The Best Olomouc Parks and Gardens Walking Routes

The city center is surrounded by three main historical parks. These spaces were originally part of the city's defensive zone. Today, they offer wide promenades and quiet corners for relaxation. Most of these routes are flat and easy to navigate on foot.

• Best overall: Smetanovy Sady
• Best for history: Bezručovy Sady
• Best for flowers: The Rosarium
• Best for families: Čechovy Sady

1. Name: Smetanovy Sady Type: sight Why go: This is the oldest and largest park in the city. It features a stunning neo-Renaissance pavilion and a famous lime tree avenue. It is the heart of the Flora Olomouc flower festivals. Best for: Relaxed strolls and architectural photography. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the Lower Square. Tip: Look for the palm greenhouse near the main entrance.
2. Name: Bezručovy Sady Type: experience Why go: This park runs alongside the massive medieval city walls and stone cliffs. It offers a dramatic mix of nature and military history. You can see the botanical garden from the upper paths. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Southeast edge of the Old Town. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Enter via the stairs near St. Michael's Church. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best light on the stone walls.
3. Name: Čechovy Sady Type: sight Why go: This park is designed in a classic English landscape style. It is quieter than Smetanovy Sady and features a monument to the Red Army. The wide lawns are perfect for picnics. Best for: Families and quiet reading. Where: West of the city center. Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Palacký University buildings. Tip: Check out the modern sculptures hidden among the trees.
4. Name: The Olomouc Rosarium Type: experience Why go: This specialized garden contains over 600 varieties of roses. It is built on the site of a former military crownwork. The geometric layout is visually striking from above. Best for: Couples and garden enthusiasts. Where: Near the 17. listopadu street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee during flower shows, otherwise free. Getting there: Take tram 2 or 7 to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: Visit in June when the roses are in full bloom.
5. Name: UPOL Botanical Garden Type: sight Why go: Managed by Palacký University, this garden features diverse plant collections. It includes alpine plants, medicinal herbs, and water features. It is a quiet oasis for education and reflection. Best for: Botany fans and students. Where: Adjacent to Bezručovy Sady. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free or low donation. Getting there: Accessible from the Bezručovy Sady walking path. Tip: Visit the greenhouses for tropical species during winter.
6. Name: Park pod Dómem Type: sight Why go: This small park sits directly beneath the St. Wenceslas Cathedral. It offers a unique view of the cathedral towers and the Přemyslid Palace. The area is part of the UNESCO-protected zone near the Holy Trinity Column. Best for: Quick scenic breaks. Where: North edge of the historic core. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the hill from the Cathedral square. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Archdiocesan Museum.
7. Name: Klášterní Hradisko Meadows Type: experience Why go: This route follows the Morava River toward the massive Premonstratensian monastery. The open meadows offer a rural feel very close to the city. It is a popular path for local joggers and cyclists. Best for: Long walks and river views. Where: Northern outskirts of the center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the river path north from the Legion Street bridge. Tip: The monastery interior is only open for guided tours on certain days.

Scenic Nature Trails Near Olomouc

If you want to escape the urban environment, several trails are just a short trip away. These routes offer deeper immersion into the Moravian countryside. Many are accessible by public transport or a short bike ride. They provide a great contrast to the manicured city gardens.

1. Name: Litovelské Pomoraví Trails Type: day trip Why go: This protected landscape area follows the inland delta of the Morava River. The nature trails here wind through flood forests and wetlands. It is a haven for birdwatching and rare plants. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: Starts at the Horka nad Moravou village. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a local bus or train to Horka nad Moravou. Tip: Bring insect repellent as the wetlands can have many mosquitoes.
2. Name: Poděbrady Lake Path Type: activity Why go: This natural lake is a favorite local spot for swimming and walking. A circular walking path goes around the water. There are several small beaches and refreshment stands along the way. Best for: Summer recreation and families. Where: Northwest of the city. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the dedicated bike path from the city center. Tip: Visit the "Terasa" bistro for a cold Czech beer after your walk.
3. Name: Svatý Kopeček Forest Trail Type: day trip Why go: This historic pilgrimage trail leads to the Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary. The path climbs through dense forests and offers views of the city below. It is a spiritual and scenic journey. Best for: Hikers and pilgrims. Where: 8km northeast of Olomouc. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit the nearby Olomouc Zoo after seeing the Basilica.

Planning Your Olomouc Parks Walking Tour

Timing is everything when exploring Olomouc parks and gardens walking routes. The city hosts the famous Flora Olomouc exhibition three times a year. During these events, the parks are filled with elaborate floral displays. Spring and late summer are the most popular times for these shows. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal.

Most parks are open year-round and have no entry fees. They are well-lit and generally safe for evening walks. If you prefer a structured experience, consider a self-guided walking tour that includes the green belt. Many paths are paved, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Public toilets are available in Smetanovy Sady and near the Cathedral.

For a unique experience, try visiting the parks in autumn. The variety of trees creates a vibrant display of colors. Winter also has its charm, especially when the historic fountains are covered. You can learn more about the city's landmarks on the Visit Czechia Olomouc page. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on longer nature trails.