Discover 8 Czech UNESCO Sites within Day Trips
Did you know that you can visit 8 of the 16 Czech UNESCO sites on day trips from Brno? Its convenient position offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about Czech UNESCO heritage. Exploring these destinations is a delightful experience that blends architectural marvels, historical relevance, and natural beauty. Stay in Brno and take advantage of everything the country’s second-largest city has to offer, including day visits to half of Czech UNESCO Heritage sites. And which are these UNESCO sites?
Tugendhat Villa in Brno
Just a stone’s throw away from the center of Brno lies Villa Tugendhat, an icon of modernist architecture. Designed by the famous architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in the 1930s, this villa is not just a building but a masterpiece of functionalism. The design, with its open-plan space, use of exotic materials, and innovative technical features, represented a new direction in architecture. A tour of Villa Tugendhat offers insights into the life of the affluent Tugendhat family and a glimpse into the progressive architectural trends of the early 20th century.
Book a Brno walking tour and see Villa Tugendhat
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape
An hour’s drive from Brno will transport you to the enchanting realm of Lednice-Valtice. This expansive landscape is a testament to the creativity and vision of the Liechtenstein family, who shaped this region over centuries. With its romantic castles, meticulously designed gardens, and serene ponds, the area embodies a harmonious blend of natural and man-made elements. Whether you’re strolling through the lush gardens of Lednice or exploring the Baroque architecture of Valtice castle, the beauty of this cultural landscape is sure to captivate you. If you are a wine lover, do not forget to visit a local winery for some wine samples or The Czech Wine Salon located in 15th-century Valtice castle cellars.
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Gardens and Castle at Kromeriz
The Gardens and Castle at Kroměříž are a splendid example of a European Baroque aristocratic residence and its gardens, capturing the essence of noble elegance and horticultural finesse. The Archbishop Palace, originally built in the 17th century and later reconstructed after the devastation of the Thirty Years’ War, is an exquisite example of Baroque architecture. Its interiors are adorned with a rich array of artistic treasures, including an impressive collection of paintings, tapestries, and furnishings that speak volumes of the archbishops’ refined tastes and their role as patrons of the arts. Adding to its cultural and historical significance, the Archbishop’s Palace gained cinematic fame as one of the filming locations for the Oscar-winning movie “Amadeus.” This connection to the silver screen has further elevated the palace’s appeal, attracting movie enthusiasts and tourists alike to explore the spaces that framed scenes from this iconic film.
The gardens, a focal point of the estate, are divided into two main areas: the Flower Garden (Květná zahrada) and the Castle Garden (Podzámecká zahrada). The Flower Garden is a geometric marvel of precise hedgerows and vibrant floral arrangements, interspersed with ornate pavilions and fountains, reflecting the garden’s baroque origins. In contrast, the Castle Garden is an expansive, naturally styled landscape park, offering a serene and picturesque setting for leisurely strolls.
Book Kromeriz & Olomouc day trip
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Holy Trinity Column in Olomouc
Olomouc, a city north from Brno, is a treasure trove of historical monuments that tell tales of its rich past and cultural heritage. Among its most notable landmarks is the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to Baroque artistry and the city’s deep religious roots. Erected in the early 18th century, the Column is not just an architectural marvel but also a profound symbol of the Catholic faith and gratitude for the end of the plague that once devastated the region.
While in Olomouc, take the time to explore its historic center, where you’ll find a blend of architectural styles, along with the charming streets and squares of Olomouc, weave a narrative of a city that has thrived through various epochs, making it a must-visit for those eager to explore Czech history and culture.
Book Kromeriz & Olomouc day trip
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Jewish Quarter and St Procopius` Basilica in Trebic
The Jewish Quarter, with its well-preserved synagogue and homes, offers a rare glimpse into the life of a Jewish community that was once vibrant yet now is mostly vanished. Wandering through its narrow lanes, visitors are transported back in time, with historic synagogue, a Jewish cemetery, and traditional homes depicting life in this once-bustling neighborhood.
Just a stone’s throw away, the St. Procopius’ Basilica stands in stark architectural contrast, showcasing a remarkable fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles. This 13th-century masterpiece, originally part of a Benedictine monastery, is renowned for its intricate vaulting, stunning frescoes, and the crypt, offering a deep dive into the Christian architectural and artistic heritage.
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Historic centre of Telc
The picturesque town of Telc is like stepping into a fairy tale, with its Renaissance and Baroque houses lining the town square. The vibrantly colored facades and the intricate details of the buildings reflect the prosperity and artistic flair of Telc in the past. The town’s serene atmosphere and charming architecture make it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration and photography.
On the upper side of the main square is found the Telc Castle, a true Czech Renaissance gem. The castle’s facade is a testament to the Renaissance’s architectural beauty, characterized by symmetry, proportion, and the harmonious blending of art and architecture. Inside, the castle’s interiors are a continuation of the Renaissance splendor, with lavishly decorated rooms, intricate frescoes, and coffered ceilings.
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Litomysl Castle
Litomysl Castle, a Renaissance jewel nestled in the picturesque town of Litomysl, stands as a testament to the grandeur of 16th-century architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its distinctive sgraffito (scratch-work) decoration, which adorns its facades with intricate geometric and figurative designs, making it a visual spectacle.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Litomysl Castle holds a special place in the hearts of music and culture enthusiasts as the birthplace of the renowned Czech composer Bedrich Smetana. Today, the castle not only serves as a museum showcasing its rich history but also hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts and exhibitions, thereby continuing its legacy as a center for cultural enrichment.
Book Litomysl and Zelena Hora day trip
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Pilgrimage Church of St John of Nepomuk at Zelena Hora
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, completed in the early 18th century, is a masterpiece crafted by the visionary architect Jan Santini Aichel, who ingeniously blended Gothic and Baroque elements to create a distinct Baroque Gothic style. Dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk, a Czech martyr saint, the church is notable for its symbolic and geometric complexity. The layout is a star-shaped design, reflecting the five-pointed star associated with the saint’s martyrdom. The Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelena Hora is not just a place of worship but also a monumental testament to creative architectural expression and the deep spiritual heritage of the Czech people.
Book Litomysl & Zelena Hora day trip
Author of this video: Czechtourism
Each of these UNESCO sites reached from Brno tells a story, be it through architectural innovation, historical significance, or cultural richness. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, these day trips from Brno offer a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of the Czech Republic’s heritage. So, pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and contact us to explore the UNESCO wonders that await just a short journey from Brno.
