Olomouc, Czech Republic
Olomouc is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating and culturally significant cities in the Czech Republic. Its Old Town is remarkably spacious, holding the distinction of being the second largest historic center in the country, surpassed only by Prague. The city's skyline is a breathtaking fusion of architectural styles, with magnificent Baroque and Renaissance elements dominating its historic heart. A visit to Olomouc is a true journey through time, offering beautifully preserved landmarks, expansive atmospheric squares, and charming, winding streets. Time spent here is never wasted, whether you're exploring majestic churches, relaxing by intricate fountains, or venturing into the picturesque nearby countryside. Olomouc offers enough to keep you captivated for several days, making it an ideal destination for an extended trip.
Beyond its impressive architecture, Olomouc exudes a vibrant, youthful energy thanks to its role as a major university city. This academic influence brings a dynamic cultural scene, with a lively calendar of events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. The city's relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect alternative to more crowded tourist hubs, allowing you to discover its treasures at your own pace. With its perfect blend of historical grandeur and modern vitality, Olomouc truly lives up to its reputation as a hidden gem of Central Europe, offering rich experiences for every type of traveler.
Parking in Olomouc
Olomouc stands as a key road junction in Moravia, ensuring its excellent accessibility by car. The city is directly connected by the D46 motorway, which merges seamlessly with the D1 highway, providing a smooth journey all the way to the Polish-Czech border near Ostrava. From the highway, you can reach the city center in approximately an hour, a convenient and straightforward drive. During our visit, we opted for a centrally located paid parking area on 1. máje Street near Republic Square (náměstí Republiky) (1; GPS: 49.596089, 17.257688). Although it requires payment, its prime location is incredibly convenient for a day of sightseeing, placing you right at the heart of the action.
Just about 100 meters from this smaller lot, you'll find a much more spacious and multi-level facility known as "Central Parking" on Koželužská Street (2; GPS: 49.597199, 17.257564). As of 2023, the parking fee was a very reasonable 20 CZK per hour. This large garage offers quick and easy access to the Old Town, making it an excellent and reliable choice for visitors, especially on busy days when street parking can be scarce. A smart alternative for arriving in the city is to bypass the motorway's inner-city entrance and instead take local roads through Opava and Šternberk, entering via Road 446. This route avoids driving through the congested city center and provides a direct, stress-free connection to Central Parking, a particularly useful tip during peak travel times.
The Upper Square – Horní náměstí
The historic heart of Olomouc is the perfect place to begin your exploration, and your journey will naturally lead you to the magnificent Upper Square (Horní náměstí) (A; GPS: 49.593836, 17.250933). The square is dominated by the impressive Town Hall (B; GPS: 49.593813, 17.251459), a 14th-century architectural masterpiece that beautifully blends Gothic and Renaissance elements. A true centerpiece is the magnificent Holy Trinity Column (C; GPS: 49.593933, 17.250440), a colossal Baroque sculptural group and the largest of its kind in Central Europe. Since the year 2000, this breathtaking monument has been proudly listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, a testament to its profound historical and artistic value.
One of the square's most intriguing features is the astronomical clock (D; GPS: 49.594020, 17.251406) mounted on the Town Hall’s northern wall. Originally built in the 15th century, it has undergone several significant reconstructions over the centuries. Its current appearance dates from 1955, when it was famously redesigned in the socialist realism style, replacing traditional saints with figurines of workers and farmers. While this version is historically significant, many locals and historians believe the clock’s earlier 20th-century version had a more classical artistic charm. Regardless, it remains one of the city’s most captivating landmarks, especially when it chimes at noon with its moving figures and melodies, drawing a crowd every day.
Olomouc is also renowned for its collection of impressive Baroque fountains, many of which are located right on the Upper Square. Among the most notable is the majestic Fountain of Caesar (E; GPS: 49.593985, 17.252148), completed in 1725 and symbolizing the city’s legendary founder. Nearby stands the powerful Hercules Fountain (F; GPS: 49.594194, 17.251059), which dates back to 1687 and celebrates the mythological hero’s strength. A striking contrast to these historic works is the more contemporary Arion Fountain (G; GPS: 49.593436, 17.251102), which beautifully combines traditional sculpture with a playful, modern design, making it a favorite spot for both adults and children.
The square often comes alive with a variety of open-air events, concerts, and vibrant cultural festivals, embodying the city’s lively spirit. During one of our visits, we had the pleasure of attending the Olomouc Wine Spring Festival (Olomoucké vinné slavnosti), which featured colorful and energetic performances of Moravian folk dances and songs. Events like this truly immerse visitors in the region's rich culture and create an unforgettable experience. Just a short walk north of the Upper Square, you'll find the magnificent late-Gothic Church of St. Maurice (H; GPS: 49.595071, 17.251153). This striking three-nave basilica is distinguished by its two asymmetrical towers and remarkable acoustics, making it a famous venue for organ concerts. Its dark, atmospheric interior provides a peaceful and reflective escape from the bustling square.
The Lower Square – Dolní náměstí
Olomouc is unique in having a second charming market square, the Lower Square (Dolní náměstí) (I; GPS: 49.591937, 17.253165), located just about 100 meters southeast of the Upper Square. This historic area is home to two more remarkable Baroque fountains: the Neptune Fountain (J; GPS: 49.5925242, 17.2523553), built in 1683 and rightfully recognized as the oldest of its kind in Olomouc, and the elegant Jupiter Fountain (K; GPS: 49.5918181, 17.2532914), which dates from the year 1707.
Another highlight of the square is the impressive Baroque Marian Column (L; GPS: 49.592175, 17.252788), which dates back to the 18th century. It serves as both a powerful religious symbol and a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage and devotion. The entire square is beautifully framed by historic townhouses, each with its own story. Among them, one stands out in particular: the Haueschild Palace (M; GPS: 49.591914, 17.252414), an exquisite example of Renaissance architecture built in 1583. Its ornate façade and elegant proportions make it one of the most striking and photogenic buildings in Olomouc, perfect for a photo opportunity.
Chapel of St. Jan Sarkander
After exploring both market squares, a short and pleasant walk down Mahlerova Street leads us toward Republic Square. Along the way, we come across the captivating Chapel of St. Jan Sarkander (N; GPS: 49.5945392, 17.2543214). This beautiful Baroque chapel stands on the exact site of a former prison where Jan Sarkander—a Catholic priest, martyr, and revered patron saint of Moravia and Silesia—was tragically tortured in 1620. Originally constructed in the early 18th century, the chapel underwent a major reconstruction between 1909 and 1912, preserving its historical significance for future generations.
In front of the chapel, visitors can admire a striking modern fountain titled “The Source of Living Water of St. Jan Sarkander,” featuring an eye-catching architectural design that contrasts beautifully with the Baroque surroundings. Nearby stands a classic Baroque monument to St. John of Nepomuk, adding to the spiritual ambiance of this unique and historically significant site. The chapel and its surroundings provide a powerful and moving experience, blending solemn history with remarkable artistic expression.
The Republic Square
At Republic Square (náměstí Republiky), visitors will find the impressive Baroque Church of Our Lady of the Snow (O; GPS: 49.5955544, 17.2562956), which was constructed by the Jesuit order between 1712 and 1719. This richly decorated building stands as a remarkable example of ecclesiastical architecture from the early 18th century, with elegant stucco work and a peaceful interior that invites quiet reflection.
Right on the square itself, just next to the previously mentioned parking lot (1), stands another notable fountain: the beautiful Triton Fountain, completed in 1709. Its dynamic sculptural composition was directly inspired by Bernini’s famous Fontana del Tritone in Rome, showcasing the widespread influence of Italian Baroque art. Interestingly, a similarly styled fountain can also be found in the Polish town of Nysa, highlighting the shared artistic heritage across Central Europe. This square is a great spot to appreciate the harmonious blend of architecture and sculpture that defines Olomouc’s urban landscape.
The University District
Olomouc is proud to be home to a sizable and vibrant university district centered around Palacký University—the oldest university in Moravia and the second-oldest in all of Czechia, following Charles University in Prague. Established in 1573, the university has played a key role in the intellectual and cultural life of the region for centuries, shaping the city's identity and infusing it with youthful energy.
As we stroll along Křížkovského Street, we pass by numerous elegant university buildings (1; GPS: 49.595106, 17.259751), many of which feature classic architectural details and peaceful courtyards. During our visit, we were kindly allowed to enter through one of the gates to film the inner courtyard, which revealed another hidden layer of the campus’s historic charm. This area beautifully blends academic tradition with a relaxed urban energy, making it a rewarding stop even for non-students who want to soak in the intellectual and historical atmosphere.
The Olomouc Fortress and the Barracks
The Olomouc fortress (Q; GPS: 49.5930925, 17.2582481) was constructed in the mid-18th century as a crucial part of the city's extensive defense system. Its formidable fortifications include a pentagonal bastion flanked by two half-bastions, which once served as the main entrance to the city. Scattered throughout the area are the well-preserved buildings of former military barracks, which have since been creatively repurposed. Today, the fortress site hosts fascinating exhibitions on military history and serves as a unique venue for cultural events and performances, breathing new life into these historic structures.
Exploring this area offers a fascinating glimpse into Olomouc's past as a strategic military stronghold. The blend of impressive fortifications and repurposed barracks buildings creates a unique atmosphere where history and modernity coexist. You can walk along the old ramparts, admire the engineering of the bastions, and learn about the city's role in various conflicts. This part of the city is a must-visit for anyone interested in military history and urban revitalization.
The Bezručovy Sady Park
Bezručovy Sady is a tranquil and scenic park that was established at the end of the 19th century, with its first tree-lined promenade dating back to shortly after 1835. It is the longest and youngest of the three main parks in Olomouc and was designed in the elegant spirit of English Romanticism. Its lush greenery and peaceful paths provide a relaxing break from sightseeing, offering a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
One of the park’s most fascinating and solemn landmarks is the Yugoslavian Mausoleum (R; GPS: 49.5946258, 17.2566433), which was built in 1926. It serves as the final resting place for around 1,200 Yugoslavian soldiers who tragically died in Moravia and Silesia during World War I. The mausoleum is officially listed as a cultural monument in the Czech Republic and underwent a complete renovation in 2019. Our footage shows the site before its restoration. The park is also home to an impressive botanical garden and a beautiful rosarium, established in 1960. As you walk through the park, you can also discover remnants of the historic city walls, complete with towers and four gateways that once led into the city center, creating a delightful blend of history and nature in one peaceful location.
Saint Wenceslas Cathedral
On the opposite side of the Old Town stands the awe-inspiring Saint Wenceslas Cathedral (S; GPS: 49.597819, 17.262240), one of the most prominent religious landmarks in Olomouc. Originally founded in 1107 as a Romanesque church, it was rebuilt in the Gothic style after a major fire in 1265. Its main tower rises over 100 meters, making it one of the tallest church towers in the Czech Republic and a dominant feature of the city skyline. The cathedral is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a spiritual centerpiece for the city.
Adjacent to the cathedral is the magnificent Archbishop’s Palace, which has been converted into a museum and is open to the public, offering a glimpse into the lives of the archbishops who once resided there. Nearby, you’ll also find a notable statue of St. John of Nepomuk from the 18th century, adding further cultural depth to this sacred area. The entire complex, with its rich history and stunning architecture, is a must-see for anyone interested in the city’s religious and cultural heritage.
Gastronomy in Olomouc
Olomouc’s gastronomy offers a delightful mix of traditional Czech cuisine and modern culinary trends, with a special focus on regional Moravian specialties. The city is famous for its unique local delicacy and has a vibrant restaurant scene that caters to every taste, from cozy pubs to elegant fine dining.
What to Try?
- Olomoucké Tvarůžky: This is the most famous local product—a unique, pungent, soft ripened cheese. It is a protected regional specialty and a must-try for adventurous foodies. You can enjoy it with bread, on a sandwich, or fried.
- Moravian Sparrow (Moravský vrabec): A hearty dish of roasted pork, typically served with dumplings and sauerkraut, it's a staple of Czech comfort food.
- Svíčková na smetaně: A national dish of the Czech Republic, consisting of braised beef sirloin in a creamy sauce, served with bread dumplings and a dollop of cranberry sauce.
- Olomoucký guláš: A regional take on the classic goulash, often prepared with beef or pork and served with dumplings.
- Moravian Wine: Olomouc is located near the Moravian wine region. Don't miss the opportunity to try local white wines, such as Grüner Veltliner, or a glass of red from the Zweigelt grape.
Where to Eat?
- Town Square Restaurants: The restaurants and cafes around the Upper and Lower Squares are perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. Many offer outdoor seating in a lively atmosphere.
- Traditional Pubs (Hospoda): For an authentic Czech experience, visit a local pub. You can enjoy classic beer and simple, delicious food at very reasonable prices.
- Breweries and Microbreweries: Olomouc has a growing craft beer scene. You can visit one of the local breweries to taste a variety of freshly brewed beers.
- Cafes: The university district is full of trendy cafes and coffee shops, perfect for a break and a slice of cake.
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