Planning Your Visit to Brno Zoo and the Dam

Reaching the Bystrc district is very simple. Most families take tram number 1 from the main station. The ride takes about 25 minutes. You should get off at the Zoo stop. For schedules, visit the DPMB - Brno Public Transport site. The zoo and the dam are within walking distance of each other. You can see the animals in the morning. Then, walk down to the water for lunch.

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. Summer can be very hot on the hillsides. The zoo involves a lot of walking uphill. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone. Many paths are stroller-friendly, but some are steep. Pack plenty of water and snacks for the kids. There are several kiosks, but they can get busy.

10 Best Things to Do Near Brno Zoo and the Dam

This list highlights the top spots for families. We have included iconic sights and unique local experiences. Each item is chosen to keep children engaged and happy.

1. Name: Brno Zoo Type: sight Why go: See polar bears, tigers, and a modern African village. Best for: Animal lovers of all ages. Where: Bystrc, Mniší hora. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate (family tickets available). Getting there: Tram 1 or 10 to "Zoo" stop. Tip: Use the zoo train if your kids have tired legs.
2. Name: Brno Reservoir (Přehrada) Type: nature Why go: Relax by the water or enjoy a lakeside walk. Best for: Picnics and outdoor play. Where: Bystrc. Time: 2-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the Zoo. Tip: Bring a blanket for the grassy beach areas.
3. Name: Reservoir Boat Cruise Type: experience Why go: Ride the electric boats across the water. Best for: Scenic views without walking. Where: Brno Dam docks. Time: 45-90 minutes. Cost: Affordable. Getting there: Follow signs from the tram stop to the water. Tip: Buy a round-trip ticket to Veveří Castle.
4. Name: Veveří Castle Type: sight Why go: Explore one of the oldest castles in Moravia. Best for: History buffs and little knights. Where: North end of the reservoir. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low for grounds; moderate for tours. Getting there: Take the boat from the dam. Tip: The castle courtyard often hosts food festivals.
5. Name: Sokolák Beach Type: nature Why go: Enjoy sandy areas and volleyball courts. Best for: Active families and swimming. Where: East bank of the dam. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk or take a short bus ride from Bystrc. Tip: This area has the best ice cream stands.
6. Name: Jungle Park (Rope Center) Type: activity Why go: Climb through the trees on safe rope courses. Best for: Older kids and teenagers. Where: Near the Anthropos Pavilion. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Bus or tram from the dam area. Tip: Check height requirements before booking.
7. Name: VIDA! Science Center Type: indoor Why go: Interactive exhibits that make science fun. Best for: Rainy days and curious minds. Where: Near the Brno Exhibition Centre. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram 1 from the Zoo. Tip: Don't miss the science show in the theater.
8. Name: Anthropos Pavilion Type: museum Why go: See a life-sized prehistoric mammoth. Best for: School-aged children. Where: Pisárky district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Short tram ride from the Zoo area. Tip: The park surrounding the museum is great for a run.
9. Name: Moravian Karst Type: day trip Why go: Explore deep caves and ride a boat on an underground river. Best for: Adventurous families. Where: Blansko region (North of Brno). Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Blansko, then a local bus. Tip: Book cave tickets weeks in advance.
10. Name: Lednice-Valtice Complex Type: day trip Why go: See a fairy-tale castle and massive gardens. Best for: Photography and long walks. Where: South Moravia. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Břeclav, then bus to Lednice. Tip: Rent bikes to explore the flat park trails.

Practical Tips for Families in Brno

Brno is a very safe city for travelers. Most people speak some English, especially in tourist areas. When visiting the zoo, buy tickets online to skip lines. This saves time when traveling with impatient toddlers. You can find more travel inspiration on the Visit Czechia website. Public toilets are usually available for a small fee.

Dining near the dam is easy and casual. You will find many stands selling fried cheese and sausages. For a sit-down meal, look for restaurants in Bystrc. Many have outdoor seating and small playgrounds. Always carry some Czech Koruna in cash for small kiosks. Most larger venues accept credit cards without issues.

Great Family Day Trips From Brno

If you have more time, explore the surrounding region. There are many family day trips from Brno that offer variety. You can visit medieval towns or natural wonders. The train system is reliable and cheap for groups. Children under six often travel for free on public transport.

South Moravia is famous for its sunny weather. This makes it ideal for outdoor excursions in 2026. Whether you like hiking or history, there is a path for you. Always check the weather forecast before heading into the hills. Enjoy the slow pace of life in the Czech countryside.