Why Visit Svatý Kopeček and the Zoo?

Svatý Kopeček, or "Holy Hill," is a landmark in the Olomouc region. It sits high above the city and offers fresh air. The area is famous for its religious significance and its diverse wildlife park. Many families come here to spend a full day exploring the forest paths.

The zoo itself is unique because of its hilly terrain. You will find animals from all continents living in naturalistic enclosures. It is a great place to learn about conservation. The nearby basilica adds a touch of architectural beauty to your outdoor adventure.

For more travel ideas, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal. They provide updates on local events and seasonal festivals. Visiting this area is a highlight of any trip to the Czech Republic.

10 Highlights of Visiting Olomouc Zoo Near Svatý Kopeček Basilica

Before you go, look at these top-rated experiences. These picks ensure you see the best of the hill. Here are our quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: The Observation Tower
• Best for families: Children's Contact Zoo
• Best rainy-day: Shark and Marine Aquarium
• Best free: Basilica of the Visitation (Exterior/Gardens)

1. Name: Zoo Observation Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers a 32-meter high view of Olomouc and the Jeseníky Mountains. Best for: Photographers and hikers. Where: Center of the zoo grounds. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Walk from the zoo entrance. Tip: Climb early in the morning for the clearest views.
2. Name: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary Type: Iconic sight Why go: This Baroque masterpiece is a major pilgrimage site with a stunning interior. Best for: History lovers and spiritual travelers. Where: Svatý Kopeček square, 5 minutes from the zoo. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry to the main nave. Getting there: Bus 11 from Olomouc. Tip: Learn about the history of the Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary before entering.
3. Name: Giant Passage-through Aviary Type: Experience Why go: You can walk directly among rare birds without fences in between. Best for: Bird watchers and kids. Where: Near the zoo entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Follow the main zoo path. Tip: Keep your bags closed as some birds are very curious.
4. Name: Shark and Marine Aquarium Type: Indoor sight Why go: See blacktip reef sharks and colorful coral reefs in a large tank. Best for: Escaping the rain or sun. Where: Near the zoo restaurant. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Walk towards the center of the zoo. Tip: Check the feeding schedule posted at the entrance.
5. Name: Giraffe and African Pavilion Type: Iconic sight Why go: Get a close look at Rothschild's giraffes in a spacious indoor and outdoor area. Best for: Animal lovers. Where: Lower section of the zoo. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Follow the downhill path from the tower. Tip: The giraffes are often most active in the late afternoon.
6. Name: Zoo Safari Train Type: Experience Why go: A fun way to see the large enclosures without walking the steep hills. Best for: Families with small children. Where: Starts near the giraffe pavilion. Time: 15-minute ride. Cost: Small additional fee. Getting there: Head to the marked train station. Tip: Buy your train tickets at the main gate to save time.
7. Name: Lemur Walkway Type: Experience Why go: Walk through an island where lemurs jump freely around you. Best for: Interactive wildlife encounters. Where: Near the primate section. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Follow the signs for "Madagaskar." Tip: Do not touch the lemurs, even if they get close.
8. Name: Radíkov Fort (Fort II) Type: Day trip Why go: An impressive 19th-century artillery fort located just a short hike away. Best for: History buffs and military fans. Where: Radíkov village, 2km from the zoo. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entry fee for tours. Getting there: Walk the green-marked trail from Svatý Kopeček. Tip: Tours are usually only available on weekends.
9. Name: Children's Contact Zoo Type: Activity Why go: Kids can pet and feed domestic animals like goats and sheep. Best for: Young children. Where: Near the main entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Located right next to the gift shop. Tip: Use the vending machines to buy approved animal snacks.
10. Name: Red Panda Enclosure Type: Iconic sight Why go: See these adorable and rare animals in a lush, forest-like habitat. Best for: Cute animal fans. Where: Near the zoo's upper exit. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo entry. Getting there: Walk past the observation tower. Tip: Look high in the trees as they love to sleep on branches.

Practical Tips for Your Zoo Visit

Getting to the hill is simple from the city center. You should know how to get to Svatý Kopeček from Olomouc center using public transport. Bus number 11 runs frequently from the main train station. The ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for your visit. The zoo is built on a steep hill with many paved and unpaved paths. If you have a stroller, be prepared for some uphill sections. You can find more general info on the Visit Czechia website.

Food options are available inside the zoo and near the basilica. You can try local snacks or sit for a full meal. After your long walk, consider tasting authentic Olomoucké tvarůžky cheese back in the city. It is a famous local delicacy with a strong aroma.