Quick Picks for Your Visit

Are you in a hurry to plan your trip? These quick picks highlight the best of the Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage site. Use this list to prioritize your time on the hill.

• Best Overall: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary.
• Best for Families: Olomouc Zoo.
• Best for Nature: The forest trails behind the basilica.
• Best Free Activity: Walking the Way of the Cross path.

Before you go, check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for current events. This site is great for any type of traveler. Whether you want history or fun, you will find it here.

Top 10 Things to Do at Svatý Kopeček Pilgrimage Site

The Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage site offers many diverse experiences. Here are the top ten things you should not miss. Each item provides a unique look at this historic area.

1. Name: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary Type: Sight Why go: This is the heart of the site. It is a masterpiece of Baroque art. The interior is filled with gold and light. Best for: Architecture and history fans. Where: The main square on the hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Bus 11 from Olomouc. Tip: Look for the pipe organ, which is world-famous.
2. Name: Olomouc Zoo Type: Activity Why go: This Olomouc Zoo is located right next to the church. It features over 400 species of animals. It is perfect for a family break. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: 5 minutes walk from the basilica. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Walk from the main bus stop. Tip: Visit the shark tank for a unique indoor experience.
3. Name: The Zoo Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: It offers the best views of the Moravian landscape. You can see the city of Olomouc clearly. On clear days, the Jeseníky Mountains are visible. Best for: Photographers and hikers. Where: Inside the zoo grounds. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in zoo ticket. Getting there: Follow signs inside the zoo. Tip: Bring a zoom lens for city shots.
4. Name: The Way of the Cross Type: Experience Why go: This is a traditional pilgrimage path. It features small chapels along the route. It provides a peaceful and reflective walk. Best for: Spiritual seekers and walkers. Where: Leading up the hill from the city. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the base of the hill. Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes for the incline.
5. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Visit Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the religious history of the region. The Archdiocesan Museum holds treasures related to the hill. It provides great context for the pilgrimage site. Best for: Art historians. Where: Near the cathedral in the city center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Tram from the city center. Tip: See the golden carriage of the bishops.
6. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Day trip Why go: This Holy Trinity Column is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the largest Baroque sculpture group in Central Europe. It is a must-see in nearby Olomouc. Best for: Everyone. Where: Upper Square, Olomouc. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram to the city center. Tip: Visit at night when it is beautifully lit.
7. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: The St. Wenceslas Cathedral is the main church of the city. Its neo-Gothic towers dominate the skyline. It has a very atmospheric crypt. Best for: History buffs. Where: Wenceslas Square, Olomouc. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the museum. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of bishops.
8. Name: Olomouc Cheese Tasting Type: Experience Why go: Try the famous "tvarůžky" cheese. This Olomouc cheese tasting is a local tradition. The cheese has a very strong smell but a unique taste. Best for: Foodies. Where: Various shops in the city center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Very cheap. Getting there: Walkable from the main square. Tip: Try it with fresh bread and local beer.
9. Name: Baroque Fountains Tour Type: Sight Why go: Olomouc is famous for its water features. The Baroque fountains depict ancient Roman myths. They are scattered across the historic center. Best for: Casual strolls. Where: Throughout the Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Best explored on foot. Tip: Each fountain tells a different story from mythology.
10. Name: Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: The Olomouc Astronomical Clock is very unique. It was redesigned in the Socialist Realist style. It features workers instead of saints. Best for: Curious travelers. Where: The Town Hall wall. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Upper Square, Olomouc. Tip: Be there at noon to see the figures move.

Planning Your Svatý Kopeček Pilgrimage Site Trip

Getting to the Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage site is quite easy. Most visitors start their journey in the city of Olomouc. You can take bus number 11 from the main train station. The ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day. You can also drive and find parking near the zoo.

The best time to visit is during the late spring or early autumn. The weather is mild and the views are clear. Summer can be busy with families visiting the zoo. Winter offers a quiet and snowy atmosphere. Many people visit during religious holidays for special services. Always check the weather before heading up the hill.

Entry to the basilica is usually free for individual visitors. However, guided tours may have a small cost. The zoo has a separate entrance fee. Expect to spend a full half-day at the site. If you add the zoo, plan for a whole day. There are several small restaurants on the hill for lunch.

Exploring the Wider Olomouc Region

After visiting the Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage site, spend time in the city. Olomouc is a hidden gem in the Czech Republic. It is much quieter than Prague but just as beautiful. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can spend hours walking through the cobblestone streets.

The city is also a major university hub. This gives it a lively and youthful energy. You will find many affordable cafes and bars. Don't forget to try the local beer in a traditional pub. The parks surrounding the old walls are perfect for a rest. Olomouc offers a perfect blend of high culture and local life.