Large stores around
Václavské námìstí do not offer
bargains and shoppers should seek out the smaller shops to browse
and patronise the cafés when it all becomes too much.
Czech crystal and glassware are superb and
often a good value. There are enough shops for one to spend an entire
day on this alone. Cheap crystal jewellery is found throughout the
city. Czech garnets are considered the world’s
best and Granat, Dlouhá 28, Prague 1, are
the specialists. Amber (jantar) can be found at
a bargain price, however, shoppers should stick to the Baltic variety.
Russian shops sell a more brittle and over-priced variety. Even
in the markets it is possible to find unique wood and ceramic pieces.
Antiques still can be good purchases. Jan
Hunek Starozitnosti, Paøížská
1, Prague 1, sells Czech glass from the 18th century
to 1930s Art Deco. Alma, Vamentinská 7,
Prague 1, specialises in porcelain, lace
and folk costumes.
Away from the centre, Bazars or glorified junk
shops occasionally turn up real finds. Time is needed to search
them out but the rewards can be worthwhile. Antiquarian
books and prints remain good buys but prices are rising.
Antikvariát Galerie Mùstek, 28 Øíjna
13/Národní 40, Prague 1, and Antikvariát
Karel Krenek, Celetná 31, Prague 1, both offer an
excellent selection. Antikvariát Paøížska,
Paøížska 8, Prague 1, specialises in prints and
maps from the 16th to19th centuries.
Classical
music CDs are very low in price. The best selections are
at Bonton Megastore, Palác Koruna, Václavské
námìstí 1, Prague 1, and Bontonland
(Supraphon), Jungmannova 20, Prague 1. Supraphon,
the privatised recording company draws on a wealth of stunning Czech
music in its archives.
Shop opening hours vary but are generally Monday
to Friday 08:00–10:00 and 17:00–20:00
and Saturday 10:00–14:00.
Many tourist shops and larger stores stay open all day including
Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Most areas of the city have at least
one 24-hour food shop. Almost everything closes on public
holidays.
Most markets sell only food and their hours generally correspond
to standard shopping hours. The best markets for crafts, hand embroidery,
leather goods and wooden toys are Havelská,
Prague 1, and the craft stalls in Staromìstské
námìstí. Christmas Markets
throughout December are good for gifts but visitors
should beware of the professional pickpockets.
VAT is at 22% for most products and services. Goods must be removed
from the Czech Republic within 30 days of purchase, in order to
claim a tax refund. Bills must be confirmed at the border or at
the Duty Free Tax desk of the Customs Office in the Departure Hall
(Terminal North) of Ryzynì airport upon departure. |
