Why You Need a Traditional Porcelain Spa Cup

A spa cup, known locally as a "lázeňský pohárek," is a unique invention. It features a flat shape and a handle that doubles as a straw. This design allows you to sip the water slowly while walking. Sipping through the handle helps protect your tooth enamel from the minerals. It also lets the water cool slightly before it reaches your mouth. You should learn how to properly drink Karlovy Vary mineral water to get the best benefits. Porcelain is the preferred material because it does not affect the water's taste. Most cups are decorated with beautiful local motifs or floral patterns.

Best Shops Where to Buy Traditional Porcelain Spa Cups

Finding the perfect cup is part of the fun in this historic city. You will see them in almost every window in the town center. For more authentic experiences in Karlovy Vary, visit these specific shops. Here are the top 10 locations to find high-quality porcelain.

• Best Overall: Vřídelní Kolonáda Kiosks
• Best for Luxury: Moser Crystal & Porcelain
• Best for Families: Thun 1794 Shop
• Best Budget: Stará Louka Stalls

1. Name: Vřídelní Kolonáda Souvenirs Type: sight/market Why go: This is the heart of the spa district. You can buy a cup and fill it immediately at the hottest spring. Best for: First-time visitors. Where: Vřídelní street, city center. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 150 - 450 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center toward the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: Look for the cups with the Vřídlo geyser illustration.
2. Name: Thun 1794 Porcelain Shop Type: boutique Why go: Thun is the most famous Czech porcelain manufacturer. Their cups are high-quality and come in hundreds of designs. Best for: Collectors and quality seekers. Where: Near the Main Post Office. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 200 - 600 CZK. Getting there: Take a bus to the Tržnice stop and walk five minutes. Tip: Check the bottom of the cup for the official Thun 1794 stamp.
3. Name: Mlýnská Kolonáda Gift Stalls Type: market Why go: The Mill Colonnade is the most iconic structure in town. The stalls here offer a massive variety of shapes. Best for: Variety and photos. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 180 - 400 CZK. Getting there: Walk along the river from the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Compare prices between different stalls before buying.
4. Name: Moser Crystal & Porcelain Boutique Type: luxury shop Why go: Moser is known as the "Glass of Kings." They offer premium porcelain alongside their world-famous crystal. Best for: High-end gifts. Where: Tržiště street. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: 500 - 1,500 CZK. Getting there: Located near the Market Colonnade. Tip: Ask about their shipping services for fragile items.
5. Name: Tržní Kolonáda Kiosks Type: market Why go: This wooden Swiss-style colonnade has several small shops. They often carry more modern or minimalist cup designs. Best for: Unique shapes. Where: Below the Castle Tower. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 160 - 350 CZK. Getting there: Walkable from the Hot Spring Colonnade. Tip: These shops often close earlier than the larger boutiques.
6. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Boutique Type: boutique Why go: This world-famous hotel has its own branded souvenir shop. Their cups are elegant and often feature gold leaf. Best for: Luxury travelers. Where: Mírové náměstí. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 400 - 800 CZK. Getting there: Take the bus to the Richmond stop or walk the river path. Tip: Visit the official tourism site for hotel event schedules.
7. Name: Stará Louka Souvenir Shops Type: experience Why go: This is the most beautiful street in Karlovy Vary. The shops here have the widest selection of colors. Best for: Leisurely shopping. Where: Stará Louka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150 - 500 CZK. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá River toward the forest. Tip: Many shops here offer discounts if you buy more than two cups.
8. Name: Sadová Kolonáda Stands Type: sight/market Why go: Located in the Dvořák Park, this area is quieter. The selection is smaller but often cheaper than the main colonnade. Best for: Budget travelers. Where: Zahradní street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 120 - 300 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Thermal Hotel toward the park. Tip: This is a great spot to avoid the biggest crowds.
9. Name: Karlovy Vary Airport Duty-Free Type: experience Why go: If you forgot to buy a cup in town, you can find them here. They are well-packed for travel. Best for: Last-minute shoppers. Where: K Letišti 132. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 250 - 500 CZK. Getting there: Use the airport shuttle or a taxi. Tip: Selection is limited, so buy in town if possible.
10. Name: Diana Funicular Gift Shop Type: sight Why go: After taking the funicular to the Diana Observation Tower, visit the shop. They have cups with forest and nature themes. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Vrch přátelství. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 180 - 400 CZK. Getting there: Take the funicular from behind the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Enjoy the view before you start shopping.

Practical Tips for Buying and Using Spa Cups

When choosing a cup, look for smooth edges on the spout. Run your finger along the handle to ensure it is comfortable. Most traditional cups are made of porcelain, but glass versions exist too. Porcelain is better for keeping the water warm as you walk. You can find more information about local crafts on the Visit Czechia website. Prices usually start around 150 CZK for basic models. Hand-painted or gold-trimmed cups will cost much more. Always rinse your cup with plain water after use. The minerals in the spring water can leave stains over time. Do not put antique or gold-painted cups in the dishwasher.