Overview of the Olomouc Castle District

The castle district is the oldest part of the city. It is not a single building but a group of historic structures. The most famous part is the Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc. This museum connects the modern city to its medieval roots. You will find layers of history here, from Romanesque walls to Baroque chapels.

Visiting the castle is one of the best things to do in Olomouc for history lovers. The area is much quieter than the main square. You can walk through cobblestone streets and enjoy the views. It feels like stepping back in time. Most of the main sites are clustered around Wenceslas Square.

10 Highlights of the Olomouc Castle Complex

There is so much to explore within these ancient walls. Use this list to ensure you do not miss the top sights. Each spot offers a unique look at Moravian culture and heritage.

1. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: It has the tallest church spire in Moravia and a stunning neo-Gothic look. Best for: Architecture fans Where: Wenceslas Square Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Tram lines 2, 4, or 6 to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of former bishops.
2. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc Type: museum Why go: It is the only museum in the country to receive the European Heritage Label. Best for: Art lovers Where: Wenceslas Square 1 Time: 2 hours Cost: Paid admission Getting there: Located right next to the cathedral entrance. Tip: Check the Olomouc Museum of Art website for temporary exhibition updates.
3. Name: Bishop Zdík's Palace Type: sight Why go: These are the remains of a 12th-century Romanesque palace. Best for: History buffs Where: Inside the Archdiocesan Museum Time: 30 minutes Cost: Included in museum ticket Getting there: Follow the guided museum path. Tip: Look for the original stone carvings around the windows.
4. Name: The Carriage of Cardinal Troyer Type: experience Why go: See a massive, golden 18th-century ceremonial carriage in person. Best for: Families Where: Museum Carriage Hall Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in museum ticket Getting there: Ground floor of the museum complex. Tip: This is one of the largest and best-preserved carriages in Europe.
5. Name: St. Barbara’s Chapel Type: sight Why go: This chapel features incredible Baroque frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere. Best for: Spiritual seekers Where: Upper floor of the museum Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in museum ticket Getting there: Accessible via the museum stairs or elevator. Tip: Look up to see the intricate detail on the ceiling.
6. Name: St. Anne's Chapel Type: sight Why go: A historic site where Olomouc bishops were once elected. Best for: History buffs Where: North side of the cathedral Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Access is usually through the main cathedral grounds. Tip: It is often used for small concerts due to its great acoustics.
7. Name: Parkán Gardens Type: nature Why go: These gardens offer a green escape with views of the old city walls. Best for: Relaxing Where: Below the castle walls Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk down the path from Wenceslas Square toward the university. Tip: It is a perfect spot for a quiet picnic in spring.
8. Name: The Romanesque Windows Type: viewpoint Why go: These rare 1141 stone windows are masterpieces of medieval craftsmanship. Best for: Photographers Where: Zdík's Palace ruins Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in museum ticket Getting there: Part of the historic palace tour. Tip: The light is best for photos in the early afternoon.
9. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: day trip Why go: A UNESCO World Heritage Centre site and the largest Baroque group of statues in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the castle complex. Tip: Visit at night to see it beautifully illuminated.
10. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: experience Why go: A unique socialist-realist version of a medieval clock. Best for: Families Where: Town Hall, Upper Square Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: 10-minute walk from the castle. Tip: Be there at exactly 12:00 PM to see the figures move.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Planning your trip to the castle is simple. You should check the ticket prices and admission before you go. Most visitors spend about three hours exploring the entire complex. The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes because the cobblestones can be uneven.

The castle is easy to reach by public transport. Trams run frequently from the main train station. If you prefer walking, it is a pleasant 15-minute stroll from the city center. Most of the museum is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some parts of the ancient palace have narrow stairs.