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Mikulov is a unique town located in South Moravia. It’s the perfect place for a trip or even just a short stop along the way. The castle rising above the old town, combined with charming historic houses and a nearby hill topped with chapels, makes the whole place look simply stunning. The area around Mikulov is also an excellent wine region – try the local products, and I guarantee you’ll be impressed!
Location
Mikulov is a charming town in South Moravia, right on the border with Austria. It’s located about 50 km south of Brno, making it easily accessible for tourists traveling by car or public transport. You can reach Mikulov from Brno by train or bus – the journey takes about an hour.
Mikulov lies just off the highway that many Poles take on their way south, for example to Croatia. It’s a perfect place for a break and a walk. If you’re arriving by car, there are several parking lots in town, but the closer you get to the center, the fewer and more expensive they are. I recommend using the Central Parking lot, which is about a 15-minute walk from the center, but parking costs just 5 CZK per hour, and you won’t have trouble finding a spot or getting out.
Mikulov – a brief history
Mikulov has a rich history. For centuries, it served as a political, commercial, and cultural center of the region. The first records of Mikulov date back to the 11th century, when a fortress stood here. In the 13th century, the town came under the ownership of the Liechtenstein family, who contributed to its development. From the 16th century, Mikulov became a significant cultural and religious hub, especially for the Jewish community. It long served as the rabbinical center of Moravia, attracting scholars and merchants. In the 17th century, the Dietrichstein family took over and transformed Mikulov, giving it the Baroque character still visible today.
In the 19th century, Mikulov grew as a winemaking town, gaining fame for its high-quality wines. Unfortunately, the 20th century brought change – during World War II, the Jewish population was almost entirely wiped out, and the town suffered war damage. After the war, Mikulov became part of Czechoslovakia, and its German-speaking population was expelled.
What to see in Mikulov
Mikulov isn’t a large town, but you can easily spend half a day here! Take a walk through the center, visit the castle and its gardens, check out Svatý kopeček or Kozí Hrádek, and if you’re interested, the Jewish cemetery is also worth seeing.
Mikulov Castle
The castle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the town, and according to some, in all of South Moravia. The first mention of the castle dates back to the 11th century, when it served as a defensive stronghold. Over the centuries, it was rebuilt and expanded, taking on Renaissance and Baroque elements. It belonged to the Liechtensteins and later to the Dietrichsteins, who made it their residence. In 1945, the castle was destroyed by fire, but it was later rebuilt. Today, it houses the Regional Museum, which presents the history of Mikulov and its winemaking traditions.
The castle is open to visitors from April to November, with hours varying by season. Ticket prices depend on the route you choose to tour. You can find up-to-date information about ticket prices and events on the website of the Mikulov Regional Museum.
Castle Gardens
The gardens were developed as part of the castle complex, with their peak during the Baroque period. They were designed for both relaxation and aesthetic pleasure, featuring ornamental flowerbeds and geometric pathways.
From the gardens, you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the town and surrounding area. They are a natural extension of the castle and a perfect place to rest while admiring Mikulov’s architecture.
Kozí Hrádek (Goat Tower)
Kozí Hrádek is a small yet charming structure in Mikulov. It’s one of the town’s most iconic spots and offers fantastic views. Built in the 15th century as a watchtower to help defend the town, it gradually fell into ruin over time. Nevertheless, parts of the original building remain, reminding visitors of its historical purpose.
Located on a hill in Mikulov’s southeastern part, its strategic location offers breathtaking panoramic views. It’s an easy hike from the town center, taking about 15 minutes. Right nearby is the Jewish cemetery, which we’ll cover next.
You can enter the tower when a flag is raised. If you’re interested in climbing it, you can try calling +420 777 021 681. The ticket costs 25 CZK.
Synagogue and Jewish Cemetery
For centuries, Mikulov was a vital center of Jewish life in Moravia. The surviving Jewish Cemetery and Synagogue bear witness to this rich history. The Jewish Cemetery is one of the largest and oldest in the Czech Republic, with origins dating back to the 15th century. The oldest gravestone there is from 1605. The cemetery holds around 4,000 gravestones, with the most valuable located on the so-called Rabbi’s Hill. It is open from April to October and the entry fee is 40 CZK.
The Mikulov synagogue is a so-called Polish-style synagogue. It dates from the 16th century but owes its current appearance to renovations in the early 18th century. It’s open to visitors from April to November, with a regular ticket costing 50 CZK.
A marked trail dedicated to Jewish heritage leads through Mikulov. You can find more information about it online.
Dietrichstein Tomb
One of Mikulov’s distinctive landmarks is the Dietrichstein family tomb, located in the former Church of St. Anne. It was built between 1623 and 1656 as a replica of the Holy House of Loreto. In the early 18th century, it received a twin-towered façade designed by J.B. Fischer of Erlach. A fire in 1784 seriously damaged the church, and in the mid-19th century, it was converted into a family tomb. The remains of Dietrichstein family members from 1617 to 1852 were moved here from the Church of St. Wenceslas.
Town Center
Mikulov’s historic center has been declared an Urban Monument Reserve. It was developed in the 16th century when the original market square was moved closer to the castle entrance. Many of the buildings still reflect the town’s historic past. Noteworthy is the House of the Knights (No. 11), built in 1591 and decorated with unique sgraffito designs featuring biblical and classical motifs. Also check out the Canons’ House and the square’s fountain with a statue of the goddess Pomona from the early 18th century.
The tourist information center is located on the main square. There, you can pick up souvenirs, maps, brochures, and get helpful information about Mikulov and nearby attractions.
Svatý Kopeček – The Holy Hill
This is one of the most important spots in Mikulov. At 363 meters above sea level, it’s both a tourist attraction and a pilgrimage site that’s been drawing visitors for centuries. It offers extraordinary views over the entire town.
The history of Svatý Kopeček dates back to the 17th century, when a Stations of the Cross route was established here. In 1623, the Chapel of St. Sebastian was built as a votive offering for the end of a plague. Over the years, other sacred structures were added, forming a pilgrimage complex. Since 1946, the hill has been a botanical reserve, and since 1992, a protected nature area. Besides the chapels, the hill is home to many rare plant species, such as dwarf iris, feather grass, and zizia.
The trail leading to the summit starts near the town center. The hike takes about 30 minutes and is manageable for most visitors, although some parts are steep. At the top, you’ll find not only historic chapels but also breathtaking views.
What’s nearby?
Mikulov is located in South Moravia, just a short distance from Austria. The region is known for its vineyards, but there are other interesting sites too. When visiting Mikulov, consider combining it with a trip to Valtice and Lednice, where you’ll find UNESCO-listed chateaux.
You might also stop in Hustopeče, home to the largest almond orchards in this part of Europe, and nearby Modré Hory – a wine region perfect not just for wine lovers.
Is Mikulov worth visiting?
Mikulov is a truly special town. As you approach, you’ll see the castle rising above the surroundings. The town looks fantastic, and from the nearby Svatý Kopeček, it’s even more photogenic. It’s beautiful to walk through and a joy to photograph.
If you’re exploring South Moravia, Mikulov is absolutely worth a visit. Give it a try and see for yourself!
