Traveling for work usually means seeing more of conference rooms than city landmarks, but during my recent trip to Brno, I found a perfect balance. Nestled in the Czech Republic, Brno’s blend of historical charm and lively city energy was too inviting to pass up. After meetings, I had the chance to explore some of the city’s must-see spots, especially the bustling Zelný trh, or Cabbage Market, right in the heart of the city center. From early-morning visits to quick afternoon stops, I found myself drawn back to this vibrant square time and again. With different stalls, fresh produce, and a history that dates back centuries, the market became my go-to destination — both for a taste of local culture and as a place to recharge between work obligations.
Each visit to Brno’s Cabbage Market revealed something new. One of my favorite finds was a vegan gelato stand tucked between rows of fresh flowers and produce. The poppyseed raspberry flavor was unforgettable—sweet, tangy, with a hint of earthiness from the poppyseeds. It was the perfect pick-me-up during my afternoons in the square, making each visit even more memorable.
The market itself feels like a story unfolding with every step, and just a short walk from the stalls is Brno’s tribute to classical music: a life-sized statue of Mozart. The statue features Mozart with an adult face on a child’s body, which captures his incredible talent despite his young age during his visit. The single wing on his back adds a magical touch, suggesting both his extraordinary genius and the idea that he was still in the process of becoming, highlighting the potential he had yet to fully realize.
I was also fortunate enough to visit the labyrinth beneath the Cabbage Market, a hidden gem that dates back to the Middle Ages. I’ll be writing a post about my experience exploring this fascinating underground network soon, so stay tuned for that!
Additionally, I got to try burčák, a young wine that’s a local favorite during the harvest season. This semi-fermented grape juice is sweet, slightly fizzy, and bursting with fresh grape flavor—perfect for enjoying in the lively atmosphere of the market.
Now that I’m back, I’m excited to turn my favorite photos into prints. From bustling market scenes to my scoop of poppyseed raspberry gelato, these snapshots captured Brno’s charm. I’ll be using Shutterfly for printing, so I’m looking forward to seeing those moments come to life in print form.
Brno rewards every bit of wandering, even on a short stay. From lively market days to quiet moments savoring gelato and burčák, this trip left me with memories and photos I can’t wait to relive.