family travel guide
What do you expect from a trip to a small old town? Unhurried walks, no crowds near the main sights, sitting in local restaurants and some pleasant boredom — to escape reality for a while, but then return.
What do you get? All this, and in addition modern infrastructure, good service, friendly attitude and prices are not as high as in the capital.
In any case, this is what Brno looks like. It has everything for family holidays: parks and museums, hotels and apartments, restaurants and shops. The Kidpassage review will tell you how the city lives, what time to plan a holiday with children in Brno and what to fill your trip with.
Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic, the administrative centre of the South Moravian Region and the main city of the historic Moravia Region. It is located in the south-east of the country, 207 km from Prague, 170 km from Ostrava and 336 km from Karlovy Vary. The distance to Vienna (Austria) is 137 kilometres and to Bratislava (Slovakia) 132 kilometres.
The junction of the South Moravian Plain and the Czech-Moravian Upland, where Brno is located, is covered with forested hills. The name "Brno" has a fascinating linguistic origin that can be traced back through centuries of history. It is believed to have evolved from the Old Czech term "Brně" or "Brněn", denoting a hill or elevated area. Some linguists and historians suggest that "Brno" originates in the Proto-Slavic language. In this ancient linguistic form, "brniti" referred to defending or fortifying, possibly relating to the elevated position of the city.
So, the choice fell on Brno instead of Prague, complete with everything a tourist wants. In what case will it be enjoyable? If you want to take your time, walk, and be in nature on holiday, but you also appreciate comfort, excursions and entertainment, feel free to come to Brno with children.
The first thing visitors notice is the abundance of green spaces. Whether you are travelling with an infant who sleeps well in the fresh air or a restless preschooler, there will always be a park or forest nearby for walking.
Second observation — Brno is not very much like Prague. Sometimes, it may seem that you are in Austria and not in the Czech Republic. The influence of the neighbouring country is noticeable in the menus of traditional restaurants, customs and even in the character of the townspeople.
Another conclusion is that holidays in Brno are enjoyable. Several medieval castles in and around the city may not surprise sophisticated tourists, but the Ossuary will undoubtedly fall into the category of unique places. Add a trip through the Moravian Karst to impress even more.
And the most crucial thing is Brno's opportunities for children. A trip to the Museum of Experiments, an excursion to an old ore smelting plant or an introduction to reindeer can compensate for the lack of big amusement parks.
Finally, the city's infrastructure includes everything you need for a holiday with your child. Hotels, shops, pharmacies, and transport will help you plan a carefree trip. The only thing to complain about is the small number of direct flights. But connections are easy, as trains depart from Prague to Brno every hour.
The tourist season in Brno is not as precisely defined as in large cities. Of course, the flow of tourists increases in summer and decreases in winter, but generally, the city can be visited at any time of the year. It is already warm enough in late spring to come to Brno with a baby and walk around, enjoying the freshness and silence.
In May, tourists visit the reserve to watch the pulsatilla, or sleepy grass, bloom. It sounds like a trip, but you can get there by public transport. Summer in the city is a festival. The Brno Exhibition Centre hosts concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and sporting events every weekend.
Among other summer events is the City Day, celebrated in mid-August. Since the day commemorates Brno's heroic defence against the Swedish army during the Thirty Years' War, musketeers parade through the streets and battle scenes are reproduced in one of the squares.
Czech Beer Festival Brno (Český pivní festival Brno) normally is held in May or June. Celebrating Czech beer culture, this festival offers a wide variety of traditional Czech beers, food, and entertainment.
From June to July, Brno hosts a large-scale festival that adults and children enjoy. It is an international fireworks competition with musical accompaniment — Ignis Brunensis. The colourful shows occur in the town and castles of Špilberk and Veveří and the Brno reservoir. The contest ends with a grand final of fireworks over Špilberk.
Spilberk International Music Festival (Mezinárodní hudební festival Špilberk) typically takes place in June or July. A classical music festival held at Špilberk Castle, featuring renowned musicians and orchestras.
A reason to plan a holiday with a child in autumn is the Bastlfest festival. It is designed for those who love to invent and make things with their hands. Masterclasses and meetings with craftsmen last for two weekends in November.
In December, Brno is immersed in the anticipation of Christmas. Fairs with Christmas tree decorations, stalls with gingerbread, trdelniki and strudels, fragrant svářák, nativity scenes, and chorales — all this creates a festive mood, despite the frequent absence of snow.
By the way, what about the weather in general and snow in particular? The following section will help you decide when to go to Brno.
Brno has a moderate climate, without severe winter frosts or excessive summer heat. Sunny weather is not uncommon, although it is worth taking an umbrella on your trip, especially in spring or summer.
Summer is the time for the best holidays in Brno with children. The average daytime temperature during this period is +23-26°C, while the night temperature ranges from +14°C to +17°C. It gets colder to +16°C in summer, or the heat briefly exceeds +30°C. Clear and cloudy days are almost equal.
The average daytime temperature in September is +20°C, but the second half of the month can be cool and rainy. October is not often warm, with thermometers showing only +13-14°C during the day and +8°C at night, but precipitation is considerably less. By November, the air cools down to +4-7°C, and night frosts are possible.
In winter, the daytime temperature ranges from 0°C to +3°C, with a subzero temperature only at night. Snow in the city is considered almost a miracle, and fog and infrequent rains complete the winter picture.
Spring in Brno is a time of rejuvenation. The city comes back to life with blossoming flowers and longer daylight hours. It's a great season for hiking, exploring parks, and enjoying outdoor activities as nature awakens from its winter slumber. In March, with an average temperature of +9°C, the air can warm up to +15-19°C. The weather remains about the same in April, but in May, the daytime temperature often rises above +20°C. It is quite possible to plan a holiday in Brno at this time, but you should consider that May is the rainiest month.
South Moravia, in conjunction with several neighboring towns, has seamlessly integrated its train, bus, and city transit systems under the banner of the Integrated Transport System of South Moravia (IDS JMK). With IDS JMK, the hassle of navigating multiple transit carriers and calculating fare differences becomes a thing of the past. The fares remain consistent, ensuring you receive the same quality of service for a standard price on every journey.
For both tourists and visitors, IDS JMK simplifies the transit experience by providing comprehensive information on services, stops, and fares through a dedicated website.
Services beyond Brno are meticulously organized and funded by the South Moravian region, while services within Brno are overseen by the Statutory City of Brno. These initiatives receive additional support from various cities within the IDS JMK network. The coordination of both regional and city transit falls under the purview of KORDIS JMK, a.s.
Brno is called a small city, but 230 square kilometres is a lot to walk everywhere. Fortunately, public transport in Brno is convenient, and the main convenience is a single ticket for all its modes.
Brno's public transport system includes day and night buses, trolleybuses and trams. Ticket prices depend on the length of the journey and the fare zone.
Tickets can be conveniently acquired through vending machines located at bus and tram stops, as well as at newsagents or within the carriages themselves. One more easy option is available. Upon boarding, a simple tap of your contactless bank card on the validator initiates the issuance of an hourly ticket, amounting to 25 CZK. This method stands as the most popular and effortless choice. Opting for a shorter ticket at 20 CZK, you must also beep on the exit. Additionally, the validator allows for the direct purchase of tickets for fellow passengers or alternative fare selections.
In the warm season, river trams run along the Svratka River. The minimum fare is the same as other transport, but it depends not on the duration but on the destination. Children under 3 years of age ride the river trams for free, children under 15 get a 50% discount, and a family ticket is also available. The timetable is available on the city's tourist website.
Using a bicycle to get around Brno is not uncommon, although the hire system and cycle paths are still developing. However, in the summertime, buses with bicycle holders appear on one of the bus routes.
But this is not a complete list. Mini-buses take tourists to the Špilberk Fortress, retro trams and a beer tram. The latter vehicle is run more for fun, but the mobile pub is a success.
Czech cuisine is meat and potatoes in dozens of variations. However, there are also salads, soups and side dishes on the menus of catering establishments. Brno's culinary scene prominently features traditional Czech dishes such as "Svíčková" (beef sirloin in cream sauce) and "Kulajda" (a creamy potato soup). These hearty meals often incorporate meat, potatoes, and sauces, providing a taste of authentic Czech flavors.
Younger travellers can taste beef or chicken broth with noodles, mashed or boiled potatoes, and boiled or steamed vegetables. The choice of cereals is usually minimal; often, there is only rice on the menu. Children's menus are only offered in some places.
Brno's culinary scene has evolved to embrace international influences, offering a wide range of international cuisines and fusion dishes. From Italian trattorias to Asian eateries, the city caters to diverse palates, ensuring a global gastronomic experience.
The city is dotted with cozy cafés and bakeries, serving delectable pastries, cakes, and traditional "koblihy" (filled doughnuts). Take a moment to indulge in these sweet treats while immersing yourself in Brno's laid-back café culture.
Moravia, the region Brno resides in, is renowned for its wines. Delight your taste buds with a glass of Moravian wine, complemented by regional beverages like "Slivovice" (plum brandy) or "Becherovka" (a herbal liqueur). These drinks are an integral part of local traditions and social gatherings.
The range of goods in Brno shops is wide and familiar, and prices are affordable. Baby food is sold in supermarkets and pharmacies, represented mainly by world-famous and Czech manufacturers.
There are several food markets in the city where you can buy farm products. The main market, Zelný trh, is located in the centre of Brno; another daily market is in the Komárov district. Locals like to shop in small farm shops. Exploring these markets provides a glimpse into the culinary diversity and allows for a farm-to-table experience.
How interesting is it for a child to wander around old houses? Often, children don't mind hearing stories about bygone times and visiting museums. But in any case, young travellers need an opportunity to turn their attention – Brno has no problem with that.
Firstly, the city has plenty of places to walk with your child. Not far from the main sights, there is a park with a playground. After a tour of Špilberk, you can relax in the beautiful park surrounding the fortress. There is a quiet monastery garden next to the lively Mendel Square. Either of the two botanical gardens is gorgeous at any time of year.
There is a forest on the city's outskirts, and you can get out into nature in good weather. One of the best places for a holiday with a child in Brno is White Mountain. There are playgrounds and picnic areas there.
Another popular family holiday destination in the Czech Republic is the bobsleigh track or bobovka. The 1 km long track Bobovka U Mlýna is winding and, at one point, makes a loop, so a pleasant dose of adrenaline is guaranteed. Bobovka is in the forest, which is not hot on the sunniest day.
Secondly, in case of bad weather or winter holidays, there are indoor entertainment centres. For example, there are swimming and relaxation pools, fountains and massage showers under the water park Aqualand Moravia's roof. There is a children's pool and a 90-metre-long tube slide for those who love water rides. Pools and an open-air recreation area are open in summer.
The VIDA Centre knows what to do in Brno with a child! It is an educational attraction, and not only children are interested in creating earthquakes, pumping blood with a giant heart and finding out how much a person resembles a potato. One of the most curious exhibits is a farm of leaf-cutter ants. These insects know how to grow the mushrooms they feed on, and there are many individuals within the colony tending the fungus.
The planetarium is not just fun, either. A cartoon journey into space awaits the little ones and older children – a thrilling walk among the stars and observing the evening sky through a telescope.
And how do you characterise what you see in the Model World railway layout? The little trains that run on it are very similar to the real ones, and the funny scenes you want to see in every detail. It's exciting when night falls on the layout and a fire-breathing dragon emerges from the darkness.
There are also several indoor entertainment centres for children in Brno, such as Bruno and TOBOGA Bongo.
Brno residents like to spend time with their children walking around the zoo. It is in a green area, its grounds are spacious, and the animals feel safe. Who will your kids like more: polar bears, Komodo varans, sea lions or Sumatran tigers? Don't miss the petting zoo, and visit the local playground.
But it's not for the sake of the zoo that this section was needed, but to talk about closer contact with animals. For example, how about a walk with deer in the Tyršův Garden Park? Children quickly make friends with them and tell them that young reindeer have smooth and stiff coats and soft and velvety antlers.
There are several places near Brno where you can see free-range reindeer, wild boars and moufflons. Among them are Lužánky, a great place for family leisure. Visiting animals is free of charge in the Holedna Nature Reserve (Obora Holedná), but in the centre of the llamas near the Quarry Hády (Hády - lom), you have to pay a fee.
Interesting places for children are not necessarily playgrounds and attractions. A good museum can also fascinate a child, and in Brno, as in any old city, the city centre itself has become a museum.
Getting to know the city's sights briefly looks like this:
- A walk along the main streets
- A descent into the dungeons
- A climb up the hill to the Špilberk Fortress
You can usually start at the old town hall. What's the most fantastic thing about it – a "bent" decoration on the facade, a wheel from urban legends or a Brno dragon hanging in the air? You can admire Brno's historic centre from the Town Hall's observation tower, while the courtyard often hosts concerts, festivals and exhibitions.
From there, you can go to the Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul, called Petrov. There is also a viewing platform in one of its towers.
But probably straight from the town hall, the kids will head straight to the underground Labyrint pod Zelným trhem under the Vegetable Market. 212 steps down, tangled corridors, oak barrels, manuscripts with incomprehensible writings, dusty flasks, creepy instruments – all this tells the story of merchants, winemakers, alchemists, and, what's more, criminals and executioners.
Photo: https://podzemibrno.cz
We recommend showing the underground ossuary to a school-aged child. The vault under St Jakub's Church is known as the ossuary because it houses skeletonised remains. The pyramids of skulls and "stacks" of bones were created because there was not enough space for burials in the city. Modern installations, lights and music emphasise the atmosphere of the ossuary.
After that, the plan is to visit the Špilberk Fortress in Brno with a child. It was built in the 13th century and has withstood many attacks and sieges. The museums of Špilberk tell about its long history and familiarise you with Moravia's art. Entrance to the fortress is free, but you must pay to see the local history museum, the prison dungeons or the lapidarium in the former underground water tanks.
Generally, a simple walk around the city solves the question of what to see in Brno. Children are eager to come up with an explanation for the boulder being lifted by the figure on the Justice Fountain or why the horse on the monument to Jost Moravskýk has such long legs. And adults pay attention to the neighbourhood of Gothic and Baroque architecture and local restaurants serving roasted pork knuckle, knedlíky (dumplings) and the famous Czech beer.
The set of museums in Brno is mainly standard. But at the Moravian Museum of Local History, children are drawn to the Anthropos pavilion, which tells about the life of primitive people. The modern exhibit stands are no less attractive than the dioramas depicting the activities of Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons.
The Technical museum is also very good here. Even the playroom here is technically adapted for experiments. And the history of the development of different industries is well illustrated in the museum halls. Six old technical buildings in the Brno neighbourhood can be visited in the summer. These include the forge in Tešany, the ore smelter in Josefov, and the windmill in Kuželov.
Here are some more ideas of what to see with kids in Brno:
An excursion to the Moravian Karst is often the reason for a holiday in Brno with children. It is a landscape reserve covering the territory of an enormous karst massif. Underground waters have washed hundreds of caves in the limestone, many of which are open to the public.
The obligatory programme includes the Sukhaya and Empty Balka canyons, the Matsoha cave, rafting down the underground river Punkve, and studying the differences between stalactites, stalagmites and helictites. The caves are always cold, so you should take warm clothes.
The second thing that attracts travellers are palaces, castles and fortresses. About two thousand of them are in the Czech Republic, with several well-preserved sites near Brno.
The impressive Veveří Castle dates back to the 11th century. The most interesting thing about its exposition is the recreation of furnishings characteristic of different eras. The dark, gloomy Pernštejn was not for nothing the location of the film about Count Dracula. The Baroque palace in Slavkov is dressed up both inside and out. And Blansko Castle, which now houses the town museum, charms with its elegant simplicity.
Pernštejn Castle
Imagine strolling through the picturesque streets of Brno, armed with your BRNOPAS card. You're not just a visitor; you're a privileged explorer, unraveling the city's secrets with every step.
You visit the awe-inspiring Špilberk Castle, Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, ossuarium where your BRNOPAS grants you free entry. The history, the architecture – it's all yours to absorb. Next, a boat trip, a leisurely sail complemented by discounted fares courtesy of your BRNOPAS. As the day unfolds, you explore the city's hidden gems, immerse yourself in its culinary delights, and collect cherished memories.
Families traveling with kids can benefit from special discounts and curated family-friendly attractions, ensuring a memorable outing for everyone. Embark on a wild adventure at Brno Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals. Your BRNOPAS ensures a free entry and a visit that's both enriching and entertaining.
In many other places, you can get a discount of up to 30% with the card. BRNOPAS for 1-3 days costs 580-810 CZK for adults and 370-550 CZK for a child under 16.
There are many options for where to stay in Brno with children. City hotels provide star-rated comfort, while apartments are cosy and self-catering.
If you have only two or three days at your disposal, it is better to choose accommodation closer to the main attractions of Brno. Brno's outskirts with green recreational areas, such as Lišeni, Bystric, and Novy Liskovec, are suitable for a more extended holiday.
Most of the city's hotels are three- and four-star, modern, with decent service. To choose the best place for children, pay attention to the following services: free accommodation for preschool children, a cot for a baby or an extra bed for a child (sometimes free of charge), children's menu (usually for a fee), and babysitting services. Entertainment for children is usually not provided in city hotels.
There are several hotels with wellness centres near Brno. Their main charm, however, is not in this, but in the location in the forest or near lakes.
For independent holidays in Brno with children, travellers often rent apartments with a kitchen and a washing machine. The rental price depends on the season but is much lower than in Prague. The immediate surroundings of Brno are connected to the centre by public transport.
If you intend to come in the summer, it is worth looking for a place to stay in Brno six months in advance. The demand for accommodation also increases during the Christmas and New Year period.
Ground Transportation from Nearby Airports
Vienna International Airport (VIE):
Take a train from Vienna Airport to Vienna Hauptbahnhof (main train station).
From Vienna Hauptbahnhof, board a train to Brno. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Prague Václav Havel Airport (PRG):
Take an Airport Express bus to Prague main train station (Praha hlavní nádraží).
Catch a train from Prague main train station to Brno. The train journey lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
You can travel around the Czech Republic on buses of several carriers. Regarding ticket price and duration, a bus journey from Prague to Brno is about the same as a train journey.
Several international highways cross Brno. Here are some ways to get to Brno:
Brno's official website has information about the location of car parks and parking conditions.
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