This medieval town on the Dyje River has preserved 13th-century walls, Gothic churches, and a network of underground tunnels. Local breweries serve Czech beer in the historic center.
In South Moravia, Znojmo sits on a rocky hill above the Dyje River. You can explore a 27-kilometer maze of medieval tunnels, climb the 80-meter Gothic Town Hall tower, or visit wine cellars carved into rock. The 11th-century Rotunda of St. Catherine contains rare Biblical frescoes, while the surrounding Podyjí National Park has hiking trails along limestone cliffs and through oak forests.
Exploring the Underground Labyrinth
A 27-kilometer network of tunnels runs beneath Znojmo's streets. Medieval builders created these passages between the 14th and 17th centuries as storage spaces and emergency escape routes during wars. On guided tours, you'll walk through multiple levels of the underground system, passing medieval wells, fireplaces, and defensive mechanisms. The temperature remains at 12°C year-round, making the tunnels a cool refuge in summer.
Gothic Architecture in the Town Center
The Gothic Town Hall tower from 1448 rises 80 meters above Masaryk Square. Climb to its observation deck for views of the medieval center and Dyje River valley. Around the square, you'll find Renaissance townhouses and a tile marking where Emperor Sigismund fell from his horse in 1437. St. Nicholas Church stands out with its unique globe-shaped pulpit, visible from most parts of the old town.
Wine Culture and Cellars
Local winemakers focus on white wines, with Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling growing on the sunny slopes around town. You can taste wines in cellars at the Louka Monastery or at Enoteka wine bar near the castle. The Znojmo Vintage Festival in September fills the streets with historical parades, music, and wine tastings.
Visiting Podyjí National Park
Walking trails start at the edge of Znojmo and follow the Dyje River along the Austrian border. The Šobes vineyard within the park grows on a rocky outcrop above the river. Walking trails from Znojmo lead to this vineyard, where you can taste wines while looking over the river valley.
Getting to Znojmo
Trains connect Znojmo to Vienna (1.5 hours) and Brno (1 hour). Regular buses run between Prague and Znojmo. While you can walk around the historic center easily, a car helps when visiting wineries and hiking trails in Podyjí National Park. The closest airports are in Vienna and Brno, with public transport connections to Znojmo.
