Znojmo

Znojmo

Znojmo – a marvellous, historic town in an imposing setting above the Dyje River.

The historic town centre with its numerous churches, all surrounded by mediaeval city walls, has preserved its Renaissance look and is full of crooked lanes, romantic views and picturesque nooks and crannies. Znojmo is also the centre of a well-known wine region, so why not take the time to sample some of the local produce?

Underground, castle and rotunda

Znojmo’s famous past is recalled in the town’s oldest monument, the Romanesque Rotunda of Our Lady and St. Catherine, dating from the mid-11th century and located in the grounds of Znojmo Castle. Only a few hundred years younger is the extensive underground, whose 30km of corridors extend below the majority of houses, streets and squares in the historic town centre. As the underground is popular with families, part of the tour route focuses on fairytales and ghosts, with wine tastings for adults. See the town from above from the lookout gallery of the town hall. Another dominant feature of the town is the Church of St. Nicholas. Don’t miss a tour of the interiors, as you won’t see the likes of the original Baroque pulpit in the shape of the globe anywhere else!

Vineyards and vintage

As you’re in the Znojmo, reserve at least sometime for wine and wine tourism. Take a tour of Louka Monastery, the massive wine cellars and the Museum of Viniculture. You can also take a trip to the Podyjí National Park and visit Šobes, one of the best vineyards in Europe. Znojmo wine, sparkling young wine (burčák) and regional gastronomic specialties can also be sampled at the annual Znojmo Historical Vintage.

Trips in the area

Wine tourists can also visit the Modré sklepy (Blue Cellars) complex in Nový Šaldorf, where the cellar lane is amongst the most picturesque in the Znojmo region, with at least one cellar open during the season. Visit nearby Slup to see the historic water mill. Other attractive destinations are the romantic Vranov nad Dyjí Chateau, Bítov Castle and Vranov Reservoir.