Essential Highlights: What to See at Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc

The museum is large and covers several buildings. It can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. We have selected the best items to ensure you see the highlights. Each piece tells a story of Moravian history. These items range from massive carriages to delicate Gothic sculptures. Most visitors spend about two hours exploring the main galleries.

• Best overall: The Golden Carriage of Bishop Troyer
• Best for history: The Romanesque Bishop's Palace
• Best free sight: St. Wenceslas Cathedral (exterior and nave)
• Best for art: The Olomouc Madonna

1. Name: The Golden Carriage of Bishop Troyer Type: Iconic sight Why go: This is a massive, gilded 18th-century carriage. It shows the incredible wealth of the Olomouc bishops. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Ground floor coach house. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Located near the museum entrance. Tip: Look closely at the intricate wood carvings on the wheels.
2. Name: The Romanesque Bishop's Palace Type: Architecture Why go: It is one of the best-preserved Romanesque structures in Central Europe. The stone window arches are world-famous. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Upper levels of the museum complex. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the marked tour path upstairs. Tip: Read the info plaques to understand the 12th-century construction.
3. Name: The Zdík Palace Remains Type: Archaeology Why go: These ruins are part of the original castle complex. They offer a glimpse into medieval life. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Integrated into the museum walls. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Accessible via the main gallery route. Tip: Check out the digital reconstructions on nearby screens.
4. Name: The Museum Treasury Type: Sacred objects Why go: It houses rare gold monstrances and liturgical items. Many are encrusted with precious gems. Best for: Art collectors and spiritual visitors. Where: High-security vault room. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Middle section of the permanent exhibition. Tip: Don't miss the Sternberg Monstrance, which is a local masterpiece.
5. Name: The Gothic Cloister Type: Viewpoint Why go: The cloister features beautiful vaulted ceilings and ancient murals. It is very peaceful. Best for: Finding a quiet moment. Where: Adjacent to the cathedral walls. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Access is through the museum interior. Tip: Look for the 15th-century wall paintings in the corners.
6. Name: The Olomouc Picture Gallery Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: It features a vast collection of European paintings. You will see works from the 16th to 18th centuries. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Second floor galleries. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Use the stairs or elevator from the lobby. Tip: Spend extra time in the Dutch and Italian master sections.
7. Name: The Chapel of St. Barbara Type: Unique local experience Why go: This chapel is built inside a round medieval tower. It has unique acoustics and frescoes. Best for: Fans of hidden gems. Where: The tower section of the museum. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Part of the standard walking route. Tip: Look up to see the Baroque ceiling decorations.
8. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: Iconic sight Why go: While a separate building, it is part of the same complex. Its neo-Gothic spires are the tallest in Moravia. Best for: Everyone. Where: Vaclavske Namesti. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to enter the nave. Getting there: Walk across the courtyard from the museum. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of former bishops.
9. Name: The Madonna of Sternberg Type: Sculpture Why go: This is a famous Gothic statue from the late 14th century. It represents the "Beautiful Style" of art. Best for: Art history students. Where: Sacred art wing. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow signs for medieval art. Tip: Notice the delicate drapery of the Virgin's clothing.
10. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Iconic sight Why go: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a short walk away. It is the largest Baroque sculpture group in Central Europe. Best for: General tourists. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the museum. Tip: Visit at night when it is beautifully illuminated. You can learn more about visiting the Holy Trinity Column in our city guide.

Planning Your Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc Visit

To make the most of your trip, arrive early. The museum usually opens at 10:00 AM. It is often closed on Mondays. Always check the official museum website for current hours. This is especially important for holiday visits in 2026. The museum is located in the northern part of the historic center. You can easily walk there from the main square.

Tickets are affordable for most travelers. There are discounts for students and seniors. You can buy a combined ticket for other city museums. This is one of the best things to do in Olomouc if you enjoy culture. The museum is mostly accessible by elevator. However, some ancient sections have narrow stairs. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestone courtyards.

Why the Archdiocesan Museum is a Must-See

This museum is more than just a gallery. It is a walk through a thousand years of history. The site was once a royal castle. Later, it became the seat of powerful bishops. This history is visible in the layers of the building. You will see Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles all in one place. It is a rare architectural mix.

The collection itself is world-class. It rivals many national galleries in Europe. The sacred art collection is particularly deep. It reflects the religious importance of Olomouc. For many, the golden carriage is the highlight. For others, it is the quiet beauty of the Romanesque palace. It truly offers something for every type of traveler.