10 great souvenirs to take home from Czechia!
If you are visiting the Czech Republic and are wondering what souvenirs to take home for yourself or as gifts for friends, here are some tips that are sure to please. They all have the Czech “stamp” on them and cover a broad price range, so you can pick a gift to suit your wallet.
1. Bohemia crystal glass
Czechia is known world-wide for its crystal glass production and few visitors leave without a crystal glass object to take home –be it a set of luxury glasses or an impressive looking vase. The most famous of the Czech glass factories are: Preciosa, known for its crystal chandeliers; Moser of Karlovy Vary with preserved manual manufacture of crystal glass; Crystalex with the protected trademark of Bohemia Crystal, as well as the North Bohemian Lasvit, which specialises in exclusive glass decorations, chandeliers and art objects that grace mansions the world over. Their products are available in specialized stores.
2. Beer and beer souvenirs
The Czech Republic is the home of beer and is one of the largest producers and consumers of beer in the world. Plzeňský Prazdroj and Budějovický Budvar are brands are sure to please. In addition to beer bottles, you can buy stylish beer glasses, coasters, or even home beer brewing kits.
3. Traditional Czech toys
Wooden toys and puppets are typical Czech souvenirs. Carved figurines, puppets or wooden puzzles are beautiful gifts not only for children. These toys are often handmade and their quality is truly outstanding. Puppets of famous Czech fairy tale characters such as Spejbl and Hurvínek are particularly popular. But you can even by a theatre house with a stage and wide variety of puppets.
4. Garnet jewellery
The Bohemian garnet is known for its deep red colour and is highly prized in the jewellery trade. Garnet rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces made a luxurious gift. Garnet jewellery is worn as a symbol of love and strength.
5. Traditional Czech food and drinks
In addition to beer, you can also take away typical Czech foods and drinks. Popular souvenirs include the famous Becherovka liqueur, mead (a traditional alcoholic drink made from honey), or typical Czech specialties such as Karlovy Vary wafers or gingerbread from Pardubice. You can find these products at markets, souvenir shops or in specialised stores.
6. Moldavite jewellery
Vltavin or Moldavite is a unique Czech gemstone that was formed 15 million years ago after a meteorite impact in the area of today's South Bohemia. This green mineral is very rare and the gemstones make impressive jewellery collections, rings, necklaces or earrings.
7. Spa products
The Czech Republic is famous for its spas, whether it is Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně or Františkovy Lázně. Here you can buy various spa products such as mineral salts, healing mud or spa wafers. These products allow you to bring a piece of the Czech spa experience home. And if you are a fan of beer remember there is also a beer spa that will take your love of beer to a whole new level – relax in the golden brew while downing a pint!
8. Ceramics and porcelain
Czech ceramics and porcelain are another great choice. Czech porcelain, especially that from Karlovy Vary or Dubí, is very high quality and often decorated with traditional designs. Ceramic mugs, plates or statuettes are not only practical, but also beautifully crafted and original.
9. Traditional pocket knife “rybička”
The 'rybička' - a pocket folding knife whose handle is shaped like a fish, complete with scales, fins and tail is a Czech phenomenon that was created 100 years ago by the Czech company Mikov. It sells well abroad, also because it is unusual for a knife to be shaped like an animal. The exclusive model has become a sought-after present. It even appeared in the James Bond movie Casino Royale. Some years ago the company launched a luxury version of the iconic knife made of gilded Damascus steel.
10. A copy of the Infant Jesus of Prague
The Infant Jesus of Prague is a 16th-century wax-coated wooden statue of the Child Jesus which originated in Spain, is now located in the Church of Our Lady Victorious in Malá Strana, Prague. The Infant Jesus of Prague is one of the most venerated statuettes in the Roman Catholic world. Millions of people from all over the world have made the journey to Prague to pray to the Infant Jesus. Many say their prayers were answered and buy a copy of the Infant Jesus for their local church or home. Individual dresses for special occasions can also be purchased.
