Why Explore Underground Olomouc?

Olomouc served as a strategic fortress for centuries. This military history created a vast network of tunnels and cellars. During the Cold War, the city added modern shelters to this ancient foundation. These spaces are now some of the most unique places in Olomouc to visit. Exploring underground provides a break from the summer heat or winter snow. It is a journey through time that most tourists completely miss. You can learn more about the city's official history at the Olomouc Tourism Portal.

10 Unusual Underground Tourist Attractions in Olomouc

These sites range from eerie burial grounds to high-tech military installations. Each location tells a specific story about the people who lived here. Here are the top unusual underground tourist attractions in Olomouc for your next trip.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Olomouc Civil Defence Shelter
• Best for families: Javoříčko Caves
• Best rainy-day: Archdiocesan Museum Foundations
• Best free: Bezručovy Sady Casemates (viewing exterior)

1. Name: Olomouc Civil Defence Shelter (Bunker 67) Type: Cold War Site Why go: It is a perfectly preserved nuclear bunker from the 1950s. Best for: History buffs Where: Bezručovy sady Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Approx. 150 CZK Getting there: Walk from the city center to the park. Tip: You must book an Olomouc Civil Defence Shelter tour in advance as space is limited.
2. Name: Mausoleum of Yugoslav Soldiers Type: Monument/Crypt Why go: This eerie neoclassical structure holds the remains of thousands of soldiers. Best for: Dark tourism Where: Bezručovy sady Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free (exterior) or small fee for interior Getting there: Located near the botanical garden entrance. Tip: The interior is often closed, so check local schedules before visiting.
3. Name: Crypt of St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: Religious Sight Why go: It houses the tombs of Olomouc bishops and stunning religious artifacts. Best for: Architecture lovers Where: Wenceslas Square Time: 45 minutes Cost: Small donation suggested Getting there: Take tram 2, 4, or 6 to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: Respect the quiet atmosphere as this is an active place of worship.
4. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Romanesque Palace Foundations Type: Archaeological Site Why go: See the 12th-century stone walls of the original Bishop's Palace. Best for: Archaeology fans Where: Václavské náměstí Time: 1 hour Cost: Included in museum ticket Getting there: Located next to the Cathedral. Tip: Look for the medieval graffiti carved into the stone.
5. Name: Town Hall Underground Type: Experience Why go: Explore the foundations of the building that houses the Socialist Astronomical Clock. Best for: General sightseeing Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí) Time: 45 minutes Cost: Approx. 100 CZK Getting there: Located in the very center of the city. Tip: Tours usually start at the tourist information center inside the Town Hall.
6. Name: Casemates of the Olomouc Fortress Type: Military History Why go: These brick tunnels were used for defending the city during sieges. Best for: Adventure Where: Crown Fortress (Korunní pevnůstka) Time: 1 hour Cost: Part of the fortress entry Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven and damp.
7. Name: Crypt of the Church of the Immaculate Conception Type: Hidden Sight Why go: A lesser-known crypt that offers a peaceful, somber experience. Best for: Avoiding crowds Where: Sokolská Street Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Short walk from the Palacký University buildings. Tip: This site is only open during specific church events or by request.
8. Name: Water Barracks Cellars Type: Military History Why go: Massive underground storage areas used by the Austrian army. Best for: History enthusiasts Where: Třída Svobody Time: 45 minutes Cost: Varies by exhibition Getting there: Near the Maria Theresa Gate. Tip: These cellars often host temporary art exhibitions.
9. Name: Javoříčko Caves Type: Nature/Day Trip Why go: Incredible stalactite formations in one of the country's most beautiful cave systems. Best for: Nature lovers Where: 30km West of Olomouc Time: Half-day Cost: 200-300 CZK Getting there: Best reached by car or regional bus to Litovel. Tip: Bring a jacket as the temperature is a constant 7-8 degrees Celsius.
10. Name: Mladeč Caves Type: Nature/Experience Why go: Famous for being a ritual burial site for Cro-Magnon people. Best for: Families and curious minds Where: Near the village of Mladeč Time: 3 hours (including travel) Cost: Approx. 180 CZK Getting there: 20-minute drive from Olomouc. Tip: Visit the nearby "Knight's Hall" within the cave for great photos.

Practical Tips for Subterranean Tours

Visiting underground sites requires some preparation. Even in summer, the temperature below ground stays quite cool. You should always bring a light sweater or jacket. Most tunnels are narrow and have low ceilings in places. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip to avoid slipping on damp stones. Many of these unusual underground tourist attractions in Olomouc have limited opening hours. Always check the Visit Czechia - Olomouc page for seasonal updates. Booking in advance is highly recommended for the Civil Defence Shelter.