The Tradition of Czech White Gold

The story of porcelain in this region began in the late 18th century. Rich deposits of high-quality kaolin were discovered near the city. This led to the birth of the famous Thun 1794 brand. Today, this brand remains a symbol of Czech craftsmanship. The city is even part of the UNESCO World Heritage list for its spa heritage. This heritage includes the elegant culture of sipping mineral water from porcelain cups. Buying authentic porcelain Karlovy Vary means owning a piece of this history. Each item is fired at extremely high temperatures for strength. Many factories still use traditional hand-painting techniques for their luxury lines. You are not just buying a dish; you are buying heritage.

10 Best Places for Buying Authentic Porcelain Karlovy Vary

Finding the right shop depends on your budget and style. Here are our top recommendations for 2026. Use these quick picks to guide your shopping journey:

• Best for value: Thun 1794 Factory Store
• Best for luxury: Moser Sales Gallery
• Best for hotel-grade: G. Benedikt Outlet
• Best for unique gifts: Porcelain Stop

1. Name: Thun 1794 Factory Store Type: Factory Outlet Why go: This is the ultimate destination for buying authentic porcelain Karlovy Vary at factory prices. You will find the widest selection of current and classic collections. Best for: Budget-conscious collectors and full dinner sets. Where: Nová Role (just outside the city). Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Wide range from $10 to $500+. Getting there: Take a local train or a 15-minute taxi from the city center. Tip: Visit the "Porcelain Stop" exhibition next door to see historical pieces.
2. Name: Moser Visitor Centre Type: Museum and Luxury Boutique Why go: While famous for glass, Moser also stocks high-end porcelain collaborations. The quality is unmatched and the setting is beautiful. Best for: High-end luxury gifts and artistic pieces. Where: Kpt. Jaroše 46/19. Time: 1 hour (longer if you tour the glassworks). Cost: High-end prices, usually $100+. Getting there: Bus lines 1, 2, or 22 from the center. Tip: Book a factory tour in advance to see the artisans at work.
3. Name: G. Benedikt Factory Outlet Type: Factory Store Why go: They specialize in durable porcelain used by top hotels and restaurants. It is incredibly strong and dishwasher safe. Best for: Practical, modern, and long-lasting kitchenware. Where: 1. máje 30. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Very affordable factory prices. Getting there: Short taxi ride or local bus to the Stará Role district. Tip: Look for their "seconds" section for even deeper discounts on minor flaws.
4. Name: Porcelain Stop (Stará Role) Type: Specialty Shop Why go: Located in the historic Moritz Zdekauer factory building. It offers a unique atmosphere and rare patterns. Best for: Finding traditional designs you won't see in the city center. Where: Stará Role district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Use the local bus service from the main station. Tip: This is a great place to avoid crowds while shopping.
5. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Boutique Type: Luxury Hotel Shop Why go: The boutique offers exclusive lines of porcelain used within the hotel itself. It is the height of Karlovy Vary elegance. Best for: Iconic souvenirs and high-end branded items. Where: Mírové náměstí 2. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Premium prices. Getting there: Located at the end of the main spa zone walk. Tip: Combine your shopping with a Westend architecture walk nearby.
6. Name: Mill Colonnade Gift Shops Type: Tourist Boutique Why go: Very convenient location for buying authentic porcelain Karlovy Vary while tasting the springs. They stock many traditional spa cups. Best for: Porcelain spa drinking cups and small trinkets. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Walkable from anywhere in the spa center. Tip: Check the bottom of the cups for the "Made in Czech Republic" stamp.
7. Name: Moser Sales Gallery (City Center) Type: Luxury Gallery Why go: If you cannot reach the factory, this central gallery offers the same luxury items. The staff speaks excellent English and can help with shipping. Best for: Convenient high-end shopping. Where: Tržiště 7. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Expensive. Getting there: Located in the heart of the pedestrian zone. Tip: Ask about their limited edition porcelain-and-crystal hybrid pieces.
8. Name: Thun Porcelain Store (T. G. Masaryka) Type: Brand Store Why go: This is the main brand store in the commercial center. It features the most popular modern collections. Best for: Seeing the latest trends in Czech porcelain design. Where: T. G. Masaryka street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Standard retail prices. Getting there: Easy walk from the Karlovy Vary railway station. Tip: This street is great for avoiding crowds in Karlovy Vary during peak hours.
9. Name: Svatošské Rocks Visitor Center Type: Nature Trip Gift Shop Why go: This is a unique spot to find porcelain with nature-inspired motifs. It is perfect for a break from the city. Best for: Rustic designs and unique outdoor-themed porcelain. Where: Doubí / Svatošské skály. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Follow the Svatošské Rocks nature trip guide for directions. Tip: The cafe here often serves coffee in the porcelain they sell.
10. Name: Karlovy Vary Airport Duty-Free Type: Airport Shop Why go: Your last chance for buying authentic porcelain Karlovy Vary before leaving. They carry a small but high-quality selection. Best for: Last-minute gifts and tax-free shopping. Where: Karlovy Vary Airport terminal. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Tax-free, competitive prices. Getting there: Bus line 8 or taxi from the center. Tip: Ensure the items are well-padded for the flight home.

How to Identify Real Karlovy Vary Porcelain

When buying authentic porcelain Karlovy Vary, always check the bottom of the piece. Look for the factory mark or stamp. Genuine Thun 1794 items will have a crown and the brand name. Moser pieces are usually signed or etched. Authentic porcelain should feel light but sturdy. Hold a plate up to the light; you should see a slight glow through it. This translucency is a sign of high kaolin content. Be wary of items with no markings at all. Many souvenir shops sell cheap ceramic versions that look similar. True porcelain will have a clear, bell-like ring when tapped gently. If the price seems too good to be true, it likely isn't real porcelain.

Practical Tips for Packing and Shipping

Porcelain is fragile, so planning your transport is vital. Most high-end shops offer professional international shipping. This is often the safest way to get large sets home. If you are carrying items yourself, use plenty of bubble wrap. Pack porcelain in the center of your suitcase, surrounded by soft clothing. For more travel logistics, check the Visit Czechia website. Don't forget to ask for a VAT refund form if you live outside the EU. This can save you up to 21% on your purchase. Always keep your receipts until you pass through customs. Proper documentation makes the process much smoother.