The 9 Best Castles Near Brno by Train for Day Trips
Are you looking for the best castles near Brno by train for your next adventure? South Moravia is a land of rolling vineyards and ancient fortresses. Many of these historic sites are easy to reach using the local rail network. You do not need a car to see the region's best heritage sites. This guide covers iconic Gothic towers and elegant Baroque chateaus. Each destination is perfect for a relaxing day trip from the Moravian capital. Let's explore the most beautiful easy castle trips from Brno without a car.
Top 9 Best Castles Near Brno by Train
The South Moravian rail system is efficient and affordable. Most trains depart from Brno Main Station (Hlavní nádraží). You can reach most sites within 30 to 90 minutes. Many stations are located within walking distance of the castle gates. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.
- Quick Pick (Best Overall): Pernštejn Castle
- Quick Pick (Best for Families): Lednice Castle
- Quick Pick (Best for Wine): Valtice Castle
- Quick Pick (Best Free Views): Špilberk Castle
- Name: Pernštejn Castle Type: Fortress Why go: Known as the "Marble Castle," it has never been conquered. It looks like a fairytale stronghold. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Nedvědice. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: ~200-300 CZK for tours. Getting there: Take a direct train to Nedvědice station, then walk 20 minutes uphill. Tip: Read our full Pernštejn Castle instructions before you go.
- Name: Lednice Castle Type: Chateau Why go: A stunning Neo-Gothic masterpiece surrounded by one of Europe's largest gardens. Best for: Romantic walks and families. Where: Lednice. Time: Full day. Cost: ~250-400 CZK. Getting there: Train to Břeclav, then a local train or bus to Lednice. Tip: Book your interior tour tickets online in advance during summer.
- Name: Valtice Castle Type: Chateau Why go: This Baroque residence is the seat of the National Wine Center. Best for: Wine lovers. Where: Valtice. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: ~200 CZK. Getting there: Direct train from Brno to Valtice město station. Tip: Visit the Wine Salon in the cellar for tastings.
- Name: Mikulov Castle Type: Chateau Why go: It dominates the skyline of the most beautiful town in South Moravia. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: Mikulov. Time: 4 hours. Cost: ~150-250 CZK. Getting there: Direct train or train via Břeclav to Mikulov na Moravě. Tip: Use our Mikulov castle guide to find the best viewpoints.
- Name: Špilberk Castle Type: Fortress Why go: Located right in Brno, it offers the best city views and dark history. Best for: A quick morning trip. Where: Brno Center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Grounds are free; casemates have a fee. Getting there: Walk from Brno Main Station or take a tram to Šilingrovo náměstí. Tip: Visit the casemates to learn about its time as a notorious prison.
- Name: Slavkov Castle (Austerlitz) Type: Chateau Why go: Site of the famous Battle of the Three Emperors involving Napoleon. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: Slavkov u Brna. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: ~200 CZK. Getting there: Direct train from Brno to Slavkov u Brna station. Tip: Combine this with an Austerlitz battlefield trip for a full day.
- Name: Veveří Castle Type: Fortress Why go: Overlooks the Brno Reservoir and is one of the oldest castles in Moravia. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Brno-Bystrc. Time: 4 hours. Cost: ~100-200 CZK. Getting there: Tram 1 to Bystrc, then a scenic boat ride or bus to the castle. Tip: Check the Veveří Castle trip details for boat schedules.
- Name: Rájec nad Svitavou Type: Chateau Why go: Known as the "Moravian Versailles" for its French-style architecture and gardens. Best for: Art and garden fans. Where: Rájec-Jestřebí. Time: 3 hours. Cost: ~180 CZK. Getting there: Direct train toward Blansko; get off at Rájec-Jestřebí. Tip: The camellia collection in the greenhouse is famous in early spring.
- Name: Boskovice Castle Type: Ruins & Chateau Why go: Features both a romantic Gothic ruin and an elegant Empire-style chateau. Best for: Seeing two architectural styles in one spot. Where: Boskovice. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: ~150 CZK. Getting there: Train from Brno with a quick change in Skalice nad Svitavou. Tip: Explore the historic Jewish Quarter in the town below the castle.
UNESCO World Heritage Castles Near Brno
The Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is often called the "Garden of Europe." This area was designed by the Liechtenstein family over centuries. It combines two massive chateaus with a giant English park. You can easily visit these Lednice-Valtice day trip locations by train. The train ride from Brno to Břeclav is very fast. From Břeclav, local connections take you directly to the castle gates. In 2026, expect frequent shuttle trains during the summer months. You can also rent a bike at the Břeclav station. Cycling between the two castles is a local favorite. The path is flat and very scenic.
Practical Tips for Train Travel in South Moravia
Using the train in South Moravia is simple for tourists. The regional system is called IDS JMK. You can buy tickets at the station or via the Poseidon app. For groups, look into weekend train tickets for groups in South Moravia. These tickets offer great value for up to five people. Most castle stations are within the main regional zones. Always validate your paper ticket before boarding if required. Check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal festival dates. Many castles host medieval fairs or wine markets. Trains can be crowded during these special events. Always check the last return train time to Brno. Most regional lines stop running around midnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which castle is the easiest to reach from Brno by train?
Špilberk Castle is the easiest as it is located within Brno city center. For trips outside the city, Slavkov (Austerlitz) and Rájec nad Svitavou are very simple. Both have direct train lines and the stations are a short walk from the castle gates.
Are castles near Brno open in the winter?
Most Czech castles close their interiors from November to March. However, castle grounds and parks often remain open for walkers. Some sites like Špilberk or Lednice may offer limited winter tours. Always check the official website for current 2026 winter hours.
Can I visit Lednice and Valtice in one day by train?
Yes, it is possible and highly recommended. Take the train to Valtice in the morning. Explore the chateau and then take a local bus or train to Lednice. You can then return to Brno via Břeclav in the evening.
Exploring the best castles near Brno by train is a highlight of any Moravian trip. From the heights of Pernštejn to the gardens of Lednice, these sites are truly world-class. The local rail network makes these adventures accessible and affordable for everyone. Remember to check local schedules on the Go To Brno portal for the latest updates. Start planning your royal rail journey today and enjoy the history of the Czech Republic.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Go To Brno — Official tourism portal; unverified source.
- City of Brno — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- UNESCO World Heritage - Villa Tugendhat — International heritage designation; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet Brno — Major editorial travel guide; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
