Brno

The capital of Czech Republic's ancient Moravia has historical riches in abundance. Dive straight into the city by staying in the sumptuous Barceló Brno Palace (Šilingrovo náměstí 2/265) where modern design merges effortlessly with this grand building's deep-rooted sense of history. The city centre and the Brno-Sever district are great places to search for mid-range and budget accommodation. Hotel Vaka (Cimburkova 4/540) has no-nonsense, squeaky-clean rooms at wallet-friendly prices, while just south of the city centre the minimalist-style holiday apartments at EEL Ubytování Brno (Vodní 1) are another budget-friendly steal.

For an original memento of your trip, look out for gorgeous smelling natural essential oils and soaps, handmade beeswax candles, Bohemia-style glassware, and traditional wooden children's toys, puppets and marionettes. The best places to hunt down these typical Czech products are around Svobody Square and Masarykova Street. Brno has fabulous antique shopping if you're looking for something a bit more quirky. Delve into the bric-a-brac at either U Sedmi Švábů (Anenská 8) or Artik (Nerudova). Wine enthusiasts who would like to bring back a taste of Moravia home should check out the local tipples at Vinná Galerie (Lužánecká 16).

Czech cuisine is filling, peasant fare noted for its simple flavour pairings. Brno has a vibrant international food scene – perfect for when you've eaten your fill of hearty dumplings and stews. Restaurace Špalíček (Zelný 12) is famed for its Moravian feasts, while Spolek (Orlí 517/22) serves up Czech favourites at super cheap prices. If you fancy a change, don't miss the sushi at Koishi (Údolní 326/11). Brno is also home to a great beer culture so you'll have no problems finding a bar. Restaurace U Richarda (Údolní 7) is a fantastic microbrewery pub, while popular Pivnice Pegas (Jakubská 4) is the perfect place to soak up the city's lively evening atmosphere.

Cinema Mundi

February-March

This international film festival focuses on the cream of the crop of the latest world cinema with screenings of films from Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East as well as Europe and North America.

Špilberk Food Festival

May

Brno's Špilberk Castle plays host to this two-day foodie event which offers a glutton's delight of Czech flavours. Visitors can gorge on special tasting menus and culinary exhibitions, and there's plenty of beer and wine tasting too.

Ignis Brunensis

May-June

‘Fire of Brno’, Brno's most famous annual event, is a firework competition extravaganza that lights up the city's evening sky. The opening and closing night firework displays take place in the city centre, while the competition displays (usually every second night across a fortnight period) are held at Brno Dam.

Theatre World Brno

June

Both classical and new alternative theatre is well represented in this cultural programme featuring both local and international productions.

Grand Prix of the Czech Republic

August

One for motorbike enthusiasts everywhere, this midsummer racing event attracts up to 250,000 spectators to Brno's Automotodrom Masaryk Circuit. Qualifying races take place from the Friday onwards while the final race is on Sunday.