Regular opening hours for Cathedral of St Peter and Paul

The cathedral has different schedules for its various sections. The main nave is usually open for visitors throughout the day. However, religious services take priority over sightseeing. In 2026, the general visiting hours are Monday through Saturday from 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM. Sundays have limited access due to multiple morning masses. You can find more details in our comprehensive Cathedral of St Peter and Paul walking guide.

The towers and the crypt have separate schedules. These areas usually open at 10:00 AM. They close slightly earlier than the main church, often by 6:00 PM. During the winter months, these hours may shorten. Always check the official Go To Brno portal for sudden holiday closures. The treasury also follows the tower schedule but may close for lunch. Plan to arrive at least one hour before closing to see everything.

• Main Nave: Mon-Sat 8:15 AM – 6:30 PM; Sun 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM.
• Towers & Crypt: Mon-Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sun 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
• Note: Last entry to the towers is 30 minutes before closing.

Essential before you go checklist

Preparation is key to a successful visit to Petrov Hill. You should start by checking the weather forecast for Brno. The walk up the hill is steep and can be slippery in rain. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestones. You should also learn how to get to Petrov Cathedral from the train station to save time. This ensures you arrive during the best lighting for photos.

Category: Timing & Planning

• Check for special religious holidays or local weddings.
• Confirm the 11 AM bell ringing tradition to be nearby.
• Verify if the treasury is open on your specific date.

Category: Clothing & Gear

• Pack a light scarf to cover shoulders if wearing a tank top.
• Ensure your shoes have good grip for the tower stairs.
• Bring a fully charged power bank for your phone or camera.

Category: Money

• Withdraw small denominations of Czech Koruna (CZK).
• Check if your credit card is accepted for small entry fees.

On-site checklist for your Petrov visit

Once you arrive at the cathedral, follow these steps. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful, so keep your voice low. Start by exploring the exterior and the statues. You can use a Brno old town walking route map to find the best viewpoints. The ticket office for the towers is located just inside the main entrance. Be prepared for a narrow climb if you choose to go up.

Category: Entry & Tickets

• Buy a combined ticket for the towers and the crypt.
• Ask for an English information leaflet at the desk.
• Check the monitor for the next scheduled tour if available.

Category: Etiquette & Safety

• Turn your mobile phone to silent before entering the nave.
• Watch your head in the low doorways of the crypt.
• Hold onto the handrails when climbing the spiral tower stairs.

Common mistakes when visiting Petrov Hill

Many tourists make simple errors that can ruin their experience. Avoid these pitfalls to make the most of your time in Brno. For example, many people forget that the cathedral bells ring noon at 11 AM. This is a local tradition from the Thirty Years' War. If you miss it, you miss a unique piece of Brno history. You can find more tips in our self-guided walking tour of Brno.

• Trying to enter the nave during a funeral or wedding service.
• Assuming the towers are free (they require a small fee).
• Bringing large strollers into the narrow crypt area.
• Forgetting to look at the modern stained glass windows.
• Walking only to the front and skipping the rear gardens.
• Not checking the DPMB public transport website for tram diversions.

What not to pack for the cathedral

The cathedral is a place of worship and a historic monument. Space is limited in certain areas like the towers. You should leave bulky items at your hotel. There are no lockers available on-site for large bags. If you are exploring the city, check the Visit Czechia website for luggage storage locations near the station.

• Large Backpacks: These are difficult to carry up the narrow tower stairs.
• Professional Tripods: These are usually banned inside the nave without a permit.
• Food and Open Drinks: Consuming snacks inside the cathedral is strictly forbidden.
• Pets: Only service animals are allowed inside the religious buildings.
• Noisy Toys: Keep children's electronics muted or use headphones.

Specialized checklist for solo travelers

Solo travelers can enjoy a peaceful experience at Petrov. You can move at your own pace through the crypt. It is a very safe area, even in the early evening. However, always be aware of your surroundings in the surrounding park. The park is beautiful but can be quiet after dark.

• Download an offline map of the Brno city center.
• Keep your wallet in a secure, front-facing pocket.
• Ask a staff member to take your photo at the tower summit.
• Bring a journal to record your thoughts in the quiet nave.