Olomouc between Haná and the Jeseníky Mountains

Olomouc combines the flat landscape of Haná with the mountainous north of the Olomouc Region. The Morava River runs through the region, creating a geographical link between culture, nature and active excursions. For your travel planning, this means an unusual variety: historical urban and cultural experiences, protected landscapes, cycling routes, castles, caves and spa towns are all located within one region with distinctly different landscapes.

Landscapes between Haná and the Jeseníky Mountains

The Jeseníky Mountains are characterised by dense forests, mountain lakes, rock formations, waterfalls, summer meadows and winter ski slopes. The landscape also includes tundra, glacial cirques, bogs, mountain streams and historic mountain villages. To the south, Haná represents a flat landscape with a distinctive ethnographic character. The narrow Litovelské Pomoraví Protected Landscape Area follows the Morava River between Olomouc and Mohelnice. There, floodplain forests alternate with meadows. The publicly accessible Mladeč Caves are located in the Třesín karst area.

Culture, history and regional specialities

In Olomouc itself, the Holy Trinity Column is a UNESCO World Heritage monument and an outstanding example of Moravian Baroque. The cultural character of Haná is showcased by the Haná Open-Air Museum in Příkazy, which presents the life of the Haná people. Further insights are provided by the accessible Archbishop's Palace, the Archdiocesan Museum, the Coach Museum in Čechy pod Kosířem and the Regional Museum in Olomouc.

There are also notable destinations outside the city for a varied trip. Helfštýn Castle combines medieval and modern architecture and, among other events, hosts an exhibition of artisanal blacksmithing. Bouzov Castle is one of the region's recommended attractions. The Javoříčko Caves contain stalactite formations. One paper mill has operated continuously since 1596 and offers guided tours of a paper museum and its production areas.

Cycling, water and spa towns

A broad network of cycling paths is available for cycling holidays. From Olomouc, the Moravian Trail follows the Morava River towards Kroměříž or northwards into Litovelské Pomoraví. Its flat route is suitable for families. Water-based activities range from aquaparks and natural bathing areas to rafting. Spa and wellness facilities can be found at the Priessnitz healing springs and in the thermal waters of Velké Losiny. Karlova Studánka Spa and Lázně Jeseník Spa are also among the region's notable spas.

Regional cuisine includes Olomoucké syrečky, described as a speciality of the Olomouc Region. This characteristic local speciality complements the region's selection of landscapes, history and active excursions.

Olomouc as a base

The Olomouc Region is accessible by car and train. Olomouc is an important railway hub, with its main station located close to the city centre. Holders of the Olomouc Region Card can use the city's tram and bus services free of charge.

Subregions for your further search

For more detailed orientation within the region, you can find the subregions here: Olomouc District, Přerov District, Prostějov District, Šumperk District and Jeseník District.

More about the destination

Relevant information for planning your trip:

Olomouc – Czech Republic network.

Further destinations

More places within the same destination:

Ústí nad Labem, Pilsen.