Best Independent Bookstores in Olomouc

The university presence in Olomouc keeps the literary scene alive and thriving. You will find shops that specialize in everything from modern art to rare academic texts. Many of these spaces serve as community hubs for locals and students alike. They often host small readings or art exhibitions that showcase local talent. If you are looking for unique local design shops Olomouc has plenty of overlap with its bookstores.

Walking through these aisles feels like stepping back in time. The smell of old paper and fresh coffee fills the air in the best spots. Most shopkeepers are passionate about their collections and love to give recommendations. Even if you do not speak Czech, the visual art books are worth the visit. You can find more tips on navigating the city in our guide to local secrets in Olomouc.

• Quick picks:
• Best for Art: ArtMap Bookstore
• Best for Atmosphere: Knihkupectví Mezi řádky
• Best for History: Vědecká knihovna Shop

1. Name: Knihkupectví Mezi řádky Type: bookstore Why go: It is a cozy, independent space with a curated selection. Best for: Fiction lovers and those seeking a quiet reading nook. Where: Near the Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: Free entry; books from 200 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Check their small selection of English translations of Czech classics.
2. Name: ArtMap Bookstore Type: bookstore/design Why go: Located inside the Olomouc Museum of Art, it features stunning visual publications. Best for: Art students, designers, and souvenir hunters. Where: Denisova street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free entry; high-quality art books vary in price. Getting there: Take tram 2, 3, or 4 to the Náměstí Republiky stop. Tip: Look for the locally designed postcards and independent zines.
3. Name: Tycho Bookstore Type: bookstore Why go: A traditional shop that feels like a local institution. Best for: Finding maps and local history books. Where: Ostružnická street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the Upper Square. Tip: They have excellent regional maps for hikers and cyclists.

Hidden Antique Shops and Curiosities

Antique shopping in Olomouc is a slow and rewarding process. The city is full of 'Antikvariát' shops, which combine used books with vintage collectibles. You might find old porcelain, military medals, or 19th-century postcards. These shops are perfect for finding non-tourist gifts that have real history. The prices are usually very fair compared to Prague.

Many of these shops are tucked away in basements or side alleys. Exploring them is part of the adventure in this historical city. You will often see items from the Austro-Hungarian era or the socialist period. It is a tangible way to experience the layers of history in the Czech Republic today. Be prepared to spend some time digging through the shelves.

1. Name: Antikvariát Bastion Type: antique shop/books Why go: It is located in a historic fortification building. Best for: Rare prints, old maps, and a unique atmosphere. Where: Near the city walls. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Items from 50 CZK to several thousand. Getting there: Walk toward the university botanical gardens. Tip: Ask to see their collection of historical engravings of the city.
2. Name: Antikvariát u Svatého Mořice Type: antique shop Why go: It is conveniently located near the stunning St. Maurice Church. Best for: Second-hand books and vintage paper ephemera. Where: 8. května street. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: Very affordable. Getting there: Located right next to the tram tracks in the center. Tip: Look for old Czech film posters which make great wall art.
3. Name: Antik v uličce Type: antique shop Why go: A tiny shop packed with curiosities and vintage jewelry. Best for: Small collectibles and unique trinkets. Where: A small side street off the main square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Varies; great for budget finds. Getting there: Follow the signs near the Town Hall. Tip: Perfect for finding unique buttons or vintage pins.

Unique Local Design Shops in Olomouc

If you want something modern, the city has a growing number of design boutiques. These shops often collaborate with students from Palacký University Olomouc. You can find handmade jewelry, sustainable fashion, and local ceramics. This is where to go if you want to see the future of Moravian creativity. These spots are essential for anyone interested in authentic handicrafts in Olomouc.

The design scene here is intimate and friendly. You will often meet the makers behind the counter. They are happy to explain the materials and techniques they use. Shopping here supports the local economy and keeps traditional crafts alive in a modern way. Many of these shops are located in beautifully renovated townhouses.

1. Name: Metráž Type: design shop Why go: It focuses on social impact and local textile design. Best for: Ethical fashion and unique fabric accessories. Where: Near the city center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Mid-range. Getting there: Easily reachable on foot from the main square. Tip: Their bags are both stylish and very durable for travel.
2. Name: Vědecká knihovna Shop Type: experience/shop Why go: The Scientific Library often sells unique publications and literary gifts. Best for: Intellectual souvenirs and academic books. Where: Bezručova street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Walk from the Lower Square. Tip: Check the notice board for local literary events or book fairs.

Treasure Hunting Near Olomouc

Sometimes the best finds require a short trip outside the city limits. The surrounding Moravian countryside is full of history and craft traditions. You can find specialized workshops and smaller antique markets in nearby towns. These trips offer a look at the rural roots of Czech design. Many of these locations are recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for their cultural value.

Public transport makes these day trips very easy to manage. Most trains and buses run frequently from the main station. You can enjoy the scenic landscape while planning your next stop. These areas are often less crowded than the city center, offering a more relaxed shopping experience.

1. Name: Svatý Kopeček Markets Type: day trip/experience Why go: The hill offers a famous basilica and local craft stalls. Best for: Religious artifacts, honey, and traditional wooden toys. Where: 8km from Olomouc. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Bus fare is cheap; item prices vary. Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Visit on a weekend morning for the best selection of stalls.
2. Name: Litomyšl Antique Hunting Type: day trip Why go: This UNESCO town has several high-quality antique shops and a stunning castle. Best for: High-end antiques and architectural inspiration. Where: About an hour from Olomouc. Time: Full day. Cost: Train/bus fare plus shopping budget. Getting there: Direct bus or train with one transfer. Tip: Visit the castle gardens after you finish your shopping.