CENTRAL MORAVIA
Olomouc and Central Moravia form the historical and spiritual heart of Moravia, a region rich in Baroque splendour, ancient history, and a relaxed, university-town atmosphere. It is an authentic slice of the Czech Republic, often called the “Second Prague” for its density of magnificent monuments.
This region offers a captivating blend of a vibrant, yet peaceful, city center and a countryside dotted with grand castles, beautiful protected nature areas, and an enduring folk culture. It is an essential destination for lovers of history, architecture, and gastronomy.
Most Popular Attractions
Olomouc City Core (The Baroque Gem):
Holy Trinity Column: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe, dominating the main square.
Olomouc Town Hall & Astronomical Clock: A Gothic-Renaissance hall featuring a unique, post-WWII reconstruction of the clock with a socialist-realist theme.
Upper Square (Horní náměstí): The main historic square, surrounded by stately burgher houses and the famous Baroque fountains.
Caesar Fountain: The largest and oldest of the city’s Baroque fountains, depicting the legendary founder of Olomouc, Julius Caesar.
Arion Fountain: A modern Baroque-style fountain, a late addition to the city’s unique water display collection.
Lower Square (Dolní náměstí): The second major square, home to the Marian Plague Column and the Neptune Fountain.
St. Wenceslas Cathedral (Katedrála sv. Václava): An imposing Neo-Gothic cathedral with one of the tallest church spires in the Czech Republic.
Archbishop’s Palace (Arcibiskupský palác): The residence of the Olomouc archbishops, where the abdication of Emperor Ferdinand I took place.
Church of St. Maurice (Kostel sv. Mořice): A Gothic church housing a massive and famous pipe organ, the largest in Central Europe.
Museum of Modern Art (Muzeum moderního umění): A significant gallery showcasing Czech and international art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
University Palaces of Palacký University: Explore the beautiful, historic buildings of Moravia’s oldest university, adding a youthful energy to the city.
Capuchin Crypt (Kapucínská krypta): A slightly macabre but historically fascinating crypt with preserved mummified remains of monks and notable Olomouc citizens.
Central Moravia Castles & Historic Towns:
Bouzov Castle (Hrad Bouzov): A stunning, romantic medieval fortress frequently used as a filming location for fairy tales, known for its Gothic and Renaissance style.
Archbishop’s Château and Gardens, Kroměříž: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a spectacular Baroque palace and its beautiful adjoining Flower Garden (Květná zahrada).
Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill): A major pilgrimage site dominated by the magnificent Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, offering panoramic views of Olomouc.
Helfštýn Castle (Hrad Helfštýn): One of the largest castle ruins in the Czech Republic, famous for its annual international gathering of artistic blacksmiths.
Tovačov Castle (Zámek Tovačov): A Gothic-Renaissance water castle with a famous Needle Tower overlooking a scenic floodplain.
Náměšť na Hané Château (Zámek Náměšť na Hané): A picturesque château that hosted Mozart during his childhood.
Nature & Unique Attractions:
Moravian Karst (Moravský kras): While mostly in South Moravia, the northern parts offer impressive limestone caves, including the Javoříčko Caves and Mladeč Caves near Olomouc, with unique formations and archaeological finds.
Litovelské Pomoraví Protected Landscape Area: A beautiful floodplain forest area along the Morava River, ideal for cycling, hiking, and observing unique river ecosystems.
Pivní Lázně (Beer Spa) in Olomouc: A modern wellness attraction offering a unique Moravian experience of bathing in beer-infused water.
Olomoucké Tvarůžky Museum: Dedicated to the region’s famous and pungent local cheese, providing insight into its production and history.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Holy Trinity Column (UNESCO): Marvel at the Baroque grandeur of this plague column in Olomouc’s Upper Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe.
Visit the Astronomical Clock: See the unique Socialist Realist Astronomical Clock on the Olomouc Town Hall, which, unlike the Prague clock, features communist-era figures like workers and scientists.
Hike to Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill): Take a trip just outside Olomouc to this pilgrimage site. Visit the magnificent Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Discover Kroměříž Château and Gardens (UNESCO): Travel to the nearby town of Kroměříž to explore the lavish Archbishops’ Château and its two UNESCO-listed gardens: the formal Flower Garden (Květná zahrada) and the expansive Pleasure Garden (Podzámecká zahrada).
Taste Olomoucké Tvarůžky: Sample the famously pungent local cheese, often called the “stinkiest cheese in the country.” You can try it fried, in a salad, or visit the Tvarůžky Museum in Loštice.
Tour Helfštýn Castle: Explore one of the largest and most impressive medieval castles in the Czech Republic, known for its extensive ruins and being a centre for artistic blacksmithing.
Visit the Regional Breweries: Dive into Moravian beer culture by sampling local brews at craft breweries like Svatováclavský pivovar or Moritz, often paired with traditional Czech cuisine.
Explore the Moravian Karst (Macocha Abyss): Although a bit further south, this major natural attraction features an extensive system of caves and the dramatic Macocha Abyss, which can be explored via boat or cable car.
Wander through the Archdiocesan Museum and Olomouc Castle: Trace the region’s history by visiting the former Olomouc Castle, now part of the museum complex, and seeing the exquisite Romanesque St. Wenceslas Cathedral.
Go Axe Throwing or Visit Fort Science: For modern fun, try a casual sport like axe throwing (Bulzajz) or visit the interactive science museum, Fort Science (Pevnost poznání), great for all ages.
Stroll in the City Parks: Walk the green belt that surrounds the historic centre, such as Bezručovy sady, which follows the line of the old city walls and offers a tranquil escape.
Local Tips & Transport
Olomouc City Transport: Olomouc has an excellent, efficient public transport system consisting mainly of trams and buses. The historic centre is very walkable, but the trams are convenient for reaching the university campus, train station, or suburban sights.
- Tickets: A weekly ticket (Týdenní jízdenka) is very affordable and highly recommended for unlimited travel. Single tickets can also be bought from automated machines or in tobacco shops.
Regional Travel: Trains (České dráhy/RegioJet) are the best way to travel between Olomouc and other key Moravian cities like Brno, Kroměříž, or even Prague. The main station (Olomouc hlavní nádraží) is a major hub.
Car for Exploration: While Olomouc itself does not require a car, renting a car is recommended if you plan to explore the wider Central Moravia region, especially for visiting destinations like Helfštýn Castle, the Moravian Karst, or smaller villages that are less accessible by train.
Cycling: Olomouc and the surrounding area are becoming increasingly bike-friendly. Many regional paths are well-maintained, and you can rent bikes to explore the local countryside or use shared bike services within the city.
Lunch Menus (Polední Menu): To save money and eat well, take advantage of the Polední Menu offered by most restaurants on weekdays between 11 AM and 2 PM (sometimes later). These fixed-price menus offer a soup and a main course at a significant discount.
Student City Vibe: Olomouc is a major university city (Palacký University), giving it a lively, youthful, and vibrant atmosphere. This means more affordable dining, many great cafes, and a good selection of student-friendly bars like Vertigo or Ponorka.
Beer Culture: When ordering beer, specify the volume (usually $0.5 \text{ L}$ or $0.3 \text{ L}$). Tipping is customary but not obligatory; generally, round up the bill or add about $10\%$ for good service. Try local Moravian craft beers.
Stolpersteine (Gedenksteine): As you walk through the historic centre, look down for “Stolpersteine”—small, brass-plated memorial stones embedded in the pavement that commemorate the victims of the Holocaust who lived in the adjacent building.
Hidden Gems:
- The Golden Stone: A large, carved stone embedded in the pavement in the Upper Square, a point from which all distances in the Moravian region were historically measured.
- Archbishop’s Palace (Arcibiskupský palác): A stunning, historically significant palace where emperors and popes have stayed. It’s often overlooked by tourists and offers guided tours.
- Street Galleries: Olomouc has several unconventional street galleries and exhibitions, often integrated into the city’s historic fabric or university buildings.
Currency & Language: The currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK). While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially by younger people, learning a few basic Czech phrases (Dobrý den (hello/good day), Děkuji (thank you)) is always appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Moravská Restaurace [$15-$30] – Located right on Horní náměstí (Upper Square), this classic establishment focuses on traditional Moravian and Czech cuisine, known for dishes like “Svíčková” (beef sirloin in cream sauce) and roast duck. It has a rustic, folkloric atmosphere.
Hanácká Hospoda [$15-$25] – A bustling, popular tavern in the city center offering above-standard Czech pub food and a lively atmosphere, perfect for trying traditional hearty dishes and local beer.
Svatováclavský Pivovar (Saint Wenceslas Brewery) [$15-$25] – A delightful brewery and restaurant in one, offering traditional Czech food to accompany their house-brewed beers. A classic, authentic pub atmosphere.
Hostinský pivovar Moritz [$15-$25] – Located slightly outside the very center, this brewpub features its own beer and a menu of traditional Czech dishes and great beer snacks in a vintage-inspired setting.
Drapal Restaurant [$15-$25] – An old-fashioned, beloved pub in Olomouc, famous for its excellent, crisp Pilsner Urquell and a menu of traditional Czech specialties in a classic tavern setting.
Pod Limpou [$15-$25] – A classic Moravian restaurant located on Dolní náměstí, known for its authentic flavors and atmosphere, often mentioned as a local favorite for traditional fare.
Restaurace U Červeného Volka [$15-$25] – A lively, authentic Czech pub near the main square, known for its serious beer selection, well-prepared Czech classics, and a great atmosphere.
Restaurace U Mořice [$15-$25] – An authentic Czech spot near the main square that offers a solid selection of traditional national dishes.
U Dvou Pštrosů (At the Two Ostriches) [$15-$25] – A traditional Czech restaurant with a history, offering a reliable menu of classics in the city center.
Hospoda U musea [$15-$25] – A cozy and authentic pub atmosphere near the Olomouc Museum, serving traditional Czech dishes and great beer.
Pivní Sklep (Beer Cellar) [$15-$25] – A historic pub in a cellar setting, known for traditional Czech pub grub and a great selection of local and national beers.
Hospůdka U Kuděje [$15-$25] – A smaller, local spot known for simple, honest, and well-executed Czech pub food.
Restaurace Formanka (Mladějovice, near Olomouc) [$15-$30] – Located outside of Olomouc in the foothills of the Low Jeseník Mountains, this locally famous restaurant is a great choice for traditional Czech and international cuisine in a pleasant garden setting.
Hanačka Chaloupka [$15-$25] – A traditional Moravian cottage-style restaurant focused on regional “Haná” cuisine.
Restaurace Špalek [$15-$25] – A popular choice for traditional Czech standards and goulash, often praised by locals for its consistent quality.
Na Lhotě (Lake Náklo) [$15-$25] – Located by Lake Náklo, this spot offers a mix of Italian pizza, burgers, and specialties from the smokehouse in a relaxed setting.
Penzion u Coufalů (Kroměříž, Central Moravia) [$20-$35] – In the historic town of Kroměříž, this restaurant offers quality traditional Moravian dishes in a pleasant environment.
Restaurace Selské Stavení (Jeseník) [$20-$35] – Found in the wider Central Moravia region (Jeseník Mountains), it focuses on mountain and regional Czech cuisine.
Restaurace U Tlustých (Prostějov) [$20-$35] – Located in nearby Prostějov, this spot is known for its classic Czech and Moravian dishes.
Restaurace Hubert (Olomouc-Neředín) [$20-$35] – A bit outside the center, known for traditional Czech food, particularly game dishes.
Selsky Dvur (Hlubočky) [$20-$35] – Situated in the hills near Olomouc, offering traditional cuisine in a rustic, countryside atmosphere.
Entrée Restaurant [$50-$80] – Arguably Olomouc’s most celebrated restaurant, led by MasterChef Czechia judge Přemek Forejt. It offers a spectacular tasting menu with an immersive and highly creative approach to fine dining in an original “living garden” interior. A strong candidate for a Michelin star.
Long Story Short Eatery & Bakery [$25-$45] – Part of a popular hostel, this spot offers a culinary mosaic of contemporary food with a strong focus on shared plates and local, seasonal produce. It features an open kitchen with a charcoal Josper Grill, making their meats and vegetables exceptional.
Bistro Helen [$25-$40] – Located on the top floor of Galerie Šantovka, this stylish restaurant and café focuses on modern, healthy dishes made from seasonal and local ingredients, and has received high acclaim in Czech gastronomy guides.
Bistro Paulus [$25-$45] – A modern bistro concept by Michelin-starred chef Roman Paulus, located in a canteen setting but serving first-class food, blending classic Czech cuisine with global flavors. They often feature meat and fish roasted whole on a large grill.
Bistro No. 66 [$20-$35] – A unique and stylish bistro in the historic center with a creative menu and original art pieces. Great for a nice breakfast or a modern lunch/dinner.
Plan B [$20-$35] – A smart underground restaurant with an ever-changing menu that focuses on gourmet food and constant experimentation by the chefs.
La Casa De Carli [$25-$45] – While Italian, it brings a modern, refined culinary approach to the Olomouc scene, focusing on high-quality ingredients and presentation.
Naše Farma (Our Farm) [$25-$40] – A restaurant and butcher shop focused on quality local meat, offering modern preparations of steaks and other farm-to-table dishes.
Krčma U Skaláku [$20-$35] – Located near the city center, known for a modern approach to traditional Moravian food with an emphasis on quality local ingredients.
Bistro Zahrada (Bar Garden) [$20-$35] – A hidden garden setting in the city center offering a pleasant atmosphere and a menu that balances modern and international dishes.
Kavárna a Bistro Naše Tvarůžkárna [$15-$25] – A modern spot focusing on the local specialty, Olomoucké tvarůžky (smelly, low-fat cheese), offering creative interpretations of this regional classic alongside good coffee and pastries.
Bistro Špagetárna [$15-$30] – A youthfully vibrant spot that specializes in creative and delicious spaghetti and other pasta dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Restaurace Bělecký Mlýn (Central Moravia) [$30-$50] – Located in a popular excursion area, this restaurant focuses on modern Czech and international cuisine using locally sourced meats like Aberdeen Angus beef and Preštice pork.
LARS – BISTRO KAVÁRNA BÁR [$20-$35] – A modern bistro and café offering a selection of contemporary dishes and a relaxed vibe.
Morgan’s Restaurant [$25-$45] – Housed in historic barracks, this restaurant offers a mix of regional specialties, steaks, and burgers in a unique and pleasant setting.
Restaurace Apetit [$25-$40] – A modern restaurant with a focus on seasonal and fresh ingredients, offering a creative take on Czech and international cuisine.
TVARG Brewery & Restaurant [$15-$25] – A microbrewery and restaurant focusing on beer and regional food, including dishes featuring Olomoucké tvarůžky. Great for a local beer experience with food.
The Kathmandu Nepali Restaurant [$15-$25] – A popular choice for a different flavor, offering authentic Nepali and Indian cuisine, including specialties from the Tandoori oven.
Vietnam’s Street Food [$15-$25] – Known for serving excellent Vietnamese street food, with their Bún bò Nam Bô often highlighted as among the best in the country.
Naše Maso Olomouc (Our Meat) [$20-$35] – A concept similar to a popular Prague spot, focusing on a butcher shop that also cooks and serves high-quality, perfectly prepared meat dishes.
Restaurace Sal de Mar [$30-$50] – Located in the NH Olomouc Congress Hotel, this gem focuses on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, particularly excellent seafood and fish, which is a nice departure from the local meat-heavy fare.
Kavárna Zahrada (Garden Café) [$15-$25] – A lovely, relaxing spot hidden in a garden, offering light meals, excellent coffee, and desserts.
Restaurace Caesar Gallery [$20-$35] – Part of the Caesar Gallery, serving a mix of Czech and international cuisine with profits supporting local cultural life.
Black Stuff Irish Pub and Brewery [$15-$25] – An Irish pub offering its own craft beer and classic pub food, including a mix of Irish and Czech dishes.
Potrefená Husa Olomouc [$20-$35] – Part of a popular Czech chain, offering modern twists on traditional Czech dishes and a wide selection of Staropramen beers in a stylish environment.
Restaurace U Kristýna [$20-$35] – A reputable restaurant near the center with a menu that includes both Czech classics and international options.
Létající Jelen (Flying Deer) [$20-$35] – A popular spot known for its good atmosphere and a menu featuring grilled specialties and Czech cuisine.
Bistro Konvikt [$15-$25] – Located near the university, offering good bistro-style food and a pleasant atmosphere popular with a younger, local crowd.
Bistro Velo (Litovel) [$15-$25] – Located in the nearby town of Litovel, known for good burgers and a selection of local Litovel beer.
Restaurace U Orla [$15-$25] – A reliable, centrally-located restaurant with a good mix of traditional and international dishes.
Eiskaffee [$10-$20] – A popular café for excellent coffee, ice cream, and desserts, offering a perfect mid-day break.
Café Mahler [$10-$20] – A historically themed café on the main square with views, perfect for coffee, cakes, and light meals.
Café New One [$15-$25] – A trendy bistro and café in the heart of Olomouc, offering a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Restaurace U Zlatého Muflona (Jeseník) [$25-$40] – Located in the wider region, specializing in game and traditional mountain cuisine, reflecting the area’s natural surroundings.
Hostinec na vrchu [$15-$25] – An inn with a history, offering a wide selection of Czech and international dishes, including tartare and grilled ribs.
Hunting Lodge (Lovecká chata) [$25-$40] – A hunting restaurant surrounded by forests, offering game specialties and a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for a family outing in Central Moravia.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Cuban Cocktail bar OSA: Located centrally in Olomouc, this vibrant bar brings the spirit of Cuba to Moravia with authentic Cuban drinks, a wide selection of rum, and a lively atmosphere.
The BLACK STUFF Irish Pub & Whisky Bar: Though primarily an Irish Pub and Whisky Bar, this establishment near the historical center of Olomouc is renowned for its selection of luxury spirits and an extensive cocktail menu, all within a cozy, atmospheric setting.
Koktejly & Sny: Situated in Olomouc, this spot translates to “Cocktails & Dreams,” promising a focus on expert mixology and creative cocktails in a chic and appealing ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
Great Gatsby Bar – COCKTAIL BAR & SHISHA LOUNGE: Inspired by the 1920s, this central Olomouc bar offers a sophisticated environment with a wide variety of classic and signature cocktails, alongside a shisha lounge.
Escobar Olomouc: A lively cocktail bar in the center of Olomouc, popular for its diverse drink menu, friendly atmosphere, and option to enjoy shisha alongside your cocktails.
The Keep Cocktail Bar: Found in Olomouc, this bar is known for its handcrafted cocktails and cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for a relaxed but stylish night out.
47 Opic – Gin&Tonic bar: Located in Olomouc, this bar specializes in Gin & Tonic, offering a wide array of gins and different tonics for custom-made highballs and other gin-based cocktails.
Bar Corleone: A themed bar in Olomouc that offers a distinctive atmosphere and a good selection of cocktails and drinks in a setting inspired by classic cinema.
Blaylock Steampunk Bar: Discover this unique bar in Olomouc with a whimsical Victorian-inspired steampunk setting, serving creative and distinctive cocktails.
Fashion cocktail bar: A trendy spot in Olomouc, this bar focuses on innovative cocktails and a chic, modern atmosphere for a fashionable night out.
Bar Mi Casa Su Casa: A cozy and vibrant bar in Olomouc, perfect for socializing and enjoying a good selection of delicious mixed drinks.
OpenWine Latino Bar: While focusing on wine, this bar in Olomouc also provides a lively Latin atmosphere and a variety of drinks in a setting perfect for social gatherings.
Bernard Bar Olomouc: Located centrally, this welcoming pub is known for celebrating Czech brewing culture, but also offers a vibrant atmosphere for those looking for a lively place for a drink in Olomouc.
Bottles Bar: A central Olomouc bar offering a cozy atmosphere and an extensive drink selection, popular among locals and students.
Delano Cocktail Bar: Situated in Olomouc, this is a dedicated cocktail spot offering refreshing and colorful cocktails, perfect for those looking for drinks beyond beer in the city.
Club Belmondo: Located in Olomouc’s historic center, this club is set within the former city walls, featuring multiple distinct spaces: the Mainstage for current dance hits, the Sidebar for R’n’B and Hip Hop, and the Temple Stage for special techno/drum and bass nights, plus a new Lobby Hifi Bar.
R6 Club: A multi-genre music club in the center of Olomouc, offering two music scenes, large-capacity bars, a summer rooftop terrace bar, and a dedicated VIP Room, all fully air-conditioned.
Jazz Tibet Club: More than just a jazz club, this venue in Olomouc is a beloved spot known for its cozy interior, live music shows (not only jazz), and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for listening or dancing.
Vertigo: An underground student club in Olomouc, known for loud music and a high-energy, heady nightlife experience, popular with the university crowd.
Meex Club: A music club located right on Olomouc’s main square (Horní náměstí), which typically opens later in the week for dancing and a vibrant party scene.
15 Minut Music Club: Situated in Olomouc, this music club is a well-known venue for diverse music and a lively student atmosphere, offering a great space to dance.
Sklub: A major club in Olomouc, known for hosting concerts, theme parties, and various dance nights, making it a key spot in the city’s nightlife.
Bounty Rock Cafe: Located in Olomouc, this venue is a popular choice for rock and alternative music lovers, often featuring live bands and a spirited atmosphere for a night out.
The Lower Deck – Pub & Bar & Music Club: This venue in Olomouc functions as a pub, bar, and music club, offering a mix of drinks, a cozy atmosphere, and live music, making it a versatile nightlife option.
Disco club Pálava: Located in the nearby town of Šternberk (Central Moravia), this club hosts regular discos, dance parties, and live band performances, offering a nightlife option outside of Olomouc city center.
DISCO PORTO: A nightclub located in Přerov (Central Moravia), which provides a dedicated venue for dancing and late-night entertainment in the region.