Secret Viewpoints in Olomouc City Centre: A Local Guide
Olomouc is one of the most beautiful cities in the Czech Republic. It is famous for its Baroque architecture and historic university. Many travelers visit the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, the best way to see the city is from above. Finding secret viewpoints in Olomouc city centre allows you to escape the crowds. You can see the red roofs and winding streets from a new perspective. This guide covers the best spots for your 2026 trip.
Top Panoramic Sights in the Historic Core
The historic center of Olomouc is compact and walkable. It is filled with tall church spires and grand civic buildings. Most people stick to the main squares at ground level. However, climbing a few stairs reveals the city's true scale. These iconic spots offer the most dramatic panoramas of the Moravian landscape.
Before you start your climb, check the local weather. Clear days offer views all the way to the Jeseníky Mountains. Many towers have limited opening hours during the winter months. Always carry a few Czech koruna for small entry fees. These historic sites are the backbone of the city's skyline.
- Name: Town Hall Tower Type: sight Why go: It offers a 360-degree view of the Upper Square. You can see the astronomical clock from above. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Horní náměstí (Upper Square). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Around 50-100 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square. Tip: Book a guided tour at the Olomouc Tourism Portal office inside the building.
- Name: St. Maurice Church Tower Type: sight Why go: This is the highest accessible point in the historic center. The double spiral staircase is a work of art itself. Best for: Brave climbers. Where: Near the Upper Square. Time: 30-40 minutes. Cost: Usually free or a small donation. Getting there: A short walk from the Town Hall. Tip: The stairs are narrow, so go early to avoid meeting crowds on the way down.
- Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: sight Why go: The main tower is over 100 meters tall. It is the second-highest church tower in the country. Best for: History buffs. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for tower access. Getting there: Take the tram to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: Visit the crypt below the cathedral after you finish the tower climb.
Hidden Terraces and Secret Viewpoints in Olomouc City Centre
Beyond the famous towers, Olomouc hides many quiet terraces. These spots are often tucked away inside university buildings or museums. They provide a more intimate look at the city's hidden courtyards. Many of these locations are free to enter if you know where to look. They are perfect for a relaxing break during a busy day of sightseeing.
Locals often use these spaces for studying or meeting friends. This gives these viewpoints a authentic and peaceful atmosphere. You will not find large tour groups in these corners. Remember to be respectful of the quiet environment in university and religious spaces. These are the true secret viewpoints in Olomouc city centre.
- Name: St. Michael's Church Terrace Type: experience Why go: This church sits on one of the city's hills. The terrace offers a unique view of the Lower Square and the city walls. Best for: Sunset views. Where: Žerotínovo náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free/Donation. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the Lower Square. Tip: Ask about the st-michaels-church-underground-access to see the hidden springs.
- Name: Palacký University Arts Centre Atrium Type: experience Why go: This former Jesuit college has a stunning elevated walkway. It overlooks a quiet courtyard and the old city walls. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Univerzitní 3. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the main gate of the Konvikt building. Tip: Read more about the palacky-university-arts-centre-atrium to find the best photo spots.
- Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Rooftop Type: sight Why go: The museum terrace provides a modern perspective on the old town. You can see the cathedral and the museum's unique sculptures. Best for: Art fans. Where: Denisova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included with museum ticket. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square toward the Cathedral. Tip: Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art website to check for temporary rooftop installations.
- Name: Villa Primavesi Garden Type: experience Why go: This Art Nouveau villa has a garden that sits above the city walls. It offers a green view of the surrounding parks. Best for: Couples. Where: Na Hradě. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the garden. Getting there: A short walk from the university buildings. Tip: Check the villa-primavesi-garden-and-tours schedule if you want to see the interior.
- Name: Bezručovy Sady City Walls Type: experience Why go: Walking along the top of the medieval fortifications is a local favorite. You get a great view of the botanical gardens below. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Southern edge of the old town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access the walls via the stairs near the Museum of Art. Tip: Explore the bezrucovy-sady-hidden-corners for the best picnic spots.
Scenic Day Trips Just Outside the City
If you have more time, head just outside the city limits. The surrounding hills offer a grand view of the entire Olomouc basin. These spots are easily reached by local public transport. They provide a nice contrast to the narrow streets of the city centre. You can enjoy fresh air and wide-open spaces.
These locations are especially beautiful during the autumn months. The changing colors of the trees make the landscape look like a painting. Most of these sites are connected by well-marked hiking trails. They are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of light exercise. These views help you appreciate the geography of the Moravia region.
- Name: Hradisko Monastery Type: day trip Why go: This massive complex is often called the "Moravian Escorial." The views from the front gates back toward the city are spectacular. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Northern edge of Olomouc. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free to walk around the exterior. Getting there: Take bus number 18 or 15 from the main station. Tip: Follow our hradisko-monastery-non-touristy-guide for the best walking routes.
- Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: day trip Why go: The basilica sits on a high hill overlooking the city. It is the most famous viewpoint in the region. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: 8km from the city centre. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free, except for transport. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Use the svaty-kopecek-nature-trails to walk back toward the city through the forest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free viewpoint in Olomouc?
The best free viewpoint is the Bezručovy Sady city walls. You can walk along the historic fortifications for free. It offers great views of the parks and the university buildings. The Palacký University Arts Centre atrium is another excellent free option for visitors.
Are the church towers in Olomouc open every day?
Most church towers have specific opening hours. St. Maurice is usually open daily during the summer. However, St. Wenceslas and the Town Hall may have restricted times. It is best to check the official tourism portal before you plan your climb.
How many stairs are in the St. Maurice tower?
There are approximately 200 stairs to reach the top of St. Maurice. The climb is steep and uses a unique double spiral design. It takes about 10 minutes for a person of average fitness. The reward is the best panoramic view in the city.
Olomouc is a city that rewards those who look up. From the high spires of the cathedral to the quiet terraces of the university, there are many views to enjoy. Finding secret viewpoints in Olomouc city centre will make your trip memorable. Whether you want a romantic sunset or a great photo for social media, these spots deliver. For more inspiration, check out our guide to hidden spots in Olomouc. Enjoy your 2026 adventure in this historic Moravian gem!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Olomouc Tourism Portal — unverified: Official DMO site.
- Statutory City of Olomouc — unverified: Municipal government portal.
- Visit Czechia - Olomouc — unverified: National tourism board page.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO designation page.
- Lonely Planet Olomouc — unverified: Major international travel editorial.
- Palacký University Olomouc — unverified: Major public university.