Shopping in Prague

These days the most fashionable address in Prague is the aptly-named Pařížská or Paris Street. Located in Old Town near the Jewish Quarter, Paris Street is home to the top designer shops in the world. Long gone are the days of communism. The city’s shopping scene now goes beyond Czech crystal, in fact, Prague is well on its way to establishing itself as a luxury shopping destination – full of tourists with money to spend.  However, these high-end shops also cater to stylish Czechs.

On this beautiful tree-lined street linking the Old Town Square with the Čechův Bridge, all the best names in design have popped-up.  Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Ermenegildo Zegna, Salvatore Ferragamo, Prada, and Gucci all have a presence. But don’t expect to find full collections in these shops, however. Given the lower demand for luxury goods compared to other European capitals, many of them carry only a limited number of pieces.

The top names in watches and jewelry are also represented, like Boucheron, Rolex, and Cartier, all with mono-brand stores on the street, and Chopard recently opened its doors.  Prague is showing no signs of slowing down in the development of its high-end market. Burberry will soon be launching its second store here and even Jimmy Choo is bringing its über lux high heels to the city’s cobblestone streets.

As one might expect with so many fashionable stores, Paris Street is also home to some of the best restaurants and cafes. With pictures of the world’s fashion leaders hanging on the walls, Barock is widely known as one of the best places to eat, sip a cocktail and people watch. Also, Zlata Praha, on the rooftop of the Intercontinental Hotel with spectacular views, draws a well-heeled crowd.

With its concentration of designer shops, Paris Street is Prague’s version of the Avenue Montaigne in Paris and with its beautiful, historical buildings you may find yourself looking for the Eiffel Tower. It’s a combination that is a must-do for both buyers and window shoppers alike.