At a Glance: Your 1-Day Fountains Itinerary

This route is designed to be easy and efficient. You will walk through the two main squares of the city. The total walking distance is quite short. However, you should take your time to admire the details.

• Morning: Explore the Upper Square (Horní náměstí) and the Caesar Fountain.
• Midday: Visit the Holy Trinity Column and the Hercules Fountain.
• Afternoon: Walk to the Lower Square (Dolní náměstí) for Neptune and Jupiter.
• Evening: End at the modern Arion Fountain near the Town Hall.

Logistics Tip: The entire route is within the pedestrian zone. You do not need public transport once you reach the center. Most fountains are less than five minutes apart on foot.

Morning Start at the Upper Square

Begin your morning at the Horní náměstí, or Upper Square. This is the largest square in the city. Here you will find the Caesar Fountain. It is the most famous of the Olomouc Baroque fountains group. It depicts Julius Caesar, the legendary founder of the city.

Day 1: Morning: Spend about 45 minutes at the Upper Square. Start at the Caesar Fountain near the Town Hall. Look at the statue of Caesar on a horse. Then, walk a few steps to the Hercules Fountain. This fountain shows the hero fighting a hydra. It is a powerful symbol of the city's strength.

The Hercules Fountain was built in 1687. It stands right in front of the Astronomical Clock. If you time it right, you can see the clock show at noon. This area is perfect for morning photos. The light hits the stone carvings beautifully in the early hours.

Logistics Tip: The Town Hall tower offers a great view of the square. It opens at 11:00 AM on most days. Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal changes in tower access.

Exploring the Lower Square Gems

After the Upper Square, walk south toward the Lower Square. This square is called Dolní náměstí. It is quieter but equally beautiful. You will find two more major Baroque fountains here. These are dedicated to Neptune and Jupiter.

Day 1: Afternoon: Start your afternoon at the Neptune Fountain. This is the oldest fountain in the set. It was completed in 1683. It shows the Roman god of the sea with his trident. The sculptures are very detailed and expressive. Take a moment to sit on the nearby benches.

Next, walk to the other side of the square to see the Jupiter Fountain. This fountain was updated in 1707. It features the king of the gods with a thunderbolt. Between these two fountains, you will see the Marian Plague Column. This is another important monument in the square.

Logistics Tip: There are many small cafes around the Lower Square. It is a great place to stop for a traditional Czech lunch. Try a local dish like Olomoucké tvarůžky if you are feeling brave. This is a famous local aged cheese with a strong scent.

Completing the Walking Route for Baroque Fountains in Olomouc

To finish your walking route for Baroque fountains in Olomouc, you must visit two more. These are the Mercury and Triton fountains. The Mercury Fountain is located on a street connecting the squares. It shows the messenger of the gods. It is often considered the most artistically refined fountain in the city.

Day 1: Evening: Head toward the Republic Square to find the Triton Fountain. This fountain features sea gods and dolphins. It was inspired by famous fountains in Rome. After this, walk back to the Upper Square. You must see the modern Turtle Fountain, also known as the Arion Fountain.

The Arion Fountain was added in 2002. It completes the original Baroque plan for the city. It features a large bronze turtle and a boy. Kids love to play near this fountain in the summer. It creates a nice bridge between the old and new parts of the city.

Logistics Tip: The fountains are illuminated at night. If you have time, walk the route again after sunset. The stone carvings look very dramatic under the spotlights. It is a very romantic way to end your day in Olomouc.

Practical Tips for Your Walking Tour

Olomouc is a very walkable city. However, the streets are mostly cobblestone. You should wear comfortable walking shoes for this route. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage list area. This means the historic character is well preserved.

The best time to visit is from May to October. The water in the fountains usually flows during these months. In the winter, the fountains are often covered to protect the stone. You can still see the statues, but the water effect is gone. Most fountains are free to visit at any time of day.

Don't forget to visit the Holy Trinity Column while you are on the Upper Square. It is the largest Baroque sculpture group in Central Europe. It is located right next to the Hercules Fountain. This entire area is a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture.