Olomouc is one of those cities that somehow doesn’t make it onto most first-time trips through the Czech Republic, even though it truly deserves a spot. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in the country, full of charm and history. The old town is bursting with monuments, elegant squares, baroque fountains, and beautiful churches. It’s no surprise that people often call Olomouc the little brother of Prague.
After the capital, Olomouc actually has the highest number of historical buildings in the entire country. You’ll find an astronomical clock, a town hall with a lookout tower, a 35-meter-tall UNESCO column, and dozens of churches and palaces, all within easy walking distance of each other.
I’ve had the chance to visit Olomouc twice. The first time was during a road trip through the Czech Republic with my husband, when we had just become new parents to our first baby. The second time I returned by train on a press trip, and the city was just as magical as I remembered. In this blog, I’m sharing my favorite places to visit, helpful tips, and the best spots to eat, drink, and soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere.
Where is Olomouc in the Czech Republic?
Olomouc sits in the eastern part of the Czech Republic, in the beautiful region of Moravia. The city is easy to reach whether you’re traveling by car or train. From Prague, the drive takes just under three hours, while from Brno it’s a little over an hour. Vienna and Krakow are also surprisingly close, both about two and a half hours away by car or train, which makes Olomouc a great stop on a Central European trip.
I’ve had the chance to visit Olomouc twice. The first time, we went by car, and the second time I took the train. There’s a convenient high-speed connection from Prague that gets you to Olomouc in just under two hours. From there, it’s easy to continue on to Brno, also by train, making it a perfect route for anyone exploring the country without driving.
If you’re arriving by plane, you have several options. The closest airport is in Ostrava, but Vienna, Brno, Prague, and Krakow are all good alternatives. From each of these cities, it’s simple to continue your journey to Olomouc by train, bus, or rental car.
If you plan to drive, keep in mind that parking in the city center usually requires payment. It’s a good idea to book accommodation that includes parking or to leave your car just outside the historic center, where you can easily stroll into town.
Where to Stay in Olomouc
Olomouc is becoming an increasingly popular destination, and you can feel that in the growing variety of great places to stay. Whether you’re arriving by car or by train, there’s something for everyone, from stylish hotels to cozy guesthouses and creative hostels that capture the city’s artistic spirit.
During my first visit, we stayed at Hotel Nezvalova Arch, about a 15-minute walk from the historic center. The hotel sits in a peaceful neighborhood where you can still park for free, which is a big plus if you’re traveling by car. The rooms are simple yet comfortable and include a small kitchenette, perfect for making a quick breakfast or coffee in the morning. The generous breakfast buffet, along with the shared kitchen and lounge, gives the place a warm and homely feel that makes you want to stay a little longer.
On my second visit, I stayed at the Clarion Congress Hotel, conveniently located right next to the train station. It’s an ideal option if you’re arriving by train and want to settle in quickly. The rooms are modern and spacious, and it only takes a few minutes to walk into the city center. Just around the corner, you’ll find Telegraph, one of the most inspiring spots in Olomouc for coffee, lunch, or contemporary art.
If you prefer a more social and laid-back atmosphere, Long Story Short is a wonderful choice. This stylish design hostel is close to the center and perfectly blends comfort with creativity. It offers both dorms and private rooms, along with a great restaurant, café, and bakery all in the same building. I had dinner there during my second visit, and it was truly amazing. And if you’re in the mood for something a little more luxurious, Miss Sophie’s offers beautiful rooms with a touch of boutique comfort and style.
Top Things to Do in Olomouc: 15 Tips
#1 The Old Town Square and the Holy Trinity Column
At the heart of Olomouc lies its stunning main square, the true centerpiece of the city and a place you simply can’t miss. In Czech, it’s known as Horní náměstí, meaning “Upper Square.” Just beyond it is a smaller, more intimate square called Dolní náměstí or “Lower Square,” which is also worth exploring while you’re in the area.
The main square dates back to the 13th century, and it’s filled with beautiful monuments and historic buildings that reflect centuries of history. The standout feature here is the magnificent Holy Trinity Column (Sloup Nejsvětější Trojice in Czech). This grand baroque monument, built in the 18th century, rises an impressive 35 meters high and is so large that it even contains a small chapel inside. Since the year 2000, it has proudly held a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognized for its incredible craftsmanship and artistic detail.
Many columns like this were built to mark the end of plague outbreaks, serving as symbols of gratitude and relief. The Holy Trinity Column, however, was constructed to honor the Christian faith, although its creation happened around the same time the plague came to an end. If you wander over to the smaller square nearby, you’ll find a more traditional plague column there too, offering an interesting contrast between the two monuments.
#2 The Historic City Center
The old town of Olomouc instantly shows that this was once one of the most important and influential cities in Moravia. It’s a place where history seems to unfold around every corner. Beyond the main square, the entire historic center is filled with graceful fountains, statues, and impressive buildings that reflect centuries of culture and craftsmanship.
Olomouc is especially known for its seven baroque fountains, each one adorned with mythological figures such as Neptune, Hercules, and Julius Caesar. They are all located close to one another, so you can easily visit them while exploring the city on foot. Walking from fountain to fountain is a lovely way to discover the city’s charm and atmosphere.
As you wander beyond the main square, you’ll reach the university district, one of the most beautiful parts of Olomouc. Here, the baroque facades, decorative arches, and quiet courtyards capture the elegance of a bygone era. If you look carefully, you’ll also notice touches of gothic and neoclassical design that blend together and give the city its unique character.
#3 The Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock
Right in the center of Olomouc’s main square stands the magnificent Town Hall, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Unlike in most cities, where such buildings line the edge of the square, this one proudly takes center stage. It was originally built as a market hall but gradually transformed into the Town Hall over the centuries. The tower is open to visitors, and climbing to the top offers a stunning view across the square and the charming old town that surrounds it.
One of the most fascinating parts of the building is its astronomical clock, which immediately draws the eye. Like Prague’s famous clock, it comes to life every hour as a small parade of moving figures appears, with the main spectacle taking place at noon. Yet, this clock has a story of its own. It was badly damaged during World War II and later rebuilt during the communist period in a socialist-realist style. Instead of religious icons and saints, you’ll see workers, farmers, and Soviet leaders. Even the calendar beneath the clock reflects the ideology of the time, showing socialist holidays and the name days of labor heroes. It’s an unusual but fascinating reminder of the city’s complex history.
#4 Villa Primavesi
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Olomouc is Villa Primavesi, tucked away near St. Michael’s Church. This magnificent residence was built in the early 20th century for the wealthy Primavesi banking family, who were deeply connected to Vienna’s vibrant art scene. Designed by Viennese architects Franz von Krausse and Josef Tölk, the house is a perfect example of the Art Nouveau style of the time, a style I’ve always loved for its elegance and attention to detail.
The façade, stained-glass windows, mosaics, and graceful decorative features make this one of the finest examples of Jugendstil architecture in Moravia. Inside, much of the original interior has been beautifully preserved, including the grand staircase, exquisite woodwork, and period furniture. The villa once displayed the now-famous portraits of family members Mäda Primavesi and Eugenia Primavesi, painted by the celebrated Art Nouveau master Gustav Klimt.
The villa is open to visitors on selected days for guided tours, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of the early 1900s. There is also a charming café with a lovely terrace in the garden, making it a delightful place to pause for a cup of coffee and a sweet treat, even if you decide not to take the tour.
#5 The Archbishop’s Palace
In the heart of the old town stands the Archbishop’s Palace, an impressive Baroque residence that has been home to the Archbishops of Olomouc for centuries. The current structure dates back to the 18th century and remains one of the most significant religious landmarks in Moravia, both for its history and its elegant architecture.
You cannot explore the palace on your own, but guided tours are offered, and I highly recommend joining one, as I did. During the tour, you will step into a series of lavishly decorated rooms filled with grand paintings, glittering chandeliers, and ornate gilded stucco. Each room seems more magnificent than the last, and it is easy to lose yourself in the splendor and the fine details of the craftsmanship.
A fun local legend adds a playful twist to the palace’s story. It is said that Empress Maria Theresa once had a disagreement with the then-archbishop, and in an act of revenge, she ordered a building to be constructed directly across from his windows to spoil his view. No one knows for certain whether the tale is true, but the building still stands there today, right in front of the palace, keeping this witty piece of Olomouc folklore alive.
#6 The Museums of Olomouc
For a city of its size, Olomouc offers a surprisingly rich variety of museums, with two that truly stand out: the Archdiocesan Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.
The Archdiocesan Museum, located right next to St. Wenceslas Cathedral, provides a fascinating look into the city’s long religious history. Its collection features medieval altarpieces, Baroque art, jewelry, and ornate objects once used in churches and cathedrals. One of the most striking exhibits is the magnificent golden carriage, a masterpiece that perfectly captures the grandeur and elegance of Olomouc’s past.
The Museum of Modern Art delivers an entirely different atmosphere. It focuses on Czech and European art from the 19th century to the present day, displaying both permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. The building’s exterior is as intriguing as the artwork inside, featuring an installation by the well-known Czech artist David Černý, famous for his humorous and thought-provoking works in Prague. His piece, The Thief, shows a burglar climbing up the museum’s façade, occasionally even moving, which makes it one of the city’s most delightful modern sights.
Tip: For just a few euros, don’t miss the contemporary art gallery on the ground floor of Telegraph, one of Olomouc’s most stylish cultural venues. It’s a wonderful place to soak up some creativity and modern flair.
#7 The Churches of Olomouc
For centuries, Olomouc has been the spiritual heart of Moravia, and that legacy is still visible in the city’s remarkable number of churches. In the old town alone, you’ll find dozens of them, each with its own story and architectural charm. The most famous of all is the St. Wenceslas Cathedral, whose three towering spires rise high above the city. Once part of the former castle complex, the cathedral is stunning both inside and out, combining grandeur with a deep sense of peace.
Another church, and my personal favorite, is the Church of St. Michael, located a little further south. Originally built in the 13th century, it was later transformed into its lavish Baroque form in the 17th century. Step inside and you’ll be met with a dazzling interior filled with gold, marble, and frescoes that cover every corner. The church’s three magnificent domes make it truly unique and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Olomouc.
As you wander through the city, you’ll also come across smaller churches tucked away in quiet streets and charming squares. Most are open to visitors and offer a closer look at the city’s deep connection to Baroque art and design. Even if you’re not religious, it’s easy to be moved by their beauty, atmosphere, and craftsmanship.
Tip: Don’t miss the Red Church, a neo-Gothic gem that has recently been beautifully restored. It now features a modern glass extension that connects the old structure with a new, light-filled space. Inside, you’ll find a soaring book wall and a stylish café where you can enjoy a coffee while admiring the stunning blend of history and contemporary design.
#8 Street Art in Olomouc
Among the churches and grand Baroque buildings, Olomouc hides a surprising amount of street art waiting to be discovered. The city may be best known for its history and architecture, but it also has a small yet lively urban art scene, filled with murals, graffiti, and creative installations scattered across its streets. Some works were created as part of art festivals or community projects, while others appeared more spontaneously, adding a modern and playful touch to the city’s historic charm.
One of the most famous pieces is “The Thief” by Czech artist David Černý, displayed on the façade of the Museum of Modern Art. It shows a burglar climbing up the side of the building, and every now and then, the sculpture even moves, surprising people who stop to take a closer look.
Right next to the museum, you can spot another striking mural by Portuguese artist Mr. Dheo, featuring King Edward VII holding a selfie stick and Marie Curie beside him with a container of uranium in her hands. It’s clever, colorful, and the perfect blend of historical and humorous.
You can also find smaller murals tucked away in the city’s side streets and passages, such as in the Lomená Passage, where creative artwork brings bright splashes of color to quiet corners. The street art in Olomouc may not cover large walls or entire districts, but it adds a lot of personality and charm to the city. It is a reminder to look closely, because in Olomouc, art can appear where you least expect it.
#9 The Park and City Walls of Olomouc
Encircling the old town are several well-preserved sections of Olomouc’s former city walls. During the era of the Habsburg Empire, Olomouc was an important fortress city, and traces of its defensive past can still be seen today. The Theresia Gate remains the most striking reminder of that period.
To the southeast of the old town lies a large city park, and from the top of the ancient walls you can descend at four different points into this lush green oasis. The park beneath the walls, Bezrucovy Sady, is a peaceful landscape park filled with winding paths and a lovely botanical garden. One of its most fascinating landmarks is the Yugoslav Mausoleum, a grand memorial built to honor Yugoslav soldiers who lost their lives during the First World War. Today it looks beautiful once again, but for many years it had fallen into disrepair and was even plundered by vandals. The story behind this neglect is quite intriguing. When the mausoleum was constructed, both Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia still existed, but after the two nations dissolved, no one knew which of the new countries should take responsibility for the site.
A little further on, near the athletics tracks, you’ll come across the old Crown Fortress. This area once formed an important part of the city’s military defense system. Some of the structures, such as the former gunpowder storehouse, still stand in ruins today, offering a glimpse into the city’s strong and strategic past.
#10 Hradisko Monastery
Just outside the city center, across the river, you’ll find the grand complex of Hradisko Monastery. Set on a gentle hill, the monastery can be seen from many parts of Olomouc, its elegant silhouette standing proudly above the city. Visitors can wander through part of the grounds, but the main building is now used as a military hospital and is therefore not fully open to the public.
Hradisko was originally founded as a Benedictine monastery, before being taken over by the Premonstratensians in the twelfth century. The present-day buildings date from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and form one of the most magnificent Baroque monastery complexes in Moravia. With its grand architecture and peaceful setting, it remains a striking reminder of Olomouc’s long religious heritage.
#11 The Minor Basilica of the Virgin Mary on Svatý Kopeček Hill
Just outside the city, on the hill of Svatý Kopeček, stands one of Moravia’s most renowned pilgrimage churches: the Minor Basilica of the Virgin Mary. The complex began as a modest wooden chapel in the seventeenth century and gradually evolved into a magnificent Baroque sanctuary that can be seen from miles away.
The original chapel housed an altarpiece that was believed to possess miraculous powers. Its growing fame attracted countless pilgrims, eventually leading to the construction of the splendid basilica that stands here today, completed in the early eighteenth century. Inside, the church dazzles with gilded ornamentation, marble pillars, and colorful stained-glass windows. In two of the side chapels, you can find glass reliquaries containing wax figures of Saint Victor of Marseille and Saint Libertatus, said to include actual relics of the saints themselves.
Thanks to its scenic hilltop location, the basilica offers breathtaking views over the Olomouc region, making it worth visiting for the panorama alone. Yet stepping inside is just as rewarding. Even if you are not on a pilgrimage, the Church of the Virgin Mary is open to visitors, inviting everyone to experience its peaceful atmosphere and timeless beauty.
#12 Bouzov Castle
About a 30-minute drive from Olomouc lies Bouzov Castle, one of the most enchanting and fairytale-like castles in the region. Its asymmetrical design, elegant galleries, slender towers, Gothic arches, hidden staircases, ornate gutters, cozy alcoves, stained-glass windows, and beautifully painted ceilings make it feel like something straight out of a medieval tale. Every corner seems to hold a new detail, and it’s easy to imagine knights, nobles, and secret stories within its walls.
Bouzov Castle has a long and fascinating history. Over the centuries, it passed through the hands of several noble families before being purchased by a religious knightly order in the late nineteenth century. Under Grand Master Eugen von Habsburg, the castle was redesigned into the romantic version that stands today, filled with intricate details and a sense of grandeur. During the Second World War, it was seized by the Nazis, and after the war, it became property of the state.
The castle is about half an hour’s drive from Olomouc and is also easy to reach by bus. Visits are only possible as part of a guided tour. When we visited, the tours were held in Czech, but English brochures were provided to help follow along. The tour lasts around 35 to 50 minutes, offering a wonderful glimpse into the castle’s interior and history. There is convenient parking near the entrance, making it an easy and rewarding trip from Olomouc.
#13 Šternberk Castle
Šternberk Castle, located just a half-hour drive from Olomouc, is a true hidden treasure that beautifully combines medieval history with noble elegance. Built in the 13th century on a rocky hill, the castle once served as a powerful fortress, its thick stone walls protecting the region and offering wide, scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Over the centuries, it gradually changed in both form and purpose, evolving from a defensive fortress into an elegant residence that reflected the prestige and taste of its noble owners.
In the early 18th century, the castle came into the possession of the distinguished Liechtenstein family, who transformed it into the graceful and refined structure that visitors can admire today. What made them stand out was their decision to open parts of the castle to the public, something that was quite unusual and forward-thinking for that time. After the Second World War, however, the family lost ownership when postwar laws confiscated the estates of German aristocrats. Since then, Šternberk Castle has been under state protection, ensuring that its long and fascinating history is preserved for future generations.
The castle is easy to reach by car, and like many in the region, it can only be visited with a guided tour. Exploring its grand rooms and stone corridors offers more than just a glimpse into history. It allows you to experience the passage of time, from its origins as a medieval fortress to its transformation into a stately home that reflects centuries of change and resilience.
#14 Brno
If you have some extra time, consider pairing your visit to Olomouc with a trip to Brno, the unofficial capital of Moravia. About 75 kilometers away, this lively university city is full of energy and charm, with a vibrant center that offers fascinating museums, impressive examples of modern architecture, and countless inviting cafés and restaurants where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Brno may be less crowded than Prague, but it is just as captivating. Visit the renowned Villa Tugendhat, a true icon of modernist architecture, or wander through the intriguing network of underground tunnels hidden beneath the main square. The city is easy to reach by train or bus, and if you are traveling by car, the drive takes just about an hour.
#15 Food in Olomouc
Olomouc is a true student city, and its youthful energy is obvious everywhere you turn. The historic center is dotted with university buildings, and wherever students gather, you’ll find charming coffee spots, lively beer gardens, quirky vintage shops, inviting lunch cafés, and buzzing bars. The atmosphere is relaxed, the prices are friendly, and the variety of options is impressively good.
I’ve visited Olomouc twice, once with Sebastiaan and our baby and later on a press trip. Both visits left me amazed at how lively and approachable the city feels when it comes to eating and drinking. You can wander from a cozy espresso bar to a stylish wine bar, pausing along the way to enjoy a sunny terrace or sit in a small park with a coffee to go.
Trendy Hotspots
One of my absolute favorite places in Olomouc is Telegraph. This unique spot brings together an art gallery, café, co-working space, and lunch venue all under one roof. Housed in a former telegraph building just outside the city center, it features striking industrial details, excellent coffee, and a truly tempting lunch menu. On the ground floor, contemporary art exhibitions add a creative and inspiring atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to linger and soak in the surroundings.
For dinner, Long Story Short is an absolute must-visit. This stylish venue is not only a design-focused hostel but also a sophisticated restaurant with a seasonal menu, well-selected wines, and a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. It is also ideal for coffee or breakfast, offering a welcoming space at any time of the day.
If you are looking for a lively place to enjoy drinks, Masné krámy, also called the old meat hall, is a great choice. This covered passage on Dolní náměstí is packed with bars and bistros, including Bottles Bar and Barrel Bar. In the evenings, the area buzzes with energy as students and locals gather on the terraces or at the long communal tables inside, creating a fun and friendly atmosphere.
For a more laid-back option, the beer garden at Letní Kino Olomouc, the city’s open-air cinema, is perfect. Here you can sip locally brewed beer under the shade of trees in a calm and inviting setting while enjoying the relaxed vibe of this charming outdoor space.
Best Coffee Spots in Olomouc
Sebastiaan, as always, made it his mission to test coffee, and with the help of tips from locals, he created this list of favorites:
- Traffic Coffee
- Trouble Cafe
- Kafe Jak Jusk
- Pikola Espressobar
- V Lese
- Kikafe
- Traffic OKNO Coffee
- Owl’s Cafe Olomouc
- And the Story Begins
Each of these cafés is a true delight, offering expertly brewed coffee, homemade cakes, and often a small but satisfying lunch menu. The atmosphere at every spot is inviting and relaxed, with interiors that range from stylishly modern to minimalist, often featuring warm wood tones and plenty of plants.
One of my trips to Olomouc happened during a scenic train journey through the Czech Republic, organized by #VisitCzechia in partnership with Prague City Tourism, Olomouc Tourism, Central Moravia, Brno Tourism, and South Moravia.
