Top Things to See at the Kroměříž Gardens UNESCO Site

The UNESCO designation covers the palace and the two gardens. These spots show the wealth and power of former archbishops. You should plan to spend at least a full day here. The gardens are quite large and require plenty of walking. Here are the top items to add to your itinerary.

• Best overall: The Flower Garden
• Best for families: The Castle Garden
• Best for art lovers: The Palace Gallery
• Best unique experience: Archbishop’s Wine Cellars

1. Name: The Flower Garden (Květná zahrada) Type: Sight Why go: It is a masterpiece of 17th-century European garden design with perfect symmetry. Best for: Photographers and garden enthusiasts. Where: About 15 minutes walk from the main square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Approx. 100-180 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Visit in late spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
2. Name: The Castle Garden (Podzámecká zahrada) Type: Nature Why go: This English-style park features exotic trees, water canals, and free-roaming peacocks. Best for: Families and relaxing walks. Where: Directly behind the Archbishop's Palace. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Access via the palace grounds or side gates. Tip: Bring some water as there are fewer kiosks inside this large park.
3. Name: Archbishop’s Palace (Arcibiskupský zámek) Type: Experience Why go: This stunning Baroque palace served as the summer residence for Olomouc archbishops. Best for: History buffs. Where: The main square (Velké náměstí). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 200-300 CZK depending on the tour. Getting there: Central location in Kroměříž. Tip: Check the train schedules for an easy trip from Brno.
4. Name: The Great Colonnade Type: Viewpoint Why go: This 244-meter long structure offers amazing views of the Flower Garden from its roof gallery. Best for: Scenic views. Where: Inside the Flower Garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the garden ticket. Getting there: Walk to the edge of the Flower Garden. Tip: The statues along the gallery represent characters from Greek mythology.
5. Name: The Rotunda Type: Experience Why go: It sits at the center of the Flower Garden and houses a famous Foucault's pendulum. Best for: Science and architecture fans. Where: Center of the Flower Garden. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the garden ticket. Getting there: Follow the main paths in the Flower Garden. Tip: Look up to see the beautiful frescoes on the ceiling.
6. Name: The Palace Gallery Type: Museum Why go: It holds the second most important collection of paintings in the country, including works by Titian. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Inside the Archbishop's Palace. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Enter through the palace main entrance. Tip: Don't miss the famous painting "The Flaying of Marsyas" by Titian.
7. Name: The Palace Library Type: Indoor Why go: A breathtaking room filled with over 40,000 historic books and beautiful globes. Best for: Bibliophiles. Where: Inside the Archbishop's Palace. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in palace tours. Getting there: Part of the guided palace circuit. Tip: The library smells of old paper and history, which is a great experience.

Planning Your Trip to the Kroměříž Gardens UNESCO Site

Reaching the Kroměříž gardens UNESCO site is very simple from Brno. You can take a direct train or drive in under an hour. Most visitors prefer the train for a stress-free day. You can find more details on how to visit Kromeriz by train online. This allows you to enjoy the Moravian countryside along the way.

When you arrive, start at the main square. Most of the sites are within walking distance of each other. However, the Flower Garden is a bit further away. You might want to use a local taxi or enjoy a 15-minute walk. For more information on logistics, visit the Visit Czechia website. They provide updated travel news for the region.

Parking can be tricky during the peak summer months. It is best to arrive early to secure a spot near the center. You can check specific parking and entrance fees before you leave. This helps you budget your time and money correctly. Always carry some local currency (Czech Koruna) for small purchases.

Hidden Gems and Nearby Experiences

Kroměříž has more to offer than just its famous gardens. The town itself is full of history and charm. Take some time to wander away from the main tourist paths. You will find quiet streets and local cafes. These spots offer a more authentic taste of Moravian life.

8. Name: Archbishop’s Wine Cellars Type: Experience Why go: These historic cellars have produced wine for over 700 years. Best for: Wine enthusiasts. Where: Underneath the palace. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Paid tasting tours. Getting there: Access via the palace courtyard. Tip: Try the traditional Mass wine made for the church.
9. Name: Velké náměstí (Main Square) Type: Neighborhood Why go: A beautiful square lined with colorful Baroque houses and a plague column. Best for: People watching and coffee. Where: Heart of the city. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub of the town. Tip: The local town hall tower offers another great view of the city.
10. Name: St. Maurice Church Type: Sight Why go: A significant Gothic church that holds the tombs of several archbishops. Best for: Architecture and quiet reflection. Where: Near the palace entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free/Donation. Getting there: A short walk from the palace. Tip: Look for the intricate stained glass windows.
11. Name: Moravian Karst Type: Day trip Why go: If you have extra time, these famous caves and gorges are nearby. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: North of Brno. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Paid entry for caves. Getting there: Best reached by car or tour from Brno. Tip: Use a Moravian Karst guide to book cave tickets in advance.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Visiting the Kroměříž gardens UNESCO site requires some preparation. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths are gravel or grass. The Castle Garden alone covers 64 hectares of land. You will likely walk several miles during your visit. Stay hydrated, especially during the warm summer months.

Photography is allowed in most areas of the gardens. However, some palace rooms may have restrictions or require a small fee. Always check for signs or ask your guide before taking photos. The Go To Brno portal often lists seasonal events in the area. These events can include concerts or special garden displays.

Dining options are plentiful around the main square. You can find traditional Czech meals and modern cafes. Try the local Moravian pastries for a quick snack. If you are looking for a more quiet experience, pack a picnic. The Castle Garden has many benches perfect for an outdoor lunch. Just remember to take your trash with you.