Old Town Souvenir Shopping (Self Guided), Prague
Strolling through the Old Town of Prague, souvenir shopping becomes a delightful adventure. Indeed, it would be a pity to leave Prague without having explored its specialty shops and bringing home something truly original and unique to the city.
One of the prime spots for such endeavors is the Municipal House, a majestic Art Nouveau building that houses various shops and boutiques. Here, visitors can find unique Czech-made trinkets and crafts, ranging from delicate glassware to intricately designed ceramics.
For those with an appreciation for avant-garde art, Kubista is a must-visit destination. This store specializes in Cubist-inspired creations, including jewelry, home decor, and accessories, providing an unconventional twist to traditional souvenirs.
Pohadka – Toys at the Golden Lion offers a whimsical experience, featuring a charming collection of handcrafted toys that evoke nostalgia and childhood wonder. Visitors can find intricately carved wooden figurines, traditional Czech puppets, and other playful treasures.
For nature enthusiasts, Botanicus presents an array of natural skincare products, herbal teas, and aromatic candles made from locally sourced ingredients. This eco-friendly boutique embodies Prague's commitment to sustainability and holistic living.
Bohemia Paper appeals to stationery lovers with its exquisite selection of handmade paper goods, including notebooks, journals, and greeting cards adorned with traditional Czech motifs, while Duck Boutique adds a quirky touch to souvenir shopping, offering a range of novelty items and kinky gifts inspired by Prague's iconic rubber duck sculptures.
Absintherie caters to those seeking a taste of the city's bohemian spirit, boasting an extensive selection of absinthe varieties and related paraphernalia, perfect for connoisseurs and curious adventurers alike.
Finally, Havelska Street and Market, with its bustling atmosphere and diverse array of stalls, provides a vibrant backdrop for souvenir hunting, where visitors can browse through an eclectic mix of handicrafts, textiles, and culinary delights.
As you can see, the Old Town of Prague is just as plentiful shopping-wise as it is in terms of historical attractions. So, venture forth and explore the winding streets and boutiques of this charming area to find something to take home as a piece of Prague to reflect your visit.
One of the prime spots for such endeavors is the Municipal House, a majestic Art Nouveau building that houses various shops and boutiques. Here, visitors can find unique Czech-made trinkets and crafts, ranging from delicate glassware to intricately designed ceramics.
For those with an appreciation for avant-garde art, Kubista is a must-visit destination. This store specializes in Cubist-inspired creations, including jewelry, home decor, and accessories, providing an unconventional twist to traditional souvenirs.
Pohadka – Toys at the Golden Lion offers a whimsical experience, featuring a charming collection of handcrafted toys that evoke nostalgia and childhood wonder. Visitors can find intricately carved wooden figurines, traditional Czech puppets, and other playful treasures.
For nature enthusiasts, Botanicus presents an array of natural skincare products, herbal teas, and aromatic candles made from locally sourced ingredients. This eco-friendly boutique embodies Prague's commitment to sustainability and holistic living.
Bohemia Paper appeals to stationery lovers with its exquisite selection of handmade paper goods, including notebooks, journals, and greeting cards adorned with traditional Czech motifs, while Duck Boutique adds a quirky touch to souvenir shopping, offering a range of novelty items and kinky gifts inspired by Prague's iconic rubber duck sculptures.
Absintherie caters to those seeking a taste of the city's bohemian spirit, boasting an extensive selection of absinthe varieties and related paraphernalia, perfect for connoisseurs and curious adventurers alike.
Finally, Havelska Street and Market, with its bustling atmosphere and diverse array of stalls, provides a vibrant backdrop for souvenir hunting, where visitors can browse through an eclectic mix of handicrafts, textiles, and culinary delights.
As you can see, the Old Town of Prague is just as plentiful shopping-wise as it is in terms of historical attractions. So, venture forth and explore the winding streets and boutiques of this charming area to find something to take home as a piece of Prague to reflect your visit.
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Old Town Souvenir Shopping Map
Guide Name: Old Town Souvenir Shopping
Guide Location: Czech Republic » Prague (See other walking tours in Prague)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: Daniel
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Czech Republic » Prague (See other walking tours in Prague)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: Daniel
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Municipal House
- Kubista
- Pohadka – Toys at the Golden Lion
- Botanicus
- Bohemia Paper
- Duck Boutique
- Absintherie
- Havelska Street and Market
1) Municipal House (must see)
The city's Art Nouveau masterpiece continues to serve its original purpose since its completion in 1911, acting as a hub for concerts, art exhibitions, and social gatherings. Mirroring the Czech middle class's endeavor to emulate Parisian elegance at the turn of the 20th century, its main facade is a striking ceramic half-dome mosaic titled "Homage to Prague", flanked by allegorical sculptural groups representing "The Degradation of the People" and "The Resurrection of the People".
Much of the interior showcases the works of renowned Czech artists such as Mucha and Švabinský. The former's magical frescoes, illustrating Czech history, adorn the Lord Mayor's Hall upstairs, though access is typically limited to guided tours. The exquisite Smetana Hall, which hosts performances by the Prague Symphony Orchestra and renowned international musicians, is on the second floor.
While the ground-floor restaurants may be crowded with tourists, they still exude charm with their gleaming chandeliers and intricate woodwork. Additionally, the cellar houses a cozy beer hall featuring decent fare and ceramic murals adorning the walls.
Overall, a visit is highly recommended, even if only for a brief glimpse. Guided tours are typically offered at two-hour intervals in the afternoons; visitors are advised to check the website for details.
Tip:
At the on-site Modernista shop, innovation takes center stage, drawing aficionados of cubist and modernist furnishings and décor. Whether you're seeking originals, reproductions, or creations by emerging Czech designers, the selection is bound to captivate, making it a challenge to depart empty-handed. From sleek steel liquor cabinets to chic cubist vases, each item exudes distinctiveness.
Much of the interior showcases the works of renowned Czech artists such as Mucha and Švabinský. The former's magical frescoes, illustrating Czech history, adorn the Lord Mayor's Hall upstairs, though access is typically limited to guided tours. The exquisite Smetana Hall, which hosts performances by the Prague Symphony Orchestra and renowned international musicians, is on the second floor.
While the ground-floor restaurants may be crowded with tourists, they still exude charm with their gleaming chandeliers and intricate woodwork. Additionally, the cellar houses a cozy beer hall featuring decent fare and ceramic murals adorning the walls.
Overall, a visit is highly recommended, even if only for a brief glimpse. Guided tours are typically offered at two-hour intervals in the afternoons; visitors are advised to check the website for details.
Tip:
At the on-site Modernista shop, innovation takes center stage, drawing aficionados of cubist and modernist furnishings and décor. Whether you're seeking originals, reproductions, or creations by emerging Czech designers, the selection is bound to captivate, making it a challenge to depart empty-handed. From sleek steel liquor cabinets to chic cubist vases, each item exudes distinctiveness.
2) Kubista
In every other land across the globe, cubism found its expression primarily in the realm of painting. Yet in the Czech Republic, it transcended those boundaries, serving as a wellspring of inspiration for architects and artisans who ingeniously adapted its principles to fashion an array of wonders, ranging from iconic edifices to distinctive household wares. Travelers and aficionados of architecture journey from far and wide to behold marvels such as the cubist lamppost on Jungmann Square and the venerable House of the Black Madonna in Old Town, which now harbors the Museum of Czech Cubism.
Attached to the museum is Kubista, an upscale emporium where one may procure a classy memento of cubist design. Its offerings span from large lamps and chandeliers to small picture frames, yet the true treasures of the collection lie in the everyday objects—cup and saucer sets, ceramic and porcelain boxes, glassware, and black-and-white vases. Bedecked in bold patterns and striking shapes, these items seamlessly marry style with utility. Maps delineating Prague's art deco, cubist, and modern architectural treasures are also available.
Why You Should Visit:
Amidst the realm of museum boutiques, Kubista stands apart as a singular entity—a natural outgrowth of a storied artistic movement.
Attached to the museum is Kubista, an upscale emporium where one may procure a classy memento of cubist design. Its offerings span from large lamps and chandeliers to small picture frames, yet the true treasures of the collection lie in the everyday objects—cup and saucer sets, ceramic and porcelain boxes, glassware, and black-and-white vases. Bedecked in bold patterns and striking shapes, these items seamlessly marry style with utility. Maps delineating Prague's art deco, cubist, and modern architectural treasures are also available.
Why You Should Visit:
Amidst the realm of museum boutiques, Kubista stands apart as a singular entity—a natural outgrowth of a storied artistic movement.
3) Pohadka – Toys at the Golden Lion
Puppetry in the Czech Republic transcends mere amusement—it is a venerable craft with roots reaching back to the Middle Ages, emerging into recorded history around the time of the Thirty Years' War. Throughout the 18th century, Czech puppeteers embarked on tours across Europe, while domestically, puppet theater evolved into a sophisticated art form, often imbued with political undertones during the tumultuous 20th century.
The renowned National Marionette Theater in Prague enchants audiences with its puppet rendition of Mozart's "Don Giovanni", captivating tourists for years on end. For visitors, this cultural legacy translates into a wondrous array of marionettes, perfect for gifting to children, ranging from petite kitchen witches to grandiose winged dragons.
Among the premier purveyors of these cherished creations is Pohádka in Old Town, its mesmerizing window display beckoning passersby with a spectacle of puppets frolicking amidst wooden airplanes and climbing trees. Yet, beyond the façade lies a haven of sheer delight—a two-story toy emporium brimming with alluring wooden toys, stuffed animals, puzzles, and engaging games, evoking a bygone era of innocence. Moreover, Pohádka offers a fine assortment of marionettes for those desiring to carry home a piece of Czech tradition.
The renowned National Marionette Theater in Prague enchants audiences with its puppet rendition of Mozart's "Don Giovanni", captivating tourists for years on end. For visitors, this cultural legacy translates into a wondrous array of marionettes, perfect for gifting to children, ranging from petite kitchen witches to grandiose winged dragons.
Among the premier purveyors of these cherished creations is Pohádka in Old Town, its mesmerizing window display beckoning passersby with a spectacle of puppets frolicking amidst wooden airplanes and climbing trees. Yet, beyond the façade lies a haven of sheer delight—a two-story toy emporium brimming with alluring wooden toys, stuffed animals, puzzles, and engaging games, evoking a bygone era of innocence. Moreover, Pohádka offers a fine assortment of marionettes for those desiring to carry home a piece of Czech tradition.
4) Botanicus
Botanicus stands as a rare gem within the Czech Republic—a company that embraces traditional materials and methods to craft refreshingly modern goods. Established in 1992, inspired by the ethos of an antiquated apothecary, the company operates expansive organic gardens in a picturesque "historic village" east of Prague. Here, a diverse array of herbs, fruits, and vegetables flourish under the nurturing hand of Botanicus, destined to become the ingredients for their natural cosmetics and body care creations. Notably, in 2002, no less a personage than Prince Charles visited the Botanicus gardens during his tour of the Czech Republic, engaging in discussions on organic farming and symbolically planting two trees.
At the heart of the Botanicus repertoire lies Bohemian lavender—a bespoke blend meticulously cultivated to thrive in the local climate, yielding an aromatic oil of unparalleled quality. Within the store, shelves abound with lavender-infused treasures, from lotions and oils to skin creams and shower gels. Yet, should lavender not be to your liking, fear not! Follow your senses to discover an abundance of creams, oils, soaps, candles, and fragrances, each imbued with Botanicus's commitment to natural beauty and craftsmanship.
At the heart of the Botanicus repertoire lies Bohemian lavender—a bespoke blend meticulously cultivated to thrive in the local climate, yielding an aromatic oil of unparalleled quality. Within the store, shelves abound with lavender-infused treasures, from lotions and oils to skin creams and shower gels. Yet, should lavender not be to your liking, fear not! Follow your senses to discover an abundance of creams, oils, soaps, candles, and fragrances, each imbued with Botanicus's commitment to natural beauty and craftsmanship.
5) Bohemia Paper
Nestled discreetly within a corner of Kinsky Palace, on the eastern fringes of Old Town Square, lies a humble emporium of refined elegance—Bohemia Paper. Here, former Czech President Václav Klaus himself entrusted the procurement of his personal stationery, invitations, and greeting cards, and upon setting foot inside, one swiftly comprehends why.
Bohemia Paper stands as a living testament to the storied heritage of paper making, engraving, and bookbinding in the Czech Republic, resurrected in 1991 under the stewardship of master printer Jan Petr Obr. Drawing upon an extensive archive of historical engravings, antique maps, botanical illustrations, and art nouveau motifs, Obr has curated a distinguished collection of stationery, announcements, greeting cards, and other bespoke paper goods. Many of these treasures are meticulously hand-colored, while the techniques of engraving, embossing, and letterpress printing employed are nothing short of exquisite.
For those seeking the epitome of extravagance, the accommodating staff stand ready to assist in the creation of personalized correspondence paper, business cards, invitations, or announcements, ensuring that each creation is a masterpiece unto itself.
Bohemia Paper stands as a living testament to the storied heritage of paper making, engraving, and bookbinding in the Czech Republic, resurrected in 1991 under the stewardship of master printer Jan Petr Obr. Drawing upon an extensive archive of historical engravings, antique maps, botanical illustrations, and art nouveau motifs, Obr has curated a distinguished collection of stationery, announcements, greeting cards, and other bespoke paper goods. Many of these treasures are meticulously hand-colored, while the techniques of engraving, embossing, and letterpress printing employed are nothing short of exquisite.
For those seeking the epitome of extravagance, the accommodating staff stand ready to assist in the creation of personalized correspondence paper, business cards, invitations, or announcements, ensuring that each creation is a masterpiece unto itself.
6) Duck Boutique
Art thou a devotee of the rubber duck? Should thy travels lead thee to Prague, doth not overlook the Duck Boutique! This beguiling emporium is a veritable haven for aficionados of the rubber duck. Within its confines, one shall discover a vast array of rubber ducks in diverse sizes, hues, and patterns. From the timeless golden ducks to endearing animal-themed renditions, there exists a selection to cater to every discerning palate.
The Duck Boutique also offers an assortment of accessories bedecked with rubber duck motifs, including keychains and phone cases. Furthermore, for those in search of a distinctive gift, bespoke rubber ducks adorned with thy chosen design are made available. Hence, if thou art in search of a diverting and eccentric shopping destination in Prague, make thy way posthaste to the Duck Boutique and let merriment ensue!
The Duck Boutique also offers an assortment of accessories bedecked with rubber duck motifs, including keychains and phone cases. Furthermore, for those in search of a distinctive gift, bespoke rubber ducks adorned with thy chosen design are made available. Hence, if thou art in search of a diverting and eccentric shopping destination in Prague, make thy way posthaste to the Duck Boutique and let merriment ensue!
7) Absintherie
Outlawed across much of the Western realm for ages, absinthe remained a steadfast favorite and legally produced elixir in the Czech Republic, where its distillation and distribution have persisted for nearly 150 years. Indeed, some connoisseurs trace the modern resurgence of interest in absinthe back to 1989, when the Velvet Revolution unfurled the country's gates to Western voyagers, who eagerly imbibed in the spirit's intoxicating allure.
Traditionally cherished by painters, writers, and the bohemian intelligentsia, absinthe now proliferates throughout Prague, taking over the shelves of liquor stores and supermarkets in a kaleidoscopic array of hues and varieties. As a rule of thumb, the more vibrant the hue, the lower the quality—one ought to steer clear of concoctions resembling red or green antifreeze. Reigning supreme as the pinnacle of quality, albeit the most exorbitant, is King of Spirits, hailing from Prádlo, a quaint hamlet nestled in western Bohemia.
For a firsthand foray into the realm of superior absinthe, look no further than the Absintherie, where a cornucopia of premium blends awaits your discerning palate. Here, amidst a vintage trove of bottled elixirs, patrons may embark on a journey of libation exploration, venturing even unto the realm of audacious concoctions like the absinthe martini. Moreover, an onsite museum offers a captivating journey through the annals of absinthe history, showcasing vintage advertisement posters, antique bottles, and ornate absinthe spoons.
Traditionally cherished by painters, writers, and the bohemian intelligentsia, absinthe now proliferates throughout Prague, taking over the shelves of liquor stores and supermarkets in a kaleidoscopic array of hues and varieties. As a rule of thumb, the more vibrant the hue, the lower the quality—one ought to steer clear of concoctions resembling red or green antifreeze. Reigning supreme as the pinnacle of quality, albeit the most exorbitant, is King of Spirits, hailing from Prádlo, a quaint hamlet nestled in western Bohemia.
For a firsthand foray into the realm of superior absinthe, look no further than the Absintherie, where a cornucopia of premium blends awaits your discerning palate. Here, amidst a vintage trove of bottled elixirs, patrons may embark on a journey of libation exploration, venturing even unto the realm of audacious concoctions like the absinthe martini. Moreover, an onsite museum offers a captivating journey through the annals of absinthe history, showcasing vintage advertisement posters, antique bottles, and ornate absinthe spoons.
8) Havelska Street and Market
As the sole remaining marketplace in the Old Town, Havelská has a rich history dating back to 1232, serving as a vestige of the once expansive medieval market that once sprawled across the area now occupied by Ovocný Trh ("Fruit Market"). Originally bustling with furriers, drapers, and various craftsmen's shops, the market stretched all the way to Rytířská Street, parallel to the current Havelská Street.
Stretching about 250 meters, Havelská Street emerged in the 13th century alongside Saint Gall's (Havel's) Quarter, a significant sector of the Old Town. While most of the arcaded houses that once lined the quarter's northern flank have undergone reconstruction, some, particularly those located between Melantrichova Street and Uhelný trh, still retain their original architectural character.
Today, Havelské Market occupies a prime position on the pedestrian route connecting Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square, just a brief stroll from either destination. Operating daily, it is rightfully acclaimed as one of Prague's most picturesque spots. The market offers a diverse array of fresh produce, while weekends see the addition of various tourist-oriented goods. Visitors will also find a selection of flowers, arts and crafts, leather items, wooden toys, ceramics, and other authentic mementos. While the surrounding shops may offer typical souvenirs, the market stalls offer a treasure trove of unique gifts, ranging from fresh honey to delectable sweets.
Stretching about 250 meters, Havelská Street emerged in the 13th century alongside Saint Gall's (Havel's) Quarter, a significant sector of the Old Town. While most of the arcaded houses that once lined the quarter's northern flank have undergone reconstruction, some, particularly those located between Melantrichova Street and Uhelný trh, still retain their original architectural character.
Today, Havelské Market occupies a prime position on the pedestrian route connecting Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square, just a brief stroll from either destination. Operating daily, it is rightfully acclaimed as one of Prague's most picturesque spots. The market offers a diverse array of fresh produce, while weekends see the addition of various tourist-oriented goods. Visitors will also find a selection of flowers, arts and crafts, leather items, wooden toys, ceramics, and other authentic mementos. While the surrounding shops may offer typical souvenirs, the market stalls offer a treasure trove of unique gifts, ranging from fresh honey to delectable sweets.
Walking Tours in Prague, Czech Republic
Create Your Own Walk in Prague
Creating your own self-guided walk in Prague is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
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One such is the Spanish Synagogue, a... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.1 Km or 0.7 Miles
The area breathes history and is a captivating blend of ancient synagogues and other monuments that collectively reflect centuries of Jewish life in the city. Some synagogues are still acting, and others have been converted into art galleries and museums.
One such is the Spanish Synagogue, a... view more
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
The area is centered around Prague Castle, reportedly the biggest castle complex in the world. Dating back as far as the 9th century, the castle has been the residence of Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors, leaders of socialist Czechoslovakia, and currently the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
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At its heart lies Wenceslas Square, a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
At its heart lies Wenceslas Square, a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
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The area was once separated from the outside world by a semi-circular moat and a wall, hugged by the Vltava river. The moat is now covered up by streets, which form the official boundary of the Old Town. One of them, called Na Příkopě (literally “On the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
The area was once separated from the outside world by a semi-circular moat and a wall, hugged by the Vltava river. The moat is now covered up by streets, which form the official boundary of the Old Town. One of them, called Na Příkopě (literally “On the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
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