Why You Need an Authentic Spa Cup

Drinking from the springs is a ritual that dates back centuries. The water is rich in minerals but can be very hot. Authentic cups are made of high-quality porcelain to handle these temperatures. The flat shape makes them easy to carry in your pocket or bag. Using the handle-spout allows the water to cool slightly before it reaches your mouth.

Local porcelain is a point of pride in the Czech Republic. Brands like Thun 1794 have produced these items for generations. A real cup is more than a souvenir; it is a functional medical tool. It ensures you get the full benefit of the mineral salts. Most doctors recommend sipping slowly while walking between the springs.

You will see thousands of designs across the city center. Some are modern and sleek, while others feature classical floral patterns. Choosing the right one depends on your personal style and budget. Authentic pieces will always feel light but sturdy in your hand. They represent the artistic heritage of the Bohemian region.

Where to Buy Authentic Karlovy Vary Drinking Cups

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

• Best overall: Thun Porcelain Shop
• Best for families: Vřídlo Colonnade Hall
• Best for luxury: Moser Sales Gallery
• Best for views: Diana Funicular Shop

Follow the Karlovy Vary colonnades walking route to find these top locations easily.

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Kiosks Type: sight/market Why go: This is the most iconic location in the city. Small wooden kiosks sit right under the historic arches. Best for: Traditional designs and quick purchases. Where: Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 150 - 400 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center along the Teplá river. Tip: These stalls often have the largest variety of classic floral patterns.
2. Name: Thun 1794 Porcelain Shop Type: museum/indoor Why go: Thun is the most famous Czech porcelain manufacturer. This shop offers the highest quality and official certifications. Best for: Authentic, high-end collector pieces. Where: Near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 300 - 1,200 CZK. Getting there: Take a bus to the Richmond stop or walk through the spa zone. Tip: Look for the "Thun" stamp on the bottom to guarantee authenticity.
3. Name: Vřídlo Colonnade Hall Type: iconic sight/indoor Why go: This modern hall houses the hottest spring in town. It has several large souvenir shops inside the glass building. Best for: Shopping in rainy weather. Where: Vřídelní kolonáda. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 200 - 500 CZK. Getting there: It is the central point of the spa area. Tip: You can buy your cup and immediately fill it at the Vřídlo spring.
4. Name: Market Colonnade Stalls Type: sight/market Why go: The white wooden architecture here is beautiful. The vendors here are very knowledgeable about the history of the cups. Best for: Personalized service and local stories. Where: Market Colonnade (Tržní kolonáda). Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 180 - 450 CZK. Getting there: Located just a few steps from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Ask the vendor about the specific spring temperatures each cup can handle.
5. Name: Moser Sales Gallery Type: unique experience/indoor Why go: While famous for glass, Moser also stocks exquisite porcelain from top regional artists. Best for: Modern and artistic designs. Where: City center or the Moser factory on the outskirts. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 500+ CZK. Getting there: Use the local public transport authority buses to reach the factory. Tip: These cups make excellent high-end gifts for special occasions.
6. Name: Stará Louka Boutiques Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the main pedestrian street lined with colorful buildings. The boutiques here offer a curated selection of Bohemian crafts. Best for: Combining cup shopping with a coffee break. Where: Stará Louka street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 250 - 600 CZK. Getting there: Walk along the river toward the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Many shops here offer tax-free shopping for non-EU residents.
7. Name: Sadová Colonnade Pavilions Type: neighborhood/market Why go: This area is quieter than the main springs. The small shops nearby often have lower prices than the central kiosks. Best for: Budget-conscious travelers. Where: Dvořák Park area. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 120 - 350 CZK. Getting there: Located at the beginning of the spa zone near the post office. Tip: Check the small shops on the side streets for unique, non-mass-produced items.
8. Name: Grandhotel Pupp Gift Shop Type: unique experience Why go: Shopping here feels very luxurious. They stock exclusive designs that you won't find at the street stalls. Best for: Luxury seekers and film fans. Where: Inside the Grandhotel Pupp lobby area. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 400 - 1,500 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the far end of the spa district. Tip: The hotel often has cups featuring its own famous logo.
9. Name: Diana Funicular Shop Type: viewpoint Why go: Take the funicular up for a great view and visit the gift shop at the top. Best for: Souvenirs with a view. Where: Diana Observation Tower. Time: 1 hour (including the ride). Cost: 200 - 450 CZK. Getting there: Use the funicular station located behind Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: This is a great place to buy a cup before heading back down to the springs.

Tips for Choosing High-Quality Porcelain

When looking for a cup, always check the material first. Genuine Karlovy Vary cups are always made of porcelain or ceramic. Avoid plastic versions as they can release chemicals when filled with hot spring water. High-quality porcelain will have a translucent quality when held up to the light. You can learn how to use a porcelain spa cup correctly to avoid any spills.

Check the bottom of the cup for a manufacturer's mark. Most authentic pieces come from the Karlovy Vary region or nearby towns. The "Thun" logo is a gold standard for quality and durability. If the cup feels unusually heavy or thick, it might be a cheaper mass-produced import. Local artisans take pride in the thin, delicate nature of their work.

Consider the size of the cup before you buy. Most springs provide water in small doses, so a massive cup isn't necessary. A standard size holds about 150ml to 200ml of water. Ensure the spout is clear and easy to clean. Since the water has high mineral content, you will need to rinse the cup frequently. For more help navigating the shops, check the Karlovy Vary Official Tourism website.