Climbing the Historic Old Town Hall Tower

The Old Town Hall is the oldest secular building in Brno. It dates back to the 13th century and holds many secrets. To reach the top, you must climb 173 steps. Most of these steps are made of old, sturdy wood. The staircase is quite narrow in certain sections. You should take your time if you are not used to steep inclines.

As you ascend, you will pass the massive clock mechanism. It is fascinating to see the inner workings of the tower. There is no elevator available for visitors in this historic structure. This makes the climb a bit of a workout for most people. However, the stairs are well-maintained and feel very safe. Small windows along the way provide glimpses of the city to keep you motivated.

The atmosphere inside the tower is very authentic. You can smell the old wood and stone as you move higher. It feels like stepping back into the medieval history of Moravia. This climb is a standard part of any historic walk in Brno. Most visitors reach the top in about five to ten minutes. Once you emerge onto the gallery, the effort is instantly forgotten.

What You See: The Best Old Town Hall Brno Tower Views

The gallery at the top is narrow but offers incredible vistas. From here, the Old Town Hall Brno tower views reveal the city's layout perfectly. To the south, you will see the twin towers of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. This is perhaps the most famous sight in the city. You can see the intricate Gothic details of the cathedral from this height.

Looking west, the fortress of Spilberk sits prominently on its hill. You can also look down directly into the bustling Zelny trh vegetable market. The colorful stalls and umbrellas look like a miniature toy set from above. To the north, the Church of St. James stands tall with its sharp spire. The contrast between the old red roofs and modern buildings is striking.

Photographers will love this spot during the golden hour. The sun sets behind the hills, casting a warm glow over the city. You can walk all the way around the tower to see every direction. The walkway is protected by a sturdy railing, so it feels secure. It is the best place to understand why people say Brno is walkable for tourists. Everything looks so close together from this height.

Legends and Landmarks at the Entrance

Before you even start your climb, the building itself offers many curiosities. Look up in the entrance passage to see the famous Brno Dragon. It is actually a preserved crocodile that was gifted to the city centuries ago. Next to it hangs a wooden wheel made in a single day as part of a bet. You can read more about the Brno dragon and wheel legends on nearby plaques.

Don't forget to look at the stone portal on the outside of the building. You will notice that the middle pinnacle is noticeably crooked. Legend says the sculptor was not paid enough, so he made it bent on purpose. These small details make the Old Town Hall more than just a viewpoint. It is a central hub of local folklore and history. The ground floor also houses the main tourist information center.

The building also plays a role in the city's unique timekeeping. You might hear the bells ringing for noon at 11:00 AM. This tradition dates back to the Swedish siege of the city. You can find a full Brno noon bells at 11 explanation to understand this quirky habit. Seeing the tower while the bells ring is a quintessential Brno experience.

Planning Your Visit: Prices and Timing

Visiting the tower is very affordable for most travelers. In 2026, a standard adult ticket costs approximately 100 CZK. There are discounts available for students, children, and seniors. You can purchase your tickets directly at the information desk. They accept both cash and credit cards for your convenience. The tower is usually open from April through October.

During the peak summer months, the tower stays open later in the evening. This is the best time to visit to avoid the midday heat. If you want to avoid crowds, try to go right when it opens in the morning. The gallery can feel a bit crowded if more than ten people are there at once. However, people usually move through quickly, so you won't wait long for a photo spot.

For the most up-to-date hours, check the official tourism portal. They list special events and holiday closures clearly. If you are using public transit, almost any tram to the center will get you close. The Brno public transport system is very efficient. The closest stops are Zelny trh or Namesti Svobody.

Review Verdict: Is the Climb Worth It?

The Old Town Hall Brno tower views are a highlight of any trip to Moravia. The central location makes it very easy to fit into a busy schedule. It provides the best context for the city's geography and history. While the climb requires some physical effort, the reward is a stunning panorama. It is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the entire Czech Republic.

Verdict: This is a must-do activity for any fit traveler visiting Brno.

• Pros: Unbeatable 360-degree views, very affordable price, rich with local legends.
• Cons: No elevator access, narrow wooden stairs, limited space on the observation deck.

Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, and fans of medieval architecture.

Skip if: You have significant knee issues or suffer from severe vertigo.

Alternative: Visit the towers of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul for a different but equally high perspective.