Exploring the Best Olomouc Parks and Greenhouses

The city's green heart is divided into several distinct areas. Most of these parks follow the path of the old city walls. This creates a unique blend of nature and history. You can walk under ancient trees while looking at medieval fortifications. It is a perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.

The greenhouses are the highlight for many botanical enthusiasts. They allow you to travel the world in just one hour. You can see plants from Africa, Asia, and South America. These structures are part of the Visit Czechia - Olomouc official recommendations. They provide a warm refuge during the colder months.

• Best overall: Smetana Park
• Best for families: Botanical Garden and Rosarium
• Best rainy-day: The Four Greenhouses
• Best free activity: Bezruč Park

11 Must-Visit Olomouc Parks and Greenhouses

This list features the most beautiful spots in the city. Each location offers a different atmosphere and unique plant life. Make sure to check the specific opening hours for the Smetana Park greenhouses before you go. Most parks are open year-round for public access.

1. Name: Smetana Park (Smetanovy sady) Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest and largest park in the city. It features grand avenues and historic fountains. Best for: Relaxing walks and picnics. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main square or take a tram to the Flora stop. Tip: Visit during the autumn for stunning leaf colors.
2. Name: Palm Greenhouse Type: experience Why go: It houses a massive collection of tropical palms. Some plants are over a hundred years old. Best for: Tropical atmosphere and exotic photos. Where: Inside Smetana Park. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee (combined ticket). Getting there: Follow the signs within Smetana Park. Tip: Look for the small ponds with exotic fish inside.
3. Name: Cactus Greenhouse Type: experience Why go: This greenhouse features thousands of succulents and cacti. It shows incredible biodiversity from arid regions. Best for: Photography and plant lovers. Where: Next to the Palm Greenhouse. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the greenhouse ticket. Getting there: Part of the Flora exhibition complex. Tip: Be careful not to touch the sharp spines.
4. Name: Tropical Greenhouse Type: experience Why go: Experience high humidity and lush jungle plants. It features beautiful water lilies and climbing vines. Best for: Escaping the cold winter weather. Where: Smetana Park complex. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Part of the greenhouse ticket. Getting there: Accessible from the main greenhouse entrance. Tip: Wear layers as it is very warm inside.
5. Name: Subtropical Greenhouse Type: experience Why go: See citrus trees and Mediterranean flora. The scents here are amazing during blooming season. Best for: Fragrance and bright colors. Where: Smetana Park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Part of the greenhouse ticket. Getting there: Connected to the other glasshouses. Tip: Check for seasonal fruit on the citrus trees.
6. Name: Bezruč Park (Bezručovy sady) Type: sight Why go: It runs alongside the historic city walls. You can see the botanical garden from the high cliffs. Best for: History buffs and joggers. Where: Southeastern edge of the old town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Entrance near the Archdiocesan Museum. Tip: Find the stairs leading up to the city walls for a view.
7. Name: Čech Park (Čechovy sady) Type: sight Why go: A quieter park with a local feel. It is perfect for reading a book or a quiet stroll. Best for: Peace and quiet away from tourists. Where: Adjacent to Smetana Park. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk west from the city center. Tip: Look for the monument dedicated to the Red Army.
8. Name: Olomouc Botanical Garden Type: activity Why go: It offers educational displays of local and foreign plants. The layout is very organized and beautiful. Best for: Education and families. Where: Near the Crown Fortress. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Walk from Bezruč Park. Tip: Visit in May for the best spring blooms.
9. Name: The Rosarium Type: sight Why go: This garden features hundreds of rose varieties. It is located on the site of old military fortifications. Best for: Romantic walks and flower enthusiasts. Where: Near the Botanical Garden. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually free or low cost. Getting there: Accessible via the Crown Fortress area. Tip: June is the peak time for rose blossoms.
10. Name: Crown Fortress (Korunní pevnůstka) Type: experience Why go: A former military site turned into a green cultural hub. It hosts the Olomouc Crown Fortress museums. Best for: Mixing history with outdoor space. Where: Edge of the city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to enter grounds; museums have fees. Getting there: Short walk from the tram stop at Tržnice. Tip: Check for local festivals held on the grounds.
11. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: A beautiful hill with a basilica and a zoo. It offers the best nature trails near the city. Best for: A full day of nature and views. Where: 8km from the city center. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Free for the hill; fee for the zoo. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main station. Tip: Visit the Svatý Kopeček and zoo for a great family day out.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc Green Spaces

Timing is important when visiting Olomouc parks and greenhouses. The parks are most vibrant from late April to October. The greenhouses are a year-round attraction. They provide a warm escape during the snowy winter months. Many people visit during the Flora Olomouc exhibition seasons.

The city is very walkable, making it easy to see multiple parks. You can start at Smetana Park and walk through Čech and Bezruč parks. This route covers most of the green ring. For more information, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal. They provide maps and updated event schedules for visitors.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the gravel paths. Most parks have benches and small cafes nearby. You can easily find snacks or drinks during your walk. The parks are safe and well-maintained by the city authorities. They are a source of pride for the local community.