The Best Alternative Nightlife and Student Bars in Olomouc

Olomouc offers a gritty and authentic vibe that is hard to find elsewhere. Many of the best spots are located in historic cellars. These venues often double as art galleries or community spaces. You should explore our alternative guide to Olomouc for more cultural context. Here are the top locations for a memorable night out.

1. Name: Ponorka (Hospoda Ponorka) Type: Underground Pub Why go: It is the most legendary alternative spot in the city. The name means "The Submarine." It features dark, metallic interiors and a very local crowd. Best for: Gritty atmosphere and cheap beer. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: Low (usually 40–60 CZK for a beer). Getting there: Walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Don't expect fancy service; just enjoy the raw energy.
2. Name: Vertigo Type: Student Bar Why go: This is a classic student hangout. It has multiple levels and a great terrace for summer. It is often packed with international Erasmus students. Best for: Meeting other travelers and students. Where: Mariánská Street. Time: 3+ hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Located near the University Rectorate. Tip: Try the local spirits for a true student experience.
3. Name: Jazz Tibet Club Type: Music Venue/Bar Why go: It is one of the most beautiful venues in Moravia. It hosts international jazz, indie, and alternative acts. The wooden interior is cozy and historic. Best for: Live music lovers. Where: Sokolská Street. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate (check ticket prices for shows). Getting there: Five-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Check their calendar online before you visit.
4. Name: Bar 15 minut Type: Alternative Club Why go: This spot is famous for its eclectic music taste. You might hear techno one night and punk the next. It has a very inclusive and open-minded vibe. Best for: Dancing and alternative music. Where: Komenského Street. Time: Late night. Cost: Low to Moderate. Getting there: Take a tram to the Náměstí Hrdinů stop. Tip: It is a great place to see Olomouc street art and culture posters.
5. Name: U-Klub Type: Student Nightclub Why go: This is the heart of the university party scene. It is located right in the dorm area. They host themed nights and large student concerts. Best for: Large parties and university events. Where: Šmeralova Street. Time: All night. Cost: Very cheap. Getting there: Walk from the Envelopa student dorms. Tip: Bring your student ID for even lower entry prices.
6. Name: Letní kino Olomouc Type: Outdoor Cultural Hub Why go: In the summer, this old cinema becomes a massive outdoor bar. It is the best place to drink under the stars. It often hosts festivals and alternative screenings. Best for: Warm summer evenings. Where: Pekární Street. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Free entry to the bar area. Getting there: Short walk from the city walls. Tip: Check out the best craft beer pubs in Olomouc center nearby.
7. Name: S-Klub Type: Concert Hall/Club Why go: It is a major venue for Czech and Slovak bands. The sound system is excellent. It offers a more professional clubbing experience than the smaller bars. Best for: Big concerts and DJ sets. Where: 17. listopadu Street. Time: Late night. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Near the university sports hall. Tip: Buy tickets in advance for popular local bands.
8. Name: Hospoda U Musea Type: Traditional Alternative Pub Why go: Located next to the Olomouc Museum of Art, this pub is a favorite for artists. It is small, smoky, and full of history. It feels like stepping back in time. Best for: Quiet drinks and deep conversations. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Located in the historic center. Tip: It is right next to Ponorka, so visit both in one night.
9. Name: Belmondo Club Type: Mainstream/Student Club Why go: While more mainstream, it is a staple for students on Tuesday nights. It is located in a historic building with a modern interior. Best for: Mid-week partying. Where: Mlýnská Street. Time: All night. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the Lower Square. Tip: Tuesday is the biggest night for university students here.
10. Name: Šestka Type: University Pub Why go: It is located directly in one of the university buildings. It is the definition of a student bar. The prices are among the lowest in the city. Best for: A quick beer between or after lectures. Where: Na Hradě Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Very low. Getting there: Near the Faculty of Arts. Tip: It is a great place to meet local students and ask for tips.
11. Name: Civilní obrana (Shelter Bar) Type: Underground Experience Why go: Some bars are located in old bunkers or shelters. These offer a unique, claustrophobic but cool atmosphere. You can learn more via secret underground tours in Olomouc. Best for: History buffs and curious drinkers. Where: Varies (check local listings for pop-ups). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Usually located near the city parks. Tip: These spots are sometimes seasonal or event-based.

Alternative Nightlife and Student Bars Near Olomouc

If you want to explore beyond the city center, there are great options nearby. These locations provide a different perspective on Moravian life. You can find more ideas in our guide to offbeat day trips from Olomouc. Here are two excellent choices for an evening excursion.

1. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: Scenic Viewpoint/Pubs Why go: While famous for its basilica, the hill offers great local pubs with views. It is a favorite spot for students to watch the sunset with a beer. Best for: Romantic evenings and city views. Where: 8km from Olomouc. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Use our Svatý Kopeček day trip guide to plan your full afternoon.
2. Name: Prostějov Local Pubs Type: Nearby City Excursion Why go: This nearby town has a very local, non-touristy nightlife scene. It is perfect for those who want to escape the university crowd. Best for: Authentic Moravian pub crawling. Where: 20km from Olomouc. Time: 5 hours. Cost: Very low. Getting there: 20-minute train ride from Olomouc main station. Tip: Check the last train back, as they usually stop around midnight.

Practical Tips for Your Olomouc Night Out

Navigating the nightlife here is quite simple. Most bars accept cards, but keep some cash for smaller pubs. The Czech Koruna (CZK) is the local currency. You should always carry a small amount of change for public toilets. Most student bars are very casual, so no dress code is needed.

Public transport is excellent and runs late. Night trams connect the main student areas and the train station. You can buy tickets via a mobile app or at yellow machines. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available and quite cheap. Always check the official Olomouc Tourism Portal for any festival updates.

Respect the local noise laws after 10:00 PM. Residents appreciate quiet in the narrow streets of the old town. If you are looking for a break from drinking, consider visiting the Olomouc Museum of Art during the day. It provides great context for the city's alternative spirit. Enjoy the unique blend of history and youth that this city offers.