As one of my biggest hobbies is traveling and exploring the world, I have started the series of Travel with me to various Czech cities. In the first post, I shared tips on what to see in my home town Ostrava. Now we will look at the second-largest city - Brno!

General information
Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, located in the southeastern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 380,000 people and covers an area of 230 square kilometers.
It takes less than 3 hours to get to Brno with a train from Prague, or 2h by car.
Brno makes a great stop on your way to Vienna or Bratislava, which are then less than 2h of a train-ride.
There is a somewhat friendly rivalry between Prague and Brno. This rivalry is mostly based on historical and cultural differences between the two cities, as well as their different social and economic contexts.

Things to see
Denis Gardens - This park is located on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of Brno. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Equestrian Statue of Margrave Jobst of Luxembourg - located at the biggest square in Brno - the Moravian square - you get to find this eight-metre statue of Jobst of Luxembourg, also called Courage. If you stand under the horse, a fun view will show, when you look up.

Museum of Applied Arts - the biggest surprise during my last visit! Apart from the magnificent ball work below, it also houses a concept ART DESIGN FASHION, so you get to admire many works of Czech designers, from clothes, to 13 000 glass, ceramic and porcelain items. The museum has a cafe, in which you get to be served by a robot (sci-fi, right?), which can even print your selfie on top of your cappuccino. Free entrance.

Špilberk Castle - This fortress, dating back to the 13th century, has played many roles throughout its history, including as a royal castle, a military prison, and a museum. Visitors can explore the castle's history and take in stunning views of the city from the tower.
Villa Tugendhat - This modernist masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important examples of modern architecture in Europe. The villa was designed by German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Book your tickets well in advance!
Old Town Hall - This impressive Gothic building dates back to the 13th century and features a unique astronomical clock that displays the phases of the moon and the position of the planets. Inside you can find a gallery, information centre and a permanent exhibition on the Town Hall history. It is also famous for its crocodile. Can you find it?
Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul: This impressive Gothic cathedral is located in the heart of the city and has a long history dating back to the 14th century. Visitors can admire the intricate architectural details and the stunning stained glass windows.


Where to eat
Cà Phê Cổ - An amazing and very stylish and cozy Vietnamese restaurant. I had the most amazing Bánh Bao here!

Don Pintxos - very authentic Spanish tapas place. Reservation is a must!
Barrio Gotico Tapas Bubliny - again, very nice tapas place (I love tapas, if you haven't noticed :D). Similar concept to Spejle in Prague - you serve yourself and then pay according to the number of toothpicks left after the food.

4pokoje - very funky bar and restaurant. Brunches to die for!
Spageta - stumbled upon this quite randomly, but loved the concept - they sell only Spaghetti! Huge variety of it, but nothing else!
Fabrik Urban House - a very nice surprise. You get to try Jacket potatoes (they are not very common in the Czech Republic), delicious pulled-meat burgers or amazingly seasoned potatoes.

Super Panda Circus - a must-see bar! I will not say more not to spoil the fun. Simply a must-see!
Café Pilát - yummy hummus, falafel and similar Eastern delicatessen.

Welness & Fun experience
Anybody hotel - not just a place to spent the night in. Anybody hotel offers a very unique experience for couples who want to enjoy a fun evening together and perhaps get to know to each other even better. Various themed rooms with different props - chose the one that speaks to you the most and have fun!

Infinit Maximus Resort - this is an absolute oasis and must-visit for me every time I am in Brno. Infinit Maximus is a popular wellness centre in Brno, very unlike any other in the Czech Republic. You get to enjoy 12 different saunas, outdoor cold pool, in/out pool where you get to sip on cocktails, jacuzzis, and an amazing lavender smell in summer time. Discounts applicable with multisport card.

All of the above places are my personal tips that I visited. I was not paid to write these recommendations. All photos in this article are also taken by me! :)
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