Svatý Kopeček Holy Hill Day Trip: At a Glance

This itinerary focuses on the best sights on the hill. It is designed for families, couples, and solo travelers. You will spend about six to eight hours on this excursion. The schedule is flexible to fit your pace. If you have more time, consider exploring other Olomouc highlights during your stay.

• 09:00 AM: Depart Olomouc Main Station via Bus 11.
• 09:30 AM: Explore the Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary.
• 11:30 AM: Walk to the Olomouc Zoo entrance.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant on the hill.
• 01:30 PM: Tour the zoo and climb the observation tower.
• 04:30 PM: Hike or bus back to the city center.
• 06:00 PM: Dinner near the Holy Trinity Column.

Logistics Tip: Buy a 24-hour transit pass in Olomouc. It covers the bus to the hill and all city trams. This saves you money and time throughout the day.

How to Reach Svatý Kopeček from Olomouc

Getting to the hill is very easy. Public transport is the most popular choice for visitors. Go to the stop in front of the Olomouc main train station. Look for bus number 11 heading toward Svatý Kopeček. The ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently, usually every 15 minutes on weekdays.

You can check the latest schedules on the Olomouc Tourism Portal. Tickets can be bought from yellow machines or via a mobile app. If you prefer to drive, there are several paid parking lots near the zoo. The drive from the city center takes only 10 minutes. Parking can be busy on summer weekends.

For active travelers, there is a marked hiking trail. It starts near the St. Wenceslas Cathedral in the city. The walk is about 8 kilometers long. It follows a gentle uphill path through fields and forests. This is a great way to see the Moravian landscape up close.

Morning: The Basilica of the Visitation

Start your Svatý Kopeček Holy Hill day trip at the Basilica. This church is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It was built in the 17th century. The twin towers are visible from many miles away. It serves as a spiritual beacon for the entire region. Many pilgrims travel here to seek peace and reflection.

The interior is filled with golden decorations and beautiful frescoes. Look up at the ceiling to see detailed religious paintings. The main altar is especially impressive. Pope John Paul II visited this site in 1995. He elevated the church to a Minor Basilica during his stay. This event made the hill even more famous across Europe.

Estimated Time: 1.5 hours. Entry to the main nave is usually free. Some special tours of the cloisters may require a small fee. Always check for scheduled masses before you enter. Silence is expected inside the holy areas. You can find more historical context on the Visit Czechia website.

Afternoon: Wildlife and Nature at the Zoo

After the Basilica, walk five minutes to the Olomouc Zoo. This zoo is unique because it sits inside a pine forest. It covers over 40 hectares of land. You can see over 400 species of animals here. The enclosures are designed to feel natural and spacious. It is a top destination for families in 2026.

Don't miss the giant shark aquarium near the entrance. The giraffe house allows you to see these tall animals at eye level. There is also a walk-through monkey exhibit. The highlight for many is the 32-meter metal observation tower. From the top, you can see the Jeseníky Mountains. On clear days, the view is truly breathtaking.

Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours. The paths are well-paved but include some hills. Wear comfortable walking shoes for this part of the trip. You can take a break at the various snack stands. For a more structured park experience, compare this to the Olomouc parks in the city center. Both offer great green spaces for relaxation.

Evening: Returning to Olomouc Center

Head back to the bus stop near the zoo entrance. Take bus 11 back to the main station. From there, hop on a tram to the Upper and Lower Square. The historic center comes alive in the evening. The buildings are beautifully lit, creating a magical atmosphere. This is the perfect time for photos.

For dinner, try a traditional Moravian restaurant. You must sample the famous Olomouc tvarůžky cheese. It has a strong scent but a delicious, unique flavor. Pair it with a local beer or a glass of Moravian wine. Many restaurants near the Holy Trinity Column serve these specialties.

Optional Swap: If you are tired of walking, skip the zoo. Instead, visit the Olomouc Museum of Art back in town. It offers a quieter, indoor experience for art lovers. This is a great backup plan if it starts to rain. The museum has a fantastic collection of modern and classical works.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Plan your trip for a weekday if possible. Svatý Kopeček is very popular with locals on Saturdays and Sundays. Crowds are much smaller from Tuesday to Thursday. Most attractions open at 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. Check the weather forecast before you go. The hill is often windier and cooler than the city center.

Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. There are public fountains with clean drinking water near the Basilica. The total cost for the day is quite low. Expect to pay around 10 to 15 Euros for zoo entry. Bus fares are only a few Euros. It is a very budget-friendly day trip for any traveler.

Accessibility Note: The Basilica is accessible for wheelchairs. However, some parts of the zoo have steep slopes. If you have mobility issues, use the zoo's tourist train. It circles the main exhibits and saves you from climbing hills. Always carry some cash, as small kiosks might not take cards.