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Situated on the picturesque hills of Northern Moravia, Bouzov Castle is one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Czech Republic. Its impressive towers, stone walls, and richly decorated interiors transport visitors into a world of knights, legends, and medieval customs.
Bouzov Castle not only captivates with its architecture and history but also serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding landscapes, local legends, and regional traditions.
Location and Access
Bouzov Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic, is located in the Olomouc Region, just 35 km from Olomouc and about 110 km from Brno. It rises picturesquely on a hill (about 380 m a.s.l.), offering splendid views of the village of Bouzov and the surrounding forests. Thanks to its strategic location, the castle served defensive, residential, and representative functions for centuries and is now one of Moravia’s most visited landmarks.
Getting to Bouzov is relatively easy. Regional buses run from Olomouc to the village of Bouzov, from where a short uphill walk leads directly to the castle gate. Travellers arriving by car can use the large paid parking area at the foot of the hill, followed by a pleasant walk to the fortress.
The roads leading to Bouzov are in good condition (remember that some require a Czech highway vignette). This makes the castle a perfect day-trip destination for visitors from both the Czech Republic and Poland—it’s only about 1.5 hours from the Polish border in Jeseník.
Opening Hours, Ticket Prices, and Tour Routes
Bouzov Castle is open to visitors from spring to autumn, and in selected months also during winter. In the summer season (May–September), it is typically open daily from 9:00 to 17:00, with shorter hours outside the peak months. Since schedules vary depending on the tour route, it’s worth checking the most up-to-date information on the castle’s official website.
Several tour options are available. The basic route includes the castle’s representative interiors-knights’ halls, St. Hedwig’s Chapel, princely chambers, and the historic kitchen. Longer guided programs allow visitors to explore private apartments of former owners and the viewing tower, which offers stunning views of the Moravian countryside. The castle also hosts special thematic tours, children’s programs, night tours with guides in historical costumes, and medieval battle reenactments.
Ticket prices vary depending on the chosen route and visitor age. Family packages are available, and children under six enter for free. Online tickets are recommended, especially on weekends and during the summer season. The basic adult tour costs around 280 CZK, while reduced tickets are 220 CZK. Both card and cash payments are accepted, and all tours are guided at scheduled times determined upon ticket purchase.
History of the Castle
The first mentions of Bouzov Castle date back to the late 13th and early 14th centuries, when it functioned as a border watchtower and defensive fortress. Its early owners were Moravian nobles, followed by Czech and German aristocrats. Among them was Duke Judoka of Moravia and later the Lords of Kunštát. Some even claim that King George of Poděbrady was born in this very castle.
In 1558, the castle was heavily damaged by fire, and in 1696, it was purchased by the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order, Bishop of Wrocław Franz Ludwig von Neuburg.
The most extensive transformation took place at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, when Archduke Eugen of Austria, Grand Master of the Teutonic Order, ordered its reconstruction in the spirit of romantic neo-Gothic architecture. The years-long works gave the castle its current fairytale appearance-with ornate towers and richly decorated interiors. Thanks to this reconstruction, Bouzov became not only a stronghold but also a luxurious aristocratic residence.
In the 20th century, the castle changed owners several times. During World War II, it was seized by German authorities, and after 1945 it was nationalized by decree of Edvard Beneš and opened to the public. Today, Bouzov Castle is one of Moravia’s cultural symbols and a popular filming location for historical films and television series.
Exhibitions and Interior Tours
A visit to Bouzov Castle feels like traveling back in time. The interiors have been carefully restored and furnished in neo-Gothic style, featuring numerous details reflecting the castle’s past and its connections to the Teutonic Order.
The most impressive rooms include St. Hedwig’s Chapel with medieval-style stained glass and sculptures, and the grand Knights’ Hall, once a place of feasts and gatherings-today often rented for fairytale weddings.
The residential chambers feature original 19th-century furniture, wall paintings, elaborately decorated ceilings, and ceramic stoves. Exhibitions dedicated to the Teutonic Order display weapons, armor, documents, and heraldic symbols.
Visitors can also explore the historic kitchen, showcasing how meals were prepared during the castle’s golden era. An additional attraction is the main tower, over 60 meters high, offering panoramic views across Moravia.
We chose the basic route, which lasts about 50 minutes and is conducted in groups of up to 20 people. The tour included numerous rooms: the old study, staircase hall, master’s bedroom, master’s study, hunting hall, knights’ hall, chapter hall, chapel, and armory. The inner courtyard also made a great impression-it showcases the castle at its best.
What to see nearby?
The area around Bouzov is perfect for combining sightseeing with outdoor activities. The surrounding villages offer numerous hiking and cycling trails leading through the scenic hills and forests of the Moravian Karst.
Just a few kilometers away lies Litovel, known for its brewery and kayaking routes along the Morava River. Nearby attractions also include Velké Losiny, home to a beautiful château and the famous Paper Museum, as well as Loštice, where visitors can explore the renowned Museum of Olomouc Cheese.
The Javoříčko Caves, one of the most popular cave systems in the region, are also close by. In Olomouc, visitors can enjoy one of the most beautiful market squares in the Czech Republic with the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column. A trip to Bouzov can easily become part of a rich itinerary exploring the region.
Is it worth visiting?
Absolutely. Bouzov Castle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic. Its romantic silhouette makes it look like a fairytale fortress straight from storybooks and films. It appeals to history enthusiasts, families, and travelers seeking charming landscapes alike.
With its range of tour routes, engaging exhibitions, and thematic events, Bouzov is a full-day attraction. Thanks to its central location in Moravia, it also serves as a great starting point for exploring the region-from caves and historic towns to local breweries and vineyards.
If you are planning a trip across the Czech Republic and wondering which castles truly stand out, Bouzov should definitely be on your list. It is a place that blends architectural beauty, rich history, and a magical atmosphere-drawing visitors into the world of medieval knights and the Teutonic Order.
