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While Prague wouldn’t be renowned for shopping in the way larger cities such as London or New York are famous, there is still a very interesting mix of well-known brand stores, local brands and many small specialist shops. Shopping in Prague has improved a lot in the last 10 years with more shopping centres opening around the city. The increase in consumer demands and in competition has contributed to a better range of goods available and has kept prices reasonable.
We have put together this informative guide to shopping in Prague which we hope you will find useful in planning your trip to this beautiful city.
CURRENCY
The official currency in Prague is the Czech Koruna. We would advise visitors to Prague to bring Czech Koruna with them as it is often the only currency accepted. A few hotels and large shops may accept Euro but to be on the safe side, bring currency with you!
TAX FREE SHOPPING IN PRAGUE
Non EU visitors to Prague can avail of the tax free shopping and can save up to 14% Value Added Tax on goods. Keep an eye out for the ‘Tax Free Shopping’ signs in shops as it is not available at all shops in Prague. Shoppers will need to pay for their goods as usual but can claim the tax back at the airport.
SHOPPING IN PRAGUE
The main shopping area in Prague is around Wenceslas Square and the streets at its northwestern end - Na prikope, 28.rijna and Narodni triad. There are also many interesting shops selling tradition souvenirs and local brands in the maze of streets and alleys around Old Town Square. Newer shopping centres can be found on Namesti Republiky, and in Smichov and Vinohrady. In the paragraphs below we have provided information on some of Prague’s larger shopping centres.
SHOPPING CENTRES IN PRAGUE
Cerna Ruze Shopping Centre
Cerna Ruze is one of Prague’s modern shopping centres on Na Prikope containing a mix of shops, cafés and restaurants. Outlets include Adidas, Bang & Oulfsen, Daniel Hecter, Dolce & Gabbana and Mambo. This shopping centre is serviced by tram numbers: 3, 9, 14 & 24 and is located near Wenceslas Square.
Myslbek Shopping Centre
The Myslbek shopping centre is the most lavish, well-equipped mall in Prague, with a range of shops that is comparable with others worldwide. Marks and Spencer, Malboro Classics, Kookai, Calvin Klein, Gant USA and Next are to name but a few of the fashion names, while every conceivable item from electronics to baby goods - can also be found. Trams servicing the Myslbek shopping centre are: 3, 9, 14 & 24.
DEPARTMENT STORES IN PRAGUE
Up until 15 years ago, there were no shopping centres in the Czech Republic and people used to do most of their shopping in the large department stores. These stores are still popular today and are worth a visit when shopping in Prague.
Kotva Department Store
Kotva department store is a popular shopping spot that is located in the Old Town area of Prague. Kotva has a wide range of shops selling everything from clothes and jewellery to sports equipment. For that well deserved break after hours of browsing the shops you can enjoy a bite to eat or a drink from the terrace restaurant on the top floor of the centre. The views of Prague from the terrace restaurant are reason enough to pay a visit!
Bila Labut Department Store
Bila Labut is a typically Czech style department store offering 6 floors of shopping. Still remaining in spite of the increase in Western Style shopping malls in Prague, we would recommend an afternoon of browsing through Bila Labut; you are guaranteed to find your self a bargain! Bila Labut, with its array of locally produced goods, is the place to shop to buy something you know you can’t get at home.
Krone Department Store
Located right on Wenceslas Square, Krone has something for everyone: toiletries, clothing, shoes, electronic appliances, blank cassettes and batteries. The folk-style ceramic and pottery items are reasonably priced. Krone also stocks well known cosmetic brands such as Elizabeth Arden, Gucci and Max Factor, making it a popular store for the female visitors. Open Monday-Friday 9 am-8 pm, Saturday 9 am-7 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm.
MARKETS IN PRAGUE
From wooden stalls set up around the Old Town Square to sprawling outdoor markets offering everything from fresh fruit and veg to electric goods, you’ll find them all over the city of Prague. Many are targeting towards tourists and can seem a bit tacky but if you browse through the stalls, no doubt you’ll find a good deal.
Havel’s Market
Havel’s market has been in existence since 1232, from the time that Prague was established but the market as we know it today was constructed about 20 years ago. Havel’s market is the most popular central Prague market, located on a short street that runs perpendicular to Melantrichova, the main route connecting Staromestské námestí with Václavské námestí.
Vinohradsky Pavilion
Like many central European countries, Prague used to have several large, ornate market halls. Whilst they are still thriving in capitals such as Budapest, in Prague, all but a few remain. However, the has been beautifully restored and now offers an array of shops and boutiques including many well-known high street outlets as well as local Czech businesses and a Julius Meinl Supermarket. All in all, the Pavilon is a very nice place to shop in Prague. The Pavilion is open from 9.30am to 9pm Mondays to Saturdays and from 12 noon to 8pm on Sundays.
After a busy days' shopping, you will appreciate a comfortable bed in a reasonably priced Prague Hotel. We have a great selection of Budget Hotels in Prague and Luxury Prague hotels.
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