Free Landmarks in the City Center

The historic center of Brno is very compact. You can reach most major sites on foot. This makes it perfect for budget travelers. You do not need to pay for tours to enjoy the atmosphere. Many of the places to visit in Brno are accessible for free. You can admire Gothic and Baroque facades from the street. The city also has many public art installations. These provide great photo opportunities at no cost.

Before you start your walk, check out these quick picks for your trip:

• Best overall: Old Town Hall and the Dragon
• Best for families: Lužánky Park
• Best view: Denis Gardens
• Best unique experience: Brno Astronomical Clock

The city center is full of life. You can watch local street performers in the squares. The official Go To Brno portal often lists free seasonal events. Visiting during a festival can add more free fun to your trip. Always keep an eye out for open courtyards. Many historic buildings hide beautiful spaces inside. You can often walk right in and enjoy the peace.

10 Best Free Things to See in Brno

Exploring Brno does not have to be expensive. There are many sights that cost nothing to enjoy. Here is our curated list of the best free things to see in Brno for 2026.

1. Name: Old Town Hall and the Brno Dragon Type: sight Why go: See the legendary "dragon" (actually a crocodile) and the wheel. The passage and courtyard are free to enter. Best for: History lovers. Where: Radnická 8. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Freedom Square. Tip: Look at the crooked turret on the Gothic portal. Read more in our Old Town Hall guide.
2. Name: Špilberk Castle Grounds Type: sight Why go: You can explore the massive courtyards and ramparts for free. The views of the city are incredible. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: Špilberk Hill. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free for grounds. Getting there: Walk uphill from Husova street. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best photos. Check our Špilberk guide for more.
3. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: sight Why go: The interior of the main nave is free to visit. It is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Petrov Hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (nave only). Getting there: Walk up from the Vegetable Market. Tip: The bells ring at 11 AM instead of noon. See our Cathedral guide.
4. Name: Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) Type: experience Why go: This is a bustling local market that has operated for centuries. You can enjoy the vibe and see the Parnas Fountain. Best for: Local culture. Where: Zelný trh square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the heart of the center. Tip: Visit on Saturday morning for the most activity.
5. Name: Brno Astronomical Clock Type: experience Why go: This black stone monument is shaped like a bullet. It releases a glass marble every day at 11 AM. Best for: Unique sights. Where: Freedom Square (Náměstí Svobody). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central square. Tip: Arrive early if you want to catch the marble.
6. Name: St. James Church (Kostel sv. Jakuba) Type: sight Why go: A beautiful late-Gothic church with high ceilings. The interior is peaceful and grand. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Rašínova street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the main square. Tip: Look for the "Nehanba" (shameless man) statue on the exterior.
7. Name: Denis Gardens (Denisovy sady) Type: viewpoint Why go: The best public park for views of the Cathedral and Špilberk. It is a popular spot for locals to relax. Best for: Relaxation. Where: Below Petrov Hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main station or Petrov. Tip: There is a public drinking fountain here.
8. Name: Brno Central Cemetery Type: experience Why go: Many famous Czech figures are buried here, including composer Leoš Janáček. The grounds are park-like and historic. Best for: History and music fans. Where: Vídeňská street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 2 or 5. Tip: Check the official site for a map of famous graves.
9. Name: Brno Reservoir (Přehrada) Type: day trip Why go: A massive lake perfect for walking and nature. You can walk along the shore for miles. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: Combine this with a look at Veveri Castle from the outside.
10. Name: Mariánské údolí Type: nature Why go: A beautiful valley with a chain of lakes. It is a favorite spot for hiking and cycling. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Brno-Líšeň. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus 55 from Židenice. Tip: Bring a snack for a picnic by the water.

Best Free Nature and Parks in Brno

Brno is a very green city. You do not have to travel far to find nature. Lužánky Park is the oldest public park in the country. It is a great place for a free walk. You can see locals playing sports or having picnics. The park has beautiful statues and a small stream. It is a peaceful escape from the city noise.

Another great spot is the Wilson Forest. It offers shaded paths and fresh air. This forest is located near the Masaryk district. You can see interesting villas on your way there. The paths are well-marked and easy to follow. It is perfect for a morning run or a slow stroll.

If you like hills, head to Hády. This former quarry offers a unique landscape. You can see rare plants and enjoy a panoramic view. It is a bit further from the center but worth the trip. Many locals come here for the sunset. It is one of the most scenic free spots in the region.

Practical Budget Tips for Brno 2026

Saving money in Brno is simple. Most of the city center is walkable. You rarely need to use transport for sightseeing. If you do need a ride, use the local network. The DPMB system is efficient and affordable. You can tap your credit card on the bus or tram. This automatically gives you the best fare.

Many museums offer free entry on certain days. Usually, this happens on the first Friday of the month. Check the Moravian Gallery website before you visit. They often have free exhibitions in their various buildings. This is a great way to see world-class art for free. Always carry a reusable water bottle too.

Tap water in Brno is safe and high quality. You will find public fountains in the main squares. This saves you from buying plastic bottles. For cheap food, look for "polední menu" (lunch menus). These are offered by most restaurants on weekdays. They provide a full meal at a fraction of the dinner price. Enjoying Brno on a budget is easy and rewarding.