If you’re dreaming of a Christmas city break with charm, culture, great food, and a festive atmosphere without the crowds of Prague or Vienna, let me introduce you to Brno, Czechia. If your idea of a perfect festive getaway involves fairy-lit squares, steaming cups of mulled wine, artisan markets, gothic towers, heartfelt traditions and no jostling with giant tour groups, listen up. In 2024, Brno was voted Christmas Capital of Europe, and with some of the best Christmas markets in Central Europe, the second biggest Czech city is the kind of place that quietly wins your heart.
This is where you come for a true Czech Christmas, the kind locals actually celebrate. It's your cosy, authentic Czech Christmas city break – a culture-filled winter escape in one of Europe’s most underrated cities. Think smaller markets with soul, craft stalls run by regional makers, live music filling historic squares, Czech families selling their traditional gingerbread and streets that feel lively but never overcrowded. There’s no conveyor-belt tourism here, just a warm, welcoming city that knows how to do December properly.
Brno has all the festive magic of Central Europe, with twinkling lights, medieval lanes, wintery viewpoints – but with an authenticity Prague sometimes struggles to offer these days. It’s creative, walkable, gently buzzing, and big enough to explore, yet small enough to make it the perfect solo city break destination.
This Christmas City Break Guide will help you plan the perfect winter weekend in Brno Czechia, answering everything from “Is it worth visiting Brno?” to “Does Brno have Christmas markets?” (spoiler: yes, some of the best). It’s also your gateway to experiencing the local legends, food culture, architectural gems, and hidden corners that make Brno one of Europe’s most underrated festive destinations.
A Christmas break that feels personal, not packaged – and full of Czech traditions you’ll remember long after you’ve flown home. Ready to experience the cosy Czech Christmas you didn’t know you were missing? Let’s go.
This blog post is a press trip partnership with Brno City Municipality and TIC BRNO [AD] in partnership with Brněnské Vánoce and Gourmet Brno, but I only ever share my honest reviews & travel experiences.
The Christmas City Break Guide to Brno, Czechia. Here's where you'll find:
- Why Brno, Czechia belongs on the nice list (and your Christmas travel list)
- A Short History of Brno (and Why It’s So Underrated)
- How to get to Brno from London (and the best flights to Brno)
- The best place to stay in Brno for a winter city break
- Getting around Brno and the BRNOPAS+
- 10 best things to do in Brno, Czechia (especially at Christmas)
- Best restaurants, coffee shops and bars in Brno
- A Christmas weekend itinerary in Brno (3 day itinerary)
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Why Brno, Czechia, belongs on the nice list (and your Christmas travel list)
We all love a Christmas market, but there's something about Brno that feels like you're discovering a hidden gem. It has all the atmosphere of a traditional European Christmas destination – twinkling markets, music and traditions – but without the crowds or commercial chaos. This is a city that welcomes you with open arms and invites you to share their traditions, to streets filled with families that are proud of their city and can't wait for you to experience it. Just two hours from by plane from London and by car from Prague, Christmas in Brno couldn't feel more different, leaning into a slower, more authentic festive experience.
Beyond the festivities, you'll discover the city's incredible food scene, with cosy coffee shops, wholesome and creative dining experiences, and some of the coolest bars I have ever experienced. Soak up the city's fascinating history and beautiful architecture as you wander the cobblestoned streets and fairytale market squares. This is a Christmas city break that is excellent value for money and a festive spirit that feels genuinely magical. Whether you come for a romantic Christmas weekend, a solo winter escape, or simply to explore a new corner of Czechia, Brno will surprise you in all the best ways.
A Short History of Brno (and Why It’s So Underrated)
Did you know Brno is the second-largest city in Czechia? You may have already visited the popular Czech city of Prague, but despite only being two hours away by car, it couldn't be more different. While Prague is a grand city and an iconic Czech sight, Brno is creative, cosy, and full of locals rather than tourists. Brno has the charm of a small town but the vibe of an artsy, liveable small city with a rich cultural heritage. If you're wondering whether you should visit Brno or Prague for Christmas – they offer a completely different Christmas experience and both are so special. If you love culture, food, festive markets and a city that feels lived-in and authentic, the South Moravian capital is a Christmas winner in my eyes.
Brno has such an interesting history – from invasions throughout the ages from a Swedish siege in 1645 to Nazi occupation during the Second World War – that has shaped the city we see today. Historically, Brno was a centre of trade, textiles, and engineering, but it’s also a place of myths and legends such as the Brno Dragon and the Noon Bell that rings at 11am – a quirky tradition born from a clever wartime ruse. As you explore, take the time to learn about the city's rebellious spirit through the architects, artists and scientists who have shaped the modern Czech identity.
Top tip: Visit the Brno Dragon at Christmas to see her knitted Christmas sweater to keep the cold out! It uses a sustainable design using upcycled materials in a bid for eco-friendly creativity.
How to Get to Brno From London (and the Best Flights to Brno)
If you're UK-based, you are in luck because there are now direct flights every week from London to Brno, Czechia. It makes it really easy to arrive in Brno ready for a weekend at the Christmas markets and makes the perfect festive city break. It actually was faster for me to fly and arrive at my hotel in Brno, than it is for me to travel from my home to Central London!
Flying London to Brno
There are now direct flights from London Stansted to Brno with Ryanair, with flights starting from as low as £17.99! The flight only takes two hours which means you could be sipping mulled wine in the Christmas market just a few hours after leaving home.
Travelling by train or bus to Brno
If you prefer a more sustainable trip, or simply have more time to explore, you might want to travel to Brno by train or bus. Start by catching the Eurostar to Paris or Brussels, then plan a route that allows you to break up the journey by visiting other Christmas markets. I highly recommend combining Brno with a trip to nearby Vienna and Prague for different Christmas experiences.
Other flights to Brno
If the direct flights don't work for your trip, there are some other popular options which also give you the chance to visit other Christmas markets for a very festive trip:
- Fly from London to Vienna (2 hrs) then take a direct train to Brno (1 hr 30)
- Fly from London to Prague and hop on a train to Brno (2 hrs)
- Fly to Bratislava and travel by train (1 hr 20)
Getting from Brno Airport to the city
Once you arrive at Brno Airport, it is a tiny airport, it is quick to get into the city.
- You can catch Bus 76 which takes you from the airport to the city centre in 18 minutes
- Or, you can order a taxi, Bolt or Uber
The best place to stay in Brno for a winter city break
If you're just visiting Brno for the weekend, you'll want to stay somewhere central to make the most of your time in the city. Here are two hotels you may want to book in Brno city centre:
Hotel International Brno – for a family-friendly or solo traveller stay
I stayed at the Hotel International Brno, which perfectly located just below Špilberk Castle and only a few minutes’ walk from the main squares. For a Christmas city break in Brno, being so close to the markets is a huge perk – It means you can walk everywhere and easily pop back between sightseeing stops if you need to warm up or change for dinner.
The hotel was really comfortable, with spacious rooms and friendly staff who made me feel welcome immediately. I loved the modern decor and the rooms felt really cosy, with views over the city. The Hotel International Brno also has a restaurant, bar and fitness centre and let's take a moment to talk about the hotel breakfast. As someone who stays in a lot of hotels all over the world, I was very impressed by the breakfast Hotel International Brno serves. With lots of dishes freshly prepared, chefs on hand to serve you, an entire section dedicated to vegan and vegetarian options (including plant-based milk options!), fresh pancakes and waffles, and an entire island dedicated to pastries and cakes.
>> Book your stay at Hotel International Brno now! <<
Grand Palace Brno – for couples and those craving grandeur
I also heard great things from friends who stayed at nearby Grand Palace Brno which was another perfect base for a winter getaway in the city. It was also just a few minutes walk from the Christmas markets and was just a 3 minute stroll from the Cathedral. The rooms are peaceful in the heart of the city, and very spacious, while the entrance hall will wow anyone who walks in the door. Expect a live pianist, glass window lifts and vast windows, then a buffet breakfast to set you up for the day. If you're looking for a city centre stay with a hint of glamour, this is the place for you.
Getting around Brno and the BRNOPAS+
Getting around Brno couldn't be easier and one thing I loved about the city – particularly as a solo female traveller – was how easy the city was to navigate, how safe it felt and how you could walk everywhere. It was possible to walk to at least 90% of the city's major attractions which is my favourite way to explore a new city. If you are visiting the city, it's worth knowing that the entire city centre is walkable and traffic is limited which makes it a lovely experience to explore on foot. Google maps also works perfectly here, which I know can be an issue in some cities.
For those who prefer to use public transport to explore Brno, there are buses and trams available across the entire city and the public transport us cheap, clean and runs on time. There are also trams until 10.30pm and reliable night buses which are a good way to get around if you don't want to walk or call a taxi or ride.
If you're sightseeing when you visit the city, make sure you pick up the BRNOPAS or BRNOPAS+ to save money with free or discounted entry to 50 major attractions including:
- St. Peter & Paul Cathedral towers
- Špilberk Castle exhibitions
- Water Tanks Žlutý Kopec
- Old Town Hall Tower
- Villa Arnold
You can buy a BRNOPAS for 1, 2 or 3 days depending on the length of your trip, with passes available for children at discounted rates. You can also get a free boat trip with a three day BRNOPAS. If you wish to visit Villa Tugendhat or the Water Tanks Žlutý kopec, I recommend getting the BRNOPAS+ which includes exclusive entrance to these attractions. It’s the essential pass for discovering all the best things to do in Brno Czech Republic.
10 best things to do in Brno, Czechia (especially at Christmas)
If you’re looking for a magical European winter escape that isn’t overrun with tourists, Brno, Czechia needs to be at the very top of your list. Brno has that perfect blend of history, culture, amazing food and warm-hearted community spirit, but at Christmas it becomes something truly special. Think charming markets scattered through the old town, beautifully lit medieval streets, steaming cups of svařák (the Czech version of mulled wine), and a calendar full of concerts, crafts and festive events you won’t find anywhere else. It’s authentic and refreshingly untouristy, exactly the kind of place where you can slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and feel like you’re experiencing the Czech Republic the way locals do.
Whether you're here for the architecture, the winter food, the cosy cafés or simply to feel those nostalgic festive vibes, this guide will walk you through the 10 best things to do in Brno at Christmas, including hidden gems, seasonal traditions and experiences that make this city such a magical winter destination. I've even thrown in an extra 11 HOT TIPS to help you make the most of your Brno Christmas city break. Let’s dive in.
1. Start with a Walking Tour of the Old Town
Brno’s historic centre is compact, colourful, and full of quirky details that you can only discover through a tour with a local who loves their city. I was lucky enough to start my trip with a walking tour and highly recommend it as a great way to notice the hidden gems of the city, learn about Brno's fascinating history and the unique tales and legends that make the city come alive. We wandered past medieval façades, hidden courtyards, and the iconic Astronomical Clock – one of the strangest clocks you’ll ever see (make sure you stick around to see the marbles!).
>> You can book a Brno walking tour here
2. St. James Church & Its Multimedia Exhibition
One of the most surprising stops was the newly renovated trusses above St. James Church where you'll find an immersive multimedia exhibition with glowing installations woven into the ancient wooden beams. The church is beautiful to visit and free to walk around, but using the BRNOPAS you get discounted access to visit the tower, see the bells and enjoy gorgeous rooftop views over the entire city. Then explore the trusses for a magical display using lights and projections to cast a festive scene and tell the story of Brno, and Christmas.
3. The Christmas Markets of Brno
If you're visiting Brno at Christmas, prepare to be overflowing with festive cheer and have lots of great Christmas Markets in Brno to explore. There are three main squares, each with its own personality (and a fourth secret market to check out!):
- Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody) – the main square with a big stage, live performances and the iconic Christmas tree. Don't miss ringing the Brno Wishing Bell!
- Zelný Trh (Cabbage Market) – this is where you'l find all of the cosy, traditional Christmas celebrations gingerbread stalls, lots of food and live music.
- Moravské Náměstí – this is where you'll find the Ferris wheel, food stalls, and the famous Turbomošt drink.
Top Tip: Visit Gourmet zóna – another tiny Christmas market! This is the place to visit for food lovers featuring 9 stalls run by local restaurants, featured in the Gourmet Brno guide, serving festive specialities.
4. Unique Czech Christmas experiences
Brno's Christmas markets are jam-packed with unique Czech experiences and festive old-world charm which is often lost in bigger cities. Expect Czech gingerbread, mulled wine, handmade crafts, local ceramics, and not even a hint of commercialism.
Don’t miss:
- Turbomošt – the local tipple which serves hot ginger or apple juice mixed with your choice of liquor/spirits – my new favourite festive drink!
- Christmas Wheel for spectacular views across the rooftops of Brno, Náměstí Svobody, Špilberk, and Petrov.
- Ice skating – grab your skates, there's a little ice rink at the base of the Christmas Wheel.
- The Christmas Express and the light trail around Bašty Street – there's a festive Christmas tram and the Christmas Express bus which show you the magic of Brno at night.
- The Christmas Wishing Bell – they say it grants a wish to anyone who rings it with humility.
- Visit the Old Town Hall Tower at night with the BRNOPAS+ for festive views across the Christmas Markets.
Brno knows how to do Christmas right.
5. Saluting the Cathedral That Rings Noon at 11am
The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is one of Brno’s defining landmarks, towering dramatically above the old town. It's gothic twin towers glow beautifully at night and on Sunday mornings you can here the choral ring of voices singing. The cathedral is a prominent landmark for the city, but also comes with an interesting history that, with the BRNOPAS+, you can experience first-hand as you visit the cathedral's towers.
Yes – the bells really do ring at 11am. Ask a local why, and they’ll proudly tell you the story of how the city once outsmarted invading Swedes by ringing noon early. I recommend timing your visit for just before 11am to allow time to climb the staircases to the towers so you can experience the bells chiming midday at 11am. You will be deafened but there's something elating about experiencing the bells ringing from the top of the tower as you look out across the city.
6. Explore Brno's underground world of labyrinths
When you visit Brno, it's easy to think you've seen it all, but no visit to the city is complete without exploring Brno's underground world of labyrinths. Hidden deep under Brno's vegetable market is Labyrint pod Zelným trhem (Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market), a kilometre long ancient underground space comprising of complex passages and basements. Take 212 steps down for a 1 hour tour when you will learn about the medieval cellars where food, wine and beer were once stored, before visiting an alchemist’s laboratory and exploring the local tradition of winemaking. This tour is discounted with the BRNOPAS.
7. Step into an underground world at Water Tanks Žlutý Kopec
This is one of the most unique attractions in the city – a cathedral-like system of underground water tanks revealed only a few years ago. Echoes bounce through vast brick chambers, lit atmospherically to highlight the architecture. It feels part sci-fi, part sacred space. You can access Water Tanks Žlutý Kopec using your BRNOPAS+ and this is an experience you won't want to miss. There's even a light show that happens in one of the tanks every hour, on the hour, so don't miss that for a haunting experience.
8. Visit the second largest Ossuary (bone church) in Europe!
This was one of my favourite experiences while visiting Brno and I highly recommend a visit to this fascinating underground space. The Ossuary at the Church of St James (Kostnice u sv. Jakuba) is a haunting spot for those who enjoy a bit of dark tourism. The second largest ossuary after Paris, the remarkable underground chambers contain the bones and remains of more than 50,000 bodies. It's a chilling experience to walk through the underground chambers and see the skeletons and collections of human remains.
It's more than just an attraction, it's a historic site dating back to the 13th century, so please do treat it respectfully. This was a place for the burial of victims of plague and cholera, the Thirty Years' War and the Swedish siege. Take a moment to listen as you wander around and hear the music that was specially composed for this unique place.
9. Špilberk Castle: Brno’s famous fortress
You can't visit Brno without exploring Brno's famous gothic castle: Špilberk Castle. The highest point in the city, it's the perfect place to visit for sunrise and sunset views that will set the skyline aglow. Once a royal home, then a fearsome prison, and now an impressive museum with sprawling views across the city, it was rebuilt in the 17th century into the sprawling Baroque vision you see today. With the BRNOPAS+, you can enter one of the exhibitions for free, I recommend the tower for sunset!
In winter, the castle looks especially magical with mist rolling over the hill, lights twinkling below, and a cosy café inside for warming up with hot chocolate. If you're visiting at Christmas, be sure to get tickets for The Light Park so you can soak up the magical atmosphere, enjoy the castle aglow at night and watch the projections and show in the inner courtyard at the castle.
10. Villa Arnold, Löw-Beer Villa & Villa Tugendhat Garden
If you love exploring local architecture and art, you'll want to visit Villa Arnold, Löw-Beer Villa & Villa Tugendhat Garden. Brno is a modernist architecture haven. Start at Villa Arnold, then cross the garden into Löw-Beer Villa, and finish at the famous Villa Tugendhat – a UNESCO masterpiece. Take your time diving into the history surrounding Brno's Jewish community and Nazi occupation – you can even hear the stories of the locals, see their treasured memories and watch videos. With the BRNOPAS+ you get free entry to Villa Arnold.
Best restaurants, coffee shops and bars in Brno
Brno’s food scene is an unsung hero, full of hidden gems that offer high-quality, creative and very affordable food that will be one of the highlights of your trip. Many restaurants feature in the Gourmet Brno guide, and nearly all use local and seasonal ingredients. Here are my favourite restaurants, bars and coffee shops from the trip:
- Lokál U Caipla – Traditional Czech comfort food in a modern tavern setting
- Soul Bistro – A vibrant, casual eat full of wholesome goodness
- Element Restaurant – Beautiful plates with unique flavour combinations, ideal for a cosy date night or dinner with friends
- MANYA Sushi & Sake Izakaya – A surprise highlight for lovers of Japanese cuisine
- Super Panda Circus – Not a bar, an experience (theatrical cocktails & playful storytelling)
- The Bar That Doesn't Exist – Casual eats, creative cocktails and great service
- Typika (Moravská galerie) – A relaxing space a coffee, cake and a catch up
- Monogram Espresso Bar – A cosy spot to spend the afternoon with an espresso and a book
- ">Kimono Coffee – Great for a slow Sunday and a sweet treat
Make sure you read my Brno Food Guide for more information about each of these eats – and the chance to steal my order!
A Christmas weekend itinerary in Brno (3 day itinerary)
If you're visiting for the weekend, I recommend flying Thursday evening to give yourself a full 2-3 days to explore. Here, you can steal my itinerary:
FRIDAY
- Spend your morning on a Brno walking tour exploring local history
- St. James Church trusses exhibition & tower visit
- Lunch at Lokál U Caipla
- Coffee at Monogram Espresso Bar
- Hidden courtyard browsing at PLATZ (check out Book Therapy!)
- Check out the Christmas Trees in Freedom Square + Zelný trh (check dates for the official lighting)
- Dinner at Element
- Enjoy the Christmas markets and try Turbomošt
- Old Town Hall Tower night view & Christmas Wheel
- Finish the night at The Bar That Doesn't Exist
SATURDAY
- Špilberk Castle for sunrise views
- The Ossuary at the Church of St James
- Cathedral of St. Peter & Paul towers
- Coffee at Typika (Moravská galerie)
- Lunch at Soul Bistro
- Explore Water Tanks Žlutý Kopec
- Špilberk Castle & Light Park
- Dinner at MANYA Sushi & Sake Izakaya
- Cocktails at Super Panda Circus
SUNDAY
- Villa Arnold & Löw-Beer Villa
- Villa Tugendhat Garden
- Kimono Coffee to warm up with a coffee and a pastry
- Lunch at Bango
- Labyrint pod Zelným trhem (Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market)
- Departure
