Planning Your Pernštejn Castle Day Trip from Brno

Getting to the castle is part of the fun. Most travelers start at Brno Main Station. You can take a direct train to the village of Nedvědice. The journey takes about one hour through scenic valleys. Check the DPMB public transport site for local connections.

If you prefer driving, the route is very straightforward. Follow the roads north through the Moravian hills. There is a large parking lot below the castle hill. From there, you must walk uphill for about fifteen minutes. The path is paved but quite steep in some sections.

Walking from the train station is also a great choice. The trail is marked with yellow signs. It leads you through a charming forest. This walk takes about 30 minutes at a steady pace. It is a great way to see the nearby towns from Brno.

10 Best Sights on a Pernštejn Castle Day Trip

Pernštejn is famous for its unique Gothic and Renaissance style. You should explore both the interior and the grounds. Many areas require a guided tour for entry. Make sure to check the official schedule before you arrive. Here are the top things to see on your visit.

• Best overall: Barborka Tower
• Best for families: The Hunger Dungeon
• Best for nature: Renaissance Gardens
• Best free sight: The Outer Courtyards

1. Name: Barborka Tower Type: sight Why go: It is the iconic core of the castle with amazing views. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: The highest point of the inner ward. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the main tour. Getting there: Follow the guided route through the upper floors. Tip: Look at the narrow windows used for defense.
2. Name: The Knight’s Hall Type: sight Why go: This grand room shows the power of the Pernštejn family. Best for: Fans of medieval architecture. Where: The main palace building. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in the tour price. Getting there: Accessible only via the internal tour path. Tip: Notice the intricate rib vaulting on the ceiling.
3. Name: The Hunger Dungeon Type: experience Why go: It offers a spooky look at medieval justice. Best for: Families and brave travelers. Where: Below the main courtyard. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in basic entry. Getting there: Look for the heavy wooden door near the entrance. Tip: It can be very cold inside, even in summer.
4. Name: The Renaissance Gardens Type: nature Why go: These restored gardens are peaceful and beautiful. Best for: Relaxing after a long walk. Where: On the southern slope of the hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small separate fee or combined ticket. Getting there: Walk down the path from the main gate. Tip: Visit in late spring for the best blooms.
5. Name: The Wooden Covered Bridge Type: sight Why go: It is a rare example of a medieval defensive bridge. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Connecting the outer walls to the palace. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Cross it during the main castle tour. Tip: The wood is original and very well preserved.
6. Name: The Castle Chapel Type: sight Why go: It features stunning wall paintings and a quiet atmosphere. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Inside the main palace wing. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in the tour. Getting there: Part of the standard indoor circuit. Tip: Ask the guide about the hidden symbols in the frescoes.
7. Name: Nedvědice Village Type: day trip Why go: It is a charming local village with traditional houses. Best for: A quick lunch or coffee. Where: At the foot of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: Walk down from the castle or arrive by train. Tip: Try the local trout at a village tavern.
8. Name: The Library Type: sight Why go: It holds thousands of ancient books and manuscripts. Best for: Quiet reflection and history. Where: The upper floors of the palace. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in specific tour routes. Getting there: Follow the "Long Tour" option. Tip: The smell of old parchment is very atmospheric.
9. Name: Moravian Karst Type: day trip Why go: It is a massive cave system nearby. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: A 30-minute drive from the castle. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Best reached by car from Nedvědice. Tip: Book Moravian Karst cave tours weeks in advance.
10. Name: Boskovice Town Type: day trip Why go: It features a Jewish quarter and a second castle. Best for: Cultural history. Where: North of Brno. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free to walk; fees for museums. Getting there: Use our Boskovice town guide for directions. Tip: The western town theme park is great for kids.

Top Nearby Experiences to Pair with Your Visit

If you have a car, you can see more sites. Many people visit the Lednice-Valtice cultural landscape on another day. However, for this trip, stay in the north. You can easily reach the Olomouc sightseeing guide area if you start early. The roads are quiet and very pretty.

Another great option is a stop in the town of Znojmo. Our Znojmo historical town guide explains the wine culture there. If you prefer history, consider the Mikulov day trip from Brno for later in your week. These spots show the diversity of the region.

For those using trains, stick to the local valley. The Svratka river flows right through Nedvědice. You can walk along the riverbanks for miles. It is a very peaceful way to end your day. Local cafes offer hot chocolate and traditional Czech cakes.

Practical Tips for Your Moravian Castle Adventure

Always check the official Go To Brno portal for updates. Castle opening hours change with the seasons. In winter, the interior is often closed to the public. The exterior grounds usually remain open for walkers. Wear sturdy shoes because the stones can be slippery.

Most tours are given in the Czech language. You can request a printed guide in English at the desk. Some tours offer audio guides for a small fee. It is best to book your tickets online during summer months. This ensures you get a spot on the tour you want.

Credit cards are accepted at the main ticket office. However, carry some cash for small village shops. Many local pubs in Nedvědice prefer Czech Koruna. You will find that prices here are lower than in Prague. It is a very affordable day trip for families.