Quick Picks for Spa Cup Shopping

If you are in a hurry, here are our top recommendations. These spots offer the best quality and selection in the city center. Most shops are located near the famous colonnades. You can easily find a cup that fits your style and budget.

• Best Variety: Mill Colonnade Kiosks
• Best Luxury: Grandhotel Pupp Boutique
• Best for Families: Vřídelní Colonnade Shop
• Best Free Experience: Browsing the Market Colonnade stalls

For more detailed information, check out our guide on best attractions in Karlovy Vary. Shopping for porcelain is a highlight of any trip here. You will see these beautiful cups everywhere you go.

Where to Buy Porcelain Spa Cups in Karlovy Vary

Finding the perfect souvenir is easy in this spa town. There are dozens of shops and stalls lining the river. Here are the 10 best places to find high-quality porcelain cups.

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Stalls Type: market Why go: This is the most iconic location for shopping. You can find hundreds of designs in one place. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Mill Colonnade. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 150 - 600 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: Many stalls only accept cash, so bring some Czech Koruna.
2. Name: Vřídelní Colonnade Souvenir Shop Type: indoor shop Why go: This shop is located right next to the city's hottest spring. It is perfect for rainy days. Best for: Indoor shopping. Where: Vřídelní Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 200 - 800 CZK. Getting there: Near the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Tip: Look for the cups with modern, minimalist designs here.
3. Name: Thun 1794 Factory Store Type: factory outlet Why go: Thun is the most famous porcelain brand in the region. Buying here ensures authentic local quality. Best for: Quality collectors. Where: Near the city center or factory site. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 300 - 1,200 CZK. Getting there: Use local bus lines. Tip: Check the bottom of the cup for the Thun logo to ensure authenticity.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Boutique Type: sight/shop Why go: This wooden colonnade is beautiful and houses several small boutiques. The atmosphere is very traditional. Best for: Traditional designs. Where: Market Colonnade. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 200 - 500 CZK. Getting there: Short walk from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: This is a great spot to take photos of your new cup.
5. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Boutique Type: luxury experience Why go: For those seeking high-end porcelain, this is the place. They stock exclusive and hand-painted items. Best for: Luxury gifts. Where: Southern end of the spa zone. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 800 - 3,000 CZK. Getting there: Walk along the river. Tip: Visit the hotel cafe for a famous cake after shopping.
6. Name: Elizabeth Bath Souvenir Corner Type: traditional shop Why go: Located in one of the oldest spa buildings. It offers a quiet shopping experience. Best for: Avoiding crowds. Where: Smetanovy sady park area. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 150 - 450 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the main post office. Tip: The park nearby is a great place to relax.
7. Name: Diana Observation Tower Shop Type: day trip Why go: Combine shopping with the best views of the city. The shop has unique mountain-themed cups. Best for: Viewpoint lovers. Where: Top of Diana Hill. Time: 1 hour (including travel). Cost: 200 - 600 CZK. Getting there: Take the Diana funicular ride. Tip: Buy your cup here before walking back down to the springs.
8. Name: Moser Glassworks Sales Gallery Type: high-end experience Why go: While famous for glass, they also sell exquisite porcelain. These are true pieces of art. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Kpt. Jaroše street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 1,000 - 5,000 CZK. Getting there: Short bus or taxi ride. Tip: Check their museum first to see historic designs.
9. Name: Stará Louka Gift Shops Type: neighborhood Why go: This street is lined with beautiful colorful buildings. It is the heart of the shopping district. Best for: Window shopping. Where: Stará Louka street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 200 - 700 CZK. Getting there: Central pedestrian zone. Tip: Compare prices between a few shops before buying.
10. Name: Sadová Colonnade Kiosks Type: nature/sight Why go: This is a quieter area with elegant iron architecture. The stalls here feel more local. Best for: A peaceful walk. Where: Dvořákovy sady park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 150 - 500 CZK. Getting there: Near the Thermal Hotel. Tip: Use our colonnades walking guide to find this spot.

Choosing Your Karlovy Vary Spa Cup

When deciding where to buy porcelain spa cups in Karlovy Vary, consider the quality. Real spa cups are made of high-fired porcelain. This material keeps the mineral water at the right temperature. Look for a smooth finish and clear patterns. Traditional cups often feature floral motifs or city landmarks.

The shape is also very important for your experience. Most cups have a flat shape to fit easily in your pocket. The handle acts as a straw to protect your tooth enamel. Some modern designs are rounder and look like mugs. Choose a size that feels comfortable in your hand.

Price can vary depending on the decoration. Hand-painted cups will always cost more than printed ones. If you want a lasting souvenir, invest in a piece from a known brand. Many shops offer gift wrapping for safe travel. This is helpful if you are flying home from Karlovy Vary Airport.

How to Use Your New Spa Cup Correctly

Once you have your cup, it is time to visit the springs. Each spring has a different temperature and mineral content. Always start with a small amount of water. You should drink while walking slowly to help digestion. This is the traditional way to enjoy the spa treatment.

Fill your cup directly from the flowing spring fountain. Do not touch the metal spouts with your cup. Sip the water through the straw handle slowly. This allows the minerals to absorb properly. Be careful with the hot springs, as some reach 72 degrees Celsius.

After using your cup, rinse it with plain water. Do not use soap at the spring fountains. Most porcelain cups are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is better for gold leaf. Proper care ensures your souvenir lasts for many years. It will be a great reminder of your time in the Czech Republic.