Brno's Underground City: A Hidden World Beneath the Streets of the Czech Republic
When you think of beautiful European cities, you might picture charming Old Town squares, Baroque architecture, or vibrant street cafés. But in Brno, Czech Republic, there’s just as much magic to be found beneath the surface — literally.
This lesser-known Czech city, often overshadowed by Prague, holds a secret underworld filled with history, mystery, and some truly unique travel experiences. From ancient ossuaries to Cold War bunkers, Brno's underground attractions are a must-visit for anyone who loves quirky, off-the-beaten-path travel.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can find below ground in Brno — plus accessibility info, travel tips, and my (Ashley’s!) take on what makes this place so special.
Why Visit Brno’s Underground?
If you're the kind of traveler who gets excited about things like catacombs, hidden passageways, or abandoned bunkers, Brno's underground is your dream come true. What makes it especially cool is that these subterranean sites aren't just tourist gimmicks — they hold real historical significance and give you insight into how people lived, worked, and survived centuries ago.
Whether you're into archaeology, architecture, or just something a little spooky, there’s a little something for everyone.
1. Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market
One of the most accessible (and fun!) underground experiences in Brno is the Labyrinth under Zelný trh (the Vegetable Market).
✨ What It Is: A series of Baroque-era cellars and passageways, originally used by local merchants to store goods like wine, beer, and produce. Over time, they also served as shelters during wartime and even as makeshift prisons.
✨ Why You’ll Love It: The tour includes spooky wax figures, old tools, alchemical equipment, and fascinating stories about Brno’s medieval market life. It’s atmospheric but still kid-friendly — and not too scary.
🕰️ Hours: Open year-round
🎟️ Admission: Budget-friendly (~150 CZK or $6 USD)
♿ Accessibility: Some narrow staircases; limited wheelchair access.
👉 Travel Tip: Buy tickets in advance during weekends or holidays — tours can fill up fast.
2. The Ossuary at the Church of St. James
This one is for the brave souls and lovers of the macabre. The Ossuary at St. James is the second-largest ossuary in Europe, after the Catacombs of Paris.
✨ What It Is: A subterranean memorial site that holds the remains of over 50,000 people, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Many were victims of wars, plagues, and famines.
✨ What It Feels Like: Surreal. You walk through rooms stacked with bones and skulls, artistically arranged in patterns. It’s somber, powerful, and beautifully lit with gentle candles and ambient music.
🎟️ Admission: Around 140 CZK (~$6 USD)
🕰️ Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds
♿ Accessibility: Partial access — stairs and uneven flooring in some areas.
👉 Respect Note: This is a sacred and historical space. It’s not the place for loud chatter or selfies with skulls. Treat it with reverence.
3. 10-Z Bunker: Brno’s Cold War Relic
This one’s for the history buffs and Cold War nerds. 10-Z Bunker is a former nuclear fallout shelter built during WWII and later updated by the Communist regime for nuclear war readiness.
✨ What It Is: A massive bunker carved into the rock under Špilberk Castle, intended to protect up to 500 people from nuclear attack. It's now a museum with restored sleeping bunks, control rooms, and Cold War-era artifacts.
✨ Why It’s Cool: You get to walk through narrow tunnels, peer into living quarters, and even see propaganda posters and vintage rations. They also host escape rooms and occasional themed dinners in the retro canteen.
🕰️ Hours: Open most days; night tours available!
🎟️ Cost: Varies (~150–200 CZK or $6–$9 USD)
♿ Accessibility: Limited due to narrow passages and stairs.
👉 Ashley’s Tip: Bring a light jacket — it’s cold and damp down there!
4. Underground Water Reservoirs at Žlutý Kopec
One of Brno’s most unique and newly restored underground gems is the water reservoirs at Žlutý Kopec ("Yellow Hill"). Think underground cathedrals made of red brick and echoing chambers.
✨ What It Is: These massive 19th-century water tanks once supplied drinking water to Brno. They were closed for decades but have recently been restored and opened to the public as a historical site.
✨ Why It’s Awesome: The vaulted ceilings and moody lighting give it an almost mystical vibe. You’ll feel like you’re inside a steampunk movie or ancient crypt.
🎟️ Tickets: Must be booked in advance through TIC Brno (official tourism site)
🕰️ Tours: Guided only; not always available year-round
♿ Accessibility: Moderate; check for updates on accessible routes.
Is Brno Underground for Everyone?
While these sites are fascinating, they may not be suitable for every traveler. Here's what to keep in mind:
✅ Best For:
History lovers
Curious, off-the-beaten-path explorers
Travelers who don’t mind a bit of darkness or dampness
Families with older kids or teens
🚫 Maybe Not Ideal For:
Travelers with mobility challenges (many areas have stairs and tight spaces)
People with claustrophobia
Very young children (some areas might feel too spooky)
How to Get to Brno & Explore Underground Sites
✈️ Fly into Brno or Vienna/Prague
🚆 Trains and buses from Prague, Vienna, or Bratislava are frequent and budget-friendly
🚶 All underground sites are located within walking distance of Brno’s Old Town
👉 Pro Tip: Start your tour day with the Labyrinth, grab lunch at a café in Zelný trh, then hit up 10-Z Bunker and the Ossuary in the afternoon.
Final Thoughts: Brno’s Underground Is Totally Worth It
I absolutely loved exploring Brno’s hidden underworld. There’s something about walking through centuries-old tunnels and seeing how people lived, hid, and even stored vegetables underground that makes the past feel very real.
This city may fly under the radar for many travelers, but trust me — if you’re heading to the Czech Republic and want something a little different, Brno and its underground gems are 100% worth a visit.
Have You Explored Underground Cities?
From Edinburgh to Naples to Brno — underground cities are having a moment. Have you ever explored one? What’s the coolest hidden tunnel or eerie catacomb you’ve visited?
👇 Let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this with your favorite history-loving travel buddy.
