Quick Picks for Helfštýn Castle Visitors

Planning a trip can be overwhelming. Here are some quick suggestions to help you decide. These picks cover the most popular interests for travelers in 2026. Whether you want art or romance, there is something here for you.

• Best Overall: Hefaiston International Blacksmithing Festival.
• Best for Families: Medieval fairs with fencing and food.
• Best for Couples: Sunset walks in the Renaissance Palace.
• Best for Nature: Hiking the trails around Týn nad Bečvou.

If you are looking for a place to stay, consider romantic castle hotels Moravia offers nearby. These hotels provide a unique atmosphere for a weekend getaway. Most are located within a short drive of the fortress. Always book your stay early during event weekends.

Top Helfštýn Castle Weekend Events and Blacksmiths

The castle is a living museum of metalwork. Every summer, the courtyards come alive with the sound of hammers. These events attract thousands of visitors from across Europe. Here are the top experiences you should not miss.

1. Name: Hefaiston Type: experience Why go: This is the world's largest gathering of artistic blacksmiths. Best for: Art lovers and photographers. Where: All castle courtyards. Time: Full day. Cost: Usually 200-300 CZK. Getting there: Train to Lipník then shuttle bus. Tip: This event happens every August; book hotels months in advance.
2. Name: Live Forge Demonstrations Type: activity Why go: Watch master smiths create intricate art from raw iron. Best for: Families and curious travelers. Where: The main castle forge. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in standard entry. Getting there: Walk from the main gate. Tip: Ask the smiths about their techniques during breaks.
3. Name: The Renaissance Palace Type: sight Why go: An award-winning glass roof protects these stunning ruins. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: The fourth courtyard. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the path to the highest point. Tip: This is the best place to propose near Olomouc castle ruins because of the views.
4. Name: Iron Sculpture Trail Type: museum Why go: See a permanent collection of massive metal statues. Best for: Casual walking and art appreciation. Where: Throughout the castle grounds. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Self-guided walk from the entrance. Tip: Look for the "Iron Dragon" sculpture for a great photo.
5. Name: Medieval Fencing Weekends Type: experience Why go: Actors perform historical battles in full armor. Best for: Children and history buffs. Where: The second courtyard. Time: 30-minute shows. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Central castle area. Tip: Check the official schedule for performance times.
6. Name: The Hussite Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: Climb the tower for panoramic views of the Moravian Gate. Best for: Seeing the landscape. Where: Near the third gate. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Small extra fee often applies. Getting there: Steep stairs inside the tower. Tip: On clear days, you can see the Beskydy Mountains.
7. Name: Týn nad Bečvou Type: neighborhood Why go: This charming village at the foot of the castle has local pubs. Best for: A relaxing lunch after your tour. Where: Directly below the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: 15-minute walk down the hill. Tip: Try the local Moravian beer at a village tavern.

Best Day Trips and Castle Stays Near Olomouc

Your trip to Helfštýn can be part of a larger adventure. Moravia is full of hidden gems and historic sites. Many of these are just a short drive from the castle. You can easily plan several weekend trips from Olomouc to fill your schedule.

1. Name: Bouzov Castle Type: day trip Why go: A fairytale castle used in many famous movies. Best for: Romantic outings and families. Where: 40 minutes west of Olomouc. Time: 3 hours. Cost: ~200 CZK for tours. Getting there: Best reached by car. Tip: Check out our Bouzov Castle weekend trip guide for details.
2. Name: Olomouc Holy Trinity Column Type: sight Why go: A massive Baroque monument and UNESCO World Heritage site. Best for: City explorers. Where: Olomouc Upper Square. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram from Olomouc main station. Tip: Visit the nearby astronomical clock at the Town Hall.
3. Name: Jeseníky Mountains Type: day trip Why go: Fresh air and beautiful hiking trails. Best for: Active travelers. Where: North of Olomouc. Time: Full day. Cost: Free (parking fees apply). Getting there: Train or car from Olomouc. Tip: Hike to the top of Praděd for the best views in Moravia.