Your Ultimate Guide to Authentic Czech Gifts

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Admit it – souvenir hunting might be one of your favorite sports. But it can be tricky! You can always buy a Made-in-China sweatshirt with a huge “I ❤ Prague” sign, but why not get something actually made HERE? Not so easy, you might say. How is one supposed to recognize the traditional products of a country they just arrived in? Don’t despair, Prague City Adventures is here to help you out in your search for the perfect keepsake. The Czech Republic has a myriad of handmade products: we make porcelain, wooden products, glass, jewelry, toys… you name it, we have it. By buying traditional Czech products, you not only support the local economy but also acquire a quality handmade gift.

Czech Porcelain to Upgrade Your Dining Experience

Most Czech families have at least a few pieces of traditional Czech porcelain called “cibulák” in their kitchen. Cibulák, or blue onion, is a decorative pattern typical of porcelain tableware in central Europe, popular throughout the 20th century. Drinking tea out of these cute white-and-blue cups will always remind you of your stay in Prague. Český porcelán might have just the right thing for you.

Sparkling Gifts of Bohemian Glass

Widely known as Bohemian crystal, the glass produced in the Czech Republic is internationally celebrated for its high quality and originality of designs. From glassware, perfume bottles, jewelry, and decorations, to champagne flutes and massive chandeliers, Bohemian crystal is distinguished by its innovative shapes and elaborate patterns. It comes in various colors and has a highly decorative function. There are many shops offering Czech crystal around Prague, but you can’t go wrong with Moser Crystal, Dana Bohemia, or Artěl Design Store.

Due to its delicate nature, Bohemian glass can be tricky to transport, especially in larger sizes. But don’t worry, there are travel-friendly versions available. AleAle store in Prague offers a variety of colorful glass beads and unique jewelry, which might be exactly the right souvenir. Glass beads, or “druks”, as we sometimes call them, are a traditional Czech product we are quite famous for.

For something truly exclusive, explore the stunning glass sculptures by Rony Plesl, one of the Czech Republic’s most renowned contemporary glass artists. His studio, located in the Karlín neighborhood of Prague, offers visitors an immersive art experience where you can admire his unique creations, each a testament to his mastery of glassmaking techniques and innovation. Feel free to come and take a look – if you’re looking for an exceptional Czech souvenir, this is the perfect place to find it. Don’t forget to mention you’re a client of Prague City Adventures!

Garnet Jewelry – A Traditional Czech Treasure

Speaking of jewelry, have you heard about Czech garnet? You must have! This alluring violet-red stone has played a major role in our jewelry production for hundreds of years. Bohemian garnet was considered a royal gem and adorned many decorative products, including cutlery and furniture. It is said to have protective powers, making it a perfect keepsake for future trips. Be cautious when buying garnet, as its fake imitation has become a common tourist trap. You can get the real stuff in Czech Garnet Turnov in Dlouhá street, or Erpet Crystal in the Old Town Square.

Another unique gemstone to consider is Moldavite (known as “Vltavín” in Czech), a rare green gem formed from a meteorite impact millions of years ago. Found along the Vltava River, Moldavite’s distinctive color and extraterrestrial origin make it a truly special souvenir, often set in jewelry just like Czech garnet. You’ll find jewelry with moldavite in the same stores suggested above. Whether you choose garnet or moldavite, these gems offer an extraordinary piece of Czech history and beauty.

If gemstones don’t impress you, there is another jewelry alternative – Jelení šperky. You will fall in love with these cute deer-shaped brooches, necklaces, bracelets, and more!

Marionettes and Wooden Toys for the Little Ones

Trust me, not only children will fall in love with Czech wooden puppets. Marionette theatre has a long history in this country, occupying a prominent segment of popular entertainment. If you’d like to take one home, we recommend Marionety Truhlář – a shop and a theatre in one, packed with beautiful hand-carved puppets and other small wooden objects. They also hold exhibitions and workshops.

Another great spot is Czech Marionettes, a local marionette shop that also doubles as a workshop, where you can see these beautiful puppets being handcrafted. This shop is 100% owned by local Czech people, with all employees being Prague residents, adding an authentic touch to your souvenir shopping. Plus, if you mention you’re a client of Prague City Adventures, you’ll enjoy a special discount: 5% off when paying by credit card over 5000 CZK or 10% off with cash over 5000 CZK.

Apart from marionettes, the Czech wooden industry produces a range of original toys and brain teasers enjoyed by children and parents alike. These include old-fashioned cars, trains, dolls, puzzles, hanging animals, and various building kits. A typical specimen of a more advanced plaything would be the “hedgehog in the cage,” which features in the popular adventure stories by Jaroslav Foglar.

Wooden toys present an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to their overpriced plastic rivals. They are high quality, handmade, and ultimately traditional. Look around for Hugo Goes Barefoot or the Rocking Horse Toy Shop if you want to provide the young ones with some quality pastime.

Natural Beauty Products, Organic Czech Gifts

Are you fond of practical souvenirs? Then you will appreciate the organic products the Czech market has to offer. Visit Manufaktura, a unique chain store with a rich variety of natural cosmetics, accessories, gifts, and decorations. Wondering about the special ingredients they add to some products? It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and skin nourishment… beer, of course! Manufaktura stores are all around Prague, including the Prague Airport,  so you have no excuse to skip this experience.

For cosmetics that are less beer-infused and more plant-based, explore Botanicus. You will find a range of skincare products and shampoos at reasonable prices.

Seasonal Special: Painted Easter Eggs

If you happen to be in Prague around Easter, you must get at least one traditional hand-painted egg, or “kraslice”. You will find these all around the Easter markets, which are a must-see. Painted eggs are a staple of Czech childhood memories, often displaying elaborate designs and patterns that vary by region. While kraslice are not exactly indestructible, you might find it worth the risk to carry one home. In Manufaktura you can get them all year round.

Stationery and Books for All the Paper-Lovers Out There

Although it might seem an odd gift, Czechs are obsessed with notebooks, decorative papers, wrappers, diaries, sketchbooks, folders, and all other paper-based necessities. If you ever happen to be in the Holešovice neighborhood, stop by Papírna. Even if their simplistic design notebooks don’t amaze you, you might appreciate their wooden stamps or greeting cards. Also, Papelote is a paradise for notebook lovers.

The paper show goes on! We love books and have one of the largest productions of books per capita in Europe. Almost every household has its own library, and many cafés and restaurants around Prague do too. There are countless bookstores in the city, including second-hand bookstores that are just as popular, if not more. From English bookstores, we recommend Shakespeare and Sons.

Art Galleries Where You Can Hang Out with the Artists

Lesser Town is your district for all things art and art-related. All kinds of quirky little galleries line Nerudova Street, the so-called “Royal Way” of ancient kings. Not far from the Charles Bridge, you’ll find the gallery of our friend, the artist Jiří Šťastný. His work showcases the beauty and tradition of Czech aquarel art. His fairy-tale-like representations of Prague will forever remind you of this beautiful city and its medieval charm.

A stone’s throw away from Jiří’s gallery, be sure to visit Ornament, a store run by the talented artist Mary Dall’Agata. She creates beautiful wooden ornaments and is always happy to chat about her art. It’s a charming spot for unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

DOX Centre for Contemporary Art: Unique Souvenirs from Prague

If you want a little bit of everything, the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art is the place to go. Housed in a strikingly modern building in the Holešovice district, DOX is known for its thought-provoking exhibitions and innovative architecture, including the iconic Gulliver Airship. Their on-site gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including ceramics, books (in English), textiles, stationery, toys, and cloth bags. It’s a perfect place to find artistic and modern keepsakes from Prague.

Beer Souvenirs from Prague to Taste the Tradition

I already mentioned beer cosmetics but that’s hardly all the Czechs can come up with when it comes to this golden drink. If you’re like us at all, don’t miss the gift shop of Pilsner Urquell: The Original Beer Experience on Wenceslas Square. They offer beer-themed merchandise and immersive beer experiences. Get 10% off when booking online on this link – it’s a great way to dive deep into the world of Czech beer culture.

Picture credit: Pilsner Urquell: The Original Beer Experience

Enjoy your souvenir hunt in Prague and bring home a piece of Czech tradition! 

P.S. If you like, we can always take you for a little souvenir shopping during your Private Prague City Highlights Tour.

September 2, 2024