Fort Křelov opening hours and ticket prices for 2026

Fort Křelov, also known as Fort XVII, is a highlight of the city's defense system. It is a very popular spot for history fans. Before you go, you should know the Fort Křelov opening hours and ticket prices for your visit. The fort is usually open from May through September. During these months, you can visit on Saturdays and Sundays.

Standard opening hours are typically from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For 2026, expect ticket prices to be around 120 CZK for adults. Children and seniors often receive a discounted rate of about 80 CZK. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal. It is always smart to check for special events that might change these times.

Groups should book their tours in advance. This ensures a guide is available to show you the underground tunnels. The fort also has a restaurant that serves local Moravian food. This makes it a great place for a half-day trip from the city center. Be sure to bring cash as some smaller forts do not take cards.

10 Must-See Olomouc Historical Military Fortresses

The Olomouc fortress system is vast and unique. It was once one of the strongest bastions in the Austrian Empire. Here are the top ten sites you should include in your itinerary.

1. Name: Fort Křelov (XVII) Type: sight Why go: It is one of the most complete forts in the system. Best for: Families and history enthusiasts. Where: Křelov-Břuchotín village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: ~120 CZK. Getting there: Bus 18 or 20 from the main station. Tip: Visit during a reenactment event for a special experience.
2. Name: Fort Radíkov (II) Type: sight Why go: This fort features a unique "festive" design and deep dry moats. Best for: Photographers and hikers. Where: Radíkov district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: ~100 CZK. Getting there: Take a bus to the Svatý Kopeček area and walk. Tip: Learn more about how to visit Fort Radíkov Olomouc before you go.
3. Name: The Crown Fortress (Korunní pevnůstka) Type: iconic sight Why go: It is located right in the city center and hosts many festivals. Best for: Easy access and city walks. Where: Near the botanical gardens. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry to the grounds; museums have fees. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Check out the Science Museum located inside the old powder magazine.
4. Name: Fort Neředín (XV) Type: sight Why go: It offers a look at how nature is reclaiming these old stone structures. Best for: Urban explorers. Where: Neředín neighborhood. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (exterior only). Getting there: Tram 2 or 7 to the terminus. Tip: The area is great for a quiet evening walk.
5. Name: Fort Tafelberg Type: museum/indoor Why go: It houses a fascinating Museum of Civil Defense. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Near the University Hospital. Time: 2 hours. Cost: ~100 CZK. Getting there: Tram 1, 4, or 6. Tip: The underground bunkers are very cool even in summer.
6. Name: Theresian Gate (Terezská brána) Type: neighborhood/market Why go: This is the last remaining gate of the city's brick walls. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Palachovo náměstí. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the central pedestrian zone. Tip: It looks beautiful when lit up at night.
7. Name: Bezručovy Sady (City Walls) Type: viewpoint/nature Why go: You can walk along the high stone walls overlooking the river. Best for: Romantic walks and views. Where: South side of the historic center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Lower Square. Tip: Use the map of Olomouc fortress system cycling route to find the best paths.
8. Name: Fort Chválkovice (IV) Type: sight Why go: A massive fort that shows the scale of the 19th-century works. Best for: Serious military buffs. Where: Chválkovice district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (exterior). Getting there: Bus 11 from the center. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven.
9. Name: Fort Galgenberg (XXII) Type: sight Why go: It provides a great example of the outer defense ring. Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travel. Where: Near the airport. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Best reached by bicycle. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby aviation museum.
10. Name: Fort Bystročice (XVIII) Type: day trip Why go: A quiet location that feels like a trip back in time. Best for: Cyclists. Where: South of the city near Bystročice village. Time: 3 hours (including travel). Cost: Free. Getting there: Cycle south along the Morava river. Tip: Bring water and snacks as there are few shops nearby.

Tips for exploring Olomouc historical military fortresses

Planning your tour requires some thought about logistics. Most of the forts are spread around the city outskirts. The best way to see several in one day is by bicycle. Olomouc has many flat paths that connect these historical sites. You can find more travel advice on the Visit Czechia - Olomouc page.

Always check the weather before heading to the outer forts. Many sites are mostly outdoors and offer little shelter from rain. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the gravel paths and tunnels. If you are visiting in 2026, look for the "Fortress Day" festival. This event often opens forts that are usually closed to the public.

Safety is also important when exploring older ruins. Stay on marked paths and do not climb on unstable walls. Some forts are privately owned or used as warehouses. Always respect "No Entry" signs where they appear. Carrying a small flashlight is helpful for peering into dark embrasures and corridors.