Top Attractions in the Moravian Karst and Punkva Caves

The Moravian Karst is famous for its diverse cave systems and dramatic landscapes. Each cave offers a different geological story. You will find massive stalactites, underground rivers, and historical bunkers. It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike.

The area is well-organized for tourism with clear paths and professional guides. Most tours are conducted in Czech, but audio guides are often available. Here are the top specific locations you should visit during your trip.

1. Name: Punkva Caves (Punkevní jeskyně) Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is the only cave where you can take an underground boat ride. You also walk onto the floor of the 138-meter deep Macocha Abyss. Best for: First-time visitors and families. Where: Skalní mlýn area. Time: 60-90 minutes. Cost: 250-320 CZK. Getting there: Take a train to Blansko and then a local bus. Tip: You must learn how to book Punkva Caves tickets in advance as they sell out fast.
2. Name: Macocha Abyss (Macocha Propast) Type: Viewpoint Why go: It is the deepest abyss of its kind in Central Europe. You can view it from the Upper Bridge or the Lower Bridge for free. Best for: Photographers and hikers. Where: Above the Punkva Caves. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free to view from bridges; cable car fees apply. Getting there: Use the cable car from Skalní mlýn or hike the forest trails. Tip: Check the weather before going for the best visibility.
3. Name: Catherine Cave (Kateřinská jeskyně) Type: Nature Why go: It features the largest cave chamber in the Czech Republic open to the public. The acoustics are so good that concerts are often held here. Best for: Music lovers and geology fans. Where: Near Skalní mlýn. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: 150-180 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main Skalní mlýn parking lot. Tip: Look for the "Bamboo Forest" stalagmite formation.
4. Name: Výpustek Cave Type: Unique experience Why go: This cave served as a secret military fallout shelter during the Cold War. You can see the heavy blast doors and command centers built into the rock. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the village of Křtiny. Time: 75 minutes. Cost: 180-220 CZK. Getting there: Best reached by car or bus from Brno. Tip: This cave is less crowded than Punkva but equally fascinating.
5. Name: Balcarka Cave Type: Nature Why go: It is widely considered the most colorful cave in the Moravian Karst. The stalactite decorations are incredibly dense and varied. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Near the village of Ostrov u Macochy. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: 160-190 CZK. Getting there: Local bus from Blansko or a scenic hike. Tip: Visit in spring to see the cave at its dampest and most vibrant.
6. Name: Sloup-Šošůvka Caves Type: Nature Why go: These are the largest accessible caves in the country. They feature massive underground chasms and narrow corridors. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near the town of Sloup. Time: 60-110 minutes depending on the route. Cost: 200-250 CZK. Getting there: Bus from Blansko or Boskovice. Tip: Take the longer tour to see the Nagel Abyss.
7. Name: House of Nature (Dům přírody) Type: Museum Why go: It provides an interactive look at how the karst was formed over millions of years. It is a great way to start your visit before heading underground. Best for: Families with children. Where: Skalní mlýn. Time: 45-60 minutes. Cost: 100-120 CZK. Getting there: Located right next to the main tourist information center. Tip: It is one of the best family day trips from Brno on a rainy day.
8. Name: Skalní mlýn Type: Experience Why go: This is the central hub for all cave activities. You can find hotels, restaurants, and the main ticket office here. Best for: Convenience and dining. Where: At the entrance to the Punkva valley. Time: Variable. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Use the train to Blansko and then the "Krasobus" shuttle. Tip: Rent a bike here to explore the valley trails easily.
9. Name: Křtiny Pilgrimage Church Type: Sight Why go: Designed by the famous architect Santini, this Baroque masterpiece is stunning. It is located just on the edge of the karst region. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Village of Křtiny. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Direct bus from Brno or a short drive from Výpustek Cave. Tip: Check the schedule for the carillon bells performance.
10. Name: Pernštejn Castle Type: Day trip Why go: This Gothic-Renaissance castle is one of the best-preserved in Moravia. It sits on a high rock and looks like something from a fairy tale. Best for: History and castle fans. Where: Nedvědice (30 mins from the karst). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 200-300 CZK. Getting there: Train to Nedvědice or a car ride through the hills. Tip: It is often ranked among the best castles near Brno.
11. Name: Boskovice Western Town Type: Experience Why go: A fun, themed park that recreates an American Wild West town. It offers shows, horse riding, and gold panning. Best for: Kids and groups. Where: Boskovice (north of the karst). Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: 250-400 CZK. Getting there: Train or bus from Blansko. Tip: Visit during the summer for the full show schedule.

Planning Your Trip to the Moravian Karst and Punkva Caves

Success in the Moravian Karst depends on your logistics. The Punkva Caves are the most popular site in the Czech Republic. You should book your entry time at least 3 to 6 months in advance for summer visits. Use the central booking office email or phone for 2026 reservations.

Getting to the area from Brno is relatively simple. Most travelers take a train to Blansko and then a bus. You can read more about getting from Brno to Macocha Abyss by bus for a smooth journey. For broader travel context, check the Visit Czechia website.

Remember that the caves stay cold all year. The temperature is usually around 8 degrees Celsius (46°F). Even if it is a hot summer day, bring a jacket and long pants. Wear sturdy walking shoes as the paths can be slippery and wet.