Iconic Towers in the Heart of Olomouc

The city center is home to several historic towers. These structures provide the most central views of the main squares. You will need to climb many stairs, but the effort is worth it. Most towers are open from spring to autumn. Always check the weather before you start your climb. High winds or rain can sometimes close the top galleries for safety.

• Quick picks:
• Best Overall: Town Hall Tower
• Best for Photos: St. Moritz Church Tower
• Highest Point: St. Wenceslas Cathedral

1. Name: Town Hall Tower Type: sight Why go: This is the most famous spot for a Town Hall Tower Olomouc climb. You get a direct view of the Olomouc astronomical clock from above. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 45–60 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee (usually under 100 CZK). Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square. Tip: Check the opening hours for the Olomouc Town Hall Tower as they vary by season.
2. Name: St. Moritz Church Tower Type: sight Why go: It offers a stunning 360-degree view of the entire city. The double spiral staircase is a unique architectural feature. Best for: Panoramic city photos. Where: Near the Upper Square. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Usually a small voluntary donation or low fee. Getting there: A two-minute walk from the Town Hall. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so go early to avoid crowds.
3. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Tower Type: sight Why go: This is the second-highest church tower in the Czech Republic. It overlooks the historic Olomouc Castle district. Best for: Seeing the eastern part of the city. Where: Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee for the tower climb. Getting there: Take the tram to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: Visit the crypt inside the cathedral after you finish the climb.

Best Panoramic Viewpoints Over Olomouc City Center: Cultural Vistas

Beyond the church towers, Olomouc offers unique views from its cultural institutions. These spots often provide a more comfortable experience. You can enjoy the view from behind glass or from a modern terrace. These locations are great for those who prefer elevators over stairs. They also offer a different perspective on the city's artistic heritage. Many of these sites are located within walking distance of each other.

1. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Terrace Type: experience Why go: The museum combines modern architecture with ancient ruins. The windows and small terraces overlook the cathedral and the city walls. Best for: Art fans and architecture buffs. Where: Next to St. Wenceslas Cathedral. Time: 1–2 hours (including museum visit). Cost: Included in the museum ticket price. Getting there: Located in the Olomouc Castle grounds. Tip: The museum is often free on certain Sundays each month.
2. Name: Palacký University Library (Zbrojnice) Type: experience Why go: This former military armory has beautiful views from its upper windows. You can see the greenery of the nearby parks. Best for: A quiet, local atmosphere. Where: Biskupské náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the building. Getting there: Walk five minutes from the Lower Square. Tip: Respect the students studying in the library by keeping noise levels low.
3. Name: Fort Science (Pevnost poznání) Type: activity Why go: This interactive science center is housed in a historic wooden storehouse. The upper floors offer views of the city ramparts and river. Best for: Families with children. Where: Bezručovy sady area. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Standard museum entry fee. Getting there: Walk through the park from the city center. Tip: Check out the planetarium inside while you are there.

Scenic Parks and Day Trip Destinations

For a wider perspective, you should head to the city's edge or nearby hills. These areas offer the best panoramic viewpoints over Olomouc city center from a distance. You can see how the city sits within the Moravian landscape. Some of these spots are perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk. Others require a short bus or tram ride. They are ideal for seeing the city lights at dusk or sunset.

1. Name: Bezručovy sady City Walls Type: sight Why go: Walking along the high stone ramparts gives you a great view of the botanical gardens. It is a peaceful way to see the city's fortification history. Best for: Budget travelers and walkers. Where: The southern edge of the historic center. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from several points near the center. Tip: Look for the "Jewish Gate" entrance for the best photo angle.
2. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: This hilltop basilica is located about 8 kilometers from the center. It offers the most famous long-distance view of Olomouc. Best for: A half-day excursion. Where: Svatý Kopeček district. Time: 3–4 hours. Cost: Free to view the vista; bus fare required. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the local zoo nearby if you have extra time.
3. Name: NH Collection Olomouc Congress Terrace Type: experience Why go: This modern hotel has a bar and terrace with a sleek view of the skyline. It is one of the few places to see the city from a modern building. Best for: Evening drinks and sunset. Where: Legionářská street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Price of a drink or meal. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Book a table in advance if you want a seat near the window.
4. Name: Čechovy sady Viewpoint Type: sight Why go: This park offers a lovely view of the city's western spires through the trees. It is especially beautiful during the autumn months. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Western side of the center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the "Náměstí Hrdinů" tram stop. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby Litovel Brewery gate.