Top 10 Attractions Near Brno Ossuary St. James

Brno offers a mix of dark history and modern charm. Most sights are within walking distance of the city center. You can easily see several spots in one day. Here are the top attractions you should not miss.

• Best overall: Brno Ossuary St. James
• Best for views: Old Town Hall
• Best for history: Špilberk Castle
• Best for families: VIDA! Science Centre

1. Name: Brno Ossuary at St. James Church Type: sight Why go: It is a unique and somber look at local history. The bone arrangements are artistic and respectful. Best for: History lovers and curious travelers. Where: Jakubské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: iconic sight Why go: This fortress dominates the city skyline. It was once a notorious prison for political rebels. Explore the casemates at Špilberk Castle for a spooky experience. Best for: Families and view seekers. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibit. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova Street. Tip: Climb the tower for the best city views.
3. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: iconic sight Why go: This neo-Gothic cathedral is a city landmark. It is famous for ringing its bells at 11 AM instead of noon. Learn more about the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul history. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry to the nave. Getting there: Walk from the main train station. Tip: Visit the crypt for extra historical context.
4. Name: Villa Tugendhat Type: museum Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a masterpiece of modern architecture by Mies van der Rohe. You must book Villa Tugendhat tickets months in advance. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Černá Pole district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Higher than average. Getting there: Take Tram 9 or 11. Tip: The garden offers a great view for a lower price.
5. Name: Labyrinth under Vegetable Market Type: experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and passages. It shows how people stored food and wine centuries ago. This labyrinth under the Vegetable Market is fascinating. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Zelný trh. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located in the center of the market square. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the ground is uneven.
6. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: sight Why go: See the naturally mummified remains of monks and local nobles. It is a quiet and reflective place. The Capuchin Crypt in Brno is a must-see. Best for: Those interested in religious history. Where: Kapucínské náměstí. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Low entry fee. Getting there: Near the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Tip: Read the inscriptions for moving life stories.
7. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: museum Why go: This was a highly classified nuclear fallout shelter. It was built during the Cold War for city officials. The 10-Z Bunker offers a gritty history lesson. Best for: Cold War history buffs. Where: Husova Street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located at the base of Špilberk Hill. Tip: Visit the bunker bar for a retro drink.
8. Name: Old Town Hall Type: viewpoint Why go: This is the oldest secular building in Brno. It features the famous "Brno Dragon" and a crooked turret. Best for: Photographers. Where: Radnická Street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low for the tower climb. Getting there: Located between the two main squares. Tip: Look for the dragon hanging in the entrance passage.
9. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: This modern black stone monument looks like a bullet. It releases a glass marble every day at 11 AM. Best for: Quirky art fans. Where: Náměstí Svobody. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: The very center of the city. Tip: Arrive early at 11 AM to catch a marble.
10. Name: Brno Reservoir Type: nature Why go: Locally known as "Prýgl," it is perfect for a day trip. You can take a boat to Veveří Castle. Best for: Nature lovers and families. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: Half-day or full-day. Cost: Free for the park; boat tickets vary. Getting there: Take Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: Visit in summer for swimming and festivals.

Inside the Brno Ossuary St. James Experience

The Brno Ossuary St. James was forgotten for hundreds of years. Workers rediscovered it in 2001 during a routine renovation. It had been sealed since the late 18th century. The bones were neatly stacked to save space in the churchyard. Today, the ossuary is a place of memory and peace.

Walking through the chambers is a powerful experience. The lighting is dim and the music is soft. You will see skulls and bones arranged in pillars and walls. This site reminds us of the cycle of life and death. It is a very respectful display of human history.

The ossuary is located directly under the Church of St. James. This church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. You should visit the church above ground before heading down. The contrast between the light church and the dark ossuary is striking. For more official city information, visit the Go To Brno portal.

Planning Your Visit to Brno in 2026

Brno is a very walkable city for most tourists. Most major sights are in the pedestrian zone. You can easily walk from the main station to the ossuary. For longer trips, the public transport system is excellent. You can find schedules on the DPMB public transport website.

The best time to visit is from May to September. The weather is warm and perfect for outdoor markets. However, the ossuary is underground and stays cool all year. This makes it a great activity for a rainy or hot day. Check the Visit Czechia site for seasonal events.

We recommend buying a multi-site ticket if you plan to see more. Many underground sites offer a combined discount. This includes the Labyrinth and the Mint Master’s Cellar. Keep some local currency (Czech Koruna) for small shops. Most large attractions accept credit cards easily.