Exploring the Heart of Brno's Old Town

Zelný trh is more than just a place to buy vegetables. It is a living piece of Moravian history that dates back to the 13th century. Today, it remains a central hub for locals and tourists alike. You can feel the energy of the city here every single morning.

Before you dive into the full list, here are some quick picks for your visit. These will help you prioritize based on your interests. The square is easy to reach on foot from most central hotels.

• Best overall: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market
• Best for families: The seasonal market stalls
• Best rainy-day: Moravian Museum (Dietrichstein Palace)
• Best free sight: Parnas Fountain

Walking through the square is a highlight of any one day Brno walking itinerary. Make sure to bring a camera for the colorful stalls. You should also wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestones.

Top 10 Things to See in Zelný trh Square Brno

There are many unique sights packed into this one historic area. Use this list to make sure you do not miss the hidden gems. Most of these attractions are located directly on the square or just a few steps away.

1. Name: The Daily Vegetable Market Type: Experience Why go: This is the soul of the square. You can buy fresh fruit, local honey, and seasonal flowers. Best for: Foodies and photographers. Where: Center of the square. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free to browse. Tip: Check the Brno vegetable market opening days and times before you go.
2. Name: Parnas Fountain Type: Iconic Sight Why go: This massive Baroque fountain is the square's centerpiece. It features complex statues representing ancient empires. Best for: History buffs. Where: Middle of Zelný trh. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: Look for the cave-like structure at the base of the fountain.
3. Name: Labyrinth under the Vegetable Market Type: Unique Experience Why go: Explore a network of medieval cellars and tunnels hidden beneath the ground. It shows how food was stored centuries ago. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Entrance near the lower part of the square. Time: 60 minutes. Cost: Typical museum fee (approx. 200 CZK). Tip: Tours are guided, so book ahead in the summer.
4. Name: Dietrichstein Palace (Moravian Museum) Type: Museum Why go: This is one of the largest and oldest museums in the Czech Republic. It houses fascinating archaeological and natural history exhibits. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Top end of the square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee. Tip: The building itself is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.
5. Name: Reduta Theatre Type: Historical Sight Why go: It is one of the oldest theater buildings in Central Europe. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed here as a child in 1767. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Eastern side of the square. Time: 15 minutes (exterior). Cost: Free to view outside. Tip: Check their schedule for evening performances in 2026.
6. Name: Mozart Statue Type: Sight Why go: A modern and slightly unusual statue of a winged Mozart. It commemorates his famous concert at the Reduta Theatre. Best for: Art fans. Where: In front of the Reduta Theatre. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: The statue is purposefully slender and features one wing.
7. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: A classic Baroque religious monument. These columns were often built to give thanks after a plague ended. Best for: Quick photo stop. Where: Upper part of the square. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Tip: It is a great meeting point if you are traveling in a group.
8. Name: Old Town Hall Type: Nearby Sight Why go: Located just off the square, it features the famous "Brno Dragon" and a crooked turret. Best for: Folklore and views. Where: Radnická street (1-minute walk). Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free for the courtyard; small fee for the tower. Tip: Climb the tower for the best view of Zelný trh from above.
9. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Nearby Sight Why go: This massive Gothic cathedral sits on the hill overlooking the square. Its towers define the Brno skyline. Best for: Architecture. Where: Petrov Hill (3-minute walk). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free for the main nave. Tip: Listen for the bells ringing at 11:00 AM instead of noon.
10. Name: Capuchin Crypt Type: Nearby Sight Why go: A somber but fascinating site where mummified monks are laid to rest. It is a unique part of Brno's religious history. Best for: Dark history fans. Where: Kapucínské náměstí (2-minute walk). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Tip: It is very close to the lower entrance of Zelný trh.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to Zelný trh

To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning. The market is most active between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM. This is when you will find the freshest produce and the best atmosphere. Many vendors pack up by early afternoon.

If you are planning a route, use a Brno old town walking route map. This square is a perfect starting point for exploring the rest of the city. You can easily walk to Freedom Square or the Spilberk Castle from here.

For public transport, check the DPMB website for tram schedules. Several tram lines stop just a short walk from the square. If you need more local info, the official Go To Brno portal is very helpful. They provide updates on events and seasonal festivals happening in the square.