Olomouc
About Olomouc
Olomouc is the hidden gem of Moravia — a stunning university city that rivals Prague in architectural beauty but sees a fraction of the tourists. Home to Palacký University (founded 1573) and over 100,000 residents, it buzzes with youthful energy, affordable pubs, and a rich cultural calendar. The city's crown jewel is the UNESCO World Heritage Holy Trinity Column, the largest single baroque sculpture in Central Europe. With its six baroque fountains, grand churches, and the famous Olomouc tvarůžky cheese, this is one of the Czech Republic's most rewarding and underrated destinations.
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Quick Tips
- Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carry some cash for small pubs and markets.
- Transport: Olomouc is very walkable — the entire historic centre fits within a 15-minute walk. Trams connect the centre to the train station and suburbs. Trains from Prague take about 2–2.5 hours via Pendolino.
- Tipping: Round up or leave 10%, same as the rest of the Czech Republic.
- Try tvarůžky: Olomouc's famous pungent cheese is a must-try. It smells strong but tastes wonderful, especially fried or with bread and onion.
- Moravia = wine: Unlike beer-focused Bohemia, Moravia is wine country. Try local Grüner Veltliner or Pálava varieties in the many wine bars around town.
Interesting Places to Visit
Holy Trinity Column (Sloup Nejsvětější Trojice)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 and the finest example of Central European baroque sculpture. Standing 35 metres tall in the Upper Square (Horní náměstí), it was built between 1716 and 1754 and features 18 sculptured saints and a copper chapel at its base.
Olomouc Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
Unlike Prague's Gothic original, Olomouc's astronomical clock was rebuilt in the 1950s in Socialist Realist style — workers and athletes replace saints and apostles. A fascinating and unique curiosity located on the north side of the Town Hall. It performs daily at noon.
St. Wenceslas Cathedral (Katedrála sv. Václava)
A grand neo-Gothic cathedral with the tallest church spire in Moravia at 100 metres. Originally founded in 1107, the current form dates from the 19th-century reconstruction. Climb the tower for sweeping views over the city's rooftops and spires.
Baroque Fountains
Olomouc has six ornate baroque fountains scattered across its centre, each depicting a figure from Roman mythology — Hercules, Caesar, Mercury, Neptune, Jupiter, and Triton. Together they form one of the most remarkable open-air baroque collections in Europe. Pick up a map at the tourist office and visit them all on a walking tour.
Archdiocesan Museum (Arcidiecézní muzeum)
One of the Czech Republic's best museums, housed in the Romanesque Bishop's Palace where the young Mozart once stayed. The collection spans medieval religious art, baroque paintings, and a beautifully restored 12th-century cloister. The modern glass-and-stone extension by architect Josef Pleskot is itself worth seeing.
Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill)
A pilgrimage basilica perched on a hill about 8 km northeast of the centre. The Minor Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary is a baroque masterpiece with a stunning interior. Nearby you will find the Olomouc Zoo. Reachable by city bus no. 11.
Fort Křelov (Fort XVII)
Part of the 19th-century Olomouc fortress system, one of the largest in Central Europe. This well-preserved Prussian-era fort offers guided tours through underground tunnels and casemates. A fascinating piece of military history just outside the city.
When to Visit
Olomouc is a year-round destination with a lively student atmosphere during the academic year:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Lovely time to visit. Parks and gardens come alive (10–20°C), outdoor café culture returns, and the city's fountains sparkle in the sunshine.
- Flora Olomouc spring flower exhibition (April)
- Easter markets in the Upper and Lower Squares
- University in session — the city is at its most vibrant
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Warm (20–30°C) with long days. Students leave but festivals take over. The parks and beer gardens are perfect for relaxing.
- Flora Olomouc summer exhibition (August)
- Baroque music festival in historic churches
- Open-air cinema and concerts in Smetana Park
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Cooling temperatures (5–15°C), beautiful autumn colours in Bezručovy sady park, and the return of students bringing energy back to the pubs and cultural venues.
- Tvarůžky Festival celebrating the famous Olomouc cheese
- Flora Olomouc autumn exhibition
- Wine harvest events in surrounding Moravian villages
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cold (−4 to 3°C) but the Christmas markets are among Moravia's best and far less crowded than Prague. The city's baroque architecture looks stunning under snow.
- Christmas markets on Horní náměstí (late Nov – Dec)
- Warm Moravian wine (svařák) and local pastries
- Affordable accommodation and virtually no tourist crowds
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Olomouc is a student city, so eating well on a budget is easy. Moravia also has its own culinary traditions distinct from Bohemia:
Moravská restaurace$ – $$
The go-to spot for traditional Moravian cuisine. Try the Olomouc tvarůžky (pungent aged cheese) served fried or marinated, alongside hearty goulash and roast duck. Located just off the Upper Square. Mains 150–250 CZK (~€6–10).
Drapal$
A beloved local café and bistro in the centre. Excellent coffee, fresh sandwiches, and daily lunch specials. Popular with students and professors from the nearby university. Lunch under 150 CZK (~€6).
Hostinec U Rybářů$ – $$
A cozy traditional pub near Bezručovy sady park. Known for well-prepared Czech classics — svíčková, schnitzel, and dumplings — at honest local prices. Good selection of Moravian draft beers.
Café 87$
A stylish student-friendly café on Denisova street. Great breakfasts, homemade cakes, and specialty coffee. A perfect morning stop before sightseeing. Budget-friendly at under 120 CZK (~€5) for coffee and cake.
Svatováclavský pivovar$ – $$
A microbrewery restaurant brewing its own unfiltered lager on site. Pair their fresh beer with traditional pub food — pork knee, beer cheese, and pickled sausages. Located near St. Wenceslas Cathedral.
Long Story Short Eatery$$
A modern bistro inside the Long Story Short hostel. Creative seasonal menu with international influences. Excellent weekend brunch. A bit trendier than most Olomouc spots but still affordable. Mains 200–300 CZK (~€8–12).
Pivnice Doga$
A no-nonsense beer hall popular with locals. Cheap, filling pub food and a rotating selection of Czech microbrews. Main dishes from 120–180 CZK (~€5–7). Cash is preferred.