Introduction to Olomouc Historic Squares

The historic center of Olomouc is a protected heritage site. It features two main squares that are connected by narrow streets. Horní náměstí is the Upper Square. Dolní náměstí is the Lower Square. Both squares served as centers for trade and civic life. Today, they host markets, festivals, and tourists from all over the world.

The architecture here is mostly Baroque and Renaissance. Many buildings survived the wars of the past. This makes Olomouc feel like an open-air museum. You will see grand palaces and humble merchant houses. The city is very walkable and friendly for visitors. It is a perfect destination for a quiet European getaway.

The UNESCO World Heritage Centre recognizes the city for its unique monuments. The most famous is the Holy Trinity Column. However, there are many more Upper and Lower Square highlights to see. Each fountain and statue tells a different story. You will love the relaxed pace of life here.

11 Must-See Upper and Lower Square Highlights

The main attractions are concentrated in these two central hubs. You can start in the Upper Square for the most iconic views. Then, take a short walk to the Lower Square for a quieter vibe. Here is our list of the top highlights you cannot miss.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for families: Arion Fountain
• Best for history: Astronomical Clock
• Best free sight: Marian Plague Column

1. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: This is the largest Baroque sculptural group in Central Europe. It is a UNESCO site that represents local pride. Best for: Photographers and history lovers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the center of the Upper Square. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball on the column.
2. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: It features unique socialist-realist art from the 1950s. It is very different from the clock in Prague. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Northern wall of the Town Hall, Upper Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the Town Hall building. Tip: The clock chimes and moves daily at noon.
3. Name: Olomouc Town Hall Tower Type: Activity Why go: Climbing the tower gives you the best view of the city. You can see both squares from the top. Best for: Viewpoint seekers. Where: Upper Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entrance fee. Getting there: Enter through the tourism office in the Town Hall. Tip: Check the tower tour times at the Olomouc Tourism Portal.
4. Name: Arion Fountain Type: Experience Why go: This is a modern fountain by Ivan Theimer. It features a giant bronze turtle that children love. Best for: Families and kids. Where: Southwest corner of Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the Town Hall. Tip: It is a great place to sit and rest.
5. Name: Caesar Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It is the largest and most complex Baroque fountain in Olomouc. It depicts the mythical founder of the city. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Upper Square. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the east side of the square. Tip: Notice the detailed carvings of the Roman Emperor.
6. Name: Hercules Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This fountain shows the hero Hercules fighting a hydra. It is part of the famous Baroque fountains walking route. Best for: Mythology fans. Where: Upper Square, near the Astronomical Clock. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the northern side of the square. Tip: The water is usually turned on from April to October.
7. Name: Marian Plague Column Type: Sight Why go: It was built after a plague epidemic in the 18th century. It is a beautiful and spiritual monument. Best for: Religious history. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the Upper Square. Tip: It is often less crowded than the Holy Trinity Column.
8. Name: Neptune Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This is the oldest of the city's Baroque fountains. It features the god of the sea with his trident. Best for: Classical art lovers. Where: Lower Square. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the northern end of Lower Square. Tip: It looks beautiful when lit up at night.
9. Name: Jupiter Fountain Type: Sight Why go: This fountain was the last one added to the Baroque set. It shows the king of the Roman gods. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Lower Square. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the southern end of Lower Square. Tip: The walking distance between Upper and Lower Square is very short.
10. Name: St. Maurice Church Type: Sight Why go: This Gothic church has a famous organ and a climbable tower. It is just steps away from the Upper Square. Best for: Gothic architecture fans. Where: Just off the Upper Square. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free entry; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Walk through the narrow street behind the Hercules Fountain. Tip: The double spiral staircase in the tower is unique.
11. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: Museum Why go: It houses a great collection of modern and ancient art. It is one of the top cultural institutions in Moravia. Best for: Rainy days. Where: Near the Republic Square, a short walk from the Upper Square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Admission fee required. Getting there: Walk north from the Upper Square for five minutes. Tip: Check for temporary exhibitions on their website.

Planning Your Visit to the Squares

Visiting the Upper and Lower Square highlights is easy for everyone. The area is mostly a pedestrian zone. This means you can walk safely without much traffic. The cobblestones can be uneven, so wear comfortable shoes. This is important for a family-friendly Olomouc walking route.

Most sights are free to view from the outside. You only need money for tower climbs or museum entries. The local currency is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Many places now accept cards, but keep some cash handy. You will find many cafes and restaurants around the squares.

If you have mobility concerns, read the Olomouc old town accessibility guide. Most main monuments are accessible from the street level. However, some historic buildings may have steps. The squares are quite flat, which makes navigation simple. You can easily spend a whole day just in this area.

Beyond the Squares: Nearby Attractions

If you have more time, explore the areas near the squares. Olomouc has many more secrets to share. A short walk will take you to the stunning St. Wenceslas Cathedral. This cathedral has the second-highest spire in the country. It is a landmark you cannot miss.

The city is also known for its beautiful parks. These parks follow the old city walls. They offer a green escape from the stone squares. You can find more information at Visit Czechia. The atmosphere in these parks is very peaceful.

Olomouc is a great base for exploring Moravia. It is less crowded than Prague but just as beautiful. You will find the locals to be very welcoming. Make sure to try the local smelly cheese, Olomoucké tvarůžky. It is a famous delicacy from this region.