What to do in Brno during the winter holidays
The week between Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve seems almost a sleepy time for the city. People disappear from the streets and shops close down for the holidays. But, if you look closely, there are still plenty of venues to visit and events to enjoy.
Here’s a list of tips from our team, to fill up your holiday week if you happen to be stranded in Brno.
(We’re talking about the week between 24 December – 2 January. Please, be aware that some of these days are public holidays. Namely: 24, 25, 26 December, and 1 January. On these days, check the opening times of the venues we mention!)
Family-Friendly Indoor Activities
Brno is full of indoor experiences to brighten your holidays:
- VIDA! Science Centre: Perfect for families, VIDA! offers interactive exhibits. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring science in a hands-on way.
- Brno Observatory: Dive into the wonders of the universe with captivating shows and telescope viewings.
- Moravian Museum: Learn about Czech history and culture at this iconic museum, which also features a dedicated Children’s Department.
- Anthropos Pavilion: Explore human evolution, including exhibits on prehistoric life and the famous Venus of Dolní Věstonice.
- Papilonia Butterfly House: Escape the winter chill in a tropical paradise filled with colourful butterflies.
For families with younger children, playrooms like Šaškárna offer the perfect combination of fun for kids and relaxation for parents. This spacious venue features several kid-friendly attractions, a café, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cultural Offerings
These venues do not close their gates throughout the holiday week. Check their program:
- Brno National Theatre: Enjoy opera, ballet, or drama with a packed schedule from December 27 to 31.
- Cabaret des Péchés: Check out their special events from December 27 to 31. Get ready for a glamorous pre-New Year celebration that’s all about fun, nostalgia, and setting the tone for a fantastic start to 2025.
Explore Brno’s Outdoors
A few hours outside makes the cup of hot chocolate more deserved.
- Winter Walks: Take peaceful walks through Mariánské údolí, Obora Holedná, or along the Brno Reservoir, all accessible by public transport. Use mapy.cz (also a mobile app) to search for hiking paths. Brno is only a bus/train ride away from easy hikes.
- Parks and Playgrounds: For example, the right bank of the Brno Reservoir features scenic paths and playgrounds for children.
- Sledging and Snow Play: If the weather permits and we’re gifted with snow, head to Kraví hora or Barvičova, both popular spots for sledging and outdoor fun.
Adventures Beyond Brno
For those eager to explore further afield:
- Punkva Caves and Macocha Abyss: A must-see for nature lovers, featuring underground rivers and stunning views. They have winter tours throughout December – but you must book in advance.
- Pálava Region: Combine a hike to the castle ruins with a visit to the award-winning Pavlov Archaeological Park.
- Skiing Near Brno: Head to resorts like Hodonín u Kunštátu or Nové Město na Moravě, where you can rent equipment and book lessons for kids. City Ski is another excellent option for quick trips.
- Simple outings: explore interesting places without the crowds, recommended by Go From Brno.
Last but not least, if you’d like to learn more about how to dress appropriately in European winter so that you can fully enjoy yourself outdoors and you and your kids are comfortable and warm, join our upcoming event on 16 December.
Photo courtesy of the City of Brno.
