What does Olomouc cheese taste and smell like?

The aroma of Olomouc cheese is its most striking feature. It has a very pungent, fermented scent. Some people compare it to well-aged gym socks or strong feet. This smell comes from the natural ripening process of the curd. It is strong enough to fill a whole room if left uncovered. Do not let the smell discourage you from the first bite.

The taste is surprisingly different from the smell. It is very salty and tangy. You will notice a rich umami flavor that lingers on the tongue. It has a slightly spicy kick but is not hot. The texture is soft and waxy, often with a gooey center. It is a lean cheese with almost zero fat content.

Many locals enjoy it on sourdough bread with plenty of butter. The butter helps balance the intense saltiness. You can also find it fried or baked into savory pastries. For more details on local flavors, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal. Understanding the profile helps you appreciate this unique delicacy.

9 Best Ways to Experience Olomouc Tvarůžky

Olomouc offers many ways to enjoy its famous cheese. From sweet shops to historic pubs, the options are endless. Here are nine specific places and activities to add to your itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Tvarůžková Cukrárna
• Best for families: Museum of Olomouc Cheese
• Best rainy-day: Hanácká Hospoda
• Best free: Olomouc Farmer's Market (browsing)

1. Name: Tvarůžková Cukrárna Type: Experience Why go: This is a "cheese dessert shop" that makes savory pastries look like cakes. Best for: Adventurous foodies. Where: Denisova Street, City Center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 2–5 EUR. Getting there: A short walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Try the "tvarůžkový šáteček," a puff pastry filled with cheese.
2. Name: Museum of Olomouc Cheese (A. W. Tvarůžky) Type: Day trip Why go: Learn the history of the cheese since the 15th century. Best for: History buffs. Where: Loštice (30km from Olomouc). Time: 2 hours. Cost: 4–8 EUR. Getting there: Take a regional bus or drive for 30 minutes. Tip: Visit the shop next door for the freshest cheese at factory prices.
3. Name: Hanácká Hospoda Type: Sight/Activity Why go: This traditional pub serves the best fried tvarůžky in the city. Best for: A hearty dinner. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 10–15 EUR for a meal. Getting there: Walkable from any central hotel. Tip: You can find best restaurants serving fried Olomouc cheese in this area.
4. Name: Tvarůžky Vending Machine Type: Unique experience Why go: It is a rare sight to see a refrigerated machine dedicated to one cheese. Best for: Quick snacks. Where: Near the City Hall. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: 2–4 EUR. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Upper Square. Tip: Use this if you want to know where to buy authentic Olomouc cheese in city center quickly.
5. Name: Olomouc Farmer's Market Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: Buy fresh cheese directly from local producers. Best for: Freshness and local atmosphere. Where: Near the Tržnice (Market Hall). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry; cheese from 2 EUR. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Look for the "Haná" label for regional authenticity.
6. Name: Moritz Microbrewery Type: Local experience Why go: Their dark beer pairs perfectly with the salty cheese. Best for: Evening relaxation. Where: Nešverova Street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: 5–10 EUR. Getting there: 15-minute walk from the center. Tip: Order the "tvarůžková pomazánka" (cheese spread).
7. Name: Holy Trinity Column Sightseeing Type: Iconic sight Why go: Eat your cheese snack while viewing a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central landmark. Tip: Read about the Holy Trinity Column Olomouc history while you relax.
8. Name: Restaurace U Bulánka Type: Day trip Why go: Famous for creative cheese recipes like cheese-stuffed meat. Best for: Large groups. Where: Loštice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 12–20 EUR. Getting there: Best reached by car or bus to Loštice. Tip: Book a table in advance on weekends.
9. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Cafe Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: Enjoy a modern twist on cheese snacks in a refined setting. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 5–8 EUR. Getting there: Located inside the Olomouc Museum of Art. Tip: Check out the terrace for a great city view.

Practical Tips for Tasting Olomouc Cheese

If you are a first-time taster, do not eat the cheese cold. Let it reach room temperature first. This softens the texture and brings out the full flavor. Always have a drink nearby. A cold Czech lager is the traditional choice to cut through the salt.

Be careful when transporting the cheese. The smell will permeate your luggage quickly. Use airtight containers or multiple plastic bags. Most shops in the city center offer vacuum-sealed packaging for travelers. This is helpful for long train rides or flights.

Check the expiration date on the package. The cheese continues to ripen and get stronger over time. If the cheese looks very dark or dry, it might be past its prime. Fresh tvarůžky should be golden yellow and slightly translucent. Enjoying it with fresh onions and rye bread is the most authentic way.