Top Walking Trails Along the Morava River Olomouc
Olomouc is a hidden gem in the eastern Czech Republic. The city offers a perfect blend of history and nature. One of the best ways to see it is by exploring the walking trails along the Morava River Olomouc. These paths offer fresh air and beautiful views. Whether you want a short stroll or a long hike, there is a trail for you. Most paths are flat and easy to navigate. This makes them great for all fitness levels. You can enjoy the river's calm flow while discovering local parks. In 2026, many of these trails have updated signage for visitors.
- Best overall: Poděbrady Lake Trail
- Best for families: Bezruč Park Riverside
- Best for nature: Černovír Floodplain Forest
- Best free activity: Morava River Embankment
Best Walking Trails Along the Morava River Olomouc
Walking in Olomouc is a relaxing experience. The river serves as a natural guide through the city. You will find many walking routes in Olomouc that connect to the water. These trails are well-maintained and popular with locals. You can see historic bridges and modern art along the way. The paths are often shaded by old trees. This makes them comfortable even on warm summer days. Be sure to bring a camera for the scenic reflections on the water.
- Name: Bezruč Park Riverside Type: Sight/Park Why go: This park offers a botanical garden and a peaceful river view. Best for: Families and flower lovers. Where: Southeast of the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the main square. Tip: Visit the nearby botanical garden greenhouses if they are open.
- Name: Morava River Embankment Type: Experience Why go: It is the most central urban path with great views of the city wall. Best for: A quick sunset stroll. Where: Near the city center. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from several points downtown. Tip: Look for the local student hangouts along the stone steps.
- Name: Černovír Floodplain Forest Type: Nature Path Why go: This trail takes you through a protected forest area. Best for: Nature lovers and birdwatchers. Where: Northern edge of Olomouc. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take bus 15 to the Černovír stop. Tip: Wear insect repellent during the summer months.
- Name: Poděbrady Lake Trail Type: Nature/Lakeside Why go: It is a beautiful loop around a former gravel pit now used for swimming. Best for: A half-day trip with a swim. Where: 5km north of the city. Time: 2 hours for the loop. Cost: Free (parking may cost extra). Getting there: Follow the how to get to Poděbrady Lake guide for easy access. Tip: There is a great restaurant on the shore for lunch.
- Name: Lazce Riverside Path Type: Neighborhood Walk Why go: A quiet path used mostly by locals for jogging and dog walking. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Lazce district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from the center along the river. Tip: This path is very flat and excellent for strollers.
- Name: Hejčín Nature Loop Type: Viewpoint/Nature Why go: It offers wide views of the river meadows and local wildlife. Best for: Photographers. Where: Hejčín neighborhood. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 2 or 7 to the Hejčín stop. Tip: Late afternoon light is best for photos here.
- Name: Smetana Park Green Belt Type: Garden/Indoor nearby Why go: While not on the riverbank, it connects the river to the city's famous parks. Best for: Seeing the famous Olomouc floral displays. Where: South of the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the city center. Tip: Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal flower show dates.
Exploring Morava River Nature Paths Beyond the City
If you want more adventure, head further out. The Morava River nature paths extend into the countryside. These trails lead you into the Litovelské Pomoraví Protected Landscape Area. This area is famous for its unique inland river delta. You can walk for miles without seeing a car. The trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. This is a common system in the Czech Republic. It makes navigation very simple for international visitors.
- Name: Hynkov to Olomouc Trail Type: Day Trip Why go: A scenic point-to-point walk through river wetlands. Best for: Active hikers. Where: Starts in Hynkov village. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Free (plus bus fare). Getting there: Take a local bus to Hynkov and walk back to Olomouc. Tip: Stop at the small pub in Hynkov before you start.
- Name: Chomoutov Lake Path Type: Nature/Birdwatching Why go: A peaceful loop around a bird sanctuary. Best for: Seeing rare water birds. Where: Chomoutov district. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus 18 or 20 from the city center. Tip: Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
- Name: Litovelské Pomoraví Gateway Type: Day Trip Why go: This is the entrance to a vast network of forest trails. Best for: A full day in nature. Where: North of the city limits. Time: 3-6 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Train to Horka nad Moravou. Tip: Visit the Sluňákov ecological center nearby for local nature info.
After your walk, you might want to see the city's history. The historical city center walking loop is a great next step. It features the Holy Trinity Column. This monument is listed by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Olomouc is truly a city that combines culture and nature perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking trails along the Morava River Olomouc paved?
Many of the urban trails near the city center are paved or have firm gravel. However, paths in the nature reserves like Černovír can be muddy after rain. It is best to wear sturdy walking shoes if you plan to explore the forest sections.
Is it safe to walk along the river at night?
Olomouc is generally a very safe city for travelers. The central embankment is well-lit and popular in the evenings. However, the nature paths outside the city are not lit. You should finish your walks in the forested areas before sunset for safety.
Can I rent a bike for these trails?
Yes, Olomouc has several bike-sharing options and rental shops. Most river trails are multi-use, meaning they are open to both walkers and cyclists. Always stay to the right and be mindful of others on the narrower sections of the path.
The walking trails along the Morava River Olomouc offer a wonderful way to experience Moravia. From urban parks to wild forests, there is a path for every mood. These trails are free, healthy, and easy to access. Make sure to check the local weather before you head out. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty of the Czech Republic. For more help planning your trip, visit the official tourism office in the town hall.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Olomouc Tourism Portal — unverified: Official DMO site.
- Statutory City of Olomouc — unverified: Municipal government portal.
- Visit Czechia - Olomouc — unverified: National tourism board page.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO designation page.
- Lonely Planet Olomouc — unverified: Major international travel editorial.
