Olomouc is a city located in the Moravian-Silesian Region of the Czech Republic. It is the sixth-largest city in the country and is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Some of the top attractions in the city include the Olomouc Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, the baroque Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the St. Wenceslas Cathedral, which is a beautiful Gothic structure. The city also has several museums, such as the Archdiocesan Museum, which features art and artifacts from the region's history, and the Olomouc Museum of Art, which displays a collection of European art. Olomouc is also famous for its lively student population, and it offers a variety of nightlife and dining options, making it a popular tourist destination.
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What not to miss?
Holy Trinity Column
The Holy Trinity Column is a unique and historic attraction in the city's heart. The column is a baroque masterpiece built between 1716 and 1754; it's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most important examples of this kind of architecture in Central Europe. The column is 35 meters high and is decorated with sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints. The column also features a statue of the Holy Trinity at the top, surrounded by angels. Visitors can climb to the top of the column to get a great view of the city and to see the sculptures and reliefs up close. The Holy Trinity Column is considered an important cultural and architectural monument in Olomouc and a must-see attraction for visitors interested in history and art.
Hradisko Monastery
The Hradisko Monastery is a historic and architectural gem on the city's outskirts. The monastery was founded by the Premonstratensian order of canons regularly in the 12th century, and it's considered one of the most important monuments of early Gothic architecture in Moravia. The monastery is a complex of buildings, including the church of St. Wenceslas, the cloister, and the chapter house. The church is known for its beautiful frescoes, and the cloister is a peaceful and serene spot with a garden and a pond. The chapter house is now a museum, displaying a collection of art and artifacts from the monastery's history. Visitors can take guided tours of the monastery, which offer a glimpse into the history of the Premonstratensian order and the architectural beauty of the buildings. The Hradisko Monastery is a must-see attraction for visitors interested in history, art, and architecture.
Olomouc Town Hall
The Olomouc Town Hall is a beautiful historic building located in the heart of the city's main square. The building was constructed in the 14th century and served as the city's town hall for many years. The Town Hall is a Gothic-style building with Renaissance and Baroque elements. It is notable for its impressive architecture and beautiful astronomical clock, which dates back to the 15th century and is considered one of the oldest astronomical clocks in the Czech Republic. The clock displays the twelve zodiac signs, the sun, and the moon. Visitors can also tour the Town Hall's chambers and the famous Gothic Hall, decorated with beautiful frescoes and sculptures. The Olomouc Town Hall is a popular tourist attraction and an important cultural and architectural monument.
Baroque Fountains
The Baroque Fountains in Olomouc are a set of impressive and historic fountain structures throughout the city center. These fountains were built during the Baroque era (17th and 18th centuries) and are considered some of the most important examples of Baroque art and architecture in the Czech Republic. Famous sculptors and architects created them, and their craftsmanship is still preserved in its original form. The most famous of these fountains is the Jupiter Fountain, which is located in the city's main square and features a statue of Jupiter, the Roman god of sky and thunder, surrounded by smaller statues of other gods and allegorical figures. The fountains are a water source and an important cultural and architectural symbol of Olomouc's rich history. Visitors can stroll around the city center and admire the fountains and their intricate designs.
Kroměříž Castle and Gardens
Kroměříž Castle and Gardens, located in Kroměříž, is a beautiful and historic attraction that is well worth visiting. The Castle is a grand Baroque structure dating back to the 18th century, it was a residence of the Archbishop of Olomouc, and it's considered one of the most important examples of Baroque architecture in the Czech Republic. The castle features a grand ceremonial hall, richly decorated with frescoes and stucco work, and several other impressive rooms, such as the bishop's library and the chapel. The castle is also home to several art collections and exhibits, including paintings by famous European artists, a collection of clocks, and a collection of furniture.
What else to visit?
Church of St. Moritz
The Church of St. Moritz is a historic architectural masterpiece in the city center. The church is a beautiful example of the Gothic style; built in the 14th century, it's one of the oldest and most influential churches in Olomouc. The church's most striking feature is its beautiful stained-glass windows, considered some of the most important examples of Gothic art in the Czech Republic. The church also boasts several other impressive features, such as a richly decorated altarpiece and a set of sculptures, including a statue of St. Moritz himself. Visitors can also look at the church's crypt, a unique and fascinating feature. The Church of St. Moritz is a must-see attraction for visitors interested in history, art, and architecture.
Helfštýn Castle
Helfštýn Castle is a medieval fortress near the town of Lipník nad Bečvou. The castle was built in the 14th century, and it's known for its impressive architecture and beautiful natural surroundings. Helfštýn castle is an excellent example of Gothic architecture and an important cultural and historical monument. The castle features several towers, including a keep, a chapel, and a palace. Visitors can also admire the castle's beautiful courtyards and impressive fortifications, including a drawbridge and a moat. The castle also features an exhibition about the history of the castle, including a collection of medieval weapons and armor. Helfštýn Castle is a popular tourist destination, and it's a great place to explore the history and culture of the Czech Republic.
Svatý Kopeček
Svatý Kopeček is a hill located near the city of Olomouc, Czech Republic. It is a famous pilgrimage site known for its beautiful views and historic Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary. The basilica is a beautiful example of baroque architecture and a popular place of worship. The basilica features several impressive works of art, including frescoes, sculptures, and a valuable collection of liturgical objects. The hill is also home to several other religious buildings, including the Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk, which dates back to the 18th century, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can also take a stroll along the hill's many paths and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Svatý Kopeček is a popular destination for religious and cultural tourism.
How to travel there?
There are several ways to travel to Olomouc: car, train, and bus.
By car: Olomouc is easily accessible via the D35 and D46 highways. Visitors can also take the E462 and E65 highways to get to the city. There are several parking options in the city center, including paid parking garages and street parking.
By train: Olomouc has a train station well connected with the rest of the country. Trains run regularly from major cities such as Prague, Brno, and Ostrava. The journey from Prague to Olomouc takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
By bus: There are also regular bus connections to Olomouc from major cities such as Prague and Brno. The journey from Prague to Olomouc takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The central bus station is near the train station and is well connected with the rest of the country.
When to travel there?
The best time to visit Olomouc can vary depending on personal preference and the type of activities you plan to do. However, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are generally considered the best time to visit Olomouc in terms of crowds. The weather is still pleasant, and the city is less crowded than it is during the peak summer months.
During the summer months, Olomouc can get quite busy with tourists, and the city's streets, restaurants, and other attractions can become crowded. This can make it difficult to enjoy all the city fully has to offer.
The winter can also be an excellent time to visit Olomouc as the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations, and the old town is charming and cozy. However, it can be cold and snowy, and some outdoor activities and attractions may not be available due to the weather.
Average costs
The average costs for a traveler going to Olomouc can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the type of accommodation, and the traveler's personal preferences.
Accommodation: Prices for accommodation in Olomouc can range from around 25-30€ for a budget hotel room to around 100-150€ for a mid-range hotel room. There are also many options for vacation rentals and apartments, which can be more cost-effective for longer stays or groups of travelers.
Food and drink: Prices for food and drink in Olomouc are reasonable. A meal at a budget restaurant can cost around 8-10€, while a mid-range restaurant can cost around 20-25€. Prices for a beer or a coffee in Olomouc are also quite reasonable.
Transportation: Public transportation in Olomouc is quite affordable, with a single bus or tram ride ticket costing around 1-2€. Prices for a taxi ride in Olomouc can also be quite reasonable, starting at around 2€.
Entrance fees: Entrance fees to Olomouc's main attractions vary, but they are generally quite affordable, ranging from around 2-5€.
Where to eat?
We have a few tips for restaurants and coffee spots once you are in Olomouc. Let's go explore your option
Svatovaclavsky Pivovar
Moravska Restaurace
Restaurace Drapal
Hostinsky pivovar Moritz
Entrée Restaurant
And after a fantastic lunch, it is time to enjoy your afternoon with some caffeine in your veins! Are you interested in coffee spots in Olomouc?
Jazz Fresh Café
Pikola
Café Le Fée
Trouble Cafe
Coffee Library
Events
Academia Film Olomouc
Films, lectures, workshops, concerts, guests, fans, and most importantly, SCIENCE. We are working to make the next AFO the best festival in the galaxy! Follow our social networks and website. We will gradually dose science portions until the central climax comes - AFO58.
Slavnosti Olomouc
The largest festival in the city of Olomouc, where the most famous Czech bands, male and female singers, will present themselves. This festival is at the beginning of June and usually lasts 2-3 days.
Flora Olomouc
Flora Olomouc is the biggest festival of flowers or the international flower and horticultural exhibition.
Instagrammable places
We have prepared a different, maybe for some of you, unusual location in Brno, where you can capture the best photos for your social media! Here are our tips:
Marian Plague Column
Olomouc Fortress
Olomouc Parks
Jazz Fresh Cafe
Olomouc streets
Saint Wenceslas Cathedral
The Orthodox Church of St. Gorazd
Flora Olomouc
We've reached the end of the article about Olomouc. This city has an incredible atmosphere, and we believe you will love it as much as we did! In the meantime, you can read other articles on our blog. How about planning a trip to Prague or Český Krumlov? Remember to follow us @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on the new releases. We will be back soon with a new article!