Why Visit Svatý Kopeček Holy Hill?

Svatý Kopeček is more than just a hill. It is a symbol of Moravian faith and a landmark of Baroque architecture. The site has welcomed pilgrims for centuries, including Pope John Paul II. Visitors come here to find peace away from the busy city streets.

The atmosphere is calm and inviting throughout the year. In spring, the surrounding forests bloom with vibrant green leaves. During winter, the snow-covered basilica looks like a scene from a fairy tale. It is a versatile destination for any season in 2026.

Families love the area because it combines educational sites with outdoor activities. You can spend a morning exploring a church and an afternoon seeing exotic animals. The variety of attractions ensures that everyone in your group stays entertained. It truly offers some of the most diverse experiences in the region.

10 Best Things to Do at Svaty Kopecek Olomouc

There are many ways to enjoy your time on this famous hill. From historic monuments to hidden forest trails, the options are plentiful. Here are the top activities to include in your itinerary.

1. Name: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary Type: sight Why go: This is the crown jewel of the hill, featuring incredible Baroque art and a rich history. Best for: History lovers and architecture fans. Where: The main square at the top of the hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter the main area. Getting there: Take bus 11 to the final stop. Tip: Check the opening times to ensure you can see the interior.
2. Name: Olomouc Zoo Type: activity Why go: This zoo is famous for its large enclosures and unique species like the Rothschild giraffe. Best for: Families with children. Where: Darwinova Street, a short walk from the Basilica. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Approximately 180 CZK for adults. Getting there: Follow the well-marked signs from the bus stop. Tip: Don't miss the walk-through monkey enclosure for a fun experience.
3. Name: Zoo Lookout Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It is a 32-meter tall structure that offers the best panoramic views of Olomouc. Best for: Photographers. Where: Located inside the Olomouc Zoo grounds. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the zoo ticket price. Getting there: Walk to the highest point within the zoo. Tip: Bring a zoom lens to capture the Olomouc city skyline.
4. Name: The Way of the Cross Type: experience Why go: This historic path features small chapels and offers a peaceful walking route. Best for: Hikers and spiritual seekers. Where: The trails connecting the base of the hill to the top. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the bottom of the hill near Samotišky. Tip: The path can be steep, so wear sturdy walking shoes.
5. Name: Local Gingerbread Stalls Type: experience Why go: Traditional Moravian gingerbread is a local specialty often sold in decorative shapes. Best for: Foodies and souvenir shoppers. Where: Near the entrance to the Basilica. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 40-100 CZK depending on size. Getting there: Located in the main pedestrian plaza. Tip: These make excellent, lightweight gifts for friends back home.
6. Name: Wolker’s Path Type: nature Why go: A scenic forest trail named after the poet Jiří Wolker, who often visited the hill. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: The woods surrounding the Zoo and Basilica. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green hiking markers from the main square. Tip: This is a great way to escape the crowds on busy weekends.
7. Name: Samaritánka Spring Type: nature Why go: A charming natural spring hidden in the forest with fresh, cool water. Best for: Quiet reflection. Where: In the valley below the Zoo area. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the forest trails leading down from the Zoo. Tip: The water is refreshing on a hot summer afternoon.
8. Name: Premonstratensian Residence Type: museum Why go: Learn about the monastic life and see the beautiful rooms where monks lived. Best for: Culture enthusiasts. Where: Part of the Basilica complex. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small fee for guided tours. Getting there: Enter through the side doors of the church. Tip: Guided tours are often available in several languages.
9. Name: Svatý Kopeček Museum Type: museum Why go: It houses religious artifacts and historical documents about the hill's development. Best for: History buffs. Where: Located in the building next to the Basilica. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Around 50-80 CZK. Getting there: A two-minute walk from the bus station. Tip: It is a perfect indoor activity if it starts to rain.
10. Name: Radíkov Fort Type: day trip Why go: This 19th-century fortress is part of the Olomouc defense system and is very well-preserved. Best for: Military history fans. Where: In the nearby village of Radíkov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 120 CZK for a tour. Getting there: A 30-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Svatý Kopeček. Tip: Check their website for specific tour times as they vary.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, you should know how to get to Svatý Kopeček from Olomouc efficiently. Public transport is the best choice for most visitors. Bus number 11 runs frequently from the main train station and the city center. The ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes and is very affordable.

If you prefer to drive, there are several paid parking lots near the zoo. However, these can fill up quickly on sunny weekends or public holidays. Arriving before 10:00 AM is a smart move to secure a spot. This also helps you beat the largest crowds at the Basilica.

There are several small restaurants and cafes near the main square. Most serve traditional Czech dishes like goulash or fried cheese. For a more casual meal, try the snack stands inside the zoo. Always carry some cash, as smaller stalls might not accept credit cards.