Olomouc Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, and local culture of Olomouc in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Olomouc

Olomouc is a beautiful city located in North Moravia and Silesia of Czech Republic. With its unique architecture, rich history, and breathtaking natural scenery, Olomouc has become a tourist hotspot in recent years. The city has a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of cultural and outdoor activities making it an ideal destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Olomouc

If you are planning a trip to Olomouc, here is a list of some of the must-see attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Olomouc Museum of Art: This museum is known for its exceptional collection of sculptures and modern art pieces.
  • Archbishop’s Palace: A historical palace, which is home to the Archbishop of Olomouc.
  • Holy Trinity Column: A UNESCO World Heritage site located in the town center, known for its Baroque architecture.
  • St. Wenceslas Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral with gothic architecture located in the town center.
  • Olomouc Fortress: A historical fortress built in the 1700s, which consists of a series of underground tunnels and a museum.

Natural Attractions of Olomouc: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Svatý Kopeček: A religious pilgrimage site located 5 km from the city center, known for its beautiful gardens and scenic views.
  • Litovelské Pomoraví: A national park located on the outskirts of Olomouc, which is great for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
  • Olomoucký vrch: A hill located on the eastern side of the city, which is great for hiking and offers panoramic views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Olomouc

Olomouc has a great network of hiking and biking trails, which cater to different levels of fitness and interest. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Olomouc – Litovel: A 22 km biking route, which is relatively flat and passes through scenic countryside.
  • Železniční Stezka: A 42 km biking and hiking trail, which follows an old railway track and passes through beautiful natural scenery.
  • Koruna Olomouce: A 24 km hiking trail, which goes around the periphery of Olomouc, offering panoramic views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Olomouc: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to do in Olomouc:

  • Olomouc Beer Tour: A tour that takes you to some of the best breweries in Olomouc to sample local beers.
  • Olomouc Segway Tour: A fun way to explore the city on a segway, with an experienced guide.
  • Olomouc Walking Tour: A tour that takes you to the most popular tourist attractions and hidden gems of the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Olomouc

If you have a week in Olomouc, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Explore the historical town center of Olomouc
2 Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art and the Archbishop’s Palace
3 Hike or bike in Litovelské Pomoraví National Park
4 Visit Svatý Kopeček, Holy Trinity Column, and St. Wenceslas Cathedral
5 Go on a beer tour and visit local breweries
6 Take a day trip to the city of Brno
7 Relax and enjoy the city at your own pace

Food and Drink Scene of Olomouc

A trip to Olomouc is not complete without trying its local cuisine and beer. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Olomoucké tvarůžky: A local cheese made from skimmed milk, which is either fried or eaten raw.
  • Moravian sparrow: A traditional stew made with meat and vegetables, often served with bread dumplings.
  • Knedlíky: A type of dumpling, that is served with various sauces and meats.

Local Beverages

  • Olomouc Beer: The city is known for its local beer, which can be found in many breweries scattered around the city.
  • Slivovice: A traditional Czech plum brandy, which is popular in Olomouc.

Where to Stay in Olomouc: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Olomouc has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular choices:

Hotels

  • NH Collection Olomouc Congress: A modern hotel, located in the city center with spacious rooms and a restaurant.
  • Hotel Trinity: A historic hotel located near Holy Trinity Column, with comfortable rooms and a bar.
  • Theresian Hotel & Spa: A luxurious hotel located near the Olomouc Fortress, which features a spa and fitness center.

Hostels

  • Poet’s Corner Hostel: A cozy hostel located in the heart of the city, with private and dormitory-style rooms.
  • Long Story Short Hostel & Café: Another hostel located in the center of the city, which also has a café.

Guesthouses

  • Ubytování U Hrabalů: A guesthouse located in the town center, which is comfortable and affordable.
  • Penzion Archa: A family-run guesthouse located near the Olomouc Fortress, which offers modern rooms and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Olomouc: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking to buy gifts or souvenirs to bring back home, here are some suggestions:

  • Olomoucké tvarůžky: A famous cheese of the region, which is sold in most local markets and supermarkets.
  • Czech glassware: The Czech Republic is known for its glassware, and Olomouc has a few shops that sell beautiful crystal glasses and other glassware.
  • Moravian wine: The region is known for its wine, and there are several wine stores in the city that offer tastings and sell bottles.

Local Culture and Customs of Olomouc

The people of Olomouc are known for their friendly and hospitable nature. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Czech and Moravian traditions.

Best Time to Visit Olomouc

The best time to visit Olomouc is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the city also has a charm during spring and autumn, when the crowds are fewer and the weather is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Olomouc

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Olomouc:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially Olomoucké tvarůžky.
  • Explore the city on foot or by bike.
  • Attend local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in public places.
  • Don’t exchange money on the street, use only authorized exchange centers or banks.
  • Don’t take photos in churches unless it is explicitly allowed.

Safety and Health

Safety in Olomouc

Olomouc is a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always best to take precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and staying in well-lit areas.

Health in Olomouc

Olomouc has a good healthcare system, with medical facilities easily accessible in case of emergencies. However, it is advisable to have travel insurance before arriving in the city.

Getting to Olomouc: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Olomouc

The nearest airport to Olomouc is Brno-Tuřany Airport, which is around 74 km away from the city center. Other airports such as Prague Airport (225 km), Ostrava Leos Janacek Airport (87 km), and Vienna International Airport (212 km) are also accessible by public transport.

Bus Stations Near Olomouc

Olomouc has a modern bus station (Central bus station) located in the city center, from where you can catch buses to other major cities in Czech Republic and beyond.

Other Options

  • Train: Olomouc has a train station, with regular trains connecting it to major cities in Czech Republic, as well as Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Krakow.
  • Car: You can hire a car from any major city in Czech Republic to reach Olomouc.

How to Get Around in Olomouc

The best way to explore Olomouc is on foot or by bike. The city is relatively small and has a pedestrian-friendly zone in the town center. Alternatively, you can use public transport, which includes trams and buses.

Where to Go Next from Olomouc: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can do from Olomouc:

  • Brno: The second largest city in Czech Republic, known for its historical landmarks and picturesque gardens.
  • Prague: The capital of Czech Republic, known for its unique architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.
  • Kroměříž: A small town near Olomouc, known for its impressive castle and beautiful gardens.

Conclusion

Olomouc is a wonderful city that offers a unique blend of culture and nature. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and natural beauty, the city has something to offer for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Olomouc and make the most of your travel experience.

Town Hall & Holy Trinity Column on the main square of Olomouc Town Hall & Holy Trinity Column on the main square of Olomouc Tram stop in Olomouc Tram stop in Olomouc Astronomical clock Astronomical clock St Michael's church St Michael's church Hradisko monastery Hradisko monastery Arion fountain Arion fountain City walls of Olomouc City walls of Olomouc '''Olomoucké tvarůžky''', local cheese '''Olomoucké tvarůžky''', local cheese City view City view Bouzov Castle Bouzov Castle