Despite being tagged with the unfortunate label of a dead-end industrial city with little of interest, Brno’s reputation is somewhat undeserved. True, this medieval industrial centre has more than your average number of smokestacks, factories and Communist-era architecture, but beneath the surface and hidden down small side streets are some fascinating sights and wonderful communities, all of which help to make a visit to the Czech Republic’s second largest city well worth the time.

Unfortunately, Brno does not offer many highlights for children, although there are a few attractions which are sure to keep them occupied. Spilberk Castle and the Catacombs of the Monks are definitely your best bet as they have that classic spooky feel like something out of a fantasy storybook.

New Year’s Eve: Brno celebrates this worldwide event with as much verve as it can muster, with fireworks breaking up the chilly dark winter.

At the heart of this city lies the charming Old Town, where visitors can find the best atmosphere Brno has to offer along with most of its attractions. Only Prague has more museums and art galleries. While the vast majority of visitors to the Czech Republic stick to the capital, those who do venture down to Brno won’t be completely disappointed.

Since Brno has such a small airport, most visitors fly into the larger neighbouring airports in Prague or Vienna and then continue on to Brno by bus or train. However, the Brno Airport does service regular daily flights to and from Prague through Czech Airlines, which is the easiest entry point for international travellers. Ryanair provides direct service from London’s Stanstead Airport and Cirrus Airlines flies from Munich. Brno Airport is located 7kms from the city centre and has a small but efficient terminal equipped with all the basic facilities a traveller might need. Although there is no train service at the airport itself, passengers can take a busor a much more expensive taxi to their destination in Brno.

Banks: 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 08:00 to 20:00, Monday to Friday; 08:00-13:00 Saturdays 
Department Stores and Shops: 09:00 to 18:00, daily
Museums: 09:00 to 17:00, daily; although many close on Mondays or Tuesdays
Business Offices: 09:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday