Špilberk Castle Brno
Majestic medieval fortress offering panoramic Brno views, a deep dive into history, and chilling prison tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Špilberk Castle Brno
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic medieval fortress offering panoramic Brno views, a deep dive into history, and chilling prison tours.
"A must-visit for its medieval architecture, ghostly prison history, and unforgettable city views."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The walk up is steep! Proper footwear is essential for exploring the castle grounds and ramparts.
🚌 Bus 80 for Easy Access
Take bus line 80 for a direct ride up the hill to Špilberk Castle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Castle ramparts and tower
Soak in breathtaking 360-degree views of Brno and the surrounding Moravian landscape from the castle walls.

The Castle Museum & Exhibitions
Inside the castle
Delve into the castle's rich history, from its medieval origins to its time as a notorious prison.

Former Prison Tours
Vaulted tunnels
Experience the chilling atmosphere of the castle's former prison, a stark reminder of its past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Book Your Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The walk up is steep! Proper footwear is essential for exploring the castle grounds and ramparts.
🚌 Bus 80 for Easy Access
Take bus line 80 for a direct ride up the hill to Špilberk Castle.
🎟️ Ticket for Inside
Grounds are free, but museum & prison tours require tickets. Book ahead!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are stunning, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The walk up is steep! Proper footwear is essential for exploring the castle grounds and ramparts.
🚌 Bus 80 for Easy Access
Take bus line 80 for a direct ride up the hill to Špilberk Castle.
🎟️ Ticket for Inside
Grounds are free, but museum & prison tours require tickets. Book ahead!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are stunning, especially at sunset.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, bring water as the climb can be strenuous.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Špilberk Castle for its rich history, stunning city views, and engaging exhibitions, particularly the former prison tours. The walk up is noted as a bit strenuous, especially in hot weather, and some find the museum's booklet format less ideal than interactive displays.
"Definitely worth a visit. You can spend hours here. I went for the museum and there are three levels you can explore. You get to learn about the castle‘s history and architecture. There are also exhibitions for you to explore and many art pieces for you to marvel at.
Please note it is definitely a hike up! Recommend to wear appropriate shoes."
Valerie Hum
"The fortress is a wonderful place to spend some time. The walk up to the fortress is mildly strenuous but pleasantly green. The exhibitions are absolutely worth visiting and very comprehensive. The view from the fortress walls or its tower is also beautiful. Definitely a must-visit if you are in Brno."
SIB
"Špilberk castle is a must-visit if you’re in Brno. Whether you’re drawn to its medieval architecture, Ghostly prison history, lush gardens, or unforgettable city views, it’s easy to spend whole day exploring at a relaxed pace. Perfect for a casual stroll, a dose of culture, and a dash of scenic beauty. Recommend it!"
Maria Achilleia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk from the city center, which is a pleasant but uphill hike (around 20-30 minutes). Alternatively, take bus line 80, which stops directly below the castle. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt or Lime are also options, though scooters might struggle with the steepest parts of the climb.
Yes, bus line 80 provides direct access to the vicinity of Špilberk Castle, making it easily reachable by public transport from Brno's city center.
There is limited parking available near the castle, but it can fill up quickly. It's often easier to use public transport or walk.
While you can use Bolt or Lime to get close, riding scooters all the way to the outer walls might be challenging due to the steep incline. The bus is a more reliable option for those with mobility concerns.
The most recommended option is bus line 80, which stops conveniently close to the castle. Taxis can also drop you off near the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking around the castle grounds and ramparts is free. However, to enter the museum, exhibitions, and the former prison, you will need to purchase a ticket. Prices vary depending on the chosen circuit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or for specific guided tours, to ensure availability and avoid long queues.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Špilberk Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for the grounds, museum, and specific exhibitions.
Yes, typically there are different ticket options that allow access to various parts of the castle, such as the museum, casemates (prison), and lookout tower. You can often choose a combined ticket for multiple attractions.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and children. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office or check the official website for current pricing and discount policies.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Špilberk Castle offers a variety of attractions, including historical exhibitions, tours of the former prison casemates, art galleries, and stunning panoramic views of Brno from its ramparts. You can easily spend several hours exploring.
To fully appreciate the castle's history, exhibitions, and views, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you wish to explore in-depth, you could easily spend half a day.
Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly for the casemates (prison) and the castle's history. Check the official website or inquire at the information desk for schedules and languages.
Originally a royal castle built in the 13th century, Špilberk later served as a formidable fortress and a notorious prison, known as the 'prison of nations.' It has played a significant role in Moravian and Czech history.
Špilberk Castle frequently hosts various events, including concerts, historical reenactments, charity runs, and festivals, especially during the summer months. Keep an eye on their event calendar.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle ramparts offer incredible panoramic views of Brno, perfect for cityscapes. The courtyards and architectural details of the castle itself also make for great shots. Sunset is particularly beautiful.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibitions to protect artifacts. Always check for signage.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens is excellent for the ramparts. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or sunset shots, but check if tripods are permitted.
Drone usage is typically restricted over historical sites and urban areas due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the castle administration.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful light for both city views and castle architecture. Mid-morning can also be good for clear shots without harsh midday sun.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For easier access, utilize bus line 80. Pack snacks and water, as options within the castle might be limited. The former prison tours might be too intense for younger children, so gauge their sensitivity before booking. Overall, it's a great way to introduce kids to history in a visually impressive setting.
🚶 Budget Travelers
If you wish to delve deeper, purchasing a ticket for the museum and prison tours is still relatively affordable compared to many European attractions. Combining a free walk around the exterior with a ticket for the main exhibits offers a great balance of experience and cost. Remember to utilize public transport (bus 80) or walk to save on transportation costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For interior shots within the museum or prison, be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography. A versatile lens setup, perhaps a wide-angle for landscapes and a standard zoom for details, will serve you well. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and have more freedom to compose your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the History of Špilberk Castle
In later periods, Špilberk gained notoriety as one of the most feared prisons in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, often referred to as the 'prison of nations.' Its casemates, the vaulted tunnels beneath the castle, housed political prisoners and common criminals alike. This dark chapter of its history is a significant part of the visitor experience today, with tours offering a glimpse into the harsh conditions of the past.
Today, Špilberk Castle is a vibrant cultural hub. It houses the Brno City Museum, showcasing extensive collections related to the city's history, art, and ethnography. The castle also hosts temporary exhibitions, art galleries, and various cultural events, making it a dynamic destination that blends its historical significance with contemporary life.
Navigating Špilberk Castle: Accessibility and Getting Around
Once within the castle grounds, visitors will find that while the outer courtyards and ramparts are generally accessible, some areas might present challenges. The historical nature of the castle means that some pathways can be uneven, and there are stairs to navigate within the museum and prison sections. It's advisable to wear comfortable, sturdy footwear to ensure a pleasant exploration.
For those considering ride-sharing services, Bolt and Lime can get you close to the base of the hill, but the final ascent might still require some walking or the use of the bus. The castle administration is aware of accessibility needs, and information regarding specific accessible routes or facilities can usually be found on their official website or by contacting them directly.
Špilberk Castle: A Hub for Events and Culture
During the summer months, the castle frequently hosts open-air events, taking advantage of its unique setting under the stars. These can range from electronic music raves to charity runs, demonstrating the castle's versatility as a modern event space. The presence of the Brno City Museum within the castle also ensures a constant offering of exhibitions, from permanent collections detailing local history to temporary displays of art and culture.
Visitors interested in attending an event should consult the official Špilberk Castle website or local Brno event listings for the most current schedule. Experiencing an event at the castle can add an extra layer of enjoyment to a visit, combining historical exploration with contemporary entertainment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit