Why Visit the Best Castles Near Brno?

South Moravia is a land of legends and knights. The area around Brno was once a vital crossroads in Europe. This history left behind a massive collection of defensive structures. Today, these sites are top choices for day trips near Brno.

Visiting these castles is not just about old stones. You can enjoy local wine, beautiful parks, and cultural festivals. Many sites host medieval markets or night tours during the summer. You can find more details on local events at the Go To Brno tourism site.

The variety of architecture is truly impressive. You can see Gothic towers standing next to Baroque halls. Most locations are well-preserved and offer guided tours in English. Planning a trip is simple because the infrastructure is excellent for tourists.

The 10 Best Castles Near Brno for History Lovers

Here are the top picks for your Moravian castle adventure. Each entry includes practical details to help you plan. We have included a mix of iconic sights and hidden gems.

• Best overall: Špilberk Castle
• Best for families: Pernštejn Castle
• Best for romance: Lednice Chateau
• Best for wine lovers: Valtice Chateau

1. Name: Špilberk Castle Type: sight Why go: This massive fortress dominates the city skyline. It was once the most feared prison in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Best for: History buffs and city views. Where: Brno city center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 200-300 CZK). Getting there: Walk up the hill from the city center. Tip: Visit the casemates to see the dark history of the prison cells.
2. Name: Veveří Castle Type: experience Why go: This castle sits on a rocky promontory above the Brno Reservoir. It is one of the oldest and largest castle complexes in the country. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Brno-Bystrc area. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Take a boat across the reservoir or a local bus. Tip: Combine your visit with a boat trip for a relaxing afternoon.
3. Name: Pernštejn Castle Type: sight Why go: Known as the "Marble Castle," it has never been conquered in its history. Its Gothic architecture is incredibly well-preserved. Best for: Families and fans of medieval films. Where: Nedvědice (approx. 45 km from Brno). Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a train to Nedvědice station and walk up. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the climb to the gate is steep.
4. Name: Lednice Chateau Type: sight Why go: This UNESCO site is a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture. The surrounding park is often called the "Garden of Europe." Best for: Photography and romantic walks. Where: Lednice. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate to high for full tours. Getting there: A Lednice-Valtice complex day trip is best by car or bus. Tip: Book your interior tour tickets online weeks in advance during summer.
5. Name: Valtice Chateau Type: experience Why go: This Baroque palace was the seat of the Liechtenstein family. It houses the National Wine Salon in its cellars. Best for: Wine enthusiasts and luxury seekers. Where: Valtice. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short train ride or drive from Lednice. Tip: Book a South Moravia wine tasting tour to sample the best local labels here.
6. Name: Mikulov Chateau Type: sight Why go: Perched on a cliff, this castle offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. It features a massive historic wine barrel. Best for: Viewpoints and culture. Where: Mikulov. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct bus or train from Brno. Tip: Follow a Mikulov wine region itinerary to see the Holy Hill nearby.
7. Name: Slavkov Castle (Austerlitz) Type: sight Why go: This Baroque residence is famous for the Battle of Austerlitz. Napoleon stayed here after his great victory. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: Slavkov u Brna. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Easy train ride from Brno main station. Tip: Read our Slavkov Austerlitz battlefield guide before you go.
8. Name: Buchlov Castle Type: sight Why go: A majestic royal fortress located in the Chřiby mountains. It features unique natural history collections and an Egyptian mummy. Best for: Adventure and panoramic views. Where: Near Buchlovice. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Best reached by car. Tip: Visit the nearby Buchlovice Chateau on the same day for a contrast in styles.
9. Name: Vranov nad Dyjí Chateau Type: sight Why go: This Baroque jewel sits high above the Dyje river. The Hall of Ancestors is one of the most beautiful rooms in Europe. Best for: Art lovers and Baroque fans. Where: Vranov nad Dyjí. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Znojmo, then a local bus. Tip: The view of the castle from the bridge below is the best photo spot.
10. Name: Lysice Chateau Type: sight Why go: Famous for its unique Renaissance colonnade with a covered walkway. The interiors show the life of the 19th-century nobility. Best for: Garden lovers and quiet escapes. Where: Lysice (30 km north of Brno). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Bus from Brno or a short drive. Tip: Check the schedule for seasonal flower shows in the castle garden.

Practical Tips for Visiting Castles in South Moravia

Most castles near Brno are open from April to October. Many close or have limited hours during the winter months. Always check the official website before you travel. Monday is the traditional closing day for most Czech monuments.

Public transport is a great way to explore. You can find many train day trips from Brno that lead directly to castle towns. For local schedules, use the DPMB public transport portal. This helps you plan connections between buses and trains.

Guided tours are often mandatory for seeing castle interiors. These tours usually run at specific times. If you do not speak Czech, ask for an English text guide. Many popular sites now offer audio guides or English-speaking tours during peak season.

Carry some cash for smaller entrance fees or snacks. While many places take cards, small village kiosks might not. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Many castles involve climbing hills or walking on uneven cobblestones.