Brno Earns Recognition as One of Europe’s Must-Visit Cities in 2026 with a Thriving Culture and Culinary Scene

Brno has earned recognition as one of Europe’s must-visit cities for 2026, thanks to its thriving culture and vibrant culinary scene. This recognition highlights the city’s unique blend of historical charm and contemporary innovation, which continues to captivate both domestic and international visitors. Brno’s rich cultural offerings, including its UNESCO-listed sites and lively arts scene, are complemented by its emerging reputation as a gastronomic hotspot, with numerous restaurants featured in the MICHELIN Guide. These factors, combined with the city’s growing prominence in the European travel market, make Brno a top destination for 2026.
Brno Emerges as One of Europe’s Top Travel Destinations for 2026

Brno, the Czech Republic’s second-largest city, has garnered significant recognition as one of Europe’s top travel destinations for 2026, securing a spot as the fifth most attractive city on the continent, according to 1000thingsmagazine.com. This accolade underscores Brno’s growing reputation not just as a cultural and historical center, but also as a vibrant gastronomic destination. This newfound recognition is expected to elevate both the city and the broader South Moravian Region, which is seeing a surge in interest from both domestic and international travelers.

The South Moravian Region, home to Brno, has long been a well-regarded destination within the Czech Republic, and recent tourism figures reflect its growing global appeal. In 2025, the region welcomed a remarkable 2.2 million visitors, with over 736,000 of them coming from abroad. Brno, the region’s largest city, played a central role in these figures, drawing more than one million travelers. Nearly half of these visitors hailed from outside the Czech Republic, highlighting Brno’s increasing international appeal. Between January and September 2025 alone, the region saw 1.78 million visitors, including 611,000 from foreign countries, demonstrating the growing trend of foreign tourism.

Brno’s rise as a must-visit destination is not just due to its history and vibrant cityscape, but also thanks to its flourishing food scene. The city’s inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide Czech Republic speaks volumes about its gastronomic standing. While Brno has yet to achieve a Michelin star, it has earned recognition for several of its restaurants in both the MICHELIN-recommended and Bib Gourmand categories. This achievement highlights Brno’s emergence as a culinary hotspot, offering a blend of fine dining and traditional Czech cuisine that attracts food lovers from across the globe.

Beyond its gastronomic offerings, Brno’s cultural and natural attractions are equally captivating. The city is rich in historical sites, museums, galleries, and theaters, making it an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts. Landmark sites such as the Špilberk Castle, the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, and the Brno Ossuary offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s storied past. The surrounding South Moravian Region, which boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites, amplifies the cultural experience. Additionally, the region is famed for its wine culture, and its wine trails are becoming increasingly popular with travelers looking to explore local vineyards and enjoy the region’s wine festivals.

In addition to its cultural heritage, Brno offers plenty of outdoor activities, especially for cycling enthusiasts. The city’s well-developed cycling infrastructure makes it a top destination for cyclists, with scenic bike routes that connect Brno to surrounding towns and villages. The natural beauty of the region, combined with its growing network of bike paths, is drawing travelers who appreciate both active holidays and breathtaking landscapes.

Brno is also gaining prominence as a hub for MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences, and events). With its state-of-the-art conference facilities, excellent transportation links, and vibrant atmosphere, Brno is becoming an attractive destination for business travelers. The city’s expanding MICE sector is expected to continue to thrive, with new developments and services being introduced to cater to the demands of this growing market.

The city’s proximity to Austria has also played a key role in its rising popularity. Brno’s strong connections with Austrian cities, combined with its cultural ties, make it an appealing destination for Austrian travelers. Its easy accessibility by train or car makes it an attractive option for weekend getaways, and the city is becoming a popular choice for tourists from neighboring countries. As Brno’s international visibility continues to grow, it’s expected that the city will continue to attract more visitors from Austria and beyond, further solidifying its place as one of Europe’s top destinations.

Brno has earned recognition as one of Europe’s must-visit cities for 2026, thanks to its thriving cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene, making it a top destination for travelers seeking history, innovation, and exceptional dining.

In conclusion, Brno’s recognition as one of the most attractive European destinations for 2026 reflects the city’s diverse appeal. With its rich history, flourishing food scene, stunning cultural and natural attractions, and growing prominence in the MICE sector, Brno is poised to continue its rise as a major destination in Central Europe. As more travelers discover the unique experiences the city offers, Brno’s future as a leading European destination looks brighter than ever.

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