Historic Old Town Routes

The heart of Olomouc is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and grand squares. You cannot visit without exploring the Upper and Lower Squares. These routes are dense with history and require sturdy shoes. Expect to stop frequently for photos of baroque statues and pastel-colored buildings.

1. Name: The UNESCO Highlights Loop Type: Iconic Sight Why go: This is the essential introductory walk for any first-time visitor. You will circle the Town Hall and stand beneath the massive Holy Trinity Column. It is the best way to understand the city's imperial importance. Best for: History buffs and first-time visitors. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 45 to 60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram stop 'Okresní soud' or 'U Sv. Mořice'. Tip: Time your walk to finish at noon to see the astronomical clock chime. Check our self-guided Olomouc Old Town walking tour for a step-by-step route.
2. Name: The Baroque Fountains Circuit Type: Culture/Art Why go: Olomouc is famous for its six unique baroque fountains inspired by Roman mythology. Hunting for all of them takes you through hidden corners of the center. It turns a standard walk into an engaging treasure hunt. Best for: Families and art lovers. Where: scattered throughout Old Town. Time: 1 to 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at Hercules Fountain near the Town Hall. Tip: Look for the modern Arion Fountain last; it allows children to climb on the statues. See the full Olomouc baroque fountains walking circuit map.
3. Name: The Cathedral & Castle Walk Type: History/Architecture Why go: This route leads you away from the main squares toward St. Wenceslas Cathedral. You will walk along the old diverse architecture of the university quarter. The atmosphere here is quieter and deeply atmospheric. Best for: Quiet contemplation and architecture fans. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (small fee for tower climb). Getting there: Tram stop 'Dóm sv. Václava'. Tip: Visit the Archdiocesan Museum grounds next door for a peaceful garden stroll.

Green Belts & Fortress Gardens

Olomouc is encircled by a ring of stunning parks that trace the old city walls. These green spaces serve as the city's lungs. Locals flock here to skate, run, or simply stroll under the chestnut trees. The terrain is flat, making these walks very accessible.

• Name: Smetana Gardens (Smetanovy Sady) Type: Park/Promenade Why go: This is the main city park featuring a perfectly straight, tree-lined central avenue. It hosts the impressive Flora Olomouc exhibitions. The manicured flower beds are spectacular in spring and summer. Best for: Relaxed afternoon strolls and strollers. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free (entry fee during Flora exhibitions). Getting there: Tram stop 'Výstaviště Flora'. Tip: Stop at the magnificent greenhouse if it is open. Read more about walking paths in Smetanovy Sady Olomouc.
• Name: Bezruč Gardens (Bezručovy Sady) Type: Scenic/Nature Why go: This park runs directly beneath the towering medieval walls and bastions. It includes a delightful botanical garden and a bubbling stream. The verticality of the walls makes the walk visually dramatic. Best for: Romantic walks and students. Where: Below the castle walls. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access stairs from historic center or street level. Tip: In autumn, the foliage colors against the red brick walls are incredible.
• Name: Crown Fortress Route (Korunní Pevnůstka) Type: History/Experience Why go: Explore the remnants of the military fortress that once protected the monarchy. The area has been revitalized into a cultural hub with museums. It connects history with open green space. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: Near Bezruč Gardens. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Grounds are free; museums have fees. Getting there: Follow the path from the botanical gardens. Tip: Check the schedule for summer festivals often held here. Learn more about walking the Olomouc fortress walls.

Scenic Views & Pilgrimages

Sometimes the best walk involves leaving the pavement for a bit of elevation. The area immediately surrounding Olomouc offers spiritual history and sweeping vistas. These routes are slightly more demanding but reward you with fresh air. Public transport makes access easy.

• Name: Svatý Kopeček (The Holy Hill) Type: Pilgrimage/Viewpoint Why go: This is the most famous pilgrimage site in the region, visited by Popes and kings. The walk up offers a spiritual atmosphere and a stunning baroque basilica. The view back toward Olomouc is unmatched. Best for: Views and spiritual travelers. Where: 8km northeast of the center. Time: 2 to 3 hours (including transit). Cost: Free (bus ticket required). Getting there: Bus line 11 from the main train station. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby zoo if you have time. Details on the Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage trail are essential.
• Name: Hradisko Monastery River Walk Type: Riverside/Architecture Why go: Walk along the Morava River to reach the majestic Hradisko Monastery. Often called the 'Escorial of Moravia,' its size is breathtaking. The route is flat and follows the water. Best for: Quiet contemplation away from tourists. Where: North along the Morava River. Time: 1.5 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path from U-Klub. Tip: Access to the interior is limited, so check opening hours beforehand.

Nature Escapes Just Outside Olomouc

For those who want to escape the city noise, nature is just a short bus or train ride away. The Haná region is flat, meaning these walks are easy for all fitness levels. You will find protected forests and swimming lakes.

• Name: Litovelské Pomoraví Protected Landscape Type: Nature Reserve Why go: This is a unique inland delta of the Morava River featuring floodplain forests. The trails are shaded, quiet, and teeming with birdlife. It feels wild despite being close to the city. Best for: Nature lovers and bird watchers. Where: Northwest of Olomouc. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Horka nad Moravou. Tip: Look for the beaver lodges often visible near the water. This guide to Litovelské Pomoraví nature trails near Olomouc helps plan the trip.
• Name: Poděbrady Lake Loop Type: Lake/Leisure Why go: Locals love this natural gravel lake for summer swimming and walking. The path around the lake is gentle and relaxing. There is a restaurant on-site for a post-walk beer. Best for: Summer afternoons and dog walking. Where: Horka nad Moravou area. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus or a long walk from the city edge. Tip: Bring a swimsuit in summer; the water is clean and refreshing. See the Poděbrady natural lake walking path info.

Practical Tips for Walking in Olomouc

Walking in Olomouc is generally safe and enjoyable, but a few preparations help. The historic center is heavily cobbled, so leave the high heels at home. In summer, the open squares can get quite hot around midday.

Always carry a water bottle, as fountains for drinking are not always obvious. Public transport tickets are cheap if you need to hop on a tram to return. For verified information, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal before you go.

Safety is rarely an issue, even at night. The student population keeps the streets lively but peaceful. However, regular city sense applies. For more details, read about safety for walking in Olomouc at night.