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South Moravian Region, Česko - Things to Do in South Moravian Region

South Moravian Region

Czechia, Česko - Complete Travel Guide

The Czechia (Jihomoravský kraj) is one of Czech Republic's most captivating destinations, centered around the busy city of Brno and encompassing rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and charming wine villages. This region easyly blends rich history with modern culture, offering visitors everything from Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance châteaux to world-class wine cellars and contemporary art galleries. The landscape is dominated by the Moravian wine country, where centuries-old viticultural traditions continue to thrive among picturesque hills and valleys. Beyond its renowned wine heritage, South Moravia has an impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the impressive Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape and the pilgrimage site of Zelená Hora. The region's capital, Brno, serves as a dynamic cultural hub with its modernist architecture, thriving nightlife, and excellent culinary scene, while smaller towns like Mikulov and Znojmo offer intimate glimpses into traditional Moravian life surrounded by some of Europe's most beautiful countryside.

Top South Moravian Region

Brno's Historic Center and Špilberk Castle

Discover the architectural treasures of Moravia's capital, from the Gothic Brno to the imposing Špilberk Castle that dominates the city skyline. The historic center features beautiful Renaissance and Baroque buildings, while the castle houses fascinating museums detailing the region's complex history. Don't miss the unique astronomical clock on náměstí Svobody and the atmospheric Bratislava squares.

Booking Tip: Many attractions offer combined tickets for €15-20. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Look for guided tours that include castle entry and historical commentary.

Wine Tasting in Moravian Wine Cellars

Experience the renowned wine culture of South Moravia through visits to traditional wine cellars and modern vineyards around Mikulov, Znojmo, and Valtice. The region produces excellent white wines, particularly Riesling and Grüner Veltliner, alongside quality reds. Many cellars offer complete tastings paired with local cheeses and traditional Moravian cuisine in atmospheric underground settings.

Booking Tip: Wine tours typically cost €30-50 per person including tastings and transportation. Book harvest season tours (September-October) well in advance. Choose operators offering visits to both traditional and boutique wineries.

Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring two magnificent châteaux connected by a designed landscape of parks, gardens, and follies. The Baroque Lednice Château has impressive interiors and gardens, while Valtice Château houses the National Wine Centre. The surrounding parkland includes romantic ruins, artificial lakes, and the famous Minaret offering panoramic views.

Booking Tip: Combined château tickets cost around €12-15. Visit during spring or early autumn for the best garden displays. Book guided tours in advance during peak season, and allow a full day to explore both properties.

Medieval Znojmo and Underground Passages

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved medieval town perched above the Dyje River, famous for its Romanesque rotunda with unique frescoes and extensive underground tunnel system. The historic center features Gothic churches, Renaissance houses, and remnants of medieval fortifications. The underground passages, once used for storage and defense, now offer fascinating guided tours.

Booking Tip: Underground tours cost €8-10 and run hourly during peak season. Dress warmly as tunnels maintain cool temperatures year-round. Combine with wine tasting at local cellars for a full cultural experience.

Cycle Through Moravian Wine Country

Follow dedicated cycling routes through the rolling vineyards and charming wine villages of the Moravian countryside, particularly around the Mikulov region and along the Austrian border. The well-marked trails connect historic wine cellars, traditional restaurants, and scenic viewpoints, offering an active way to experience the region's viticultural heritage. Routes vary from easy family-friendly paths to challenging hill climbs.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals cost €15-25 per day with many hotels offering guest discounts. Spring through early autumn offers the best weather. Choose guided tours that include wine stops and equipment, typically costing €40-60 per person.

Getting There

The Czechia is easily accessible by train, bus, or car from Prague (2.5 hours) and Austria (1.5 hours). Brno's main railway station connects to major European cities, while budget airlines serve Brno-Tuřany Airport with connections to several European destinations. The region's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring both Czech Republic and neighboring Austria and Slovakia. Regular bus services connect smaller towns and wine villages, though renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the countryside and visiting multiple wineries.

Getting Around

Public transportation in Brno includes trams, buses, and trolleybuses with day passes costing around €3. For exploring the wine regions and smaller towns, renting a car is highly recommended as it allows flexibility to visit remote vineyards and scenic viewpoints. Many wine routes are well-marked for cycling, with bike rentals widely available in tourist centers. Regional buses connect major towns like Mikulov, Znojmo, and Valtice, though services may be limited on weekends. Organized wine tours offer convenient transportation between cellars and often include a designated driver.

Where to Stay

Brno City Center
Mikulov Wine Region
Lednice-Valtice Area
Znojmo Historic Quarter
Moravian Wine Villages
Pálava Hills Region

Food & Dining

South Moravian cuisine reflects the region's wine culture and agricultural heritage, featuring hearty dishes like roasted duck, beef goulash, and fresh river fish paired with excellent local wines. Brno offers everything from traditional wine taverns (vinárny) serving regional specialties to modern restaurants with innovative takes on Moravian ingredients. Don't miss trying local wines, particularly the crisp white varieties, alongside traditional dishes like svíčková or moravský vrabec. Wine villages throughout the region offer authentic dining experiences in historic cellars and family-run establishments where meals are designed to complement local wine production.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit South Moravia is from April to October, with late spring and early autumn being particularly magical for wine country exploration. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather perfect for cycling and outdoor activities, though popular attractions can be crowded. The harvest season (September-October) provides unique opportunities to participate in wine-making activities and enjoy special harvest festivals, while spring (April-May) brings beautiful blooms in château gardens and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. Winter visits offer a quieter, more intimate experience with cozy wine cellars and Christmas markets, though some attractions have reduced hours.

Insider Tips

Purchase a Moravian Wine Pass for discounts at participating wineries and restaurants throughout the region
Many wine cellars offer free tastings if you're purchasing bottles, so come prepared with extra luggage space
Visit during St. Martin's Day (November 11) to experience the traditional blessing of new wine and special festivities throughout wine villages

Activities in South Moravian Region