Finding the Best Secret Viewpoints in Olomouc

Olomouc is known for its many church spires and historic monuments. Most people only see them from the ground. However, the city's layout creates many unique vantage points. You just need to know where to look. Many of these spots are tucked away in university buildings or quiet gardens.

The official Olomouc Tourism Portal provides general maps for visitors. But for the truly special views, you need to go deeper. Some terraces are only open during specific seasons. Others require a short climb up narrow wooden stairs. The effort is always worth it for the panorama.

• Best Overall View: St. Maurice Church Tower
• Best for Families: Bezručovy sady City Walls
• Best Rainy-Day Spot: Archdiocesan Museum Windows
• Best Free View: Svatý Kopeček Hill

Planning your route ahead of time is very helpful. Most viewpoints are within walking distance of the city center. You can easily visit three or four in a single afternoon. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for the historic cobblestones and steep stairs.

10 Must-Visit Secret Viewpoints in Olomouc

These locations offer the best perspectives of the city. We have selected a mix of famous landmarks and truly hidden corners. Each spot provides a different angle of the historic center and the surrounding landscape. Enjoy these secret viewpoints in Olomouc during your 2026 visit.

1. Name: St. Maurice Church Tower Type: Historic Tower Why go: It offers the highest accessible 360-degree view in the city. The double spiral staircase is an architectural marvel. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: North of the Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small donation suggested. Getting there: Walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Go early in the morning for the softest light.
2. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Tower Type: Cathedral Tower Why go: This is the tallest church tower in Moravia. It overlooks the historic Olomouc Castle district. Best for: Seeing the eastern part of the city. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Take tram 2, 4, or 6 to the "U Dómu" stop. Tip: Check the cathedral schedule as the tower closes during services.
3. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Terrace Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: The museum windows and small terrace offer views of the ancient Romanesque Bishop's Palace. It is a very quiet and artistic spot. Best for: History lovers. Where: Near the Cathedral. Time: 1.5 hours (including museum). Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Short walk from the Cathedral. Tip: Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art website for special exhibition hours.
4. Name: Bezručovy sady City Walls Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: These historic fortifications provide a unique view of the city's southern edge. You can see the botanical gardens from above. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: Southern edge of the historic center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Lower Square. Tip: Look for the hidden gems in Bezručovy sady like the old stone gates.
5. Name: Museum of Art Terrace Type: Modern Terrace Why go: This terrace offers a close-up view of the surrounding rooftops and church spires. It feels very private compared to the public squares. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square towards the Cathedral. Tip: The cafe inside the museum is great for a break after your visit.
6. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Sacred Hill) Type: Nature/Day Trip Why go: Located on the outskirts, this hill offers a massive view of the entire Olomouc basin. The basilica here is a landmark visible for miles. Best for: Sunset watching. Where: 8km northeast of the center. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free (Basilica entry may vary). Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: This is one of the best sunset spots in Olomouc without the city noise.
7. Name: Town Hall Tower Type: Iconic Sight Why go: While popular, the view from the gallery is essential. It looks directly down at the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column. Best for: Seeing the main square. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Central location, easy to find. Tip: Tours usually start at fixed times from the information center.
8. Name: Fort II Radíkov Type: Day Trip/Experience Why go: Part of the old imperial fortress system, this site offers views of the rolling hills. It is a great mix of military history and nature. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: Near Radíkov village. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for tours. Getting there: Bus from the city center followed by a short hike. Tip: Explore other abandoned forts of Olomouc if you enjoy this vibe.
9. Name: Villa Primavesi Garden Type: Unique Experience Why go: This Art Nouveau villa has a beautiful garden overlooking the city walls. It is a peaceful escape from the main tourist paths. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Near the University. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free to access the garden/cafe area. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square through the narrow alleys. Tip: Read about the Villa Primavesi hidden details before you visit.
10. Name: Palacký University Library Terrace Type: Local Experience Why go: This modern library has a quiet outdoor area with views of the surrounding university district. It is rarely visited by tourists. Best for: Quiet reading and views. Where: Biskupské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Cathedral area. Tip: Respect the quiet environment as students are often studying nearby.

Tips for Photographing Olomouc from Above

Capturing the perfect shot from these viewpoints requires some timing. The "Golden Hour" before sunset is the best time for photography. The red roofs of Olomouc glow under the warm light. Most towers are open until late afternoon, so plan accordingly. Check the closing times locally as they can change.

Wide-angle lenses are great for the narrow streets seen from above. However, a zoom lens helps capture the details of the Holy Trinity Column. Be aware that some towers have wire mesh for safety. You may need to position your lens carefully to avoid it. Tripods are often not allowed in narrow historic towers.

Weather in Moravia can be unpredictable. Overcast days are actually good for avoiding harsh shadows on the buildings. If it rains, head to the Archdiocesan Museum for indoor views. The city looks beautiful even under gray skies. Always check the local forecast before heading to the outdoor hills like Svatý Kopeček.