What not to miss in Brno!
Do you have a limited amount of time in Brno? THESE are the places you should NOT miss on your trip to this Moravian city.
Click on the link below to go to the official Brno tourist website.
Náměstí Svobody (Liberty square)
@lovinglifewithmisha
This is the main square in the Brno city centre - this is the social hub of the city & you will most probably stumble upon all kinds of festivals and celebrations on this square. It also has a very interesting clock... can you figure out how it works?
Check out the link below if any interesting events are happening here while you're visiting here!
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Old Town Hall (& Tourist Information Centre)
@lovinglifewithmisha
Walk into the Old Town Hall courtyard and then up the tower for a small fee to enjoy amazing views of Brno city center!
Check out the Brno Dragon & the Brno wheel hanging in the entrance. Don't forget to read about their significance for Brno! Also, I wonder what the tourist information center would tell you about the Brno tradition of churches ringing their bells at 11am instead of 12am... does it have something to do with war with the Swedish? ;)
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The Cabbage Market
@lovinglifewithmisha
This Brno square has been given its name due to the vegetable markets it holds every weekend - in winter, these are replaced by Christmas markets full of homemade produce & arts & crafts.
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The Brno Indoor Market & Secret terrace
@lovinglifewithmisha
Right next to the vegetable market lies an indoor market full of homemade products, food stalls & small clothing shops. They also host flea markets a couple times a year.
SECRET TIP: The indoor market has a free rooftop viewing platform, from which you can see the whole square with the St. Peters and Pauls church in the background. Grab a beer with your friends in the market below and enjoy the sunset viewing the rooftops of Brno!
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Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul
@lovinglifewithmisha
Awe at the St. Peters and Paul's Cathedral inside & out. You can also climb up the tower for a small fee to view Brno from the top.
The architect of this church was a bit cheeky, as due to a legend, there was a feud between 2 Brno architects building 2 different churches at the same time (St. Jacobs church). These 2 architects incorporated 2 statues of angels showing unholy gestures towards the other of the 2 churches: 1 shows an angel showing his tongue in the direction of the other church & the other is showing his behind. Can you spot them both? ;)
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Petrov (Denis) Gardens
@lovinglifewithmisha
Take a stroll through the Petrov gardens starting from the Cathedral of St. Peter & Paul. Around sunset time, you will see groups of teenagers hanging out and drinking.
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Vyhlídka Husova - Denisovy sady (Husova viewpoint)
@lovinglifewithmisha
After seeing the commemorative obelisk in Denis Gardens, take a minute to take some pictures at this viewpoint. This is a popular spot with young people, as you can see the beautiful brick church in the distance.
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Špilberk Castle
@lovinglifewithmisha
The Špilberk castle was established in the 13th century for the primary goal of protecting the city. Throughout its' years it has been used as a residency and later on mainly for military reasons. The castle was used as a jail during the Austro-Hungarian empire as well as later during the Nazi occupation.
Nowadays you can visit the museum for free and walk around its courtyards. For a small fee you can also visit indoor exhibitions as part of the Brno City Museum.
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Českobratrský evangelický chrám Jana Amose Komenského
@lovinglifewithmisha
Known between locals as the "red church", this has become one of the staple churches of Brno. Try to take a look inside!
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Česká
@lovinglifewithmisha
Česká is the street connecting most of the public transport stops with Freedom square. It's a known shopping street in Brno, so if that's what you're looking for, don't miss this one out! The shops and restaurants the continue all the way to the main train station on the Masaryk street.
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Park Moravské náměstí
@lovinglifewithmisha
Spend some relaxing time in this city park, located right next to the city centre. Many interesting buildings are located in the surrounding area, for example the Supreme Administrative court and the statue of justice, church of st. Thomas, or the tall equestrian statue of Jobst of Luxembourg.
Tip: In summer, there are usually food carts offering coffee & ice cream right next to the park. Don't miss out on the ice-cream cart called "Božský kopeček", they have very unique and yummy flavours.
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Equestrian Statue of Margrave Jobst of Luxembourg
@lovinglifewithmisha
There is nothing more to say than this: Stand underneath the horse & look up, you won't regret it!
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The National Theatre Brno - Janáček Theatre
@lovinglifewithmisha
The Janáček theatre nowadays hosts mostly ballets and operas, but what might interest you more as a tourist is the modern park in front of the theatre. Every summer evening, they illuminate the water fountain, usually showing different elements of Brno.
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Mahen Theatre
@lovinglifewithmisha
The first theatre in central Europe to use electricity, this theatre hosts mainly Czech dramas. The theatre burnt down multiple times, however the interior is absolutely beautiful & definitely worth seeing when walking around.
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Other activities in Brno - a bit of history, architecture & culture
➡️ After your walking tour of the main sights in Brno, click through the list below & spend more time discovering specific monuments, museums and exhibitions in Brno.
I can guarantee each and every one of you will find something you're interested in. Brno has so much to offer😍
Moravian Museum
@lovinglifewithmisha
Interested in learning more about the history of Moravia & Brno? Visit the Moravian museum in the Dietrichstein Palace to discover what Moravia was like in the ancient times & in the middle ages. The building is worth visiting also to see the palace interiors & the bishops courtyard.
TIP: There are concerts and shows often held in the halls of the Dietrichstein palace, check on their website if there any during your visit! :)
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Bunker 10-Z
@lovinglifewithmisha
Located right under the hill up to Špilberk castle, this bunker was never actually used in a crisis. You can however navigate this bunker yourself using a map, listening to stories of locals about the Nazi occupation and seeing artefacts such as a telephone exchange from that time.
I 100% recommend this historical stop, we had a great time uncovering the stories & discovering the bunker. You can even try on some periodical costumes.
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Open Garden Foundation Partnership
@lovinglifewithmisha
This unique open garden offers a maintained place for relaxation right next to the Brno Spilberk castle. The entrance is free & the space usually hosts a number of temporary exhibitions. Perfect for a summer cool-down.
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Villa Tugendhat
@lovinglifewithmisha
Are you a fan of architecture? Then you most certainly cannot miss the Tugendhat family home, built by the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1929–1930. Today, this UNESCO heritage site attracts hundreds of visitors every year. The entry fee is quite up there, however you can get into the garden and the first floor exhibition halls for FREE!
TIP: This site is very popular with locals as well as foreigner, make sure to book your tickets well ahead of time! You can use the link below.
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Villa Löw-Beer
@lovinglifewithmisha
Another architectural speciality is the Löw-Beer Villa. Built in the beginning of the 20th century, the building was confiscated from its Jewish owners after 1939. During the occupation of the Czech lands it served as an office for the German secret police.
Nowadays you can visit the permanent exhibition entitled Jews in Moravia, the villa and its inhabitants for a small fee. The garden is once again FREE to the public, as well as other smaller expositions.
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Pražák Palace - Moravian Gallery
@lovinglifewithmisha
If you are looking to visit a gallery in Brno, this is the one to see! Not only are there numerous rotating expositions, both local and foreign artists, the building itself provides a glimpse of the early 20th century Brno.
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Lužánky Park
@lovinglifewithmisha
The biggest park in the Brno city center apart from the hilly park around Špilberk castle, Lužánky serve as a giant playground for people of all ages. In winter an ice skating area is built, in summer you can see families on picnics and couples on dates.
Local tip: I advise you to stay clear of the park during night hours when travelling alone. Brno is generally a very safe city, however this place is known for pickpockets and other petty thefts at night.
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Labyrint pod Zelným trhem
@lovinglifewithmisha
This secret labyrinth under the Vegetable square (Zelný trh) in Brno was uncovered in 2009. It is now open to the public for guided tours of the area along with an adventure tour through the twists and turns of the small halls and cellars. During the tour you can learn how people around Brno acted in the middle ages, stories about the towns curfew and other peculiarities,
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Capuchin Crypt
@lovinglifewithmisha
The Capuchin monastery founded this crypt in the 17th century. Visitors can see the mumified bodies of frairs, noblemen & even foreigners. The crypt is located right behind the chapel and is accessible for a small fee. Descriptions are also in English, however this stop will only take you 15-20 minutes as the rooms are quite small.
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Ossuary at the church of St. James (Kostnice u sv. Jakuba)
@lovinglifewithmisha
Not commonly know at all, this ossuary is the 2nd biggest IN EUROPE with around 50 000 people buried here. Visitors can see the remnants all the way from the 13th century in this incredible, yet eerie, ossuary.
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ArtBar Druhý Pád - Stand-up Comedy
@lovinglifewithmisha
Looking for a laugh? Check out ArtBar Druhy pad and their stand-up comedy nights! They have these in English too, so check out their website & discover more local information about Brno, mix comedy and fun with discovery!
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Brno Observatory and Planetarium
@lovinglifewithmisha
For those looking for a deep dive into the story of our universe, or searching to learn more about a specific astronomic phenomena = this is the place to be! Concerts while watching the energetic night sky, this is a perfect place for a date too ;)
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Hungry? I've got you!🍴
What I like most about travelling is discovering new cuisines and foods!
I put together some of my favourite restaurants, quick bites to eat and snacks, both from Czech and international cuisine. 🥙
Which will you choose? 😉
Ema Cafe
@lovinglifewithmisha
Try the typical Czech snack, chlebíček. This is an open-faced sandwich, filled with various toppings. I guarantee the Cafe Ema will have something for everyone!
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POE-POE
@lovinglifewithmisha
Those looking for a quick, cheap bite to eat have found their place. This is the perfect Czech equivalent of a fast food chain - you will find pizza slices for as cheap as 1 Euro, lasagne, crepes, french fries and many others. Perfect for a quick bite on the go.
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Bageterie Boulevard
@lovinglifewithmisha
Despite the French-looking name, this brand of fast food is actually Czech. If you're looking for a cheap place to grab something on the go, which is fresh and healthy, this is the place to go to. My favourite are the crispy warm baguettes!
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Gỗ Brno - Vietnamese Street Food
@lovinglifewithmisha
Yes, you see it correctly. Vietnamese food is largely popular in the Czech Republic, because we have a large Vietnamese minority. This is one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Brno, so if you're craving some Asian food, definitely give this place a look!
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Forky's Jakubské náměstí
@lovinglifewithmisha
Being vegan or vegetarian can be pretty hard in the Czech Republic as most of the typical Czech meals are largely meat-based. This restaurant serves only vegetarian and vegan specialities & you will definitely be leaving it full to the brim!
Tip: Try their vegetarian kebab!
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Stopkova Plzeňská Pivnice
@lovinglifewithmisha
One of the best known Czech restaurant brands serving one of the best known Czech beers - Plzeň. If you're looking to try some typical Czech food, definitely come here! It will be a bit more expensive than elsewhere, but the food quality is amazing.
Tip: Try the guláš, fried cheese or svíčková, the 3 most typical Czech dishes.
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Potrefená Husa
@lovinglifewithmisha
This popular brand of Czech restaurants will definitely not disappoint. Both Czech and international dishes, topped with draught beer and cocktails, what more is there to want?
TIP: Try the strawberry diaqiri. 'Till this day it is the BEST one I have ever had.
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Pivovarský dům Poupě
@lovinglifewithmisha
A new addition to the Brno restaurant scene, this restaurant gives out German beergarden vibes, despite being located inside. Growing in popularity with locals, I recommend making a reservation before trying to get into this restaurant, especially on the weekends. This is the perfect place for you if you want to eat well while trying a couple of unique beers.
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4pokoje
@lovinglifewithmisha
The ultimate brunch place in Brno turns into a fancy bar in the evenings and early mornings. This bar & café is the best place for couples or people wanting to explore unique cocktails for a western-european price.
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Brno is the city of cafes ☕️ - experience Brno as a true local!
You cannot miss having a coffee or cake in at least one of the many wonderful cafes in Brno! There is a long list but there are many more deserving cafes, so don't hesitate to contact me on IG @lovinglife_withmisha for a personalized recommendation!
🍰 The cafes are ordered in my personal preference. 😁
Coffee Trail / Lidická
@lovinglifewithmisha
This is the ultimate brunch place in Brno, located a short walk from the city centre, this place is definitely worth it! They have 2 locations around the Brno park Lužánky & the quality of the food, drinks, cake & coffee is just astonishing. An absolute 10/10 for me!
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Coffee Trail Bar Štefánikova
@lovinglifewithmisha
Located a little further from the city centre, this is the 2nd branch of the CoffeeTrailBars in Brno. It is a smaller space, but since it is a bit further away, it won't be too crowded. Their cakes are to die for!
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Podnik café bar
@lovinglifewithmisha
This is my favourite cafe, sitting in a side street of the Vegetable Market Square in the old town. They make the best chai latte that I always start craving after a while of not having it!😍 It is also laptop friendly and has a super nice atmosphere to work in.
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Jazz Café Podobrazy
@lovinglifewithmisha
The setting of this café could not be better. Located right next to the Vegetable Market and next to the Old Town Hall courtyard, it is close to everything, yet tucked away in a calm corner. The atmosphere of the cafe has always been nice & peaceful.
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Café by the Jiří Mahen Library
@lovinglifewithmisha
If you need to catch up on some reading or work, this is the perfect place to go to! The cheapest drinks & cakes in all of town. They just have shorter working hours due to it being part of the library.
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Kafec
@lovinglifewithmisha
Craving for some pancakes & waffles or a bomb chai latte? This is the cafe to go to! It is a bit hard to find as it's located in a courtyard of a residential area, but trust me, it's worth it!
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Mymika
@lovinglifewithmisha
Just a couple of steps from the Moravian Square, try coffee from true accredited professional bartenders along with a cake.
8/10 - the place is tiny, so you're never truly guaranteed a spot.
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SORRY - we bake differently
@lovinglifewithmisha
If you're looking for unique cakes, do not miss this café! It is not far from Mendel Square, where you can also visit the monastery where genetics were studied and potentially discovered.
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Café Placzek
@lovinglifewithmisha
This high-end cafe will surprise you with its' delicious breakfasts! If you're looking for a brunch spot in the city centre, this is the one to look into more!
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Kofi-Kofi servis Ltd.
@lovinglifewithmisha
Want to only grab a coffee to-go? Find these coffee stands all over Brno city centre! There is usually one by the main train station, Grand hotel bus station, Moravian square, Janacek theatre and Vegetable market. They are definitely the best in the game!
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SKØG Urban Hub
@lovinglifewithmisha
Ever wanted to have a coffee while seated in a bathtub? Well, in this truly unique, industrial cafe, you can! Located right by the new Town Hall & only a couple metres away from Liberty Square, this cafe is bustling day & night. Try out their cocktails too!
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Cafe Podnebí
@lovinglifewithmisha
After descending from the Spilberk castle, stop for a coffee in this wonderful garden. They also cook, so stop by around lunch time for some special meal discounts!
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La Váza Cafeterie
@lovinglifewithmisha
Hidden from plain sight, this coffeeshop & restaurant is located mere steps away from Liberty Square. After walking through what looks like an apartment complex corridor, you will be greeted by a wonderful garden with a small pond and outdoor seating area, which is operated even in winter. The cafe itself is reasonably priced despite of its very centric location.
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Liberty Cafe
@lovinglifewithmisha
Looking up towards the Old Town Hall entry, this cafe has kept its reasonable prices throughout the years. Despite the staff not being the friendliest. If you go, definitely stay on their outdoor terrace and order the ice coffee with icecream, a total Czech must in summer!
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Božský kopeček - Time for Ice-cream!
@lovinglifewithmisha
These icecream stands pop up everywhere in summertime in Brno! And thankfully so, because they offer truly unique and delicious flavours, sometimes with a little alcohol in them! You will most likely see a queue of locals in front of these pastel coloured trucks, so don't hesitate to follow them!
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V Melounovém cukru
@lovinglifewithmisha
Another tucked away cafe with delicious desserts! There are only limited spaces though, so test your luck & try and get a seat!
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Momenta Cafe
@lovinglifewithmisha
It's famous outdoor seating area can be seen every summer at the Vegetable Market. you will always see it packed despite the rather high prices. This is not my most favourite cafe in Brno, however I have heard a lot of good things about it, so check it out for yourself & let me know what you think! ;)
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A trip to Brno is not complete without Czech beer!
There are many, and I mean MANY pubs & bars in Brno. You will find good beer in almost every Czech restaurant.
However, here is a list of the most iconic ones❣️
Na zdraví! 🍻
Výčep Na Stojáka
@lovinglifewithmisha
"Na stojáka" in Czech means "for standing", which is the whole concept of one of the most known pubs in Brno. Located right behind the monumental church of st. James, you find find tens of people standing around the pub with beers in their hands, connecting with strangers. Definitely the place to be in the evenings in Brno. This is also where most of the Brno bar scene is set.
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Rytířská krčma
@lovinglifewithmisha
This themed bar is one of my favourites in Brno. Themed as a medieval pub, you will feel like you've been transported to the 13th century. The pub is very small and is located underground, the staff is always nice & you can try some topical food & drinks from that time.
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U Dřevěného orla
@lovinglifewithmisha
This underground restaurant & pub remains one of my favourites in Brno 'till this day. They serve Czech and international cuisine, however the main reason why I love it so much is because of their range of fruity beers. Even non-beer lovers should try one of these mango, raspberry, strawberry, blueberry or elderflower flavoured beers!
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Beer Exchange 2.0
@lovinglifewithmisha
Live out your finance-bro dreams and go to the Brno Beer Exchange! Follow the progress of the beer prices throughout the night & catch the cheapest beers! The historical minimum was 8 CZK (30 cents) for one beer! Don't make the wrong choice though, or you could be paying up to 180 CZK for one beer (7.6 Euros).
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Fancy a drink? Don't miss these unique bars.
🎆 Brno is also known for its nightlife, despite the fact that that usually means beers! If you're fancying a drink however, these are the best places I know in Brno! There is something for every type of person - some more adventurous, some classic.
Super Panda Circus
@lovinglifewithmisha
Pick your drink by playing an interactive story-game on a tablet! yes, you heard right! After picking your character, you will be guided through a story lined with different decisions.. the outcome? The perfect drink for you! The theme of this bar changes every couple of months, so don't forget to come back on your next visit to Brno!
P.S. can you find the entrance to this bar? It is a bit hidden...
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SHOT BAR
@lovinglifewithmisha
Contrary to the name, this bar doesn't only serve shots! It also has yummy cocktails at a very reasonable price, especially at Aperol Spritz happy hour. Located right next to the action, i.e. the square of the church of st. Jacob, you should not skip out on this bar!
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ALOHA
@lovinglifewithmisha
Another cocktail bar, right next to Shot Bar is Aloha, very popular with the locals. They have an underground area too, so don't forget to have a look there too, as it can get very crowded during the weekends!
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The bar that doesn't exist
@lovinglifewithmisha
If you're looking for a fancy night out, this should be THE place you go to. The higher prices correlate with the higher standard & quality you get. The dress code is smart casual to fancy, you definitely won't be the only one there in a suit.
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La Gaviota Terraza, Lounge & Sky bar
@lovinglifewithmisha
There's nothing more you need to know than that this is a bar WITH A VIEW - of Brno rooftops! Especially in summer you can see the beautifully lit up Spilberk caste and churches in the distance while you have your cocktail or shisha.
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Nálevna
@lovinglifewithmisha
This new bar serves high quality drinks for cheap, along with delicious Czech meals. This is also the place where you will find cheap mixed shots, if that's where the night leads you ;) .
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Wild Thing Brno - Karaoke Bar
@lovinglifewithmisha
The ideal pre-game place or also to stay the whole night, this is the Wild Thing Karaoke Bar! Great drinks make up for the not-always-so-great singing you will hear here throughout the night, but one thing is guaranteed... you will have fun!
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Craving for some quiet time? Try some of the Brno shisha places, bowling or cinemas.
Shisha has become overly popular in the Czech Republic, so you will find an abundance of cafes selling it. They usually have cheaper "shisha of the day" that you can opt for especially if it's your first time trying!
Slast
@lovinglifewithmisha
Take a step into the Brno underground & find your way through the maze that this bar is. Order a cocktail or a shisha and chat with your friends, this is a true Brno hidden gem.
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Utopia
@lovinglifewithmisha
This huuuge shisha place is located near Malinovskeho Square. You can also play board games here or rent a pool table while having your shisha.
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Sport Balkán
@lovinglifewithmisha
If you're looking for a place near the city centre to do some sports, this is where you should go! You can go bowling, play some ping pong or even play a bit of laser-game for reasonable prices.
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Cinema City
@lovinglifewithmisha
This commercial cinema is located in the shopping centre "Velký Špalíček". Most movies are going to be kept in the original version with Czech subtitles, just make sure to choose the right screening, so you can understand it! :D
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Scala Cinema
@lovinglifewithmisha
This is the cinema of Masaryk University, open to the public on most days, they play international movies (new & old) for much cheaper than the commercial cinema. Check out their website for more recent information!
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Thank you for reading this BRNO 101 guide!
I hope this guide has been very helpful for you. if you have any questions or want more, personalized recommendations, don't hesitate to contact me on my Instagram, @lovinglife_withmisha. 🤍
I wish you a wonderful stay in the beautiful city of Brno!
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