12 Must-See Highlights in Olomouc

Olomouc is easy to explore on foot. Most major sights sit within the historic center. You should start your journey at the Upper Square. This area holds the most famous landmarks. Many visitors enjoy a free self-guided Olomouc walking tour to save money. Here are the top 12 spots you cannot miss.

• Best overall: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for families: Flora Olomouc Parks
• Best rainy-day: Archdiocesan Museum
• Best free: Baroque Fountains

1. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible detail. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main train station or take any tram to the center. Tip: Look for the golden cannonball that reminds visitors of the 1758 siege.
2. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: experience Why go: This is a unique socialist-realist version of a medieval clock. Best for: Fans of unusual history. Where: Town Hall, Upper Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Read this astronomical clock guide to understand the worker figures.
3. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: It features the second-highest church tower in the Czech Republic. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Take tram 2, 4, or 6 to the U Dómu stop. Tip: Check out the cathedral visiting info for crypt access.
4. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Type: museum Why go: It holds a vast collection of religious art and a golden carriage. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Near the Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approximately 150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Cathedral. Tip: Visit the museum highlights to see the Romanesque palace remains.
5. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: A stunning Baroque basilica with views over the entire region. Best for: Nature and spirituality. Where: 8km from the city center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Bus fare + free entry. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main station. Tip: Learn more about this pilgrimage site before you go.
6. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: sight Why go: It is the largest and most complex of the city's Baroque fountains. Best for: Quick photo stops. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the main square. Tip: Notice the statue of Julius Caesar, the city's legendary founder.
7. Name: Olomouc Fortress Bastions Type: sight Why go: These remains show the city's history as a military stronghold. Best for: Military history fans. Where: Various spots around the old town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walkable from the center. Tip: Explore the fortress bastions for great park views.
8. Name: St. Maurice Church Type: sight Why go: It houses one of the largest organs in Central Europe. Best for: Music lovers and views. Where: Near the Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee for tower climb. Getting there: Walk from the Town Hall. Tip: Climb the tower for the best view of the Holy Trinity Column.
9. Name: Flora Olomouc Parks Type: nature Why go: Beautiful botanical gardens and large green spaces. Best for: Families and relaxation. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free for most park areas. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the center. Tip: Visit during the flower festivals in spring or late summer.
10. Name: Arion Fountain Type: sight Why go: A modern addition that fits perfectly with the Baroque style. Best for: Children (they can play in the water). Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Next to the Town Hall. Tip: Look for the bronze turtles that kids love to sit on.
11. Name: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí) Type: neighborhood Why go: It is quieter than the Upper Square and very charming. Best for: Coffee and people-watching. Where: Just south of the Upper Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: 2-minute walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: See the Marian Plague Column, which is older than the Holy Trinity one.
12. Name: Town Hall Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Get a bird's-eye view of the UNESCO column and the city. Best for: Photographers. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Around 50-100 CZK. Getting there: Enter through the tourist information center. Tip: Check the tour times as access is often guided.

Deep Dive into UNESCO Holy Trinity Column History

The UNESCO Holy Trinity Column history began in 1716. This was shortly after a devastating plague hit Moravia. The citizens wanted to show their gratitude for the end of the disease. While many cities built plague columns, Olomouc wanted something grander. They hired local artists and craftsmen for the project. This decision makes the monument a true symbol of local patriotism. You can see the official listing on the UNESCO World Heritage list for more details.

Construction lasted for 38 years. It was finally finished in 1754. The column stands 35 meters high. It features 18 sculptures of saints and 12 light-bearer figures. At the very top, you see the Holy Trinity in copper and gold. The base even contains a small chapel. This chapel is sometimes open to the public during the summer months. It is a masterpiece of the high Baroque style.

The column is unique because of its scale. Most columns of this type are much smaller. The creators used high-quality stone from local quarries. During the 1758 Prussian siege, the column was hit by cannonballs. The citizens of Olomouc begged the Prussian general not to fire at it. He agreed, showing the monument's universal value even then. Today, it remains the pride of the Visit Czechia itinerary for Moravia.

In 2000, UNESCO added the column to its prestigious list. They recognized it as an exceptional example of Central European Baroque art. It represents the height of religious expression in the region. When you stand before it, the sheer number of statues is overwhelming. Each figure has a specific meaning and history. You should spend time walking around the base to see every detail. It is a highlight of any trip to the Czech Republic.

Essential Tips for Your Olomouc Visit

Planning a trip to Olomouc is straightforward. The city is well-connected by train from Prague. The journey takes about two to three hours. Once you arrive, the historic center is very compact. You can reach most sights within 15 minutes of walking. For more details, visit the official tourism portal of the city. They offer maps and event schedules for 2026.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant. You can enjoy the outdoor cafes in the squares. If you prefer fewer crowds, try visiting in April or October. The winter months are cold but beautiful. The Christmas market in the Upper Square is very traditional. It is much less crowded than the markets in Prague.

Budgeting for Olomouc is easier than for larger cities. Prices for food and drinks are very reasonable. A local beer usually costs less than 3 Euros. Many of the top attractions are free to view from the outside. You should set aside money for museum entries and tower climbs. Most places accept credit cards, but keep some Czech Koruna for small shops. It is a very safe city for solo travelers and families alike.

Photography is best in the early morning. The light hits the Holy Trinity Column perfectly at sunrise. You will also avoid the groups of students and locals. Respect the religious sites by keeping your voice low inside churches. Wear comfortable shoes because the old town has many cobblestone streets. Olomouc is a place that rewards those who slow down. Take your time to enjoy the atmosphere of this historic Moravian capital.