Best Ways to Reach Spilberk Castle

Spilberk Castle is one of the top sights in Brno. Most travelers choose to walk because the castle park is beautiful. The paths are well-maintained and offer great views of the city. You can start your journey from several points in the center.

If you prefer not to walk uphill, public transport is available. Trams run frequently near the hill. However, no tram goes directly to the castle gates. You will still need to walk a short distance through the park. Taxis and ride-shares like Bolt or Uber are also very common in Brno.

Use this decision guide to choose your route:

• If you are fit and enjoy views: Walk from Husova street through the park.
• If you have small children: Use the paved road from Pellicova street for strollers.
• If you have limited mobility: Take a taxi to the main castle entrance.
• If you are on a budget: Walk or use a standard transit ticket for the tram.

Step-by-Step Guide: Walking to the Fortress

Walking is the most rewarding way to see Spilberk Castle Brno. The route takes you through lush greenery and past historic monuments. Follow these steps to reach the top without getting lost.

1. Step 1: Start at Silingrovo Namesti.
   Time: 2 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: South end of Husova street. Mistake: Starting at the main train station, which adds 10 minutes of flat walking.
2. Step 2: Enter the park at Husova.
   Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Look for the stone stairs or paved paths behind the Medicine Faculty. Mistake: Taking the very first narrow dirt path, which can be slippery after rain.
3. Step 3: Follow the signs for "Hrad".
   Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Central park paths. Mistake: Turning toward the residential streets instead of staying on the upward winding paths.
4. Step 4: Enter the main gate.
   Time: 2 minutes. Cost: Free for the grounds. Location: The eastern side of the fortress. Mistake: Arriving after the park gates close at night, though the outer park often stays open.

The walk is steep in some sections. Take your time and enjoy the benches along the way. You will pass several lookout points that are perfect for photos of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.

Using Public Transport to the Castle Hill

Brno has an excellent public transport system managed by DPMB. While no line stops at the castle door, you can get very close. Tram line 12 is the most convenient from the main station. It stops at Silingrovo Namesti, which is the gateway to the castle park.

You can also take tram line 5 or 6 to the same stop. Tickets can be bought on the tram using a contactless bank card. Just "beep" when you enter and "beep" when you leave. This is the easiest way for tourists to pay for short trips.

If you are coming from the western side of the city, look for bus line 80. It stops at the "Hrad Spilberk" stop on Pellicova street. This stop is slightly higher up the hill than the tram stops. It reduces the amount of climbing you need to do. Always check the latest schedules on the Go To Brno portal for seasonal changes.

Essential Preparation and What to Bring

Before you start your climb, make sure you are prepared. The weather in Brno can change quickly. Even a short walk feels harder in the summer heat. Check the Spilberk Castle opening hours before you leave. Most exhibitions close by 6:00 PM.

• Comfortable shoes: The paths are paved but some have old cobblestones.
• Water bottle: There are few fountains on the way up the hill.
• Camera or phone: The views of the city center are the best in Brno.
• Small change: While most places take cards, some small kiosks might prefer cash.
• Transit app: Download the IDS JMK Poseidon app for easy navigation.

Troubleshooting Your Visit to the Fortress

Even simple trips can have small issues. Here are common problems visitors face when trying to reach the castle. Use these tips to stay on track.

• Wrong gate: There are two main entrances; if one is blocked for events, try the other side.
• Steepness: If the Husova path is too steep, use the winding road from Pellicova street.
• Construction: Check for park maintenance signs which might divert paths in 2026.
• Closures: The castle courtyard is usually open, but the interiors require tickets.
• Strollers: Avoid the stairs near the Husova tram stop; use the ramp further up.
• Mobile data: Signal can be weak inside the thick stone walls of the fortress.
• Heat: Climb in the morning or late afternoon during July and August.