Things to Do in Mendel Museum

Brno, Czech Republic's second-largest city, might not have Prague's international fame, but that's actually part of its charm. The city feels authentically Czech in a way that its more famous sibling sometimes doesn't, with a thriving student population from Masaryk University keeping things lively and unpretentious. You'll find yourself in a place where modernist architecture sits comfortably alongside medieval streets, and where locals still outnumber tourists at the excellent restaurants and wine bars. The city center is compact enough to walk easily, yet substantial enough that you won't feel like you've seen everything in a day - it's the kind of place that reveals itself gradually.

Brno's food scene has really come into its own in recent years, with a mix of traditional Czech cuisine and more contemporary restaurants that take advantage of the region's excellent produce. The city is in the heart of Moravian wine country, so wine bars are particularly good here - many serve excellent small plates to accompany local wines. Traditional restaurants still serve hearty Czech classics, but you'll also find modern bistros and international cuisine. The student population means there are plenty of affordable options, and the lack of mass tourism means prices remain reasonable even at higher-end establishments.

Late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant weather for walking around the city and climbing up to Spilberk Castle. Summer can be quite warm but is lively with outdoor events and festivals. Winter has its own charm, particularly around Christmas when the markets are up, though some attractions have reduced hours. The shoulder seasons of May and September often provide the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, though Brno never feels overwhelmingly busy the way Prague can.