Preparing for Your Drive from Olomouc

Driving in the Czech Republic requires specific preparation. Most major roads require a digital highway vignette. You can purchase this online for 10 days, 30 days, or a full year. Prices for a 10-day pass typically range from 270 to 310 CZK in 2026. Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for local traffic updates before leaving.

Your car must have standard safety gear. This includes a reflective vest for every passenger. You also need a first-aid kit and a warning triangle. Police often conduct random checks on these items. Ensure your headlights are on at all times, as this is a legal requirement.

• Checklist:
• Digital highway vignette (e-vignette).
• Valid driver's license and ID.
• Reflective safety vests.
• First-aid kit and warning triangle.
• Offline maps or a reliable GPS.
• Small change (CZK) for parking meters.

Step-by-Step Driving Directions from Olomouc to Litomysl

Follow these specific steps to navigate the journey efficiently. The total distance is approximately 85 kilometers. Most of the drive takes place on the E442, which is a well-maintained primary road. Pay close attention to the signs as you exit the city limits of Olomouc.

1. Step 1: Exit Olomouc Center. Head northwest toward the Mohelnice direction. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Fuel only. Mistake to avoid: Entering the tram-only zones in the city center.
2. Step 2: Join Route 35 (E442). Follow signs for Mohelnice and Hradec Kralove. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Requires a vignette. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting to activate your digital vignette before hitting the highway.
3. Step 3: Drive toward Mohelnice. Continue on the four-lane highway. Time: 25 minutes. Cost: Fuel. Mistake to avoid: Missing the exit where the highway narrows into a two-lane road.
4. Step 4: Navigate Moravska Trebova. Stay on Route 35 through the tunnel. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Fuel. Mistake to avoid: Speeding in the tunnel, which has active camera enforcement.
5. Step 5: Enter Litomysl. Follow the signs for the town center and the castle. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Parking fees. Mistake to avoid: Turning into the pedestrian zone near the main square.

Alternative Routes and Road Conditions

While Route 35 is the standard choice, it can be busy with trucks. If you prefer a quiet drive, consider the route through Konice. This path uses smaller regional roads. It adds about 20 minutes to your travel time but offers better views of the forest. This is a great choice if you enjoy slow travel.

Road conditions are generally excellent during the summer months. However, the section between Mohelnice and Moravska Trebova involves steep hills. In winter, this area can be tricky due to snow and ice. Always check the weather forecast if you are traveling between November and March. Winter tires are mandatory during this period.

If you have extra time, you might consider visiting Bouzov Castle from Olomouc on your way back. It is located just a short detour from the main Mohelnice road. This adds variety to your road trip experience.

Parking Near Litomysl Castle

Once you arrive, finding a spot for your Litomysl Castle UNESCO site visit is straightforward. There are several designated parking lots within a 5-minute walk of the castle gates. The largest lot is located just off the main road near the Smetana Square. Look for the blue "P" signs as you enter the town.

Parking costs are reasonable in Litomysl. You should expect to pay between 20 and 40 CZK per hour. Most machines accept coins or mobile payment apps. Some lots offer a flat daily rate which is better for long tours. Be sure to check the litomysl castle guided tour schedule to time your arrival perfectly.

The castle is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site. Because of this, the area around the castle is strictly regulated. Do not park on the grass or in front of residential gates. Local police are very active in issuing fines for illegal parking near the historic monuments.

Troubleshooting Your Road Trip

Even with the best driving directions from Olomouc to Litomysl, issues can arise. Traffic jams are common near Moravska Trebova due to roadwork. If the main road is blocked, your GPS might suggest a detour through very narrow villages. Use caution as these roads may not be suitable for large vehicles.

• GPS Signal: The tunnel near Moravska Trebova often cuts GPS signals; stay on the main road.
• Fuel Stations: There are plenty of gas stations in Mohelnice and Litomysl, but fewer in between.
• Speed Limits: Strict 50 km/h limits apply in all villages; cameras are frequent.
• Road Closures: Check for seasonal maintenance on Route 35 before you start.
• EV Charging: Fast chargers are available in Olomouc and Litomysl, but rare on the highway.
• Language: Most road signs use standard international symbols, but "Objizdka" means detour.