Top Nature Walks and Parks in Olomouc Center

The city center is home to three interconnected parks. These spaces form a green crescent around the historic walls. They are perfect for a quick break between sightseeing stops. You will find botanical wonders and historic monuments here. The paths are well-maintained and easy to navigate. Most of these areas are free to enter year-round.

• Best overall: Bezručovy sady
• Best for families: Smetanovy sady
• Best for quiet: Čechovy sady
• Best free activity: Mlynský potok riverside walk

1. Name: Bezručovy sady Type: Sight/Nature walk Why go: This is the most scenic park in the city. It runs along the historic stone fortifications. You can see the botanical gardens and a waterfall here. Best for: Photographers and history lovers. Where: Southeast edge of the historic center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from Upper Square in five minutes. Tip: Explore the best walking trails in Bezrucovy sady park to find the hidden grotto.
2. Name: Smetanovy sady Type: Park Why go: This is the largest and oldest park in Olomouc. It features a stunning 700-meter long lime tree avenue. It is the main hub for city festivals. Best for: Long strolls and people watching. Where: Near the main train station area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1, 4, or 6 to the 'Výstaviště Flora' stop. Tip: Visit the palm greenhouse located at the park's edge for a tropical escape.
3. Name: Čechovy sady Type: Park Why go: This park is known for its peaceful atmosphere. It is less crowded than Smetanovy sady. It features beautiful flower beds and statues. Best for: Reading a book or a quiet picnic. Where: Adjacent to the city center and Smetanovy sady. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Palacký University buildings. Tip: Look for the monument dedicated to the Red Army during your walk.

Exploring Nature Walks and Parks in Olomouc Suburbs

Beyond the city walls, the landscape changes. You will find rolling hills and protected river plains. These areas offer more rugged nature walks and parks in Olomouc. They are ideal for half-day or full-day adventures. You can easily reach them by public transport or bike. The air is crisp and the views are expansive.

1. Name: Svatý Kopeček Trails Type: Day trip/Nature walk Why go: This hill offers the best panoramic views of the region. Forest trails lead you through dense woods to a magnificent basilica. Best for: Hikers and spiritual seekers. Where: 8 kilometers northeast of the city. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free (bus fare required). Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Use our Svatý Kopeček day trip guide to find the best forest shortcuts.
2. Name: Litovelské Pomoraví Type: Nature/Day trip Why go: This is a protected landscape area. It follows the Morava River through ancient wetlands. It is a haven for rare birds and plants. Best for: Cycling and bird watching. Where: Starts at the northern edge of the city. Time: Full day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Rent a bike in the center and follow the marked trails north. Tip: This is one of the most offbeat day trips from Olomouc for nature fans.
3. Name: The Olomouc Fortress Belt Type: Experience/Nature walk Why go: Olomouc was once a major fortress city. Today, many old forts are surrounded by wild greenery. Walking between them combines military history with nature. Best for: History buffs and urban explorers. Where: Various locations around the city perimeter. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free to view exteriors. Getting there: Most are accessible by local city buses. Tip: Check the Olomouc fortress system visiting guide for a map of accessible forts.

Specialized Gardens and Seasonal Experiences

Olomouc is famous for its floral heritage. The city hosts international flower shows every year. These events transform the parks into vibrant canvases. Even outside of festival dates, specialized gardens offer unique flora. These spots provide a more curated nature experience. They are perfect for those who love botany and design.

1. Name: Botany Garden and Rosarium Type: Museum/Nature Why go: This garden houses over 40,000 plants. The Rosarium is especially beautiful when the roses bloom in June. It is located within the historic city moats. Best for: Flower enthusiasts and couples. Where: Inside Bezručovy sady. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee (usually under 100 CZK). Getting there: Enter through the gates in Bezručovy sady. Tip: The garden has specific seasonal hours, so check the gate signs first.
2. Name: Flora Olomouc Grounds Type: Experience Why go: This is the site of the famous Flora Olomouc exhibition. The grounds feature beautifully landscaped pavillions and outdoor beds. Best for: Seeing rare plant species. Where: Smetanovy sady area. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free (fees apply during exhibitions). Getting there: Tram stops 'Výstaviště Flora' or 'Wolkerova'. Tip: Plan your trip by checking when is the Flora Olomouc flower exhibition held in 2026.
3. Name: Mlynský potok Walk Type: Nature walk Why go: This mill stream flows through the heart of the city parks. The path alongside it is shaded and cool. It offers a unique perspective of the city's rear architecture. Best for: A quick afternoon stroll. Where: Runs through Bezručovy sady and Smetanovy sady. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from any central park entrance. Tip: Look for the local ducks and water birds that live along the banks.
4. Name: Park pod dómem Type: Viewpoint/Neighborhood Why go: This small park sits right below the massive St. Wenceslas Cathedral. It offers a quiet spot with a view of the UNESCO-listed surroundings. Best for: Sunset views and cathedral photos. Where: Below the cathedral hill. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the steps from the Cathedral square. Tip: It is a great place to rest after visiting the Archdiocesan Museum.