Planning Your Olomouc Baroque Fountains Itinerary

Olomouc is very easy to navigate on foot. Most major sights sit within the historic core. You should start your day at the main square. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can follow a simple map of the city to find every fountain. Most travelers spend about four to six hours on this walk. This timing includes breaks for coffee and photos.

The city is famous for its unique water features. In the 17th century, these fountains were practical water sources. Today, they are beautiful works of art. You will see figures like Hercules, Caesar, and Neptune. Each one has a different story to tell. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestones. The city center is mostly flat and accessible for all. Check the Official Tourism Portal for seasonal event updates.

• Best overall: Caesar Fountain
• Best for families: Arion Fountain
• Best for views: St. Moritz Church Tower
• Best free activity: Holy Trinity Column

The Iconic Baroque Fountains of Olomouc

This section covers the essential stops for your tour. These fountains are the heart of the city's identity. They represent the strength and recovery of Olomouc after the Thirty Years' War. You can visit them in any order. However, starting at the Upper Square is usually best. This puts you near the most famous landmarks immediately.

1. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest and most complex fountain in the city. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square. Tip: Look for the statue of a dog at the base of the fountain. It represents the sculptor's loyalty. Read more about the history of Caesar Fountain.
2. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It shows the mythical hero fighting the Hydra. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Upper Square, near the Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located a short walk from the Caesar Fountain. Tip: This fountain is a great spot for a photo with the Town Hall in the background.
3. Name: Arion Fountain Type: Unique local experience Why go: A modern fountain that completes the Baroque set. Best for: Families with children. Where: Upper Square, southwest corner. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Visible from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Children are allowed to play in the water here during hot summer days.
4. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It features the king of gods holding a thunderbolt. Best for: Fans of Roman mythology. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Upper Square for three minutes. Tip: Visit the Lower Square at night to see the fountains illuminated.
5. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This is the oldest of the six Baroque fountains. Best for: Seeing the origins of the city's water system. Where: Lower Square, northern end. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right next to the Jupiter Fountain. Tip: Look for the four seahorses that emerge from the water at the base.
6. Name: Mercury Fountain Type: Sight Why go: Many experts consider this the most artistically valuable fountain. Best for: Appreciating fine sculpture details. Where: Near the intersection of 28. října and Pavelčákova streets. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Lower Square. Tip: The fountain is surrounded by great local cafes for a quick break.
7. Name: Triton Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It features intricate shells, dolphins, and water spirits. Best for: Those who enjoy detailed Baroque ornamentation. Where: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk five minutes east from the Upper Square. Tip: This square is usually quieter and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Must-See Landmarks Along the Walking Route

Your itinerary should include more than just fountains. Olomouc has several world-class landmarks between the squares. These sites provide context to the city's religious and political history. You can easily add them to your walking path. Most are located within a few hundred meters of each other. This makes Olomouc one of the most walkable cities in Visit Czechia guides.

1. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Iconic sight Why go: A UNESCO monument and the largest Baroque group of statues in Central Europe. Best for: Everyone visiting Olomouc. Where: Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: You cannot miss it in the main square. Tip: Check the Holy Trinity Column history to learn about the small chapel inside.
2. Name: St. Moritz Church Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best 360-degree views of the city and fountains. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Behind the Town Hall. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: Walk through the passage near the Hercules Fountain. Tip: The St. Moritz Church tower has a unique double spiral staircase.
3. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Type: Museum Why go: It houses a massive collection of religious art and a golden carriage. Best for: Rainy days and history buffs. Where: Near St. Wenceslas Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a short walk from Republic Square. Tip: Check the Archdiocesan Museum entrance times before you go.

Best Day Trips Near Olomouc

If you have extra time, explore the surrounding Moravian countryside. There are several impressive sites just a short distance away. These trips offer a mix of nature and history. You can use public transport or a rental car. Most destinations are reachable within 30 to 45 minutes. This makes them perfect for a half-day or full-day excursion.

1. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: Day trip Why go: A stunning romantic castle that looks like it is from a fairytale. Best for: Families and couples. Where: 35 kilometers northwest of Olomouc. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized tour. Tip: The castle is a popular filming location for many fantasy movies.
2. Name: Svatý Kopeček (Holy Hill) Type: Nature/Experience Why go: A beautiful pilgrimage basilica and a large zoo on a hill. Best for: Nature lovers and spiritual travelers. Where: On the outskirts of the city. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free for the basilica; fee for the zoo. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Walk the forest paths for a great view of the city below.