When you visit the Christmas markets, several impressions come to mind. Lights, carols, people having fun and the general Advent hustle and bustle. This can make you feel overwhelmed and want to take a break from it all for a while. That's why we've compiled a list of places where you can take a moment to calm down, gain perspective (literally or at least internally) and recharge your batteries to get back to the vibrant town square. Maybe for another mulled wine.
XIV. tungsram nativity scene
Gardens under Petrov
You don't have to go far for a bit of peace and a place to contemplate. There is just such a place under the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul called Gardens under Petrov. You can enter them from Petrská Street, past the TAK coffee shop, where you can buy something hot to warm you up. Then just enjoy the breathtaking view of the cathedral, and if you want to take a closer look, use the spiral staircase that leads directly to it. We particularly recommend a visit on the weekend of 17-18 December 2022, when the Charity Market will be taking place.
Piazzetta in front of Janáček Theatre
You may know the area in front of the Janáček Theatre from the summer season, but it is worth going there even if you don't go to the theatre during the Advent season. This year, the beautifully lit theatre building will be complemented by a new installation in the fountain area. The snowflakes from this year's visual of Brno Christmas have wandered into it. An ideal opportunity to take a photo at PF 2023.
Christmas Castle Špilberk
The lights can be blinding from too close a distance. So take a walk from the centre of town through the park to Špilberk Castle, where you can see the lit-up city from a good perspective. At the same time, you'll breathe in the pleasant air and stop beating yourself up about the potato pancake you just finished eating. On the other hand, you can reward yourself for your hike in one of the castle's gastronomic establishments. Afterwards, make sure you head to the castle itself, where interesting exhibitions await you. You can find out the ideal date to visit the castle at the Advent at Špilberk event, where you will find the accompanying programme that the Brno City Museum has prepared for its visitors.
Denis' sets
Standing around in markets forever can make your feet hurt. Fortunately, there is a place in the centre of Brno where you can always find a free bench with a view of the city. Denisovy sady is simply the ideal place to stop for a while and have a moment to yourself in the hustle and bustle. And don't worry, with a good jacket you'll be able to handle the chill of sitting for a while. We still recommend bringing something warm with you to keep you warm, for example from the nearby Zelný trh (Green Market).
Courtyard of the New Town Hall
The Christmas tree in the courtyard of the New Town Hall has complained to us many times that it feels inferior in the competition of trees in the squares. So go support it and see how it decorates this Brno place. You will not be disappointed! Moreover, you are only a few steps away from Halouzek's wooden crib.
Tower of the Old Town Hall
Perspective and no regrets about the candy you ate? A visit to the Old Town Hall tower combines these thanks to climbing 173 stairs.Although it offers a 360° view of the centre of Brno all year round, the view during Advent, when the city is full of lights and festive atmosphere, is simply unbeatable. Especially if you're lucky and there's a blanket of snow on the roofs of the houses and St Peter and Paul Cathedral.
Church of St. John with Loreto
The Church of St. John has been an integral part of Brno since the 13th century and where else to find a place to calm down during Advent than in a church. In addition, during Advent, a guide will show you around from 09.00 to 17.00 on request, so you can also see the Stations of the Cross with its Gothic murals. From 12/12/2022 you can also enjoy the nativity scene.
