Quick Picks for Train Travel from Olomouc

Planning a trip can be overwhelming. Sometimes you just need a quick recommendation. Here are our top picks for exploring day trips near Olomouc based on your interests. These spots are easy to reach and offer great value.

• Best overall: Kroměříž Castle and Gardens
• Best for families: Velké Losiny Thermal Park
• Best for history: Litomyšl Castle
• Best for foodies: Tvarůžky Museum in Loštice
• Best for nature: Praděd Mountain

Each of these locations is accessible via the national rail service. You can often find direct connections from the main station. Remember to check the latest schedules before you head out. Most trains run hourly during the day.

10 Best Train Day Trips from Olomouc

Moravia is full of surprises. These ten destinations showcase the best of the region. Most are less than two hours away by train. Here are the best train day trips from Olomouc for your itinerary.

1. Name: Kroměříž Castle and Gardens Type: UNESCO Sight Why go: See the stunning Flower Garden and Baroque architecture. Best for: Photographers and history buffs. Where: Kroměříž. Time: 6 hours. Cost: Low to Moderate. Getting there: Train with one quick change in Kojetín. Tip: Visit the Kroměříž gardens in late spring for the best blooms.
2. Name: Dolní Vítkovice Type: Industrial Heritage Why go: Explore a massive former ironworks turned into a cultural hub. Best for: Architecture lovers and families. Where: Ostrava. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct fast train to Ostrava-Svinov. Tip: Book the Ostrava industrial heritage tour in advance for the Bolt Tower.
3. Name: Litomyšl Castle Type: UNESCO Castle Why go: Admire the unique sgraffito decorations on this Renaissance palace. Best for: Art and history enthusiasts. Where: Litomyšl. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Česká Třebová, then a short local bus or train. Tip: Check out the underground castle theater.
4. Name: Velké Losiny Handmade Paper Mill Type: Museum/Experience Why go: See one of the oldest working paper mills in Europe. Best for: Craft lovers and curious minds. Where: Velké Losiny. Time: 5-7 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Train via Šumperk. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Velké Losiny thermal park for relaxation.
5. Name: Tvarůžky Museum in Loštice Type: Food Experience Why go: Taste the famous pungent Moravian cheese. Best for: Adventurous eaters. Where: Loštice. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Very low. Getting there: Train to Mohelnice, then a 5-minute bus ride. Tip: Visit the Olomouc cheese museum shop for unique souvenirs.
6. Name: Šternberk Castle Type: Iconic Castle Why go: A medieval fortress with a large collection of clocks. Best for: A quick morning or afternoon trip. Where: Šternberk. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Direct local train (15-20 minutes). Tip: Walk through the castle park for great views of the town.
7. Name: Helfštýn Castle Type: Ruins/Art Why go: One of the largest castle ruins in Central Europe. Best for: Hikers and fans of blacksmithing art. Where: Lipník nad Bečvou. Time: 5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: Train to Lipník nad Bečvou, then a pleasant uphill walk. Tip: Visit during the "Hefaiston" blacksmith festival in August.
8. Name: Praděd Mountain Type: Nature/Hiking Why go: Reach the highest point of the Jeseníky Mountains. Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts. Where: Kouty nad Desnou. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Kouty nad Desnou, then use the shuttle or hike. Tip: The TV tower at the top offers a restaurant with amazing views.
9. Name: Brno Old Town Type: City Experience Why go: Explore the vibrant second city of the Czech Republic. Best for: Foodies and city explorers. Where: Brno. Time: Full day. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Direct fast train (about 1.5 hours). Tip: Visit the Ossuary at St. James Church for a unique experience.
10. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: Iconic Castle Why go: A romantic, fairy-tale castle used in many films. Best for: Families and couples. Where: Bouzov. Time: 6 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Train to Litovel or Mohelnice, then a local bus. Tip: Check the best castles near Olomouc guide for seasonal opening times.

Practical Tips for Rail Trips in Moravia

Navigating the Czech rail system is quite simple. Most trains are operated by České dráhy (CD). You can easily buy train tickets online or via the Můj vlak app. This app is very helpful for real-time updates. It shows platform numbers and any delays.

For the best train day trips from Olomouc, consider buying a group ticket. If you travel with one or more people, the price drops. Weekend group tickets are also a great deal. They allow unlimited travel for a day. Always validate your ticket if it is a paper one from a small station.

Trains in Moravia are generally punctual and clean. Most fast trains offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets. Local trains are more basic but very charming. They offer a slower pace to enjoy the countryside. Try to avoid peak commuting hours on weekdays for a more relaxed seat.

Best Castles and Nature Near Olomouc by Rail

If you have limited time, stay close to the city. There are several gems just a few stops away. Šternberk is the easiest castle to reach. It is perfect for a half-day excursion. The train ride is very short and scenic.

Nature lovers should head north toward the mountains. The Jeseníky foothills start just past Šumperk. You can find many hiking trails starting right from small train stations. These areas are quiet and peaceful. They offer a great break from the city crowds.

Another great option is the Litovel Moravian River region. This area is famous for its brewery and natural landscapes. The UNESCO World Heritage sites in the region are also worth the effort. Moravia truly offers a mix of culture and nature within reach.