Is the Olomouc Town Hall Tower Worth It?

The Town Hall Tower is the most iconic viewpoint in Olomouc. It offers a direct look down at the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column. For most travelers, the small entry fee is well worth the reward. You get a perspective that you cannot find anywhere else in Moravia.

Verdict: This is a must-do for active travelers who want the best photos of the city. The climb is physical but the gallery is safe and wide. It provides a great sense of the city's medieval layout.

• Pros: Unbeatable views of the Upper Square, historical context, and central location.
• Cons: Many stairs, limited tour times, and can be windy at the top.

Best for: Photographers, history buffs, and families with older children. Skip if: You have knee problems or severe vertigo. Alternative: The tower at the Church of Saint Maurice offers a different angle with more space.

The Physical Challenge: Climbing the Tower

Climbing this tower is a workout. You must navigate a narrow spiral staircase that feels very old. The stone steps are worn from centuries of use. It is important to wear comfortable shoes and take your time during the ascent.

Many visitors ask how many stairs are in the Olomouc Town Hall Tower before starting. There are over 200 steps to reach the viewing platform. The staircase is well-maintained, but it can feel tight when passing other people. There are a few small windows along the way to provide fresh air.

Before you reach the top, you will pass the mechanism for the famous clock. Our Olomouc astronomical clock guide explains the socialist-realist art on the exterior. Inside the tower, you can see the inner workings that keep the clock running. It adds a layer of mechanical history to your physical climb.

What You See: Olomouc Town Hall Tower Views

Once you reach the gallery, the Olomouc Town Hall Tower views will take your breath away. The gallery circles the entire tower, allowing you to see in every direction. To the south, you look directly down onto the Holy Trinity Column. This monument is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks magnificent from above.

To the north, you can see the spires of the city's many churches. The red rooftops of the old town create a beautiful pattern. On clear days, the horizon shows the rolling hills of the Jeseníky Mountains. The contrast between the urban square and the distant nature is striking.

The view also highlights the unique layout of the Upper Square. You can spot the Baroque fountains that dot the plaza. You can also see the shadow of the Town Hall moving across the pavement like a giant sundial. It is the perfect spot to plan your next stop in the city.

Comparing the Best Views in Olomouc

There are two main towers for tourists in the city center. The Town Hall Tower is the tallest and most central. However, the Church of Saint Maurice has a double-helix staircase that is very famous. Both offer excellent views, but the perspectives are different.

The Town Hall is better for seeing the main square and the clock. St. Maurice is better for seeing the cathedral and the northern part of the city. If you have time, we recommend visiting both. They are only a five-minute walk apart.

The Town Hall usually requires joining a scheduled tour. St. Maurice often allows for more flexible, independent climbing. If you are on a tight schedule, check the best time to climb Olomouc Town Hall Tower to avoid waiting. Early morning tours often have the softest light for photography.

How to Plan Your Visit in 2026

In 2026, visiting the tower remains a structured experience. You cannot simply walk up at any time. You must usually visit the Tourist Information Center located inside the Town Hall. They provide tickets and tours for specific time slots throughout the day.

The price is very reasonable, typically costing around 50 to 100 CZK. Discounts are often available for students and seniors. It is a good idea to book your slot in the morning. Tours can fill up quickly during the summer months or festival weekends.

For the most up-to-date schedule, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal. They list seasonal opening hours and any temporary closures. Remember that the tower may close during extreme weather like high winds or heavy ice. Always check the weather forecast before you plan your climb.

Essential Sights Near the Town Hall

After your climb, there are many places to visit in Olomouc within a short walk. The Upper Square itself is full of history. You can visit the Caesar Fountain or the Ariane Fountain right outside the Town Hall doors. These are masterpieces of Baroque sculpture.

Just a few minutes away is the Lower Square. It features more fountains and a beautiful plague column. The walk between the two squares is lined with cafes and shops. It is a great place to grab a coffee and rest your legs after the tower climb.

If you want more culture, the Archdiocesan Museum is a short walk toward the cathedral. Olomouc is a compact city, making it easy to see several major sites in one afternoon. The Town Hall Tower is the perfect starting point for any city tour.