My fingers were freezing as I passed a hot mug of mead from hand to hand in the darkening Upper Square, watching the steam rise above the roofs of the wooden stalls. Lukáš and I arrived in Olomouc in the middle of Advent and instantly understood why the Lonely Planet guide called this town Europe’s best-kept secret. Among the many things to do in Olomouc, Czech Republic, you get the second-largest heritage reserve right after Prague — but instead of weaving through crowds with umbrellas, you can pause peacefully by baroque fountains and soak up genuine calm.
The student spirit also gives the historic backdrop a very likeable energy. Palacký University is based here, which means one in seven residents is a student. As a result, the centre is packed with great independent cafés and bistros where a specialty coffee and good food won’t cost you a fortune. Simply put, Olomouc is noticeably cheaper and more laid-back than the capital.
Whether you come in winter for the famous markets or in summer for wandering the parks, the local sights will keep you busy for a whole weekend. In this article for 2026 you’ll find all our tips on what to see in Olomouc, where to stay smartly, and where to go for the best vegetarian food in town.
Summary: what to see and not miss in Olomouc
- Holy Trinity Column: A huge UNESCO-listed baroque monument dominating the main square.
- Olomouc Astronomical Clock: A one-of-a-kind piece rebuilt in the style of socialist realism, where workers march instead of saints.
- Baroque fountains: A unique set of historic fountains inspired by classical mythology, scattered across the whole centre.
- St. Wenceslas Cathedral: A majestic cathedral with the second-tallest church tower in the country.
- View from St. Moritz: The best panoramic view of the city from the tower of a Gothic church.
- Svatý Kopeček: A popular pilgrimage site and a great zoo, ideal for a half-day trip.
- Olomouc cheese (tvarůžky): A local cheese specialty you must try, ideally served warm.
- Café scene: Dozens of cosy spots with specialty coffee and student-friendly prices.
When to visit Olomouc: weather by season
Olomouc works all year round, but each season shows the city in a slightly different light. Lukáš and I most recently tried the winter version, and I have to admit the historic lanes under snow have huge charm. The weather in Olomouc, Czech Republic ranges from warm, lively summers to cold, snowy winters, so pack accordingly.
Spring and summer for strolling
From May to September the city is at its liveliest. You can linger on the terraces of the Upper Square or wander through the parks. In spring the magnolias also bloom beautifully in Bezruč Gardens. Summer is also the only season when you can safely climb the viewing tower of St. Moritz Church.
Winter and the Advent markets
The local Christmas markets are among the loveliest in the country. They cluster on the Upper and Lower squares, where you’ll find over a hundred stalls. From my own experience I can recommend the local punch trail and the hot mead they pour into original returnable mugs. Winter here can be bitingly cold, so warm clothing is a must.
How many days to spend
At a brisk pace you can walk the historic core in half a day, roughly three hours. But that would be a shame. Ideally set aside one to two days for Olomouc. On the first day you explore the centre, the cafés and the museums; on the second you can head out to Svatý Kopeček or to nearby Loštice for the local cheese.
Where to stay in Olomouc: best hotels
The advantage of Olomouc is that even premium hotels here often cost a fraction of what you’d pay in Prague. The centre is compact, so wherever you lay your head within the pedestrian zone, you’ll have all the main action within easy reach. You’ll find plenty of Olomouc, Czech Republic hotels to suit every budget.
💡 Tip: If you’re planning a visit during Advent, book your accommodation well in advance. Because of the popular markets, the best places tend to sell out as early as autumn.
Design and boutique hotels
For lovers of beautiful interiors, the obvious choice is Long Story Short. It works as both a premium hostel and a hotel with lovely private rooms and a fantastic courtyard. A great alternative is the cosy Miss Sophie’s Olomouc in a historic building, or the elegant Hotel Theresian, which has a beautiful rooftop wellness area.
Comfortable four-star options
If you’re after reliable standards and generous breakfasts, check out the NH Collection Olomouc Congress. This NH hotel in Olomouc, Czech Republic lies a short walk from the centre and offers modern rooms with a view. Travellers also praise the Clarion Congress Hotel Olomouc near the main train station. And right in the heart of the city you’ll find the very comfortable Hotel Trinity.
Budget stays and guesthouses
For travellers on a tighter budget, Penzion Na Hradě makes sense — it sits in a quiet lane just steps from the Cathedral. International students and backpackers, meanwhile, often choose Poets Corner Hostel, which offers a friendly atmosphere and very affordable bed prices.
Things to do in Olomouc, Czech Republic: 14 tips
The centre may be spread out, but you can comfortably reach the vast majority of the sights on foot. Get ready to look up a lot, whether at the ornate façades or the monumental towers.
1. Holy Trinity Column
When you step onto the Upper Square, this structure immediately grabs your attention. It’s the largest baroque sculpture group in Central Europe, unified into a single monument. It stands an impressive ~32 metres tall, and its construction ran from 1716 to 1754, when Maria Theresa came in person to consecrate it.
Since 2000 the column has been inscribed on the UNESCO list. It is decorated with eighteen statues of saints, twelve light-bearers and six reliefs of apostles. The detailed stonework is truly fascinating, especially when you realise the masters of the time worked only with basic tools.
💡 Tip: A small chapel is hidden inside the base of the column. It’s only open occasionally during the summer season, but if you’re lucky, definitely take a peek inside.
2. Olomouc Astronomical Clock
Right next to the column, on the town hall wall, you’ll find an absolute world curiosity. The original historic clock was badly damaged by a shell in May 1945. The city decided to restore it, but the 1947–1955 rebuild under Karel Svolinský was carried out in the hard-line spirit of socialist realism.
It’s a slightly bizarre sight. Instead of holy apostles, proletarians parade by — a blacksmith, a baker, a chemist and a labourer. On the calendar dial you can even spot key dates of the communist regime. International tourists love this oddity, mainly because, unlike the Prague clock, it’s set conveniently at eye level.
💡 Tip: The carillon plays Haná folk songs only once a day, exactly at noon. Be at the town hall a little early to grab a good spot for this feverish socialist dream.
3. Town Hall Tower
The town hall building on the Upper Square hides more than just the astronomical clock. Its tower rises to 75 metres and offers a superb bird’s-eye view over the entire historic core.
You can only climb up as part of a guided tour. It runs seasonally, and the entrance fee is around €2 (50 CZK). It’s a great chance to see the city from a completely different angle.
💡 Tip: You have to buy tower tickets at the information centre, which is located right in the town hall arcade.
4. The set of baroque fountains
As you stroll through the centre, you’ll come across a unique set of historic fountains with no equal in the country. Most of them draw inspiration from classical mythology. The oldest is Neptune’s Fountain from 1683, but the most artistically demanding is undoubtedly Caesar’s Fountain from 1724–1725.
Legend has it that Julius Caesar himself founded Olomouc. Beneath the hooves of his horse you can spot a statue of a dog, symbolising the city’s loyalty to its ruler. In 2002 the historic collection was joined by the modern Arion Fountain by sculptor Ivan Theimer.
💡 Tip: By the modern Arion Fountain on the Upper Square you’ll find a bronze statue of a turtle. Kids love it and happily clamber over it in summer while parents rest on the edge of the basin.
5. St. Wenceslas Cathedral
Heading from the square towards the ramparts, you’ll come upon the majestic Cathedral. Its southern tower measures exactly 100.65 metres, making it the tallest church tower in Moravia and the second tallest in the whole country. The Gothic architecture looks incredibly monumental both outside and in.
In the past you could climb the stairs all the way up, but note that the tower climb has been permanently closed since 2021. You can, of course, still visit the cathedral interior with no problem, and entry is free.
💡 Tip: Don’t forget to head down the stairs to the underground crypt beneath the presbytery. It’s freely accessible and holds the tombs of Olomouc bishops and archbishops.
6. Mozart’s trail and the Archdiocesan Museum
Right next to the cathedral stands the former chapter deanery, which today houses the excellent Archdiocesan Museum. In 1767 the then only eleven-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart arrived here. On the way he caught a severe case of smallpox and was taken in by the local dean Podstatský.
Fortunately the young genius recovered here, and in gratitude he composed his Symphony No. 6 in F major, KV 43 within these very walls — a piece still nicknamed the Olomouc Symphony to this day. It’s a powerful human story that gives these cold walls a whole new dimension.
💡 Tip: The Archdiocesan Museum itself deserves your attention even if you’re not exactly an expert in sacred art. The restored spaces and preserved carriages are a feast for the eyes.
7. St. Moritz Church
This mighty Gothic church hides two great treasures. The first is the largest organ in Central Europe, built by master Engler in 1745. Today it has an impressive 95 stops and around 7,800 pipes. If you come in September, you can experience an international organ festival.
The second draw is the climb up the tower, which stands 46 metres tall. Entry costs a token €0.60–0.80 (15–20 CZK) and at the top you’ll find what I think is the very best view over the roofs of Olomouc. It’s open from May to September in fine weather.
💡 Tip: A very narrow double spiral staircase leads to the top. If you suffer from claustrophobia or fear cramped spaces, it’s better to skip this climb.
8. St. Michael’s Church
Winding through the lanes, you’ll come across an early baroque church recognisable by its distinctive three domes. They’re meant to symbolise the Holy Trinity. From the outside it may not look as mighty as the Cathedral, but the interior will take your breath away.
The rich stucco decoration of the interior was created by the Italian master Baltazar Fontana. The space is incredibly bright and airy, which isn’t always the case with baroque buildings.
💡 Tip: You’ll get the nicest photo of St. Michael’s from the narrow Michalská lane that leads to it from the Lower Square. It makes a perfect frame for the baroque façade.
9. Klášterní Hradisko Monastery
A short way from the very centre, heading north, stands the huge complex of a former Premonstratensian monastery. It’s often nicknamed the Moravian Escorial. Today it houses a military hospital — incidentally the oldest in the country.
Because of the hospital operation you’ll mostly only see it from the outside, but it’s still worth the walk. The façade is beautifully restored and shows the enormous power the religious orders once held in the Haná region.
💡 Tip: A pleasant walking route runs around Hradisko along the Morava River. Locals come here to walk their dogs and jog — it’s a great escape from the city bustle.
10. Palacký University and the Archbishop’s Palace
Olomouc was shaped by the church and by learning. The university was founded here back in 1573, making it the second oldest in the Czech lands. Right next to some of its buildings stands the grand Archbishop’s Palace.
This building has witnessed great history. In 1848 the then eighteen-year-old Franz Joseph I ascended the throne here. Among the distinguished guests who spent the night here were Maria Theresa, the composer Beethoven and Pope John Paul II.
💡 Tip: The Archbishop’s Palace offers guided tours of its state rooms. They’re open to the public and you’ll see original historic furniture.
11. Fortress of Knowledge (Pevnost poznání)
If you’re coming with kids, or you’re simply interested in science, head to the Korunní pevnůstka grounds. A historic artillery building houses the interactive Fortress of Knowledge museum, run directly by the university.
You’ll find a great digital planetarium, a giant model of the brain and plenty of hands-on physics experiments. For families with children it’s the perfect rescue when it’s raining outside.
💡 Tip: The exhibition on Olomouc’s history is presented in comic-book form, which even entertains schoolchildren who would normally yawn with boredom in a classic museum.
12. Svatý Kopeček and Olomouc Zoo
About eight kilometres from the centre lies the pilgrimage site of Svatý Kopeček. Its landmark is the beautiful baroque Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, which holds the title of basilica minor. In 1995 it was even visited in person by Pope John Paul II. From the centre you can comfortably get here on city bus number 11, straight from the station.
Right next to the basilica sprawls the fantastic Olomouc Zoo, covering 40 hectares. It has huge sea aquariums with sharks, walk-through kangaroo enclosures and lots of greenery. It makes an ideal half-day trip.
💡 Tip: Inside the zoo grounds stands a 32-metre-high viewing tower. You do have to climb 128 steps, but on a clear day you can see all the way to Praděd.
13. Bezruč Gardens and the ramparts
Olomouc was once an impregnable fortress, and remnants of the brick ramparts still line part of the historic core. Directly beneath them stretch the Bezruč Gardens — a long, narrow park that follows the shape of the old fortifications.
In spring locals come here to admire the blooming magnolias. An educational trail also runs through the park, guiding you past the preserved baroque fortlets.
💡 Tip: The best way into the park from the centre is via the inconspicuous steps by the Michalský výpad. It’s a favourite shortcut for local students.
14. Advent and Christmas markets
If you arrive in December, the whole city smells of cinnamon and cloves. The Olomouc markets are famous for their wide range of drinks. Local stallholders pride themselves on special punches, often flavoured with fresh fruit or exotic spices.
Most of the action takes place on the Upper and Lower squares. There’s a giant Ferris wheel with a lovely view over the illuminated roofs, and a wooden nativity scene. The atmosphere here tends to be far more intimate and friendly than the crowded Old Town Square in Prague.
💡 Tip: The punch mugs come with a deposit. If you keep yours as a souvenir after drinking, no one will mind — you’ll just lose the €2 (50 CZK) deposit.
What to taste and where to grab a coffee in Olomouc
Say “Olomouc” and most people instantly think of tvarůžky. This one truly original Czech cheese is actually made in nearby Loštice, where it has a tradition stretching back over 400 years. Since 2010 it has even held a protected geographical indication from the European Union, which the region won after a drawn-out dispute with Germany.
The cheese has a strong smell, but it’s very low in fat and diet-friendly. And since it’s cheese, Lukáš and I love it as vegetarians. It’s best served warm — for example fried in breadcrumbs or melted into a hearty garlic soup. Meat-eating travellers often pair it with the local Litovel or Holba beer, or try various tvarůžky sausages.
Thanks to the students, the café scene here is absolutely excellent. A safe bet is Café La Fée with its lovely French mood. Great espresso is served at KAFE JAK LUSK or at the tiny espresso bar Pikola. If you’re after a place with a big courtyard, drop by Long Story Short, and for an intimate atmosphere try Café na cucky or the café V lese.
As vegetarians you certainly won’t go hungry here — there are plenty of meat-free spots. For a quick lunch the obvious choice is the bistro Koza zůstala celá, which cooks purely vegetarian. Also legendary here is GREEN BAR, which works by weight. Great plant-based sandwiches are made by Bistro ROZMARÝNY and Bistro Bistrá kráva. If you fancy Asian food, the Nepalese restaurant Kathmandu makes excellent paneer cheese, and the Vietnamese Koriandr serves great tofu.
Day trips from Olomouc
If you have a car, or you’re not afraid of the local buses, the area around Olomouc offers several great destinations.
Svatý Kopeček and its zoo have already been mentioned — that’s the clear number one choice. If you’ve fallen for the charm of the ripening cheese, drive about thirty kilometres to Loštice. There you’ll find the specialised Olomouc Cheese Museum, where you’ll learn all about how it’s made and, of course, stock up right at the A.W. company shop.
Castle lovers shouldn’t miss Bouzov. This romantic castle with its distinctive turrets is about half an hour’s drive away and looks exactly like the fairy-tale backdrops you picture. Films are often shot here. A short way from it lies the town of Litovel, nicknamed the “Haná Venice” thanks to the branches of the Morava River flowing right through its centre.
Practical info: train from Prague to Olomouc
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Olomouc is by train. It sits on the main corridor, so direct connections run constantly. The train from Prague to Olomouc, Czech Republic takes roughly 2 hours 15 minutes on the SC Pendolino or express services. Tickets with RegioJet, České dráhy or Leo Express usually cost between €5 and €14 (130–330 CZK). From Brno the train takes about an hour and a half.
If you arrive by car, be ready for the fact that the historic core is a pedestrian zone with restricted access. Parking in zone A just around the centre costs around €4 per hour (100 CZK). It’s much smarter to use the covered parking garages by the station or the park-and-ride lots on the edge of town and take the tram into the centre. Olomouc’s public transport is reliable, and you can easily tap your card to pay for a ticket right on board.
You’ll find more up-to-date information on transport and cultural events on the city’s official tourism website.
Where to next
- Looking for more trip inspiration? Check out our big overview of where to go on holiday in Czechia.
- If you enjoy architecture, read our article on what to see in Prague, where you’ll find tips on avoiding the biggest crowds.
- For great wine and a southern mood, we recommend heading to South Moravia, specifically to our article on what Mikulov has to offer.
- If you’re planning a winter trip, you’ll definitely want our guide to Christmas markets in Czechia.
Frequently asked questions
How much time do I need to visit Olomouc?
For a quick tour of the main sights in the center, about three hours is enough. For a leisurely experience soaking up the atmosphere, visiting cafés and possibly taking a trip to Svatý Kopeček, we recommend setting aside one to two days.
Where can I park for free or cheaply?
Parking directly in the center and adjacent streets is paid (zone A is the most expensive). You can park for free in the outer parts of the city, for example at shopping centers, from where you can easily get to the center by tram in just a few minutes.
Can you climb the tower of St. Wenceslas Cathedral?
No, access to the Cathedral tower has been permanently closed since 2021 for safety and technical reasons. If you want a view from above, use the tower of St. Moritz Church or the Town Hall tower.
What can I do in Olomouc with children?
An absolute hit is Pevnost poznání (Fort of Knowledge) with interactive science exhibits. In nice weather, we recommend taking a bus to ZOO Olomouc at Svatý Kopeček, which also has walk-through animal enclosures.
When exactly does the Olomouc astronomical clock play?
The chimes and moving figures on the Town Hall astronomical clock are set in motion only once a day, precisely at 12:00 (at noon). The performance lasts several minutes.
Why is there a worker on the astronomical clock instead of saints?
The original historical astronomical clock was destroyed by a grenade at the end of World War II in 1945. During its post-war reconstruction in the 1950s, artist Karel Svolinský redesigned it in the spirit of the then-ruling socialist realism.
Where can I taste olomoucké tvarůžky?
Most traditional restaurants in the center offer them as a starter or main course, often fried, pickled or in garlic sauce. You can also buy them at local cheese shops, or take a trip directly to the company store in Loštice.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
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Book Your Accommodation Smartly
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Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
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Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
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