Why You Should Visit Historical Znojmo

Znojmo feels like a step back in time. The town center is a protected heritage site. You will see narrow cobblestone streets and old city walls. It is a top choice for places to visit near Brno during your stay.

The town is the heart of Moravian wine culture. Vineyards surround the city on every side. You can taste local Riesling and Veltliner here. The wine traditions date back hundreds of years.

Nature lovers will enjoy the location too. Znojmo is the gateway to Podyjí National Park. This park protects the deep valley of the Dyje River. It offers peaceful trails and beautiful views.

10 Best Things to Do in Znojmo

This list includes the most iconic sights in the city. Each spot offers a unique look at Moravian life. Use these picks to plan your perfect itinerary.

• Best overall: Znojmo Catacombs
• Best for families: Town Hall Tower
• Best rainy day: Louka Monastery
• Best free activity: Gránice Valley walk

1. Name: Znojmo Catacombs Type: Underground sight Why go: Explore one of the largest medieval tunnel systems in Central Europe. Best for: History buffs and thrill-seekers. Where: Entry is near Masaryk Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 160 CZK). Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Book the "adrenaline route" if you are not claustrophobic.
2. Name: Town Hall Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Climb the 80-meter tower for the best views of the town. Best for: Photographers. Where: Obroková street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Low (approx. 50 CZK). Getting there: Located in the very center. Tip: Visit at sunset for golden hour photos.
3. Name: Znojmo Castle Type: Sight Why go: Learn about the town's royal past and see the museum collections. Best for: History lovers. Where: Overlooking the river. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the square. Tip: Check out the best castles near Brno to compare styles.
4. Name: Rotunda of St. Catherine Type: Experience Why go: See rare 11th-century Romanesque frescoes of Czech dukes. Best for: Art and history enthusiasts. Where: Inside the castle grounds. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyard. Tip: Access is limited by weather to protect the art.
5. Name: St. Nicholas' Deanery Church Type: Sight Why go: Admire the unique pulpit shaped like a whale. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: St. Nicholas Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk toward the cliff edge. Tip: Look for the viewpoint behind the church.
6. Name: Podyjí National Park Type: Nature Why go: Hike through untouched forests along the Austrian border. Best for: Hikers and cyclists. Where: Starts at the edge of town. Time: 3-6 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green or yellow trail from the castle. Tip: Hike to the Šobes vineyard for a glass of wine.
7. Name: Louka Monastery Type: Sight Why go: Visit a massive Premonstratensian monastery with huge wine cellars. Best for: Wine lovers and architecture fans. Where: Southern part of town. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 20-minute walk or short bus ride. Tip: Buy local wine at their shop for great prices.
8. Name: Enoteka of Moravian Wines Type: Experience Why go: Taste dozens of local wines using a modern self-service system. Best for: Couples and friends. Where: Near the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Variable based on tasting. Getting there: Located in a renovated brewery building. Tip: Try the local Sauvignon Blanc.
9. Name: Gránice Valley Type: Nature Why go: Enjoy a peaceful walk in a deep valley right below the city walls. Best for: Families and dog walkers. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the stairs down from the castle area. Tip: There is a nice playground for kids here.
10. Name: Sealsfield Stone Type: Day trip Why go: See the most famous viewpoint over the Dyje river canyon. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: 5km from Znojmo. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike or bike from the city center. Tip: This is a great alternative to the Lednice-Valtice complex day trip if you prefer wild nature.

How to Visit Znojmo from Brno

Getting to Znojmo is very easy. Most people use the day trips from Brno by train option. Trains run frequently throughout the day. The journey usually takes about 90 minutes.

You can also take a direct bus. Buses are often faster than the train. They depart from the Brno main bus station. Check schedules on the Go To Brno portal for updates.

Driving is the fastest way to travel. It takes about 50 minutes by car. Follow the main road south toward Vienna. Parking is available in several lots near the town center.

Essential Tips for Your Znojmo Trip

Timing is important for your visit. September is the most popular month. This is when the Znojmo Wine Festival happens. The town gets very crowded during this time.

Book your tours early if you visit in summer. The catacombs often sell out. Many sites have limited capacity for visitors. This is common across the Mikulov wine region guide areas too.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for your trip. The streets are steep and rocky. Znojmo is a very hilly town. You will do a lot of climbing to see the best views.