Best Route for Walking the Olomouc City Walls and Gardens

The best way to experience the city is by following the green belt. This belt circles the historic core. You can start at the Archdiocesan Museum and walk south. This path takes you along the high stone walls that once protected the city. You will see how the medieval architecture blends with 19th-century landscaping. It is a great way to see the city from different angles.

Bezručovy sady is the most dramatic section of the walk. Here, the walls tower over the park path. You can look up at the spires of St. Michael's Church. The terrain here is slightly uneven but very scenic. It is one of the best scenic points along the Bezručovy sady gardens route. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for this section.

Smetanovy sady is the largest park in the city. It features long, straight alleys lined with tall trees. This park is famous for its floral exhibitions. It connects directly to the botanical gardens and the palm house. Walking here feels more like being in a grand European estate. The paths are wide and flat, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

Čechovy sady completes the loop on the western side. It is a bit smaller and quieter than the others. It is perfect for those seeking best parks in Olomouc for relaxation. You will find monuments and shaded benches here. The transition between these parks is seamless. You rarely have to cross busy roads, which makes the walk very pleasant.

A Detailed 1-Day Itinerary for Olomouc Parks

At a glance:

• Morning: Bezručovy sady and the Botanical Garden.
• Afternoon: Smetanovy sady and the Palm House.
• Evening: Čechovy sady and sunset at the walls.

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:30 PM): Start your day at the Litovel Gate. Enter Bezručovy sady and walk south along the river. This area features the most impressive fortifications. You will pass the botanical gardens early in the trip. Stop by the Olomouc Rosarium and botanical gardens to see rare plants. This section takes about three hours if you stop for photos.

Afternoon (1:30 PM – 4:30 PM): After a quick lunch, head to Smetanovy sady. This park is known for its grand fountain and the Flora Olomouc exhibition center. Visit the historic Palm House to see exotic greenery. The greenhouse is a warm escape even on cooler days. Take your time walking the long lime tree alleys. This is the heart of the city's garden culture.

Evening (5:00 PM – 7:30 PM): Walk toward Čechovy sady to enjoy the late afternoon light. The shadows of the trees create a beautiful atmosphere. Head back toward the Upper Square via the city gates. Find a spot on the ramparts to watch the sky change colors. You can find the best places for sunrise and sunset in Olomouc along these elevated walls. Finish your day with a meal in the historic center.

Logistics Tip: Most gardens are free to enter. However, the Palm House and some museum areas require a small fee. Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal opening times. Most paths are paved, but the wall sections have some stairs. Plan for about 5 to 7 kilometers of total walking distance.

Essential Tips for Walking the Olomouc City Walls

Before you start, you might wonder how long does it take to walk Olomouc city walls. A brisk walk takes about 90 minutes. However, a leisurely visit with garden stops takes a full day. We recommend starting early to avoid the midday heat in summer. The parks offer plenty of shade, but the walls can be sunny. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. In May, the flowers are in full bloom. In October, the leaves turn bright gold and orange. The city is less crowded during these shoulder seasons. You will have more space to enjoy the quiet corners. If it rains, the museums near the walls provide a great indoor alternative. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

The terrain is mostly flat in the main parks. However, the sections near the walls have some inclines. Some parts of the old fortifications have steep stone stairs. If you have mobility issues, stick to the lower park paths. These paths provide great views of the walls from below. Most of the route is accessible for strollers. It is a very family-friendly activity for all ages.

Where to Rest and Refuel Along the Route

Walking all day requires good food and rest. There are several quiet cafes in Olomouc for reading or resting near the park exits. Many of these cafes have outdoor seating in the summer. You can enjoy a Czech pastry while looking at the greenery. It is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere. Look for spots near the Terezská brána gate.

If you want to stay overnight, choose the historic center. There are many quiet boutique hotels in Olomouc historic center. Staying here means you are only steps away from the gardens. You can wake up early and enjoy the parks before the crowds arrive. Most hotels offer maps and advice for walking routes. This makes your trip much easier to manage.

For a budget-friendly option, pack a picnic. The gardens have many benches and open grassy areas. You can buy local cheese and bread at the market in the Upper Square. Eating lunch under a 100-year-old tree is a highlight for many. Just remember to keep the parks clean by using the bins. This helps preserve the beauty of the Olomouc region for everyone.