Facts About the Height of the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Tower

The height of the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral tower is exactly 100.65 meters. This makes it the second tallest church tower in the Czech Republic. Only the tower of St. Bartholomew's Cathedral in Pilsen is taller. The spire was completed in the late 19th century during a major renovation. It features intricate stone carvings and a slender, elegant shape.

Reaching this height was a massive engineering feat for the time. The tower houses several heavy bells that ring across the city. Its position on a hill makes it look even more imposing. You can see the spire from almost anywhere in the Olomouc outskirts. It is a perfect example of the Neo-Gothic style that defines the cathedral's current look.

For those interested in a Saint Wenceslas Cathedral tower climb, the height offers unparalleled views. You can see the Jeseníky Mountains on a clear day. The spire is also illuminated at night, creating a beautiful silhouette. It is a must-see for anyone interested in European architecture or photography.

10 Best Things to Do Near Saint Wenceslas Cathedral

Olomouc offers a mix of spiritual sites and lively city culture. Most of these attractions are within walking distance of the main square. Here are the top experiences to include in your itinerary.

• Quick Pick (Best View): The Cathedral Tower Climb
• Quick Pick (Best History): Olomouc Archdiocesan Museum
• Quick Pick (Best Free): Upper Square Walk

1. Name: Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: To see the stunning Neo-Gothic interior and the 100-meter spire. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the nave. Getting there: Tram to stops U Dómu or Náměstí Republiky. Tip: Look for the 16th-century frescoes in the side chapels.
2. Name: South Tower Climb Type: Activity Why go: To experience the height of the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral tower firsthand. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Cathedral entrance. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee (approx. 80 CZK). Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the stairs are narrow and steep.
3. Name: Olomouc Archdiocesan Museum Type: Museum Why go: It holds a world-class collection of religious art and historical artifacts. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Next to the Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Located in the same complex as the cathedral. Tip: Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art website for temporary exhibition schedules.
4. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the Cathedral. Tip: Read about the Holy Trinity Column facts before you go to spot the hidden chapel.
5. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: Experience Why go: It is one of the few clocks in the world with Socialist Realist figures. Best for: History buffs. Where: City Hall wall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located in the Upper Square. Tip: Be there at noon to see the figures move and hear the music.
6. Name: Cathedral Crypt Type: Sight Why go: To see the final resting place of bishops and historic relics. Best for: Unique experiences. Where: Under the Cathedral altar. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Small fee. Getting there: Access via the main cathedral floor. Tip: Consider visiting the crypt at Olomouc Cathedral during the cooler morning hours.
7. Name: Bezručovy sady Type: Nature Why go: A peaceful park located right under the historic city walls. Best for: Families and relaxation. Where: Below the cathedral hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the cathedral area. Tip: Look for the botanical garden entrance inside the park.
8. Name: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Type: Neighborhood Why go: The social heart of the city with fountains and cafes. Best for: People watching. Where: Central Olomouc. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub for all trams. Tip: Try the local "tvarůžky" cheese at one of the square's bistros.
9. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: Day trip Why go: A beautiful Baroque pilgrimage basilica with views over the whole region. Best for: Half-day trips. Where: 8km from city center. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free for grounds, bus fare needed. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: The local zoo is right next to the basilica.
10. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A fairytale castle often used in movies, located in the rolling Moravian hills. Best for: Romantic outings. Where: 30km from Olomouc. Time: Full day. Cost: Paid tours. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized tour. Tip: Check the UNESCO World Heritage list for other nearby Moravian sites.

Planning Your Saint Wenceslas Cathedral Tower Climb

Climbing the tower requires some physical effort. There are over 400 steps to reach the viewing gallery. The staircase is narrow and spiraling in many sections. It is not recommended for those with claustrophobia or limited mobility. However, the reward at the top is worth every step.

Tickets are usually sold at the cathedral entrance or the museum desk. Prices are very affordable compared to similar towers in Prague. Opening hours can change based on the season or religious services. It is best to visit on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. Always check for local holidays before planning your ascent.

Bring a camera with a good zoom lens. The height allows you to see the intricate patterns of the city's rooftops. You can also spot the various fountains scattered throughout the squares. Make sure to hold your phone or camera securely near the edges. The wind can be quite strong at 100 meters above the ground.