Shopping

Once back in the city center, take some time for a quick meal and browse along the pedestrian shopping zone, which unfolds between námestí Svobody and the train station. Prices for goods are often cheaper here than in Prague, so you may find a better deal for the crystal vase or pair of earrings you were thinking of buying. Brno has several large shopping malls; the most impressive one in the center is the Velký Spalícek shopping center (Dominikánská 5; tel. 543-237-385; www.velkyspalicek.cz) that starts at the top of the Zelný trh (Cabbage market). For rare maps, lithographs, and posters, plus an unusual selection of autographed photos of Czech superstars, including one of crooner Karel Gott, the country's answer to Tom Jones, peek in at Antikvariát Alfa (Veselá 39; tel. 542-211-947; open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-1pm).