Top 11 Sights at St. Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc

The cathedral area is packed with history. You can spend several hours exploring the different sections. Each part of the complex tells a unique story. From the high towers to the deep crypts, there is much to see. Here are the top 11 experiences to enjoy during your visit.

• Best overall: The Cathedral Tower
• Best for history: Zdík’s Palace
• Best for families: Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc
• Best free activity: The Main Nave

1. Name: The Main Nave Type: sight Why go: The interior is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic design. It features high vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Main entrance of the cathedral. Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the city center to Wenceslas Square. Tip: Visit on a sunny day to see the light through the windows.
2. Name: The Southern Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: This is the second tallest church tower in the country. It offers a 360-degree view of Olomouc. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Southern side of the cathedral. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 60-80 CZK. Getting there: Access is through the cathedral interior. Tip: Be ready for climbing many narrow steps to reach the top.
3. Name: The Cathedral Crypt Type: experience Why go: This underground space holds the remains of Moravian bishops. It has a quiet and spiritual atmosphere. Best for: History buffs. Where: Beneath the main altar. Time: 15-20 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Follow the signs inside the cathedral. Tip: The temperature is much cooler here, so bring a light jacket.
4. Name: Zdík’s Palace Type: historic site Why go: This is one of the most important Romanesque buildings in Europe. It shows how the bishops lived centuries ago. Best for: Medieval history enthusiasts. Where: Adjacent to the cathedral. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Included with museum ticket. Getting there: Enter through the museum courtyard. Tip: Look for the original Romanesque windows in the cloister.
5. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc Type: museum Why go: It houses a vast collection of religious art. The highlight is the ornate carriage of the bishops. Best for: Art lovers and families. Where: Next to the cathedral. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Around 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the Cathedral Square. Tip: Check the Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc guide for current exhibitions.
6. Name: Chapel of St. Anne Type: sight Why go: This chapel was once used for the election of bishops. It is filled with rich decorations and history. Best for: Religious history. Where: Part of the cathedral complex. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free or included in tour. Getting there: Ask at the information desk. Tip: Look for the unique wall paintings.
7. Name: Wenceslas Square Type: experience Why go: The square surrounding the cathedral is peaceful and beautiful. It is perfect for a quiet walk away from the crowds. Best for: A relaxing break. Where: Directly outside the cathedral. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 2, 4, or 6 to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: This is a great spot for taking photos of the three towers.
8. 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: Sightseeing. Where: Upper Square, a short walk away. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the cathedral. Tip: Learn more about this Holy Trinity Column Olomouc landmark before you go. You can also visit the UNESCO site for history.
9. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: day trip Why go: This "Holy Hill" features a stunning Baroque basilica. It offers amazing views over the entire region. Best for: Nature and spirituality. Where: 8km from the city center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free for the church; bus fare needed. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the Svatý Kopeček and Zoo for a full day of fun.
10. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: day trip Why go: This is a fairy-tale castle with towers and a drawbridge. It is one of the most beautiful in Moravia. Best for: Families and couples. Where: 30km from Olomouc. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: 200-300 CZK for tours. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized tour. Tip: Read our Bouzov Castle day trip guide for travel tips.
11. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: See the famous astronomical clock and climb for a central view. It provides a different perspective than the cathedral tower. Best for: City views. Where: Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Walk from the cathedral through the old town. Tip: Watch the clock strike at noon for the best experience.

The History of St. Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc

The history of St. Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc dates back to the 12th century. It began as a Romanesque basilica. Over time, it underwent many changes. In the 14th century, it was rebuilt in a grand Gothic style. This gave the church its soaring height and majestic presence. The cathedral has always been the heart of the Moravian church.

In the late 19th century, the cathedral faced a major renovation. The architect Gustav Meretta designed the current neo-Gothic look. This project added the massive southern tower. It also unified the interior design. Today, the cathedral stands as a symbol of the city's resilience. It has survived wars and fires over hundreds of years.

The cathedral is named after Saint Wenceslas. He is the patron saint of the Czech state. Many important historical events took place here. This includes the burial of King Wenceslas III in 1306. Visitors can still feel the weight of this history today. The site remains an active place of worship and a cultural treasure.

How to Plan Your Visit in 2026

Planning a trip to St. Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc is easy. The cathedral is open to tourists most days of the week. However, you should check the opening hours for tourists before you arrive. It is an active church, so services take priority. Avoid visiting during mass if you want to explore the whole interior. Sunday mornings are usually reserved for worship.

The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn. The weather is mild and perfect for walking. In 2026, many cultural events are planned for the cathedral square. You can find more travel ideas on the Visit Czechia website. Most people find that two hours is enough for the cathedral and museum. If you plan to climb the tower, add another hour.

Getting around Olomouc is very simple. The city has an excellent tram system. You can also walk to most sites from the main train station. The cathedral is located in the northern part of the historic center. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestoned. Remember to dress respectfully when entering the church. Keep your voice low to respect those who are praying.