Brno for under £100 a night: a budget guide to the Czech Republic’s charming second city
Brno, the second city of the Czech Republic, has ‘irresistible charm’
Not many people make it to the Czech Republic’s second city, but its charm is irresistible.
While Prague is packed with stag parties and Irish pubs, Brno (pronounced ‘bruh-no’) has modern art galleries, higgledy-piggledy narrow streets lined with historic buildings, and countless restaurants serving traditional potato dumplings, goulash, and local beers. It’s vibrant, affordable and compact – you’re never more than a 20 minute walk from anywhere.
Where to stay
Grandzza
The hand-painted glass ceilings in the lobby of this former bank make a grand first impression. It is now a boutique hotel with neat, cozy rooms, spa treatments and a nice view over the market square. Doubles from £87 (grandezzahotel.com).
Settle into Grandezza, a boutique hotel in a former bank
Everyone Hotel
Despite its name, this hotel may not be for everyone. A whirlwind of neon and storytelling, it bills itself as “20 percent hotel, 80 percent experience” and has cinematic themed rooms with iPads telling a story played over speakers.
The rooms also have bubble machines, picnic baskets and swings. Doubles from £100, when quoting ‘Daily Mail’ (everyone.cz).
Avion hotel
Enjoy spectacular views of the Cathedral of St Peter and Paul (background photo) from the Art Deco Avion Hotel
A short walk from Freedom Square, this Art Deco boutique hotel offers spectacular views of Spilberk Castle and the Cathedral of St Peter and Paul on Petrov Hill, which can be seen from the terrace. Beds are comfortable, breakfast generous and staff friendly. Doubles from £86 (avion-hotel.cz).
10-z Bunker
Built during World War II, this bomb shelter and disused nuclear bunker is now a 50-bed hostel near the city center. It might be a rather quirky place to stay for a weekend getaway, but the history and friendly staff make up for any austerity. B&B doubles from £55 (10-z.cz, booking. com).
What to see and do
Visit the castle
Take a tour of Spilberk Castle, pictured, to learn about its “gripping” history
The history of Spilberk Castle is harrowing. Take a guided tour to learn all about its eventful past, including its use as a brutal prison in the 13th century and as a Nazi barracks during the German occupation in World War II. Afterwards, take a break at the castle’s hilltop cafe. Open access; tours £3-£6, spilberk.cz.
Scary ossuary
Even more poignant is the underground ossuary of Saint Jacob’s Church, which was rediscovered in 2001. It contains the bones of more than 50,000 victims of plague, cholera and war. Entry £5, gotobrno.cz.
Feeling artsy
The Museum of Applied Arts houses an exhibition on architecture and design, but also displays an extensive collection of art from the present to the Middle Ages. Don’t miss the Robot Cafe, which mimics a portrait of you in your cup of coffee. (moravska-galerie.cz).
Best views
Enjoy the best view of the city from the tower of the old town hall, which can be found near the imposing Freedom Square (pictured)
The tower of the old town hall, stretching over the most imposing square Namesti Svobody (Freedom Square) and the cabbage market, offers the best view of the city. Entry costs £2.50 and it’s open until 10pm. Afterwards, take a stroll through the wooden chalets of the cabbage market, which also sell artisan handicrafts and street food. (gotobrno.cz).
Where to eat
Local u Caipla
This restaurant is the place to sample giant portions of schnitzel for around £7, along with a local beer. Watch out for the hangover dinners if you come on a Sunday. (lokal-ucaipla.ambi.cz).
Element restaurant
A strong contender for the best restaurant in all of Brno, the menu focuses on a mix of European and Asian dishes.
Great food at a fantastic price, a 3 course meal with a cocktail will set you back around £30. I suggest going for the tender pork belly followed by soft and warm chestnut cake. (elementbrno.com).
The bar that doesn’t exist
Enjoy a cocktail at The Bar That Doesn’t Exist, which exudes a relaxed speakeasy atmosphere
More than 1,000 bottles of liquor proudly display on the floor-to-ceiling glass bar in this laid-back speakeasy. Packed with leather sofas, chandeliers and guests enjoying delicious cocktails for just £7. (barkteryneexistuje.cz).
Forkies
This vegan bistro in the old part of town will make you forget that you only eat plant-based food. Go to the upstairs restaurant if you sit inside or grab and go downstairs. About £7.20 buys a range of delicious dishes such as shwarma, rice bowls, burgers and curries. (forkys.eu).
Accessibility
Return London-Brno flights are priced from £52 (ryanair.com). For more tourist information go to: visitczechrepublic.com.