The Best Spots to See Medieval City Walls in Olomouc

Olomouc was once one of the most fortified cities in Europe. While many walls were removed in the 19th century, significant sections remain. Most of these are located within the city's beautiful ring of parks. You can see how medieval masonry blends with later Baroque brickwork. Here are the top nine spots to witness this history firsthand.

1. Name: Bezručovy Sady Walls Type: Sight/Park Why go: This is the longest and most impressive stretch of the original defenses. The high stone walls overlook a scenic stream. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: Southern edge of the historical center. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk five minutes from the Lower Square. Tip: Use the walking route through Bezručovy Sady to see the hidden botanical garden entrance.
2. Name: Michalský Výpad (St. Michael's Sally Port) Type: Experience Why go: This is a narrow, steep staircase built directly through the medieval wall. It connects the high old town with the park below. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Located directly below St. Michael’s Church. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs from Žerotínovo náměstí. Tip: The steps are very steep, so hold the handrail.
3. Name: The Archdiocesan Museum Foundations Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: You can see the Romanesque and Gothic stone foundations of the original Přemyslid Castle. It is one of the oldest parts of the city. Best for: Deep history buffs. Where: Václavské náměstí near the Cathedral. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid admission. Getting there: Walk to the northern end of the city center. Tip: Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art website for special exhibition times.
4. Name: The Gunpowder Tower (Prachová věž) Type: Sight Why go: This is a rare surviving tower from the medieval fortification system. It shows the height and strength of the old defenses. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Near the Palacký University buildings. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free (view from outside). Getting there: Walk through the University courtyard near Křížkovského street. Tip: It is often surrounded by students as it is part of the campus now.
5. Name: Theresian Gate (Terezínská brána) Type: Iconic sight Why go: While this gate is Baroque, it stands on the site of older medieval entries. it is the best-preserved city gate in Olomouc. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: Palachovo náměstí. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the main tram hub at Náměstí Hrdinů. Tip: The gate is beautifully lit at night.
6. Name: Smetanovy Sady Bastions Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: You can see the massive brick bastions that replaced the older medieval walls. They show the scale of the 18th-century fortress. Best for: Families and walkers. Where: West of the historic center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the pedestrian underpass from the city center. Tip: This park is famous for its flower festivals in spring and autumn.
7. Name: The Dominican Monastery Walls Type: Hidden sight Why go: These walls are tucked away and offer a quiet look at the city's perimeter. They feel very authentic and less touristy. Best for: Quiet exploration. Where: Near Slovenská street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the northern park ring. Tip: Look for the small public garden nearby for a peaceful break.
8. Name: Locika Tower Remnants Type: Sight Why go: These are the ruins of a medieval defense line located near the river. It shows how the water was used for protection. Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travelers. Where: Near the Mlýnský potok stream. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the water path from the edge of Bezručovy Sady. Tip: This area is great for a morning jog.
9. Name: Svatý Kopeček Viewpoint Type: Day trip Why go: From this hill, you can see the entire layout of the city's fortifications. You can see why the medieval walls were built in this specific spot. Best for: Panoramic views. Where: 6km outside the city. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Low (bus fare). Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the Olomouc main train station. Tip: Visit the zoo while you are on the hill.

Following the Olomouc Parks and Fortifications Walk

To see all these sites, follow the Olomouc parks and fortifications walk. This route loops around the historical center. It connects the three main parks: Bezručovy, Smetanovy, and Čechovy Sady. Most of the medieval wall remnants are in the southern and eastern sections. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal for maps. The walk is mostly flat and easy for all ages.

As you walk, notice the difference in building materials. The medieval sections use rough grey stone. The later Baroque sections use red brick. This transition shows how military technology changed over 500 years. The walk takes about two hours at a steady pace. It is the best way to see the city without getting lost in narrow streets. You will find many benches and cafes along the way for breaks.

If you want a detailed plan, check out the Olomouc parks and fortifications walk guide. It includes a map of every gate and tower. This route is especially beautiful in October when the leaves change color. The walls look very dramatic against the orange and yellow trees. It is a must-do activity for any visitor in 2026.

Practical Tips for Your Fortification Tour

Visiting the walls is easy, but a few tips will help. First, wear comfortable walking shoes. Some paths near the medieval walls are made of uneven cobblestones. Second, bring a camera with a wide-angle lens. The walls are very tall and hard to capture in one shot. Early morning light is best for photographing the stone textures.

Most of the fortifications are in public parks. This means they are open 24 hours a day and are free to visit. However, the museums have specific opening hours. Always check the official sites before you go. The city is very safe, even after dark. Many sections of the wall are lit up at night, creating a romantic atmosphere.

If you are traveling with kids, the parks have several playgrounds. You can see the walls while the children play. There are also many public toilets located near the main park entrances. Keep a few small coins (Czech Koruna) ready as some toilets require a small fee. Overall, the fortifications are very accessible for everyone.