Planning Your Visit to St Moritz Church

The Church of Saint Maurice (St. Moritz) is one of the most important late Gothic buildings in the country. It sits just a short walk from the main square. Before you go, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for any sudden changes. Generally, the church is open daily, but tourist access is restricted during religious services.

The interior is famous for the Engler organ, which is one of the largest in Central Europe. You can often hear it during rehearsals or summer festivals. The church feels peaceful and cool, even on hot summer days. It is a perfect place to escape the midday sun while admiring ancient stonework.

• Best overall: Climbing the South Tower for 360-degree views.
• Best for families: Exploring the wide open spaces of the nearby Upper Square.
• Best rainy-day: Listening to an organ concert inside the nave.
• Best free activity: Walking through the historic church interior.

10 Must-See Sights Near St Moritz Church

Olomouc offers a wealth of history beyond just one church. You can easily walk between most of these locations in a single afternoon. Use this list to plan your route through the historic center. Each spot offers a unique glimpse into Moravian culture and history.

1. Name: St. Moritz Church Interior Type: Sight Why go: To see the massive Engler organ and Gothic vaults. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Check for organ concert posters at the entrance.
2. Name: South Tower Type: Activity Why go: It is the best viewpoint in the entire city. Best for: Photographers. Where: Attached to St. Moritz Church. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small fee for climbing. Getting there: Entrance is inside the church. Tip: Learn more about climbing St Moritz Church tower Olomouc before you go.
3. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: This UNESCO monument is the largest Baroque group of statues in Central Europe. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 3-minute walk from the church. Tip: Look for the small chapel inside the base of the column.
4. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: Experience Why go: It features unique socialist-realist figures instead of traditional saints. Best for: Curious travelers. Where: Town Hall wall, Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Very close to the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Read about the socialist astronomical clock Olomouc to understand its history.
5. Name: Olomouc Tvarůžky Tasting Type: Experience Why go: Try the famous local "stinky" cheese that has a protected status. Best for: Foodies. Where: Local shops and restaurants near the square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low. Getting there: Look for the specialized cheese shops on the square. Tip: Try tasting Olomouc stinky cheese tvaruzky with fresh bread and beer.
6. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Type: Museum Why go: It houses incredible religious art and the Mozarteum hall. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Near the Wenceslas Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute walk or take the tram to Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Visit on Sundays when entry is often free.
7. Name: Smetana Park Type: Nature Why go: A massive green space perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic. Best for: Families. Where: Just outside the historic walls. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the city center. Tip: Visit during the Flora Olomouc flower show for stunning displays.
8. Name: Arion Fountain Type: Sight Why go: A modern fountain that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding history. Best for: Cooling off in summer. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Upper Square. Tip: The turtle statues are a hit with children.
9. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A fairytale fortress that looks like it belongs in a movie. Best for: Romantic outings. Where: 35km northwest of Olomouc. Time: Half-day. Cost: Moderate for tours. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized bus tour. Tip: Book your tour in advance during the summer peak.
10. Name: Kroměříž Gardens Type: Day trip Why go: This UNESCO site features stunning Baroque gardens and a palace. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: 45km south of Olomouc. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct trains run regularly from Olomouc main station. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the Flower Garden is quite large.

St Moritz Church Olomouc Opening Hours for Tourists Guide

The St Moritz Church Olomouc opening hours for tourists usually follow a standard pattern. During the summer season, the church is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. In the winter, hours may be shorter, often closing by 4:00 PM. It is wise to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing time. This ensures you have enough time to see the nave and the tower.

If you plan on climbing the tower, note that it has its own schedule. The tower usually opens a bit later than the church itself. Expect the stairs to be open from 10:00 AM until late afternoon. Be prepared for a workout, as there are many steps to reach the top. You can check the St Moritz Church tower stairs count to prepare yourself.

Sundays are different due to regular mass services. Tourists are generally asked not to wander around during worship times. Morning hours on Sunday are usually reserved for the local congregation. Plan your visit for Sunday afternoon to avoid interrupting the services. You can find more details on the Visit Czechia - Olomouc page.