Quick Picks for Your Museum Visit

If you are short on time, focus on these top recommendations. The museum is large and can take several hours to explore fully. These quick picks ensure you see the most important pieces of history. You can find more top attractions in Olomouc near the cathedral.

• Best Overall: Troyer’s Ceremonial Carriage (Baroque masterpiece).
• Best for Families: The Museum Moat and Castle Grounds.
• Best Rainy-Day Activity: The Gallery of European Art.
• Best Free Sight: St. Wenceslas Cathedral (Exterior and Nave).

Top 10 Things to See at Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc

The museum is part of the Olomouc Museum of Art. It spans several historic buildings including the Chapter Deanery. Here are the top ten highlights you should not miss during your tour.

1. Name: Troyer’s Ceremonial Carriage Type: sight Why go: This is a massive, gold-plated Baroque carriage. It belonged to Bishop Ferdinand Julius Troyer. It is one of the most impressive vehicles of its kind in Europe. Best for: Photographers and history lovers. Where: Ground floor coach house. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Walk from the main entrance. Tip: Look closely at the intricate carvings on the wheels.
2. Name: Zdík’s Palace (Romanesque Palace) Type: sight Why go: These are the ruins of a 12th-century bishop's palace. It features rare Romanesque windows and stone carvings. It is a UNESCO-level site of high historical value. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Upper level of the castle complex. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Follow the signs through the cloister. Tip: Visit during daylight to see the stone details clearly.
3. Name: The Treasure Chamber Type: museum Why go: It holds a collection of gold monstrances and chalices. The craftsmanship is world-class. Many items are decorated with precious gems. Best for: Fans of jewelry and religious art. Where: Secured vault room. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Located near the main gallery. Tip: The "Golden Sun of Moravia" is the most famous piece here.
4. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: This massive cathedral sits right next to the museum. Its main tower is the second tallest in the country. The interior is a mix of Gothic and Neogothic styles. Best for: Everyone. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free entry to the main nave. Getting there: Visible from anywhere in the castle district. Tip: Check the crypt for the tombs of bishops.
5. Name: Gallery of European Art Type: museum Why go: It features paintings from the 16th to 18th centuries. You can see works by famous Central European masters. The collection is beautifully curated. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Main gallery halls. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Upper floors of the Deanery. Tip: Take your time with the Dutch masters section.
6. Name: St. Barbara’s Chapel Type: experience Why go: A peaceful chapel with unique frescoes. It offers a quiet moment away from the main museum crowds. The lighting creates a spiritual atmosphere. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: Within the Romanesque palace area. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Access via the cloister walk. Tip: Look up at the ceiling for hidden decorative patterns.
7. Name: The Loggia Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers a great view over the old city walls. You can see the greenery of the surrounding parks. It is a perfect spot for a quick break. Best for: Views and photos. Where: Outer gallery balcony. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Follow the path toward the palace ruins. Tip: Great for seeing the city's fortification layout.
8. Name: The Gothic Cloisters Type: sight Why go: The cloisters connect the various parts of the castle. They feature beautiful vaulted ceilings. They are very atmospheric and cool on hot days. Best for: Atmosphere. Where: Central courtyard area. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Central hub of the museum. Tip: Notice the ancient tombstones set into the walls.
9. Name: Archbishop's Palace (Nearby) Type: day trip Why go: This is the official residence of the archbishops. It is a short walk from the museum. It hosted emperors like Franz Joseph I. Best for: Fans of royal history. Where: Wurmova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Separate ticket required. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Tip: Check the tickets and prices for combined entry deals.
10. Name: The Castle Moat Type: nature Why go: The old defensive moat is now a park area. It gives you a sense of the castle's former strength. It is a great place for a stroll after the museum. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: Surrounding the museum walls. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the stairs near the cathedral. Tip: It is especially beautiful in autumn.

Planning Your Trip to Olomouc

Olomouc is easy to reach from Prague or Brno by train. The museum is located in the northern part of the historic center. You should allow at least two hours for the museum itself. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and stone floors. Check the Visit Czechia site for regional travel updates. Most signs in the museum are in English and Czech. Photography is usually allowed without a flash.

Nearby Attractions in Olomouc

After seeing the museum, visit the Upper Square. You will find the Holy Trinity Column there. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You should also watch the Olomouc Astronomical Clock at noon. It has a unique socialist-realist design from the 1950s. The city center is compact and very walkable. Many cafes are located near the Town Hall for a quick lunch.