Planning Your Visit to St. Moritz Church

St. Moritz Church is located just a few steps from the Upper Square. It is hard to miss because of its massive asymmetric towers. The church was built in several stages starting in the 14th century. It features a unique double spiral staircase that is a marvel of medieval engineering.

The church is famous for its Engler organ, which is one of the largest in Central Europe. While the interior is breathtaking, the St. Moritz Church tower view is what draws the most adventurous tourists. You can see the entire layout of the city from the top gallery.

Before you head to the entrance, check the local weather. The tower may close during high winds or heavy ice in winter. In 2026, the church remains an active place of worship. Always be respectful of ongoing services when you enter the main building to find the tower access point.

How Many Steps to Climb St Moritz Tower: The Guide

Climbing the tower is a straightforward process but requires some physical effort. The stairs are stone at the bottom and transition to wood near the top. Here is the exact process to reach the viewpoint safely and efficiently.

1. Locate the Tower Entrance: Enter the church through the main doors and look for the signs pointing to the south tower entrance. Time: 2 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the church. Location: Main Nave. Mistake: Entering during a mass.
2. Pay the Admission Fee: Find the small kiosk or coin machine near the base of the stairs. Time: 2 minutes. Cost: 20-50 CZK (approx $1-2 USD). Location: Tower Base. Mistake: Not having small Czech coins ready.
3. The Ascent: Begin the climb up the 206 steps. The stairs are narrow and wind in a spiral. Time: 10-15 minutes. Cost: Included. Location: South Tower. Mistake: Rushing and getting dizzy in the spiral.
4. Reach the Gallery: Step out onto the stone gallery once you reach the top of the wooden section. Time: As long as you like. Cost: Included. Location: Tower Summit. Mistake: Forgetting your camera or phone.

The climb is manageable for most people with average fitness. However, the space is tight. If you feel claustrophobic, take frequent breaks at the small window slits. These openings also provide a preview of the view you are about to see.

The Reward: St. Moritz Church Tower View

Once you finish the climb, the panoramic vista will take your breath away. You can see the Holy Trinity Column clearly from this height. This UNESCO monument looks like a miniature model from the tower gallery. It is one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Olomouc city center.

To the north, you can spot the spires of Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. On a clear day, the Jeseníky Mountains are visible on the horizon. The 360-degree walkway allows you to see the red-tiled roofs of the entire old town. It is the perfect spot to orient yourself for the rest of your trip.

Photography enthusiasts should visit during the late afternoon. The golden hour light hits the Town Hall and the fountains beautifully. Ensure your camera strap is secure, as the stone railing is low in some sections. The wind can also be surprisingly strong at this height.

Preparation and Essential Tips for 2026

Preparation makes the climb much more enjoyable. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the stone steps can be worn and slippery. Avoid bringing large backpacks, as the spiral staircase is quite narrow. You will likely bump into the walls if your bag is too bulky.

• Checklist:
• Small change (Czech Koruna) for the entry fee.
• Water bottle for after the climb.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Light jacket (it is windy at the top).
• Fully charged phone or camera.

When deciding when to go, consider your priorities. If you want the best light, go an hour before sunset. If you want to avoid crowds, go right when the tower opens in the morning. Use this decision guide: If you are short on time, do the St. Moritz climb. If you want a guided history lesson, book the Town Hall tower tour instead.

Troubleshooting and Common Problems

Even the best-planned trips can face minor hurdles. The tower is a historic structure, so modern amenities are limited. Here are some common issues and how to handle them during your visit to Olomouc.

• Narrow Passages: The stairs are tight; wait in wider sections to let people pass.
• Coin Machine Issues: If the machine is broken, ask the church staff for assistance.
• Closure for Services: The tower may close during weddings or special funerals.
• Vertigo: If you feel dizzy, look at the wall, not down the center of the spiral.
• Extreme Weather: Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for alerts on weather closures.
• Lack of Elevator: There is no lift; those with mobility issues should skip this climb.
• Operating Hours: Hours change seasonally; always check the board at the entrance.

Most visitors find the 206 steps to be a fun challenge. The view is well worth the effort and the small fee. Just take your time and enjoy the historic atmosphere of the climb.