Quick Picks for Families in Moravia

Short on time? Here are our top recommendations for families. These picks help you choose the right destination quickly. You can find more details in our best castles near Olomouc guide. Each site offers a unique experience for children and adults alike.

• Best Fairytale Vibes: Bouzov Castle
• Best for Running Around: Helfštýn Castle
• Best for Nature Lovers: Kroměříž Gardens
• Best for Rainy Days: Úsov Castle

9 Family Friendly Castles to Visit Near Olomouc

Moravia is famous for its dense concentration of historic landmarks. Most of these sites are reachable within 45 minutes from the city center. Here are the top family friendly castles to visit near Olomouc for your 2026 itinerary.

1. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: Fairy-tale Castle Why go: It looks like it came straight from a Disney movie. Best for: Kids who love knights and princesses. Where: Bouzov village, 35km west of Olomouc. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 200-300 CZK). Getting there: Best reached by car or a local bus. Tip: Check the Bouzov Castle day trip guide for tour times.
2. Name: Šternberk Castle Type: Medieval Castle Why go: It is very close to the city and has a huge clock collection. Best for: Families wanting a short half-day trip. Where: Šternberk town, 20km north of Olomouc. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low to Moderate. Getting there: Frequent direct trains from Olomouc main station. Tip: The castle park is free and great for a picnic.
3. Name: Helfštýn Castle Type: Fortress Ruins Why go: It is one of the largest ruins in Europe with amazing views. Best for: Active children who love to explore big walls. Where: Týn nad Bečvou, 35km east of Olomouc. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Drive via the D1 highway. Tip: Visit during the Hefaiston blacksmith festival in August.
4. Name: Kroměříž Archbishop's Palace Type: UNESCO Palace Why go: The gardens are stunning and very kid-friendly. Best for: Families who enjoy UNESCO sites and beautiful flowers. Where: Kroměříž, 45km south of Olomouc. Time: Half day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Easy train or bus connection. Tip: Don't miss the Kroměříž UNESCO gardens excursion for the hedge maze.
5. Name: Úsov Castle Type: Hunting Chateau Why go: It houses a unique museum of animals and forest life. Best for: Animal lovers and curious kids. Where: Úsov, 35km northwest of Olomouc. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Car is the most convenient option. Tip: The interactive exhibits are perfect for school-aged children.
6. Name: Sovinec Castle Type: Fortress Why go: They often host live knight tournaments and falconry shows. Best for: Action-packed history experiences. Where: Jiříkov, 40km north of Olomouc. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Scenic drive through the Jeseníky foothills. Tip: Check their website for the event calendar before visiting.
7. Name: Čechy pod Kosířem Chateau Type: Classicist Chateau Why go: It features a massive park and a carriage museum. Best for: A relaxing afternoon in nature. Where: Čechy pod Kosířem, 20km west of Olomouc. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Local bus or easy cycle route. Tip: Visit the museum of fire brigades located right next door.
8. Name: Plumlov Castle Type: Mannerist Castle Why go: It has a very unusual, tall facade that looks like a skyscraper. Best for: Photography and lake-side walks. Where: Plumlov, 25km southwest of Olomouc. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Short drive or bus from Prostějov. Tip: Walk down to the nearby reservoir for swimming in summer.
9. Name: Náměšť na Hané Chateau Type: Baroque Chateau Why go: Known for its collection of ceremonial carriages. Best for: Fans of elegant history and gardens. Where: Náměšť na Hané, 15km west of Olomouc. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Very easy train ride from Olomouc. Tip: The red and white chateau is very striking for photos.

Planning Your Trip from Olomouc

Most castles near Olomouc open from April to October. Some offer special winter tours on weekends. Always check the official Olomouc Tourism Portal for updates. Buying a family ticket can save you significant money. These tickets usually cover two adults and up to three children.

Renting a car is the easiest way to see multiple sites. However, the Czech rail system is very reliable. You can reach Šternberk and Náměšť na Hané easily by train. For more remote spots like Sovinec, a car is better. Pack comfortable walking shoes as many castles have cobblestone paths.