Planning Your Olomouc Baroque Fountains Walking Route

Before you start, it helps to know the layout of the city. Most fountains are located in the Upper and Lower Squares. These areas are pedestrian-friendly and easy to navigate. You should wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets.

At a glance:

• Morning: Upper Square (Caesar, Hercules, and Arion fountains).
• Midday: Lower Square (Neptune and Jupiter fountains) plus lunch.
• Afternoon: Northern loop (Mercury and Triton fountains).
• Logistics: The total walking distance is under 2 kilometers.

You can find a detailed map of baroque fountains in Olomouc city center online. This will help you stay on track throughout the day. The route is flat and suitable for most fitness levels. Most visitors spend about four to six hours completing the full circuit.

The best base for this trip is the historic old town. You can find many boutique hotels and apartments here. Staying central allows you to see the fountains at night when they are lit up. For more details on the city, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal for official updates.

Morning: The Grand Fountains of the Upper Square

Start your morning at Horní náměstí, also known as the Upper Square. This is the largest square in the city. It is home to three distinct fountains and the Town Hall. The atmosphere here is lively and grand.

Day 1: Morning Schedule

09:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Begin at the Caesar Fountain. This is the largest and most complex fountain in Olomouc. It depicts Gaius Julius Caesar, the mythical founder of the city. You can read more about the history of the Caesar fountain in Olomouc to appreciate its detail.

10:00 AM – 10:45 AM: Walk a few steps to the Hercules Fountain. It shows the hero fighting the Hydra. This sculpture dates back to 1687. It symbolizes the city's strength after the Thirty Years' War.

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM: Visit the modern Arion Fountain nearby. It was added in 2002 to complete the historic set. The design features a giant turtle and playful bronze figures. It is a favorite spot for local children to play in the water.

While in the Upper Square, take time to see the Holy Trinity Column UNESCO site. This massive plague column is a masterpiece of baroque art. It stands nearly 35 meters tall. You can find more information about its status on the UNESCO World Heritage Centre website.

Midday: Lower Square Gems and Local Flavors

After exploring the Upper Square, walk south to Dolní náměstí. This is the Lower Square, which has a more relaxed vibe. It contains two more beautiful baroque fountains. This area is perfect for a midday break.

Day 1: Midday Schedule

12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Locate the Neptune Fountain first. It was the first of the six baroque fountains built in Olomouc. The sculpture shows the Roman god of the sea with his trident. It has stood in this spot since 1683.

12:45 PM – 01:15 PM: Move to the Jupiter Fountain at the other end of the square. This fountain features the king of the gods holding a thunderbolt. The basin is decorated with floral patterns and scrolls. It was renovated in the early 18th century to match the baroque style.

01:15 PM – 02:30 PM: Stop for a traditional Moravian lunch. You must try tasting authentic Olomoucke tvaruzky cheese while you are here. This pungent, ripened cheese is a local specialty. Many restaurants in the Lower Square serve it with fresh bread and local beer.

Practical Tip: Most fountains in Olomouc run from April to October. If you visit in winter, the water is turned off to protect the stone. However, the sculptures are still visible and beautiful in the snow. Check the Visit Czechia - Olomouc page for seasonal event info.

Afternoon: The Northern Loop and Church Views

To finish your Olomouc baroque fountains walking route, head north toward the church of St. Moritz. This part of the walk takes you through quieter streets. You will find the final two fountains in this area. They are often less crowded than the main squares.

Day 1: Afternoon Schedule

02:45 PM – 03:30 PM: Find the Mercury Fountain on the way to the church. It is considered the most artistically refined of the group. It depicts the messenger god with his winged sandals. The fountain sits in a small, charming square surrounded by historic houses.

03:30 PM – 04:15 PM: Visit the Triton Fountain near the city museum. This fountain features sea deities and dolphins. It was inspired by famous fountains in Rome. The stone carvings are very intricate and worth a close look.

04:15 PM – 05:30 PM: Consider climbing St. Moritz church tower for a final view. From the top, you can see all the squares you visited. It provides a great perspective on the city's layout. The climb is steep but the panorama is rewarding.

Optional Swaps: If it starts to rain, head inside the Olomouc Museum of Art. It is located very close to the Triton Fountain. If you have extra energy, you can extend your walk to the city parks. The parks follow the old fortress walls and offer a green escape from the stone squares.