Why Visit the Olomouc Museum of Art?

The museum is not just one building. It is a large network of galleries spread across the historic center. You can see how art changed over 1,000 years in this city. It is among the best museums in Olomouc for art lovers who want a deep dive into Central European history.

The collections are divided into the Museum of Modern Art and the Archdiocesan Museum. This variety makes it a great choice for families and solo travelers. You will find world-class exhibitions that rival those in Prague. The museum also hosts many temporary shows throughout the year.

Visiting here is very affordable compared to other European cities. Most sites are within easy walking distance of each other. You can enjoy a mix of indoor culture and beautiful outdoor plazas. It is a perfect destination for a relaxing weekend break in the Czech Republic.

12 Best Things to See at the Olomouc Museum of Art

Here are the top sights and experiences you should not miss. These picks include specific gallery highlights and nearby cultural landmarks. Use this list to plan your route through the city.

1. Name: Museum of Modern Art Type: Museum Why go: This is the main hub for 20th and 21st-century art. It features a striking late-Art Nouveau building. Best for: Contemporary art fans. Where: Denisova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk from the Upper Square. Tip: Check the exhibitions list before you go.
2. Name: Archdiocesan Museum Olomouc Type: Experience Why go: It is located in the former Olomouc Castle area. It shows the spiritual and artistic wealth of the local bishops. Best for: History buffs. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram to náměstí Republiky. Tip: Look for the golden carriage of the bishops.
3. Name: Zdík’s Palace Type: Sight Why go: This is a rare Romanesque palace from the 12th century. It is part of the Archdiocesan Museum tour. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Inside the Archdiocesan Museum. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in museum ticket. Getting there: Follow the museum route. Tip: Notice the detailed stone carvings on the windows.
4. Name: SEFO (Central European Forum) Type: Experience Why go: This project focuses on art from Central Europe after World War II. It highlights the shared history of the region. Best for: Political and social history. Where: Museum of Modern Art wing. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Located on Denisova street. Tip: Look for works by Polish and Hungarian artists.
5. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: Sight Why go: This massive cathedral sits right next to the Archdiocesan branch. It has the tallest spire in Moravia. Best for: Viewpoints and spirituality. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to enter. Getting there: Walk from the museum entrance. Tip: Visit the cathedral crypt for a spooky experience.
6. Name: Café 87 Type: Experience Why go: This famous cafe is located inside the Museum of Modern Art. It is known for its legendary chocolate cake. Best for: Foodies. Where: Museum of Modern Art building. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Enter through the museum lobby. Tip: Try the "Bílá paní" (White Lady) cake.
7. Name: The Museum Terrace Type: Viewpoint Why go: The terrace offers a unique view of the city’s rooftops and church towers. It is a great spot for photos. Best for: Photographers. Where: Top floor of the Modern Art branch. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in ticket. Getting there: Take the elevator to the top. Tip: Visit during the late afternoon for the best light.
8. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: Sight Why go: This UNESCO World Heritage site is just a short walk away. It is the largest Baroque sculpture group in Central Europe. Best for: Sightseeing. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from Denisova street. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball on the column.
9. Name: Olomouc Astronomical Clock Type: Sight Why go: This clock is unique because it was redesigned in a social-realist style. It features workers instead of saints. Best for: Quirky history. Where: Town Hall wall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk to the Upper Square. Tip: Watch the clock chime at exactly 12:00 noon.
10. Name: Kroměříž Archdiocesan Museum Type: Day trip Why go: This branch is located in the Kroměříž Castle. It is famous for its stunning gardens and Titian paintings. Best for: Nature and classical art. Where: Kroměříž (45 km from Olomouc). Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 45-minute train or bus ride. Tip: Book garden tickets in advance during summer.
11. Name: The Picture Gallery Type: Experience Why go: Located in the Archdiocesan Museum, it holds works by famous masters like Van Dyck. The setting is grand and royal. Best for: Classical painting fans. Where: Václavské náměstí. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Part of the main museum tour. Tip: Spend extra time in the Baroque hall.
12. Name: Archbishop’s Palace Type: Sight Why go: This is the official seat of the archbishops. It features opulent rooms where emperors once stayed. Best for: Luxury and interiors. Where: Wurmova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 2-minute walk from the Archdiocesan Museum. Tip: Check the tour times as it is only open for guided groups.

Planning Your Visit to Olomouc Museums

To make the most of your trip, you should plan your timing carefully. Most museum branches are closed on Mondays. You can find the entry fee and tickets information online. Buying a combined ticket for both main branches will save you money.

Olomouc is a very walkable city, but trams are also available. The Olomouc Tourism Portal provides great maps for visitors. Wear comfortable shoes because the historic streets have many cobblestones. Most museum staff speak English and are very helpful.

If you visit in 2026, look for special events. The museum often holds evening tours or outdoor concerts. There are also educational workshops for children and students. It is a lively place that stays active all year round.