Best Unique Souvenirs and Gifts from Olomouc for Travelers
Olomouc is a hidden gem in the heart of Moravia. It offers a rich history and vibrant culture. Finding unique souvenirs and gifts from Olomouc is a highlight for many visitors. You can find everything from pungent cheeses to delicate handmade lace. This guide helps you discover the most authentic items to bring home. Support local artisans while securing a piece of Czech heritage. Let’s explore the best treasures this historic city has to offer.
Quick Picks: Best Unique Souvenirs and Gifts from Olomouc
Are you short on time during your Moravian adventure? Here are the top items you should look for. These picks represent the soul of the city. They range from edible treats to artistic keepsakes.
- Best Food Souvenir: Olomoucké Tvarůžky (Stinky Cheese).
- Best Traditional Craft: Haná Blue Printing (Modrotisk).
- Best Drink: Archbishop’s Wine from local cellars.
- Best for Kids: Socialist-style Astronomical Clock models.
You can find many of these items in the city center. The Olomouc Tourism Portal provides maps for local craft shops. Always check for the "Regionální produkt" label for authenticity.
The 11 Best Unique Souvenirs and Gifts from Olomouc
Our curated list features items that are deeply rooted in local tradition. These products are often handmade or locally sourced. They make perfect gifts for friends or lasting memories for yourself. Each item tells a story of the Czech Republic and its unique Moravian identity.
- Name: Olomoucké Tvarůžky Type: Food Why go: This is the only original Czech cheese with a protected status. It is famous for its strong aroma and low fat content. Best for: Foodies and adventurous eaters. Where: Tvarůžky shop on Upper Square. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 40–100 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the main square. Tip: Buy a sealed container to manage the smell while traveling.
- Name: Archbishop’s Wine Type: Drink Why go: Olomouc has a long history of ecclesiastical power. These wines are produced by the local Archdiocese using traditional methods. Best for: Wine connoisseurs and history buffs. Where: Archbishop's Palace or specialized wine shops. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 250–600 CZK. Getting there: Located near the Cathedral. Tip: Look for the specific "Arcibiskupské víno" label.
- Name: Haná Blue Printing (Modrotisk) Type: Craft Why go: This UNESCO-listed textile technique uses indigo dye and hand-carved blocks. It is a staple of Moravian folk fashion. Best for: Home decor lovers and fashion fans. Where: Traditional handicraft shops in the city center. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 300–1,500 CZK. Getting there: Visit shops near the Town Hall. Tip: Small napkins or aprons are easy to pack in a suitcase.
- Name: Astronomical Clock Replicas Type: Experience/Gift Why go: The Olomouc clock is unique for its socialist-realist style. You can find postcards, magnets, or small clockwork models. Best for: Fans of quirky history and art. Where: Information Center in the Town Hall. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 50–500 CZK. Getting there: Enter the Town Hall on Upper Square. Tip: Visit the socialist astronomical clock first to see the real thing.
- Name: Tvarůžky Liquor Type: Drink Why go: Produced in nearby Loštice, this herbal liqueur is designed to pair with the famous cheese. It is a truly local specialty. Best for: Spirits collectors. Where: Gourmet shops in the city center. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 200–400 CZK. Getting there: Available at the Tvarůžky shop on Upper Square. Tip: It tastes better when served very cold.
- Name: Hand-Painted Moravian Ceramics Type: Craft Why go: Local potters use bright colors and floral patterns typical of the Haná region. Each piece is unique and functional. Best for: Collectors of kitchenware. Where: Seasonal markets or craft stores. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 150–800 CZK. Getting there: Check the best shops for Moravian handicrafts. Tip: Ask for extra bubble wrap for the journey home.
- Name: Olomouc Beer (Chomout) Type: Drink Why go: Local microbreweries like Chomout produce excellent craft beers. They often feature labels with local landmarks. Best for: Beer lovers. Where: Local pubs or the brewery shop. Time: 1 hour for tasting and buying. Cost: 45–120 CZK per bottle. Getting there: Take a local bus to Chomout or visit city pubs. Tip: Try a beer spa experience before you buy bottles.
- Name: Veteran Arena Museum Models Type: Experience/Gift Why go: The Veteran Arena is one of the largest car museums in Central Europe. They sell high-quality scale models of historic Czech cars. Best for: Car enthusiasts and children. Where: Museum gift shop. Time: 2 hours (including museum tour). Cost: 200–2,000 CZK. Getting there: Use the tram to the Chválkovice district. Tip: Check out the Veteran Arena Museum for the full experience.
- Name: Priest’s Herbal Salts Type: Food Why go: Olomouc has deep religious roots. These herbal salts are made following old monastic recipes. Best for: Home cooks. Where: Religious gift shops near the Cathedral. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: 80–150 CZK. Getting there: Walk to St. Wenceslas Cathedral. Tip: They are great for seasoning roasted meats.
- Name: Haná Embroidery Kits Type: Craft Why go: For those who enjoy DIY, these kits include patterns from the Haná region. It is a way to learn a local skill. Best for: Crafters and hobbyists. Where: Specialized textile shops. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 200–500 CZK. Getting there: Shops are located in the side streets off Lower Square. Tip: The "white-on-white" style is most traditional.
- Name: Museum of Art Catalogues Type: Experience/Gift Why go: The Olomouc Museum of Art is world-class. Their publications feature Central European modernism and local history. Best for: Art lovers and students. Where: Museum shop on Denisova street. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: 300–900 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center. Tip: These books are often available in English and Czech.
Where to Find Unique Souvenirs and Gifts from Olomouc
Shopping for unique souvenirs and gifts from Olomouc is easy if you know where to go. The city center is compact and walkable. Most specialized shops are located around the two main squares. You can find many local products in small boutiques.
The Information Center in the Town Hall is a great starting point. They carry a wide range of official city merchandise. For food items, look for the specialized Tvarůžky shop. It is located right on the Upper Square near the Holy Trinity Column.
If you want something truly unique, look for the cheese vending machines. These are scattered around the city and offer fresh dairy products. For handmade crafts, the streets of Denisova and Ztracená are your best bet. These narrow lanes host several independent galleries and craft stores.
Practical Tips for Souvenir Shopping in Moravia
Most shops in Olomouc accept credit cards. However, smaller craft stalls may only take cash. It is wise to keep some Czech Koruna (CZK) on hand. Typical opening hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. Many shops close early on Saturdays and are shut on Sundays.
When buying food like Tvarůžky, consider the travel time. These cheeses are fermented and have a very strong scent. Use airtight bags or containers for transport. If you are flying, check your country's customs rules for dairy and alcohol. Most European countries allow these items for personal use.
Don't forget to visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites while shopping. Many gift shops are located inside or near these monuments. This allows you to combine sightseeing with your gift hunting. Always ask for a receipt for higher-priced items like jewelry or art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous souvenir from Olomouc?
The most famous souvenir is Olomoucké Tvarůžky, a traditional ripened cheese. It is known for its strong aroma and golden color. You can buy it in specialized shops or even from vending machines. It is a must-buy for any food lover visiting the city.
Where can I buy traditional Moravian crafts in Olomouc?
You can find traditional crafts in the city center, particularly on Denisova and Ztracená streets. The Information Center in the Town Hall also stocks various handmade items. Look for blue printing textiles, hand-painted ceramics, and traditional embroidery from the Haná region.
Are shops in Olomouc open on Sundays?
Most smaller boutiques and craft shops in Olomouc are closed on Sundays. Large supermarkets and some souvenir shops in the main square may stay open. It is best to plan your shopping for weekdays or Saturday mornings to ensure you have the most options.
Finding unique souvenirs and gifts from Olomouc adds a special layer to your trip. Whether you choose the pungent Tvarůžky or a piece of UNESCO-listed blue printing, you take home a piece of Moravian soul. The city offers a wonderful mix of food, art, and history. Remember to check out the unusual things to do in Olomouc to find even more inspiration. Happy shopping and enjoy your stay in this beautiful Czech city!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Olomouc Tourism Portal — unverified: Official DMO site.
- Statutory City of Olomouc — unverified: Municipal government portal.
- Visit Czechia - Olomouc — unverified: National tourism board page.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — unverified: Official UNESCO designation page.
- Lonely Planet Olomouc — unverified: Major international travel editorial.
- Palacký University Olomouc — unverified: Major public university.
