Olomouc is an extremely beautiful, immensely colorful, and downright fun city in the eastern province of Moravia. It’s also one of the Czech Republic’s coolest university towns.
My time in “Little Prague” can be summed up in a single word – AWESOME!
From morning café visits next to the university, to relaxing nights in a former military building, and everything in between, the charming city is packed with memorable sights and activities.
You’ll have the chance to unwind next to exotic fountains, explore imposing Gothic churches, and taste a one of a kind cheese. If you’re looking to check a UNESCO site off the list, look no further. There’s a stunning column right in the heart of the city and a magnificent garden just a short trip away. Regardless, an outrageous amount of beauty is within a very small radius.
It’s on the verge of becoming a must-see destination in Central Europe. Here are some amazing things to do in Olomouc, Czech Republic!
Take A Peak At The Holy Trinity Column
When you walk into Olomouc Upper Square the first thing you’ll notice is the Holy Trinity Column. It’s a 32 meter tall Baroque memorial column that’s both historic and UNESCO protected.
When you see the wonderful craftsmanship and copper sculptures you’ll understand why the agency put it on their list. It’s breathtaking to say the least, especially when it lights up at night.
Built in the early 1700’s, the monument has generally kept the same appearance since its completion in 1754. The only change came 4 years later after Prussian cannons hit it several times. However, citizens of Olomouc repaired the column soon after and as a reminder a replica of a stone shot was placed on the spot it was hit.
If you’re planning on taking a walking tour, you’ll most likely meet at the bottom of its circular steps. But if you don’t, make sure to stop by to admire the beautiful handiwork and gilded statues.
Visit Svaty Kopecek Basilica
About 5 miles from the Olomouc Old Town is the historic district Svaty Kopecek. The main draw here is the stunning Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Once the center of the whole area, the Svaty Kopecek Basilica is now a national cultural monument.
Built in the 17th century, it’s been a popular pilgrimage site since its early days. However, it was heavily restored after taking fire during WWII. The decorative interior of the Baroque church complex and the spectacular view from the hill it stands on, make it a wonderful afternoon trip.
Make sure to check out the inside of Svaty Kopecek.
If you want to make a full day out of it, you can bring a picnic basket and some sneakers. You can have a nice lunch in the front yard of the basilica, hike one of the surrounding trails, and stop by the Olomouc Zoo afterwards.
Olomouc to Svaty Kopecek by bus – Take bus 11 towards Svaty Kopecek leaving from the Olomouc main train station. The trip takes around 20 minutes.
Wander Around Olomouc Old Town
There are so many eye-catching sights in the Olomouc Old Town. The first thing that comes to mind is Palacký University Olomouc. After all, it’s what the city is best known for. Strolling from one school building to the next is definitely a treat, especially if you haven’t seen a historic European university. However, the real draw to the mini metropolis revolves around the two squares.
The larger Upper Square is the heartbeat of Olomouc. The extravagant Olomouc City Hall appears right in the center, with the giant Olomouc Astronomical Clock adorning its facade. The Holy Trinity Column is the most popular of the landmarks, however there are also two glamorous fountains in the other corners.
My favorite of them being the oval Arion Fountain. It features bronze statues in the form of a dolphin, turtle, and some children that are based on an old legend.
The Lower Square, while not as glamorous, is still a lovely place to be. It’s like a small clone of the previous square. The two things you’ll find interesting here are the 18th century Marian Column and the masterly crafted Jupiter Fountain.
Wandering around the Old Town is one of my favorite things to do in Olomouc. During the day the vibrant buildings and lively squares draw you in and at night the columns light up and a peaceful atmosphere washes over the city.
Try The Smelly Cheese
There’s an old saying that goes something like “the smellier the cheese, the better it tastes.”
Well, in Olomouc the cheese has plenty of odor. But, it’s also world renowned for its unique and traditional taste. The distinctive yellow cheese was originally produced in the surrounding area of Olomouc and goes by the name of Olomoucké tvarůžky.
Nowadays, the main source of production comes from the A.W. company in Lostice. There is a museum dedicated to the history and production of the cheese in the neighboring town.
Don’t worry, you can still find the smelly delicacy along the streets of old town. It’s been a stable menu item in Olomouc for over 500 years. Olomoucké tvarůžky is spicy and pungent, but tasty. It’s a must try for any true cheese lover!
Chat With The Students
Wherever you go in Olomouc, you’ll find a youthful spirit and open minded outlook. That’s because the aforementioned Palacký University Olomouc is one of the Czech Republic’s largest and oldest universities.
What’s the best way to absorb the city’s culture then? Talking to the student population of course!
Almost every Czech person I’ve come across has been super friendly. On top of that, the majority of students know English and they make up a quarter of the population. So, when you’re grabbing a drink at a bar or sipping on a coffee in old town, don’t be shy. Greet your neighbor, strike up a conversation, and learn a thing or two about the country.
Check Out All Of Olomouc's Churches
For a country that spent so much time under communist rule, the Czech Republic sure does have a lot of churches. Olomouc embraces that countrywide theme with some beautiful religious buildings.
The crown jewel is undoubtedly Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. The 12th century Gothic Cathedral is known for its iconic three towers and expansive interior. I was thoroughly impressed when visiting the restored complex.
In close proximity to the Upper Square you’ll find a variety of other places of worship. Just to the north is the 13th century Roman Catholic Church of St. Morice. It also features Gothic architecture as well as a stone bell tower.
If you head towards the river, you’ll run into a couple more Catholic churches. Both the Church of Saint Michael and the Church of Our Lady of the Snow are gorgeous structures with breathtaking decorations. Right around the corner from the former you’ll find a small but beautiful chapel known as Kaple svatého Jana Sarkandra.
These are just a few of the city’s churches, there are many more scattered throughout the historic streets. So, make sure to keep your eyes open when strolling around town.
Head To One Of The Museums
Like most of Europe’s older cities, Olomouc is teeming with captivating museums. Just about every part of the region’s history can be seen in one form or another.
You can learn about the story of the city’s past at the Olomouc History Museum, where exhibits range from natural history to Moravian culture through the years. Or, you can head next door to the exquisite Olomouc Museum of Art. Its collections of modern art and eccentric installations show off the works of some great Central European artists.
Don’t forget to look at the building’s exterior before going through the front doors!
There’s a sculpture of an art thief hanging from a ledge of the building. Created by renowned Czech sculptor David Černý, it’s one of his many bizarre and controversial creations.
If modern art isn’t quite your thing, then spend the day wandering the large and detailed Archdiocesan Museum. It’s right next to Saint Wenceslas Cathedral and is filled with the old Olomouc castle’s preserves, important paintings, and elegant religious items.
If you want to know about opening times and prices of the Olomouc Museum of Art or the Archdiocesan Museum check out this website.
Walk Through The Many Parks
University towns can be hectic, crazy, and round-the-clock during the school year. Luckily, Olomouc has plenty of parks that offer a relaxing alternative to a sometimes restless town.
For a quiet place to sit, Park pod Katedrálou Sv. Václava underneath the cathedral walls is the way to go. It’s a perfect place to write and/or have a takeaway coffee. If you’re looking for a nice walk, follow the fortress walls to Bezručovy sady. The shaded pathway will take you along the Mlynsky potok stream on the outside of the Old Town.
Across the water, the Botanical Garden – Rosarium and all its colorful plants can be seen. The garden is a tranquil place with a diverse flower population and plenty of open space. To the east of Olomouc, you’ll find the large Čechovy sady and all its trees. There’s playgrounds for kids, a pavilion, and a few interesting statues.
Stay In Long Story Short Hostel
I normally have a hard time recommending hostels to people, because of the massive turnover. You never know if the same employees will still be working there a couple months down the road or who might end up in the same dorm room. However, Long Story Short Hostel is definitely an exception.
I love when places blend former history with modern day comfort and it definitely falls in that category. The massive horseshoe shaped building started as a military fortress in the 1700’s known as Locatelli’s Bastion. In the 1800’s, it became a local military bakery until the ovens were shut off nearly 200 years later.
Now, it’s a clean, spacious, and extremely impressive piece of remodeled architecture. A combination of private and dorm rooms takes up part of the building and a bar cafe the other. Oh and there’s also an eatery & bakery on the ground floor that serves contemporary bites.
If you choose to stay elsewhere in Olomouc, make sure to visit the hostel for a coffee, drink, or some food. I’ve spent a whole lot of time in hostels the past 10 years, and Long Story Short is far and away one of my favorites!
Day Trip To Kromeriz
Calming and crazy beautiful, the Kromeriz Gardens are a quick train ride away from Olomouc. The UNESCO protected gardens and castle are a perfect example of a European Baroque residence.
The minute I stepped on the estate, I felt like I was a character in a historical series. I wasn’t expecting a Downton Abbey feel from a garden in the middle of Central Europe. But, those are the exact vibes I got.
There are two main garden areas to explore in Kromeriz. The Chateau Garden has a small zoo connected, tons of walking room, and peacocks strutting around like they own the place. It’s right next to the Archbishop’s Palace and is in the heart of the old town.
Some very impressive gardening skills!
A short walk away you’ll find the brilliant looking Flower Garden. Smack in the middle of the garden is a grand rotunda with a lavish dome. You’ll also find a long colonnade with statues, a pond, and magnificently shaped shrubs within the park’s hedges.
For times and prices at the Flower Garden check here.
The extremely organized layout and intricately cut greenery make the Kromeriz Gardens a unique and special day trip.
HERE’S SOME MORE AWESOME IDEAS FOR DAY TRIPS IN MORAVIA:
Well there you have it, some of the best things to do in Olomouc. I’m sure next time I visit (and I definitely plan to), I’ll add some more things to the list. But in the meantime, I hope this article helps you explore one of my favorite cities in the Czech Republic!
