Quick Picks for Your Olomouc Trip

Olomouc is a city with many hidden treasures. It is often less crowded than Prague. This makes it perfect for a relaxing cultural getaway. Here are our top recommendations for a quick visit.

• Best Overall: Archbishop's Palace Olomouc
• Best for History: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral
• Best for Families: Olomouc Astronomical Clock
• Best Free Sight: Holy Trinity Column
• Best View: Saint Maurice Church Tower

10 Best Sights Near Archbishop's Palace Olomouc

The city center is compact and easy to walk. Most major sights are within a short stroll of each other. Here are the top ten experiences you should not miss.

1. Name: Archbishop's Palace Olomouc Type: sight Why go: It is a masterpiece of Baroque design. This is where Emperor Franz Joseph I took the throne. Best for: History lovers and architecture fans. Where: Wurmova Street, Old Town. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Around 200 CZK for adults. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Book the guided tour to see the grand ceremonial halls.
2. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: This neo-Gothic cathedral has the second-highest tower in the country. It is a striking part of the skyline. Best for: Spiritual travelers and photographers. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry to the main nave. Getting there: Located right next to the palace. Tip: Visit the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc crypt for a deeper look at history.
3. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone visiting the city. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the palace. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball embedded in the column. Details are on the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc page.
4. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: experience Why go: It features a unique socialist-realism design from the 1950s. It is very different from the clock in Prague. Best for: Fans of quirky history. Where: Town Hall, Upper Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the main square. Tip: Be there at noon to see the figures move.
5. Name: Baroque Fountains Type: sight Why go: The city has six main fountains featuring Roman gods. They are beautiful examples of public art. Best for: A relaxing walk through the city. Where: Various spots in the Old Town. Time: 1 hour for a full loop. Cost: Free. Getting there: Scattered around the pedestrian zones. Tip: Follow the path of the Baroque fountains of Olomouc to see the whole center.
6. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: museum Why go: It houses a massive collection of Central European art. The building itself is an architectural mix. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Check the Olomouc Museum of Art site for current prices. Getting there: 3-minute walk from the palace. Tip: Visit on Sundays when entry is often free.
7. Name: Church of Saint Maurice Type: viewpoint Why go: This late Gothic church has a massive organ. You can also climb the tower for the best city views. Best for: View seekers. Where: Near the Lower Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for the tower. Getting there: Short walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Check the Church of Saint Maurice schedule for organ concerts.
8. Name: Villa Primavesi Type: experience Why go: A stunning Art Nouveau villa with a colorful history. It offers a break from the Baroque style. Best for: Design lovers. Where: Near the city walls. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate tour fee. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the palace. Tip: Read about the Villa Primavesi Olomouc family history before you go.
9. Name: Svaty Kopecek Basilica Type: day trip Why go: A magnificent pilgrimage site on a hill overlooking the city. The interior is breathtaking. Best for: Half-day excursions. Where: 8 km from the center. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free entry to the church. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main station. Tip: The Svaty Kopecek Basilica also has a nearby zoo for families.
10. Name: Hradisko Monastery Type: day trip Why go: Known as the "Moravian Escorial" due to its size. It is a massive Baroque complex. Best for: Architecture buffs. Where: Northern edge of the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Guided tours only on specific days. Getting there: A short bus ride or 25-minute walk. Tip: Check opening times as it currently serves as a hospital.

The Rich History of Archbishop's Palace Olomouc

The Archbishop's Palace Olomouc has a long and storied past. It was built on the site of older medieval structures. The current Baroque appearance dates back to the 17th century. It was designed by famous Italian architects of the time. This palace has seen many historical turning points. In 1848, the Austrian Emperor Ferdinand I abdicated here. His nephew, Franz Joseph I, began his long reign in these very halls.

The palace is not just a museum today. it is still the official seat of the Archbishop. This makes it a living monument of the Catholic Church. The interior features rich stucco work and grand paintings. Each room tells a different story of Moravian history. You can see the Throne Room and the Golden Hall during tours. These spaces are often used for important state visits even now.

Preservation is a key focus for the city. The palace underwent major renovations to keep its splendor. It stands as a testament to the wealth of the Olomouc archdiocese. Visitors can learn about the lives of the powerful bishops. The palace also houses a significant library and archive. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Czech Republic and its royal heritage.

Essential Tips for Visiting Olomouc in 2026

Planning a trip to Olomouc in 2026 is easy. The city is well-connected by train from Prague and Vienna. High-speed trains make the journey in about two hours. Once you arrive, the tram system is very efficient. Most of the historic center is a pedestrian zone. This makes walking the best way to see the sights. You should wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets.

Most attractions offer tickets at the door. However, the Archbishop's Palace Olomouc can get busy. It is wise to check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for tour times. Some tours are only available in Czech. You may need to request an English audio guide or text. Credit cards are accepted in most museums and restaurants. It is still helpful to carry some Czech Koruna for small shops.

Local etiquette is generally relaxed and friendly. In churches, please keep your voice low and dress modestly. Many restaurants serve traditional Moravian food. Try the local Olomoucké tvarůžky cheese if you are brave. It is famous for its very strong scent. Most people in the tourism industry speak some English. Learning a few basic Czech phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals.