Top 10 Highlights of Visiting Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Crypt and Tower

Exploring this cathedral requires some planning to see everything. The site is split into several distinct areas. You should allow enough time to climb the stairs and descend into the earth. Many visitors enjoy the contrast between the high spires and the dark tombs. Here are the top items to include on your itinerary.

• Quick Pick: Best View - The Main Tower
• Quick Pick: Best History - The Cathedral Crypts
• Quick Pick: Best Art - Archdiocesan Museum

1. Name: Cathedral Main Tower Type: Sight Why go: It is the second tallest tower in the country. You get a 360-degree view of the city. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Wenceslas Square, Olomouc. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee (approx. 50-80 CZK). Getting there: Walk to the east end of the historic center. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so wear comfortable shoes.
2. Name: Cathedral Crypts Type: Experience Why go: See the final resting place of bishops and local nobility. The atmosphere is solemn and historic. Best for: History buffs. Where: Beneath the cathedral presbytery. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in cathedral entry or small extra fee. Getting there: Entrance is located inside the main nave. Tip: It can be quite chilly underground even in summer.
3. Name: Chapel of St. Stanislaus Type: Interior Sight Why go: This is a beautiful Renaissance addition to the Gothic cathedral. It features intricate carvings and altars. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Southern side of the nave. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from the nave. Getting there: Walk down the right aisle after entering. Tip: Look up to see the detailed vaulting.
4. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc Type: Museum Why go: It is connected to the cathedral complex. It houses the famous Troyer carriage. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Next to the cathedral entrance. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Moderate fee (approx. 150 CZK). Getting there: Follow signs from the cathedral courtyard. Tip: Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art website for current exhibitions.
5. Name: Zdík's Palace Type: Sight Why go: These are the remains of a 12th-century Romanesque palace. It is one of the oldest residential buildings in Central Europe. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Adjacent to the cathedral cloister. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Usually part of the museum ticket. Getting there: Access through the Archdiocesan Museum. Tip: Check the unique window carvings.
6. Name: Saint John Sarkander Chapel Type: Sight Why go: A unique circular chapel built over a former dungeon. It has a very moving history. Best for: Spiritual visitors. Where: Na Hradě street, 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free or small donation. Getting there: Walk toward the city center from Wenceslas Square. Tip: See the original torture rack in the basement.
7. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage site that is the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the cathedral. Tip: Use a Holy Trinity Column Olomouc guide to identify all the saints.
8. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: A rare socialist-realist clock. It features workers instead of saints. Best for: Unique photo ops. Where: The Town Hall on Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the main square. Tip: The clock performs its show once a day at noon.
9. Name: Bezruč Gardens Type: Nature Why go: Walk along the old city walls. You can see the cathedral spires from below. Best for: A relaxing stroll. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via stairs from the cathedral area. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the stone walls.
10. Name: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí) Type: Experience Why go: A quieter square with beautiful fountains and local cafes. Best for: Lunch or coffee. Where: Just south of the Upper Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Connects directly to the Upper Square. Tip: Try the local Olomouc cheese (tvarůžky) at a nearby shop.

Planning Your Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc Interior Tour

The Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Olomouc interior is open most days. However, access to the tower and crypt can vary. You should check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for the latest hours. Usually, the tower is closed during the winter months for safety. The crypt is often open whenever the museum is active. Admission to the main nave is free, but special areas require a ticket.

When visiting the tower, be prepared for a long climb. There are over 400 steps to reach the top. It is not recommended for those with mobility issues. The crypt is easier to access but has some steps. Photography is allowed but avoid using flash inside the church. Respect any ongoing services by staying quiet. Most staff speak basic English and are very helpful.

Best Historical Places to See Near the Cathedral

Olomouc is packed with history beyond the cathedral walls. You can find many historical places in Olomouc within a short walk. The city was once the capital of Moravia. This means the architecture is grand and well-preserved. Start your walk at Wenceslas Square and head toward the town hall. You will pass several Baroque fountains along the way.

The university district is also nearby. It adds a lively energy to the old streets. You can find small bookstores and quiet courtyards. If you have extra time, visit the fortifications. They show how the city defended itself for centuries. The mix of military and religious history is fascinating. Olomouc is much quieter than Prague, making it perfect for slow travel.