Why Climbing St Moritz Church Tower is Essential

The Church of Saint Moritz is a massive Gothic building. It dates back to the 14th century. The tower is its most famous feature for travelers. It provides a 360-degree view of the Moravian landscape. You can see the Jeseníky Mountains on clear days. The tower is unique because of its staircase.

The double spiral staircase is a rare Gothic engineering marvel. It allows people to go up and down without meeting. This was very advanced for the time. It is one of the few surviving examples in Europe. The climb is an adventure in itself. You will feel the history in the stone walls.

The tower is the highest accessible point in the city center. It sits right next to the Upper Square. This makes it a perfect starting point for your tour. You can map out the city from above. It helps you understand the layout of the historic streets. Do not forget your camera for this part.

12 Best Things to Do in Olomouc

Olomouc offers many incredible experiences for every traveler. Here are the top picks for your itinerary. This list includes iconic sights and local secrets. Use these to plan your perfect trip.

• Best overall: Climbing St Moritz Church tower
• Best for families: Olomouc Astronomical Clock
• Best rainy-day: Archbishop's Palace
• Best free: Holy Trinity Column

1. Name: St Moritz Church Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the highest accessible point in the city center. The double spiral staircase is a rare Gothic feature. Best for: Panoramic views and photography. Where: North of the Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Approx. 50-80 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Check the tower opening hours before arriving.
2. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a Baroque masterpiece. It is the largest of its kind in Europe. Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Located in the heart of the city. Tip: Visit at night when the statues are beautifully lit.
3. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: sight Why go: It is a unique example of socialist realism art. The clock features figures of workers instead of saints. Best for: Unusual history and art. Where: Side of the Town Hall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the Upper Square. Tip: Watch the mechanical show at exactly 12:00 PM.
4. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: This is the seat of the Archbishop. It has the tallest church spire in Moravia. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a tram to the 'U Dómu' stop. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of bishops.
5. Name: Olomouc Baroque Fountains Type: sight Why go: The city has six major Baroque fountains. They are based on Roman mythology. Best for: A self-guided walking tour. Where: Scattered across the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the main pedestrian streets. Tip: Look for the Caesar Fountain in the Upper Square.
6. Name: Archbishop's Palace Type: sight Why go: This palace is still in use today. You can tour the grand ceremonial halls. Best for: Royal history and grand interiors. Where: Near the Cathedral. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: This is where Emperor Franz Joseph I took the throne.
7. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: museum Why go: It houses a vast collection of Central European art. The building is a mix of styles. Best for: Culture lovers on a rainy day. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. 150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Check for modern art exhibitions in the attic.
8. Name: Villa Primavesi Type: sight Why go: This is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture. It was built for a wealthy family. Best for: Design enthusiasts. Where: Near the city walls. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Varies by tour. Getting there: A short walk from the center. Tip: Enjoy a coffee in the villa's garden cafe.
9. Name: Olomouc Fortress System Type: experience Why go: Olomouc was once a major military stronghold. You can explore the old walls and powder magazines. Best for: History and walking. Where: Surrounding the old town. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free for most outdoor parts. Getting there: Walk through the city parks. Tip: Visit the Crown Fortress for the best experience.
10. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: This is a stunning Baroque basilica on a hill. It offers a great day trip from the city. Best for: Nature and spirituality. Where: 8km north of the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free for the basilica; bus fare needed. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main station. Tip: Visit the nearby zoo if you have extra time.
11. Name: Olomoucké Tvarůžky Tasting Type: experience Why go: This pungent cheese is a regional specialty. It is part of the local identity. Best for: Foodies and brave eaters. Where: Lostice cheese shop in the center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 50-150 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the Lower Square area. Tip: Read about tasting authentic Olomoucke tvaruzky to prepare your palate.
12. Name: Historic Cafe Visit Type: experience Why go: Olomouc has a grand tradition of coffee houses. They offer a relaxing atmosphere. Best for: Taking a break between sights. Where: Throughout the historic center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 100-300 CZK. Getting there: Most are near the Upper Square. Tip: Visit the historic cafes for the best local pastries.

Best Viewpoints Near St Moritz Church Tower

If you love heights, there are several best panoramic viewpoints of Olomouc city center to explore. St Moritz is the most famous spot. However, the Town Hall tower is also great. It offers a closer view of the Astronomical Clock. You can see the square from a different angle.

The Saint Wenceslas Cathedral also has impressive spires. While you cannot always climb them, the view from the square is grand. The cathedral sits on a small hill. This gives it a natural advantage for photos. It is the tallest spire in the region.

You can also see the city from the old fortress walls. These ramparts offer a lower but beautiful perspective. You can see the green parks surrounding the old town. Each spot offers a different angle of the skyline. Photographers should visit these spots during the golden hour for the best light.

Practical Tips for Climbing St Moritz Church Tower

Planning your visit is easy. Most sites are within walking distance. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly. You should spend at least two days here. This allows time for the main sights and a day trip. Climbing the tower requires a bit of effort.

There are about 200 steps to reach the top. The staircase is narrow in some places. It is not recommended for those with severe claustrophobia. However, the double spiral design makes it easier to pass others. Wear comfortable shoes for the stone steps. They can be slippery in wet weather.

Always carry some local currency for small entrance fees. Many smaller attractions do not take cards. The tower usually has a small cash fee. You can buy tickets at the entrance. Check the local weather before you climb. The top can be very windy even on sunny days.