The Top 10 Train Day Trips from Brno: A Local's Guide
Brno is the perfect base for exploring Central Europe. The city sits at a major railway crossroads. You can reach stunning castles and wine regions in under an hour. Taking train day trips from Brno is both easy and affordable. The local trains are modern and run very often. You don't need a car to see the best of South Moravia. This guide covers the most scenic and culturally rich destinations. For more ideas, check out our full list of day trips near Brno. Start planning your 2026 adventure with these top rail picks.
Why Choose Train Day Trips from Brno?
Brno Main Station, or Brno hl.n., is located right in the city center. You can walk there from most major hotels. The Czech railway network is one of the densest in Europe. Trains are generally punctual and very clean. You can enjoy the rolling hills of Moravia through large windows. Many trains offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets. This makes travel time productive or relaxing.
Tickets are surprisingly cheap compared to Western Europe. You can often buy them minutes before departure. Group discounts are available for two or more people. This makes rail travel great for families or friends. You can find more information on the Visit Czechia website. Using the train also helps you avoid traffic and parking issues. It is the most sustainable way to explore the region.
10 Best Train Day Trips from Brno for 2026
These destinations offer a mix of history, nature, and local culture. Most are within a 90-minute journey from Brno. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.
- Quick picks:
- Best overall: Lednice-Valtice
- Best for families: Moravian Karst (Blansko)
- Best for wine: Mikulov
- Best for history: Olomouc
- Name: Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape Type: UNESCO Sight Why go: It is often called the "Garden of Europe." You will see stunning chateaux and massive parks. Best for: Architecture lovers and couples. Where: Lednice/Valtice. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate (entry fees apply). Getting there: Train to Břeclav, then a local bus or train. Tip: Book a Lednice-Valtice complex day trip to see both palaces.
- Name: Mikulov Type: Experience Why go: This is the heart of the Moravian wine region. The town features a hilltop castle and a charming square. Best for: Wine enthusiasts and photographers. Where: Mikulov. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Direct regional train or change at Břeclav. Tip: Follow our Mikulov wine region itinerary for the best cellar stops.
- Name: Olomouc Type: Sight Why go: It is a quieter version of Prague. The city has a beautiful Holy Trinity Column and astronomical clock. Best for: History buffs and foodies. Where: Olomouc. Time: Full day. Cost: Low. Getting there: Fast direct trains take about 1.5 hours. Tip: Read our guide on Olomouc sightseeing from Brno for hidden gems.
- Name: Znojmo Type: Nature/Sight Why go: Visit the gateway to Podyjí National Park. The town is famous for its medieval underground and pickles. Best for: Hikers and history fans. Where: Znojmo. Time: Full day. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct regional trains run frequently. Tip: Explore the Znojmo and Podyji National Park trails for great views.
- Name: Punkva Caves (via Blansko) Type: Nature Why go: Take a boat ride on an underground river. See the famous Macocha Abyss from below. Best for: Families and nature lovers. Where: Near Blansko. Time: 5-7 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Blansko, then a local bus. Tip: You must book Moravian Karst and Punkva Caves tickets weeks in advance.
- Name: Pernštejn Castle Type: Sight Why go: This "marble" castle has never been conquered. It looks like something from a fairy tale. Best for: Families and castle enthusiasts. Where: Nedvědice. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Train to Nedvědice, then a 2km uphill walk. Tip: Check out other best castles near Brno for more medieval history.
- Name: Kroměříž Type: UNESCO Sight Why go: The Archbishop's Palace and its Flower Garden are world-famous. It is a masterpiece of Baroque garden design. Best for: Gardeners and photographers. Where: Kroměříž. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train with one change in Kojetín. Tip: The Flower Garden is most beautiful in late spring or early summer.
- Name: Třebíč Type: Sight Why go: Visit one of the best-preserved Jewish Quarters in Europe. The St. Procopius Basilica is also a UNESCO site. Best for: Cultural explorers. Where: Třebíč. Time: 6-7 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct regional trains take about 1 hour. Tip: Visit the Rear Synagogue for a detailed history of the local community.
- Name: Slavkov u Brna (Austerlitz) Type: Experience Why go: See the site of Napoleon’s greatest victory. The Baroque chateau is surrounded by a massive park. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Slavkov u Brna. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct train takes only 20-30 minutes. Tip: The Cairn of Peace is a short taxi ride from the station.
- Name: Tišnov and Porta Coeli Type: Experience Why go: Visit the "Gate of Heaven" Cistercian convent. The Gothic portal is an architectural marvel. Best for: Art lovers and those seeking peace. Where: Předklášteří (near Tišnov). Time: 4 hours. Cost: Very low. Getting there: Direct S2 train line from Brno. Tip: Combine this with a short hike to the Květnice hill nearby.
How to Navigate the Czech Railway System
Navigating the trains in Brno is quite simple. The main station has clear digital boards. Look for your train under the "Odjezdy" (Departures) section. Most staff at the ticket counters speak basic English. You can also use the touch-screen kiosks. For the best experience, download the Můj vlak app. It allows you to buy tickets and track delays in real-time.
You do not usually need to book regional tickets in advance. However, for fast express trains, a seat reservation is recommended. This is especially true on Friday afternoons or Sundays. If you are traveling within the city first, check the DPMB public transport site. The station is a major hub for trams and buses. Always validate your ticket before boarding if it is a paper regional pass.
Essential Tips for Your Moravian Rail Adventure
Plan your trips for weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds. Many castles are closed on Mondays, so check schedules first. Carry some Czech Koruna for small cafes in smaller towns. Most major attractions now accept cards, but smaller shops might not. Wear comfortable walking shoes as many stations are a bit far from the centers. You can find more local advice on the Go To Brno portal.
If you enjoy cycling, you can take your bike on most trains. You just need to buy a bicycle supplement ticket. This is a great way to explore the flat wine trails of South Moravia. Always keep an eye on the last train back to Brno. While service is frequent, late-night options can be limited. Most regional lines stop running around midnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for train day trips from Brno?
You can buy tickets at the Brno main station ticket office. Self-service machines are also available in several languages. For the most convenience, use the Můj vlak mobile app. It stores your tickets digitally and provides platform numbers and real-time delay updates.
Are trains from Brno reliable for day trips?
Yes, Czech trains are generally very reliable and punctual. Regional trains run on a regular clock-face schedule. This means they depart at the same minute every hour. While minor delays can occur, they rarely disrupt a well-planned day trip within the South Moravian region.
Can I visit Vienna by train from Brno as a day trip?
Yes, Vienna is a very popular day trip from Brno. Direct Railjet trains run every hour and take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is best to book these tickets in advance for lower prices. The train arrives at Vienna Main Station (Wien Hbf).
Taking train day trips from Brno is the best way to see Moravia. You can enjoy UNESCO heritage, world-class wine, and deep caves. The rail system is efficient, cheap, and very user-friendly. Whether you want a short 20-minute hop or a full-day excursion, Brno is the perfect hub. Start your journey by visiting the main station and picking a direction. For more inspiration on family-friendly travel, see our guide to family day trips from Brno. Enjoy your 2026 travels through this beautiful part of the Czech Republic!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
- City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
- Brno-Tuřany Airport — Official airport authority; unverified source.
