Olomouc is located in the very heart of Moravia. The capital of the eastern region, it’s a truly pleasant town, located around two hours from the capital, Prague. Considered one of the “must-visit” towns in the Czech Republic, Olomouc has everything you could wish for!
Pleasant surroundings, nice hotels and a relatively low population density compared to the capital. In the rest of this article, we’ll take a look at some of Olomouc’s must-see sights and activities.
Why visit Olomouc?
But why visit Olomouc? It’s an easy question to answer. Olomouc is a historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, no less. You’ll love its many Baroque buildings, its history and its famous cheese. Less popular than other major tourist centers, the city is nonetheless pleasant to visit.
Where is Olomouc?
Just 65 kilometers from Brno and 210 kilometers from Prague, Olomouc is located in the northeast of the historic Moravia region, not far from the Slovak border (85 kilometers). It is the region’s second-largest city.
It shares with Brno the region’s historic, religious and university center. According to the latest figures, Olomouc had a population of 100,663 in 2020, making it a medium-sized city in the Czech Republic.
How do I get to Olomouc?
If you’re in the capital and want to visit Olomouc, the easiest (and cheapest) way to get there is by train or bus. It takes around 2h30 by train, and 3h30 by bus.
Olomouc has several train stations, including the main one to the east of the old town, so you can get there quickly and easily. If you’re thinking of renting a car to get there, you’ll be pleased to know that on-site parking rates are not excessive (count on the equivalent of €1 per hour).
As far as public transport is concerned, the city is well served by its tramway, which has 8 different lines and a total of 35 stations, making it easy to get around and visit the city’s various sites, given its medium size.
What are the must-sees in Olomouc?
In the rest of this content, we present the best things to do and see in Olomouc. Must-sees during your stay in Olomouc.
St. Wenceslas Cathedral
St. Wenceslas Cathedral is one of the city’s best-known buildings, having been rebuilt several times in previous centuries. It bears the name Wenceslas, where the assassination of the famous Wenceslas III of Bohemia took place in the early 14th century, marking the end of a dynasty. A monument full of historical facts, its Gothic façade and foundations dating back over a thousand years are impressive.
Hradisko Abbey
Hradisko Abbey stands high above the town, offering a view of the city and its surroundings. A former 11th-century monastery now used as a military hospital, its architecture is in the Baroque style.
Olomouc’s old town center
The many restored fountains: you’ll find one on almost every square in the city, such as the Jupiter fountain on Place Basse, just a minute’s walk from the Botanical Gardens.
The Olomouc Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock is often considered as the jewel of the Town Hall. Destroyed and rebuilt after the Second World War, it dates back to the 15th century and is one of the city’s most visited monuments.
Its appearance differs from the famous astronomical clock in Prague’s Old Town Square in its mosaic depicting the procession of kings at the top of the niche, as well as the workers underneath the clock indicating the 12 labors (one per hour). A 14-metre-high pointed-arch niche not to be missed!
The Holy Trinity column
This 35-metre-high architectural monument is sure to impress any tourist. This Baroque-style column is located in the heart of the city, opposite the astronomical clock. It’s the perfect place to eat and drink, with many restaurants surrounding the square.
Eat Olomouc cheese
Olomouc cheese is a true regional specialty. It seems unthinkable to visit Olomouc and not at least try it. It’s a very fragrant variety of cheese, powerful in taste and smell. Please note, however, that you are strongly advised not to open your box just anywhere, as you run the risk of infecting just about everyone.
Where to stay in Olomouc?
Are you planning to visit Olomouc? If you’d like to discover the city for a weekend or several days, take a look at our article on the best hotels in Olomouc.
You’ll have access to a wealth of information on the city’s best hotels and youth hostels. Rest assured, whether in Liberec, Mlada Boleslav, Teplice, Plzen, Zlin or České Budějovice, the hotels are all very well kept and always offered at the best price.
Olomouc, in brief
A city in the Czech Republic, Olomouc is renowned for its lifestyle! If you’re planning to visit, don’t hesitate to book a hotel right in the center. You’ll be able to enjoy a wide variety of experiences, while still being very close to where you live.
Whether it’s a long trip around the country or a simple return journey from Prague, Olomouc has a lot to offer: museums, fountains, churches or castles, Moravia is a surprising region steeped in history. If you want to go further, why not support Sigma Olomouc, the local soccer team? Sigma is a very popular team throughout the country.
Our conclusion on your stay in Olomouc
Olomouc is a pleasant town to visit if you live in the Czech Republic or have several days to spend in the country. We recommend an early morning departure from Prague’s main railway station, to make the most of your day. For more information about the city, please contact us. Want to continue your trip? Ostrava and Brno are not far away… Don’t forget to book your hotel there!