Planning Your Olomouc Sightseeing from Brno

Brno is the perfect starting point for exploring Moravia. There are many day trips near Brno that showcase local culture. Olomouc stands out because of its rich history. It was once the capital of Moravia. Today, it is a vibrant university town. You will find fewer crowds here than in Prague.

At a glance:

• Morning: Upper Square, Holy Trinity Column, and Town Hall.
• Afternoon: Lower Square fountains and Saint Wenceslas Cathedral.
• Evening: Local cheese tasting and craft beer.

The journey between these cities is very short. You can travel by train or car in about an hour. Most visitors prefer the train for its convenience. In 2026, the rail connections remain frequent and reliable. This makes a spontaneous trip very easy to manage. You do not need to book weeks in advance.

Olomouc is very walkable and compact. Most major attractions sit within the historical center. You will spend very little on local transport. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets. Pack a light jacket as the squares can be breezy. You are now ready for a great Moravian adventure.

Morning: Exploring the Upper Square and UNESCO Gems

Day 1: 09:00 - 12:00. Start your day at the Horni namesti, or Upper Square. This is the heart of the city. The most famous site here is the Holy Trinity Column. This monument is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the largest Baroque group of statues in Central Europe. Take a moment to admire the intricate carvings.

Next, visit the Olomouc Town Hall. This building has served the city for six centuries. Look for the unique Astronomical Clock on its wall. It was redesigned in the 1950s with a socialist-realist style. You will see workers and peasants instead of saints. It is a fascinating piece of modern history. Check the must-see attractions in Olomouc historical center for more details.

Climb the Town Hall tower for a panoramic view. You can see the entire city from the top. The red roofs and church spires look beautiful from above. This climb takes about 15 minutes. It is a great way to orient yourself. Afterward, grab a coffee at a nearby cafe. Many local spots offer outdoor seating in the summer.

Logistics Tip: The Astronomical Clock performs a show at noon. Plan to be at the square a few minutes early. It is a popular event for tourists. The square also has free public Wi-Fi. You can use it to check local maps. Most staff in the square speak basic English.

Afternoon: History and Culture in the Lower Square

Day 1: 13:00 - 17:00. Walk a short distance to the Dolni namesti, or Lower Square. This area is famous for its Baroque fountains. Olomouc has a unique set of six historic fountains. They depict figures from Roman mythology like Neptune and Jupiter. These fountains were once the city's main water source. They are now beautiful spots for photos.

Continue your walk toward the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. This neo-Gothic masterpiece is visible from most parts of the city. The central spire is over 100 meters high. It is the second-tallest church tower in the country. The interior is quiet and very impressive. Take some time to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

Right next to the cathedral is the Archdiocesan Museum. This museum is located in the former Olomouc Castle. It holds a vast collection of religious art. You can see the famous carriage of Bishop Troyer. The museum also features ancient Romanesque ruins in the basement. It is a must-visit for any history buff.

Optional Swap: If it is raining, spend more time in the museum. The Archdiocesan Museum is large and fully indoors. If you have kids, visit the local interactive science center instead. It is located a short tram ride away. Both options provide a great break from the weather. Always check the official museum website for current exhibitions.

Evening: Moravian Flavors and Local Delicacies

Day 1: 17:00 - 19:00. No trip is complete without trying the local food. Olomouc is famous for a very specific cheese. It is called Olomoucke tvaruzky. This cheese has a very strong smell but a mild taste. It is naturally low in fat. You can find it in many local restaurants and shops.

I highly recommend trying Olomoucke tvaruzky cheese with a local beer. Many pubs in the center serve craft ales. Moravia is famous for its breweries and vineyards. Enjoy a hearty meal of goulash or roast pork. The prices here are often lower than in Brno. It is a great way to end your day.

After dinner, walk back toward the train station. The city lights make the squares look magical at night. The fountains are often illuminated in the evening. This creates a romantic and peaceful atmosphere. You can take a tram if you are tired. Trams 1, 2, and 7 all go to the station.

Logistics Tip: Most restaurants in Olomouc accept credit cards. However, smaller shops might require cash in Czech Koruna. It is helpful to have some coins for the tram. You can buy tram tickets at yellow machines. Most machines now accept contactless card payments. Check the Go To Brno site for more transport tips.

Best Ways to Travel from Brno to Olomouc

Traveling for Olomouc sightseeing from Brno is very efficient. Olomouc is one of the best train day trips from Brno. Direct trains depart from the Brno main station every hour. The journey usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes. You can choose between the national carrier and private companies. Both offer clean and comfortable seats.

If you prefer driving, the highway connects the two cities. The drive takes about an hour depending on traffic. Parking in the center of Olomouc can be difficult. It is better to use a park-and-ride lot. Most travelers find the train much more relaxing. You can enjoy the views of the Moravian countryside. The rolling hills are especially beautiful in the spring.

Once you arrive at the Olomouc station, the center is nearby. You can walk for about 20 minutes to reach the square. Alternatively, take any tram heading toward "Centrum." The ride takes less than five minutes. Trams are very frequent throughout the day. You will never wait more than a few minutes for a ride.

For those exploring more of the region, consider other stops. You might enjoy the Kromeriz gardens UNESCO site nearby. Moravia has many historical gems within a short distance. Planning your route in advance helps you see more. Use local apps like IDOS for real-time transit schedules. This ensures you never miss a connection.