9 Best Panoramic Viewpoints in Olomouc Old Town
Olomouc is one of the most beautiful cities in the Czech Republic. It features stunning baroque architecture and quiet cobblestone streets. Finding the best panoramic viewpoints in Olomouc Old Town is the best way to see it all. You can look down on UNESCO monuments and red-tiled roofs. This guide helps you find the highest towers and the most scenic squares. Whether you want a steep climb or a relaxing terrace, these spots offer the best views in the city.
Top High-Altitude Sights in Olomouc
Olomouc is a city of spires and historical charm. Many visitors stay on the ground to see the fountains. However, the skyline offers a completely different perspective. You can see the rolling hills of Moravia in the distance. The city layout becomes clear from a high vantage point.
Before you start climbing, consider your priorities. Some towers require a lot of physical effort. Others are easily accessible via elevators or short walks. This Olomouc sightseeing guide can help you plan your full route. Here are our quick picks for your visit:
- Best overall: Town Hall Tower
- Best for families: Svatý Kopeček
- Best free view: Upper Square
- Best rainy-day: Archdiocesan Museum
9 Best Panoramic Viewpoints in Olomouc Old Town
The following list includes the most iconic spots in the city center. We have included towers, museum terraces, and scenic parks. Most of these are located within the historic heart of Olomouc. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the tower stairs. Here are the top spots to visit in 2026.
- Name: Town Hall Tower Type: sight Why go: It offers the most central view of the main square and the Olomouc astronomical clock. Best for: History buffs Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Time: 45 minutes Cost: Approx. 100 CZK Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square. Tip: You must buy Town Hall Tower views tickets at the tourist office inside the building.
- Name: St. Maurice Church Tower Type: experience Why go: This is the tallest church tower in the city and features a unique double spiral staircase. Best for: Brave climbers Where: Near the Upper Square Time: 30-40 minutes Cost: Small donation suggested Getting there: A short 2-minute walk from the Town Hall. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so take your time during the ascent.
- Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: The tower is one of the tallest in the country and overlooks the historic castle district. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Václavské náměstí Time: 30 minutes Cost: Check seasonal prices at the entrance Getting there: Follow the signs toward the Archdiocesan Museum. Tip: Visit during the morning for the best light on the cathedral facade.
- Name: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Type: experience Why go: While ground-level, it offers a 360-degree view of the UNESCO Holy Trinity Column and baroque fountains. Best for: Quick photos Where: City center Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: All main tram lines stop nearby at Náměstí Hrdinů. Tip: Stand near the Caesar Fountain for the best angle of the Town Hall.
- Name: Archdiocesan Museum Terrace Type: museum Why go: You get a unique view of the ancient city walls and the cathedral grounds. Best for: Art fans Where: Near St. Wenceslas Cathedral Time: 1 hour (including museum) Cost: Included in museum ticket Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the main square toward the castle. Tip: The museum itself is a UNESCO-recognized site for its historical value.
- Name: Olomouc Museum of Art (Roof Terrace) Type: museum Why go: It provides a modern perspective on the old town rooftops and the Church of Our Lady of the Snows. Best for: Contemporary vibes Where: Denisova Street Time: 45 minutes Cost: Museum entry fee applies Getting there: Located on the main street connecting the squares. Tip: Check the Olomouc Museum of Art website for current exhibition hours.
- Name: Bezručovy Sady (City Walls) Type: nature Why go: Walk along the high medieval walls for a view of the botanical gardens and the river. Best for: Relaxing walks Where: Southern edge of the Old Town Time: 30-60 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Accessible via stairs from the Lower Square. Tip: This is the best spot for sunset views of the city fortifications.
- Name: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí) Type: experience Why go: Offers a wide view of the Marian Plague Column and colorful townhouses. Best for: Families Where: South of the Upper Square Time: 15 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: A 1-minute walk from the Town Hall. Tip: There are many cafes here with outdoor seating for ground-level views.
- Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: Located just outside the city, it offers a massive panoramic view of the entire Olomouc region. Best for: Half-day trips Where: 8km from the center Time: 2-3 hours Cost: Bus fare (approx. 20-40 CZK) Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the zoo located right next to the basilica while you are there.
Planning Your Visit to Olomouc Towers
Most towers in Olomouc have seasonal hours. They are usually open from April through October. During winter, some towers may close due to ice or low light. Always check the Olomouc Tourism Portal before you go. This ensures you have the latest schedule for your trip.
Buying tickets is usually straightforward. For the Town Hall, you must visit the information center on the ground floor. They offer guided tours at specific times. Other church towers may operate on a donation basis. Keep some small Czech koruna coins ready for these instances.
Physical fitness is important for the older towers. Most do not have elevators. You may need to climb over 200 steps to reach the top. The stairs can be steep and wooden. If you have mobility issues, stick to the museum terraces or the park walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Town Hall Tower views tickets?
You can purchase tickets at the Olomouc Information Centre. It is located on the ground floor of the Town Hall building in the Upper Square. They offer specific time slots for guided climbs. It is best to book your spot early in the day during peak summer months.
What are the best panoramic viewpoints in Olomouc Old Town for free?
The best free viewpoints include the Upper Square and the Lower Square for ground-level vistas. For elevated views without a fee, walk along the city walls in Bezručovy Sady. St. Maurice Church Tower also often operates on a voluntary donation basis rather than a fixed ticket price.
Is the Town Hall Tower in Olomouc accessible by elevator?
No, the Town Hall Tower requires climbing a significant number of stairs. There is no elevator service for the public to reach the viewing gallery. Visitors should be prepared for a physical climb. For an accessible view, consider the Archdiocesan Museum which has better facilities.
Olomouc offers some of the most rewarding views in Central Europe. From the heights of the Town Hall to the quiet walls of Bezručovy Sady, there is a viewpoint for everyone. Make sure to prioritize the Town Hall Tower for the best central experience. Don't forget to explore the rest of the region with this Olomouc sightseeing guide. Enjoy your trip to this historic Moravian gem!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Olomouc Tourism Portal — unverified: Official DMO site.
- Statutory City of Olomouc — unverified: Municipal government portal.
- Visit Czechia - Olomouc — unverified: National tourism board page.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO designation page.
- Lonely Planet Olomouc — unverified: Major international travel editorial.
