Historic Towers: The Giants of the Skyline

Olomouc is historically significant as the former capital of Moravia. Its defensive past and religious importance left behind massive vertical landmarks. Climbing these towers offers the most direct connection to the city's history. You get to touch the ancient stones while looking down at the bustling squares. These climbs are physical but rewarding. They provide the classic red-roof perspectives that define Czech cities. Here are the top three vertical experiences you cannot miss.

1. Name: St. Maurice Church Tower (Kostel svatého Mořice)
   Type: Gothic church tower
   Why go: It offers a 360-degree open-air view of the city center. The ascent involves a unique double-spiral stone staircase. This St. Maurice Church tower view is thrilling and slightly vertiginous.
   Best for: Adventure seekers and photographers wanting unobstructed shots.
   Where: 8. května Street, close to the Upper Square.
   Time: Allow 30–45 minutes.
   Cost: Usually free (donations accepted).
   Getting there: Walk from the Holy Trinity Column; it is just two minutes away.
   Tip: The final staircase is metal and see-through, so skip this if you have a severe fear of heights.
2. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Tower (Radniční věž)
   Type: Civic renaissance tower
   Why go: It stands directly in the center of the Upper Square (Horní náměstí). You get a perfect bird's-eye view of the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column. The Town Hall tower climb is part of a guided tour.
   Best for: History buffs and those who want to see the astronomical clock from above.
   Where: Horní náměstí (Upper Square).
   Time: Tours take about 1 hour total.
   Cost: Small fee (approx. 50–100 CZK).
   Getting there: Located right next to the Tourist Information Centre.
   Tip: Time your visit around noon to hear the astronomical clock chime before or after your climb.
3. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral South Tower
   Type: Neo-Gothic cathedral spire
   Why go: This is the tallest church tower in Moravia, standing over 100 meters high. It dominates the skyline and can be seen from miles away. The view specifically highlights the Olomouc Castle area and the university quarters. Check St. Wenceslas Cathedral tower access details before visiting, as hours vary seasonally.
   Best for: Maximum height and long-distance visibility.
   Where: Václavské náměstí (Wenceslas Square), near the Archdiocesan Museum.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Minimal entry fee.
   Getting there: Take trams 2, 4, or 6 to the 'Dóm sv. Václava' stop.
   Tip: Bring a zoom lens to capture details of the distant hills and the winding Morava River.

Panoramic Nature & Green Spaces

Not every great view requires a steep stair climb. Olomouc is surrounded by fertile Haná plains and rolling hills. The city also boasts an impressive ring of parks where the fortress walls used to stand. These spots offer a more relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy picnics while gazing at the architectural wonders. The juxtaposition of green nature and historic stone is beautiful here. These locations are excellent for families or those needing a break from cobblestones.

• Name: Svatý Kopeček (The Holy Hill)
  Type: Hilltop pilgrimage site
  Why go: The Minor Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary sits high above the city. The square in front of the church offers a sweeping panorama of Olomouc and the flat Haná region. It is arguably the best spot for the Svatý Kopeček panoramic overlook.
  Best for: Sunsets and spiritual atmosphere.
  Where: About 8 km northeast of the city center.
  Time: 2–3 hours (including travel).
  Cost: Free (bus fare required).
  Getting there: Take Bus No. 11 from the main train station directly to Svatý Kopeček.
  Tip: Visit the zoo nearby if you are traveling with children; it has its own observation tower.
• Name: Bezručovy Sady (Bezruč Gardens)
  Type: Public park below the city walls
  Why go: You are not looking down, but rather looking up. This park runs along the bottom of the towering city walls and rock formations. The view of St. Michael’s Church domes rising above the greenery is iconic. Try the Olomouc city walls walking route for the best angles.
  Best for: Romantic strolls and perspective shots.
  Where: South side of the historic center.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Free.
  Getting there: Access via steps from the university area or the botanical garden.
  Tip: Visit in autumn when the leaves turn gold against the red brick walls.
• Name: Flora Olomouc Parks (Smetanovy sady)
  Type: Botanical parkland
  Why go: The main avenue provides a clear sightline back toward the city center spires. It is a flat, easy walk lined with carefully manicured trees and flowers. You can see the density of the city's skyline from a distance.
  Best for: Relaxed walking and cyclists.
  Where: West of the center, near the Flora Exhibition grounds.
  Time: 1–2 hours.
  Cost: Free (greenhouses charge a fee).
  Getting there: Tram lines 1 or 4 to 'Výstaviště Flora'.
  Tip: Visit during one of the the flower exhibitions for extra color in your foreground.

Dining and Terraces with a View

Sometimes the best view involves a glass of Moravian wine. Several establishments capitalize on their location to offer scenic dining. You do not have to rough it to see the sights. These spots combine culinary experiences with visual treats. They are perfect for resting your feet after a day of walking. Reservations are often recommended during summer weekends.

• Name: Villa Primavesi Garden Terrace
  Type: Art Nouveau historic site
  Why go: This villa is an architectural gem located on the city walls. The garden terrace looks out over the park below. It offers a quiet, aristocratic atmosphere away from the tourist bustle. Check the Villa Primavesi garden terrace schedule for events.
  Best for: Coffee, cake, and Art Nouveau lovers.
  Where: Univerzitní Street.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Moderate (price of a meal/drink).
  Getting there: Located right behind the Konvikt Art Centre.
  Tip: The interiors are just as stunning as the view, so peek inside if possible.
• Name: Long Story Short Hostel & Café
  Type: Modern terrace
  Why go: Located in a historic 17th-century fortress bakery, it has a stylish outdoor seating area. The terrace overlooks the surrounding parkland and fortress walls. It is one of the trendiest spots in town. Check restaurants with a view in Olomouc for more options like this.
  Best for: Brunch or evening cocktails.
  Where: Koželužská Street.
  Time: 1.5 hours.
  Cost: Moderate to upscale.
  Getting there: A short walk north from the city center, near the river.
  Tip: Their outdoor cinema events in summer offer a unique viewing experience.
• Name: Klášterní Hradisko (Hradisko Monastery)
  Type: Baroque complex surroundings
  Why go: While it is a military hospital today, the area around it offers grand views. Standing by the Morava River, you can see the massive monastery facade reflecting in the water. It is a different kind of city view, focusing on monumental architecture.
  Best for: Architecture admirers and riverside walks.
  Where: North of the center, along the Morava River.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Free (exterior view).
  Getting there: Bus or a pleasant walk along the riverbank.
  Tip: Go during the golden hour for the best light on the building's facade.

Photography & Practical Guide

Capturing the best city views in Olomouc takes some planning. The light changes dramatically between the narrow streets and the open hills. Early morning is often misty and magical near the river. Late afternoon brings a golden glow to the baroque plasterwork. Knowing when to go is half the battle. Accessibility can also be a challenge in a historic city.

For the best light, consult the best sunset spots in Olomouc guide. Sunsets from Svatý Kopeček are legendary because the sun drops behind the city silhouette. If you stay in the center, the golden hour hits the Holy Trinity Column beautifully. Night photography is also rewarding here. The illuminations of the fountains and columns are subtle but effective.

Accessibility varies by location. The Town Hall and St. Maurice towers have many stairs and no elevators. However, the parks and lower terraces are generally wheelchair friendly. If mobility is a concern, check accessible viewpoints in Olomouc. Most museums and modern cafes like the Telegraph (another great view spot) have elevators. Always wear sturdy shoes for the cobblestones. Refer to the Olomouc Tourism Portal for the latest opening hours.

Finally, consider the season. Winter brings Christmas markets to the squares, which look amazing from the Town Hall Tower. Spring fills the parks below the walls with blooming magnolias. Summer allows for late-night viewing from terraces. Whatever the season, bring a wide-angle lens for the squares and a telephoto for the details.