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10 Best Things to Do: Znojmo Historical Town Guide

Plan your trip with our Znojmo historical town guide. Discover 10 top sights, wine cellars, and day trips from Brno for your 2026 Czech adventure.

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10 Best Things to Do: Znojmo Historical Town Guide
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Exploring South Moravia: Your Znojmo Historical Town Guide

Znojmo is a hidden gem in the South Moravian region of the Czech Republic. This medieval town sits on a rocky cliff above the Dyje River. It offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature. If you are staying in Brno, this Znojmo historical town guide will help you plan the perfect day trip. You can expect stunning views, deep underground tunnels, and world-class local wine. Most visitors find the town's atmosphere both relaxing and deeply historic. Let’s dive into the best things to see and do in this beautiful corner of Moravia.

Why Visit Znojmo in 2026?

Znojmo is one of the oldest towns in the country. It was founded in the 13th century by King Přemysl Otakar I. Today, it remains a preserved historical monument. The town is famous for its massive fortifications and narrow cobblestone streets. It is also the gateway to the Podyjí National Park.

Many travelers use Brno as a base to explore the region. Znojmo is one of the most popular nearby towns from Brno for a weekend escape. You can reach it in about an hour by car or bus. The town is also known for its annual wine festival in September. This event draws thousands of people for parades and tastings.

The town is very walkable and friendly for tourists. You can easily see the main sights in a single day. However, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the quiet evening charm. The local hospitality is warm, and the prices are very reasonable. It is a great alternative to the crowded streets of Prague.

10 Must-See Stops for Your Znojmo Historical Town Guide

To make the most of your visit, follow this curated list. These stops cover the best history, views, and local experiences. Here are the top picks for your Znojmo historical town guide itinerary.

  • Best overall: Znojmo Underground
  • Best for families: Town Hall Tower
  • Best rainy-day: Enotéka Wine Tasting
  • Best free activity: Podyjí National Park trails
  1. Name: Znojmo Underground Type: experience Why go: Explore one of the largest medieval cellar systems in Central Europe. The tunnels stretch for nearly 27 kilometers under the town center. Best for: History lovers and adventure seekers. Where: Slepičí trh (Poultry Market). Time: 1 to 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Wear a light jacket as the tunnels stay cool year-round.
  2. Name: Town Hall Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: This 80-meter tall Gothic tower offers the best panoramic views of the town. You can see all the way to the Austrian Alps on clear days. Best for: Photographers. Where: Obroková street. Time: 30 to 45 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Located in the heart of the pedestrian zone. Tip: The stairs are steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
  3. Name: Rotunda of St. Catherine Type: sight Why go: This is a rare Romanesque monument featuring unique 12th-century frescoes. It is one of the most important historical sites in the Czech Republic. Best for: Art and history enthusiasts. Where: Near Znojmo Castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Follow the signs toward the castle from the center. Tip: Entry is strictly limited to preserve the frescoes, so check availability early.
  4. Name: Znojmo Castle Type: sight Why go: The castle offers great views of the river valley and houses museum exhibits. It tells the story of the town's royal past. Best for: General sightseeing. Where: Hradní street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Visit the castle brewery nearby for a local craft beer.
  5. Name: St. Nicholas' Church Type: sight Why go: A stunning Gothic church with a unique Baroque pulpit shaped like a globe. It dominates the town's skyline. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Mikulášské náměstí. Time: 20 to 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Located on the edge of the old town cliff. Tip: Look for the viewpoint just behind the church for great river photos.
  6. Name: Podyjí National Park Type: nature Why go: This is the smallest national park in the country but very beautiful. It features deep river canyons and lush forests. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: Southern edge of the town. Time: 2 to 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk directly from the town center into the trails. Tip: Hike to the Sealsfield’s Stone viewpoint for an iconic vista.
  7. Name: Enotéka znojemských vín Type: experience Why go: A modern wine tasting room where you can sample dozens of local wines using a card system. It is located in a renovated brewery building. Best for: Wine enthusiasts. Where: Hradní street. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Variable (pay per taste). Getting there: Right next to the St. Catherine Rotunda. Tip: Try the local Riesling, which is a regional specialty.
  8. Name: Louka Monastery Type: sight Why go: This massive Premonstratensian monastery features huge wine cellars and a historic library. It is a center for the local wine industry. Best for: History and wine lovers. Where: Southern part of town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A 20-minute walk or short bus ride from the center. Tip: Join a guided tour to see the impressive cellars.
  9. Name: Vranov nad Dyjí Chateau Type: day trip Why go: A breathtaking Baroque palace perched on a high rock above the river. It is one of the most beautiful Vranov nad Dyjí Chateau experiences nearby. Best for: Day trippers. Where: 20km west of Znojmo. Time: 3 to 4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a local bus from Znojmo station. Tip: Visit the nearby dam for a boat trip in summer.
  10. Name: Mikulov Type: day trip Why go: Another historic wine town with a stunning castle and a Jewish quarter. It is a great addition to any Mikulov day trip from Brno itinerary. Best for: Wine and culture lovers. Where: 45 minutes east of Znojmo. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct bus or car. Tip: Climb the Holy Hill (Svatý kopeček) for incredible sunset views.

Planning Your Znojmo Historical Town Guide Trip

Getting to Znojmo is very easy from major Czech cities. If you are coming from the regional capital, check out the official Go To Brno portal for transport tips. Most people prefer the train or the direct bus from Brno. The journey is scenic and takes about an hour.

The best time to visit is from May to October. During this time, the weather is perfect for walking and hiking. Many wine cellars are open for visitors in the late afternoon. If you enjoy festivals, the Znojmo Wine Festival in September is a must-see. However, be sure to book your accommodation months in advance for that weekend.

For more information about the region, visit the Visit Czechia website. It provides great details on other nearby spots like the Lednice-Valtice cultural landscape. Znojmo is a safe and welcoming place for all travelers. You will find that most locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Znojmo worth a day trip from Brno?

Yes, Znojmo is definitely worth a day trip. It is only an hour away and offers unique sights like the massive underground tunnels and the Romanesque Rotunda. The town is compact, making it easy to see the main historical attractions and enjoy local wine in a single day.

What is Znojmo famous for?

Znojmo is most famous for its long history, medieval architecture, and high-quality white wines. It is also well-known for its traditional pickles, which are a local delicacy. The town's historic center and its proximity to the Podyjí National Park make it a top destination in South Moravia.

How do I get from Brno to Znojmo?

The easiest way to get from Brno to Znojmo is by direct bus from the Brno Zvonařka station. Buses run frequently and take about 60 to 70 minutes. You can also take a train, though it often requires a quick transfer and takes slightly longer than the bus.

Znojmo is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves history and wine. This Znojmo historical town guide highlights the best the town has to offer. From the depths of the underground to the heights of the Town Hall Tower, there is much to explore. Whether you are hiking in the national park or sipping wine at the Enotéka, you will enjoy the relaxed Moravian pace. Start planning your trip today and discover why this town is a local favorite. For more ideas on regional travel, explore other nearby towns from Brno to complete your Czech adventure.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.