary. Getting there: Take tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: The Brno Reservoir is perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
• Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: Iconic sight Why go: A world-famous functionalist masterpiece. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Černopolní Street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: High. Getting there: Tram 9 or 11 from the center. Tip: This UNESCO World Heritage site requires booking months in advance.

Tips for Exploring Brno Legends in 2026

Brno is very safe and easy to explore on foot. Most of the Brno Dragon and Wheel legends are located in the pedestrian zone. For longer trips, use the Brno public transport system. It is efficient and covers the whole city and the reservoir. You can buy tickets via mobile app or contactless card on the vehicle.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and outdoor cafes are open. If you visit in winter, the Christmas markets are magical. Many historical sites have shorter hours in the off-season. Always check official websites before your trip.

English is widely spoken by younger people and in tourist areas. However, learning a few Czech words is always appreciated. "Dobrý den" means good day and is a polite greeting. Brno is more affordable than Prague, making it great for budget travelers. Enjoy the local beer and Moravian wine while you explore.