Prague Shopping and Districts

(Prague, Czech Republic)

Competition between the various shops in Prague has never been so great and the city boasts endless shopping opportunities. The chance to purchase the perfect Czech souvenir of Prague presents itself along most streets in the city centre, particularly when it comes to wooden figurines, handmade puppets and marionettes, wrought iron goods, Bohemian crystal and stylish jewellery, which often features deep-red garnets.

However, with so many different stores to choose from, take your time properly exploring the main shopping streets and be sure to shop around first, if you have time, since prices for identical merchandise can be quite variable. If you are shopping for souvenirs of Prague on a budget, then why not consider visiting one of the main supermarkets, such as Tesco on Narodni in New Town, where plenty of affordable knick knacks can be found in abundance.


Bear in mind that large purchases may be eligible for tax refunds when you leave the country, so do ask about this when buying your goods.

When to Shop and Opening Hours

The usual shopping hours in Prague are listed below:

• Weekdays - opening between 08:00 and 10:00, and closing anytime between 17:00 and 20:00
• Saturday - 10:00 to 14:00, some shops many close slightly later, staying open until around 16:00
• Sunday - an increasing number of shops are now choosing to trade on Sundays, particularly those targeting the summer tourist market

Where to Shop

Many local craft markets are to be found all around Prague, where leatherwear and hand-embroidered goods are definite highlights, particularly at the Havelská, Holesovice and Staromistské Námisti markets.

Many street vendors regularly appear during the summer months, especially around Charles Bridge, Na Prikope and the Old Castle Steps, and these stalls offer a convenient place to pick up some late-minute gifts.

Head to Wenceslas Square for the best shopping, where many of the streets have been completely pedestrianised, although do be prepared for crowds. In this area, the Kotva department store is a famous name in Prague and lies along the Námesti Republiky.

Kotva (The Anchor) dates back to 1975 and its four floors contain a good selection of electronics and fashion. A spot of window shopping at Prague's oldest department store of Bila Labut (The White Swan) is also recommended, which was opened in 1939 and resides in Na Porici.