Why Shop for Local Crafts in Latrán?

Latrán was once the home of castle servants and craftsmen. This legacy continues in the modern era. The district is a UNESCO World Heritage site with deep roots. Walking through the hidden alleyways reveals small ateliers. These spaces are often tucked into centuries-old cellars. You can often see the artists at work here.

Shopping here is a slow experience. You can talk to the makers about their techniques. Most shops focus on natural materials like wood, clay, and linen. The quality is much higher than standard souvenir stalls. It is the perfect place to find a unique gift. You are not just buying an object. You are taking home a piece of South Bohemian culture.

9 Best Spots for Shopping for Local Crafts in Latrán

Before you start, here are some quick picks for your trip:

• Best for families: Pohádkový dům (Puppets)
• Best for unique gifts: Monastery Craft Workshops
• Best for jewelry: Moldavite boutiques
• Best free experience: Watching glass blowers near the gate

1. Name: Klášterní řemeslné dílny (Monastery Craft Workshops) Type: experience/shop Why go: You can try traditional crafts yourself. They sell handmade soaps, paper, and herbal products. Best for: Interactive shopping. Where: Monasteries complex, Latrán. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 100–500 CZK for items. Getting there: Walk to the Monasteries of Český Krumlov via the Klášterní street. Tip: Check their workshop schedule online before visiting.
2. Name: Pohádkový dům (Fairytale House) Type: sight/shop Why go: It features hundreds of traditional Czech puppets. You can buy hand-carved marionettes made by local artists. Best for: Collectors and children. Where: Latrán 6. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 500–5,000 CZK depending on size. Getting there: Located near the Barber’s Bridge. Tip: Look for the "Czech Made" certification on the puppets.
3. Name: Cesky Pernik (Gingerbread Shop) Type: food/craft Why go: They sell beautifully decorated gingerbread using historic wooden molds. It is edible art at its finest. Best for: Small, tasty souvenirs. Where: Latrán 54. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 50–300 CZK. Getting there: Just steps away from the State Castle entrance. Tip: The honey-based dough lasts for months if kept dry.
4. Name: Blue Printing (Modrotisk) Atelier Type: textile shop Why go: Modrotisk is a UNESCO-listed indigo dyeing technique. You can find tablecloths and clothing with traditional patterns. Best for: High-quality home decor. Where: Monastery courtyard shops. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 400–1,500 CZK. Getting there: Enter the Monastery gates from Latrán street. Tip: Hand-printed items have slight variations that prove authenticity.
5. Name: Amethyst and Moldavite Jewelry Type: jewelry shop Why go: Moldavite is a green gemstone found only in South Bohemia. These shops offer custom silver settings. Best for: A special luxury gift. Where: Latrán main street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 1,000–10,000+ CZK. Getting there: Walk the main path toward the castle. Tip: Always ask for a certificate of authenticity for Moldavite.
6. Name: Wood Carving Studio Type: workshop/shop Why go: Master carvers create intricate wooden toys and kitchenware. The smell of fresh pine fills the air. Best for: Sustainable wooden toys. Where: Near the Red Gate of the castle. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 200–1,200 CZK. Getting there: Follow Latrán toward the castle entrance. Tip: These items are much sturdier than plastic alternatives.
7. Name: Local Pottery Ateliers Type: ceramic shop Why go: South Bohemia has a long history of ceramic production. Find unique mugs with "Krumlov blue" glaze. Best for: Practical daily-use items. Where: Tucked in the side alleys of Latrán. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 150–800 CZK. Getting there: Explore the hidden gems off the main street. Tip: Ask for extra bubble wrap if you are flying home.
8. Name: Museum Fotoateliér Seidel Shop Type: museum/shop Why go: They sell vintage-style postcards and photography-related crafts. It captures the 19th-century spirit of the city. Best for: History buffs. Where: Linecká (just across the bridge from Latrán). Time: 1 hour. Cost: 50–500 CZK. Getting there: Use the Museum Fotoateliér Seidel guide for directions. Tip: Book a period photo shoot for the ultimate souvenir.
9. Name: Bohemian Glass Boutique Type: glass shop Why go: Though famous nationwide, Latrán shops feature local South Bohemian glass blowers. You can find delicate hand-blown ornaments. Best for: Elegant decorations. Where: Upper Latrán. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 300–2,000 CZK. Getting there: Walk uphill from the center of Latrán. Tip: Look for the "Handmade in Czech Republic" label.

Practical Tips for Craft Shopping in 2026

Most shops in Latrán now accept credit cards. However, small workshops may still prefer cash (Czech Koruna). It is wise to carry some coins for small purchases. Many shops open around 10:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. During the summer, they might stay open later. In the winter, hours are often shorter.

Authenticity is key when shopping for local crafts in Latrán. Look for signs that say "Regional Product of South Bohemia." This label guarantees the item was made locally. Avoid shops that sell mass-produced Russian nesting dolls. These are not traditional to the Czech Republic. Supporting local artists helps preserve the town's unique character.