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Bania Luka Krakow - My Favorite Spot for Cheap Drinks, Good Times, and Unforgettable Memories
IntroductionThere are bars, my friends, and then there’s Bania Luka. It actually feels more like a privilege to have the opportunity to write about such a prestigious venue. This place is my absolute favorite spot in Krakow. This isn’t just a bar… it’s where I’ve met friends from all around the world, shared more laughs than you can even begin to count, and created some of the most unforgettable memories of my life. Bania Luka (even writing this name gives me chills and makes me thirsty!) is known for its ridiculously cheap drinks, rowdy but friendly atmosphere, and its unique ability to bring together tourists, locals, and expats alike. For completely obvious reasons, haha (CHEAP DRINKS). But to me, Bania Luka is more than just a place to drink; it’s a community. The Ultimate Meeting SpotFrom day drinking at Old Bania Luka on Plac Szczepański 6 to grabbing a quick shot between clubs at the Floriańska location, and finishing with Jagerbombs at Main Bania on Szewska Street, this bar has been the backdrop to many of my wildest and most fun nights. It’s also a favorite meeting spot among my friends. We often say that all great nights in Krakow either start or end (or both) at Bania Luka. Then and Now – Price ComparisonBack in the day when I first wandered my way into Bania Luka, a beer or vodka shot would set you back around 4-5 PLN. It was cheap then, but even now, with beers at 9 PLN in 2024, it remains one of the most affordable spots in town. Sure, the price has doubled over the years, but considering that elsewhere drinks can set you back 15-20 PLN or more, it’s an absolute steal! Missing the Old TimesI remember sitting at home on the other side of the world, freezing, and watching Instagram stories of my friends soaking up the sun at Old Bania Luka. The jealousy was very real—not just because of the weather but because I missed my 9 PLN beers. Day Drinking at Old Bania Luka: Plac Szczepański 6There’s something really special about day drinking at Old Bania Luka, especially when summer hits. Plac Szczepański is perfect for an afternoon/morning-to-afternoon session, sipping (or downing) beers in the sun, catching up with friends, and meeting new people from all over the globe. Whether it’s tourists stumbling in from a nearby walking tour, a massive group of English lads on a stag do (sometimes annoying and sometimes fun), you’re always going to have a good time. Meeting Friends in the Afternoon SunAs most of you probably know, beers go down easy in the afternoon sun, and before you know it, you’re deep in conversation with someone you literally just met but feel like you’ve known for years. Main Bania Luka: Szewska StreetThe main and biggest Bania Luka on Szewska Street—the beating heart of Krakow. This is our spot before a big night out. I’ve lost count of how many times we’ve stopped in for a quick round of Jagerbombs. Floriańska Location – Perfect for In-Between Clubbing ShotsNot that I would suggest this (the nightclubs wouldn’t be fans), but if you’re on a budget, there’s the Bania Luka on Floriańska Street, right next to a lot of Krakow’s best clubs. You can use this Bania as a pit stop for your nights out. When we’re bouncing between clubs, we pop in for a quick shot to keep the energy high and our pockets full (haha). The Food: Hits Different When You’re DrunkOkay, let’s be honest, no one goes to Bania Luka for the food. But after a few drinks, their simple menu becomes surprisingly appealing. From pierogi to hearty soups, the food might not win any culinary awards, but it definitely hits the spot when you need to refuel. I’ve enjoyed many late-night snacks here, and while it might be the drinks talking, it always tastes pretty damn good. Final ThoughtsSo, if you ever find yourself in Krakow and are looking for a place that feels like a home away from home, head over to Bania Luka. Whether you’re joining a Krakow pub crawl or just exploring the city on your own, make sure to stop by. Grab a 9 PLN beer (or 10), soak in the atmosphere, and let the night take you where it will. In most cases for me, the night has taken me directly to a pub crawl Krakow Animals Pub Crawl because, like Bania, the Party Animals Pub Crawl is fun, cheap, and social!
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Krakow Dragoons FC - Where Football Meets Beers, Cheers, and Expats
Krakow Dragoons FC - Where Football Meets Beers, Cheers, and Expats Introduction: So I'm not much of a football fan to be honest but as you know from most of my other blog posts your Krakow pub crawl guide is a man who deeply enjoys a beer or seven. So when my friend told me to come watch them play football I thought that's a lovely excuse to drink on a Sunday. The Krakow Dragoons FC isn’t just your average football team though! They bring together football lovers from around the world in Poland’s best city (in my opinion) Krakow! So whether you’re passionate about football or just looking for a fun weekend activity with beers, the Dragoons offer a unique mix of sports and social engagement. Also a nice excuse to give your girlfriend, wife or significant other so you can down some beers. Multiculturalism and a Passion for Football So the team was initially started by a group of expats looking for a way to connect through football, the Krakow Dragoons FC has now evolved into I think one of the most exciting expat football clubs in Poland. With players from over 20 different countries, the team embodies not just the competitive spirit of football but the diversity and inclusivity of Krakow's expat community. Very 2024. Przegląd Sportowy Onet The team has accomplished a lot in the time that I've been following them, from competitive matches in the Klasa A league to the amount of beers drunk in post-match gatherings, the Dragoons bring together people from different walks of life. Whether it’s a hard-fought game or a lopsided victory, like their recent 5-1 win over Orzeł Iwanowice, the team consistently gives the fans what they want, football that is both fun and passionate. Dragoons FC More Than Just a Match - A Social Event for Football Lovers However again in my opinion what really sets this team apart is the social aspect of attending their matches. Picture this, a sunny Sunday afternoon, a beer in hand, 5 more at your feet, mates at your side, and some live football in front of you. Add to that the freedom to shout at the referee (however be respectful), chant with your friends, and enjoy the sport in a laid-back, welcoming environment. This is the kind of match where us fans feel almost as important as the players. You’re not just a spectator, you’re part of a community and one that welcomes anyone who wants to drink a beer and lend their support. Final Thoughts So if you’re new in krakow and have the ability to kick a ball around why not go see if you can play with the boys. If you don’t have this type of ability but still love the game, Go support the boys, yell some encouragement, drink some beers and yell some more! Drink even more beers with the team afterwards and after the post match social gathering why not go hit a pub crawl! See you at the next match! See you next pub crawl! https://www.krakowanimalscrawl.com/ Upcoming Matches: Sunday, October 27, 2024, vs. Orzeł Bębło at Gronostajowa 12Dragoons FC Learn more about the Krakow Dragoons on their official website here Dragoons FC
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Forum Przestrzenie Krakow - Food, Fun, and a Very Frustrating Coin Machine
Forum Przestrzenie Krakow - Food, Fun, and a Very Frustrating Coin Machine Krakow is known for its exceptional nightlife, amazing food, and stunning views. And it just so happens that I know a place where all these things come together. Forum Przestrzenie is the perfect place to experience the lot. Located along the Vistula River, Forum is a dynamic hotspot where locals and tourists gather to eat, drink, and play, with an extensive range of cool restaurants, bars, and activities. In the summer, it's the PERFECT day drinking spot when you're gearing up for a banger of a Pub Crawl. Just one little warning and something I'm still very, very bitter about: Beware of the coin machine in the back near Butter Cut. It almost ruined my day and it could ruin yours if you're not careful. The Food at Forum Przestrzenie However I digress, let's first talk about all the amazing restaurants in Forum Przestrzenie. Hala Forum – This casual spot offers a diverse range of food options. From international street food to local Polish bites, Hala Forum provides something for everyone. Perfect for grabbing a quick meal. Check it out? Tres Amigos – If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Tres Amigos serves up delicious tacos and burritos with bold flavors. It’s the perfect pit stop before hitting up the Krakow nightlife scene or joining a Krakow Pub Crawl. Check it out? Pita Grill – If you're a fan of grilled meats and hearty meals, Pita Grill has you covered. Their tasty grilled plates are a hit, and they offer plenty of options for both meat lovers and vegetarians. Check it out? Panorama Forum – A scenic, dog-friendly spot where you can enjoy food and drinks with panoramic views of the Vistula River. It's a great place to relax. Check it out? The Theme Park - Bumper Cars and a Rigged Punching Machine Aside from all the good food, Forum has a mini theme park right next to it that's gotten better and better as the years have pressed on. You'll find carnival rides, bumper cars, and various arcade games. However, let me start by elaborating on the warning I gave at the start of this blog! There's a coin machine by the rides that is supposed to give out coins, but it's a LIE! I learned this the hard way when the machine happily took my money over and over. You would think that I would have stopped after the first try; however, I was a little bit drunk and really wanted to play some games. This made the betrayal even more hurtful when it continued to give me nothing in return. My first thought was to get help from the surrounding restaurants and security. Turned out the machine was managed by a third-party company, which didn't bother to take my calls or reply to my emails TO THIS DAY. Needless to say, at the time I was not thrilled; actually, I'm still not too happy about this haha. While I may have considered smashing the machine, cooler heads prevailed, and I settled for simply unplugging it so as to save other unsuspecting potential victims. I didn't win the battle, but I think I won the war? After that, I joined my friends for some actual fun at the theme park. We hit the bumper cars, which were a blast. The only time it's ever okay to smash your car into a girl, haha. Then, we played some intense rounds of table hockey, where I dominated, smoking everyone with my very impressive skills. Travis unfortunately lost every game, which was funny because he's the type of guy that believes he's going to win everything right up until he doesn't. Not to mention all the Jäger bomb races we have had together. Can't wait to send him the link this blog so he has the pleasure of seeing the facts in print haha. Anyway, after all the winning, feeling pretty good, I decided to give the arcade punching machine a try. Big mistake. I hit that machine as hard as I could, but no matter how strong I punched, the machine kept giving me low scores. And everyone else high ones. I thought I knew how to punch and am at least 10 kgs heavier than everyone else that was there so it shouldn’t have been doing this to me. Everyone was in hysterics. Ha ha ha, I went from high in the clouds from my previous victories to straight back down to earth. Frustrated, I tried again, and again, and again, losing to my smaller friends each and every time. Then my mate's girlfriend, who probably weighs less than 50 kgs, went to punch the machine and even beat me…. Night over haha, it's funny now but I was a little bit depressed at the time. So obviously we had to go drink more. Hot Air Balloon Rides In addition to the food and fun and theme park, there's an iconic hot air balloon at Forum Przestrzenie that offers some pretty breathtaking views of Krakow from the sky. It's a tethered balloon, so you're safe as houses as you float high above the city and take in the panoramic view. If you're planning to join a Krakow Pub Crawl, this could be a great daytime activity to get a new perspective on the city before getting absolutely spasticated. Or politely intoxicated. Karaoke At Let's SING After all that competition, my friends and I decided to go to Lets Sing to belt out a bit of karaoke. I went with Mulan's "I'll Make a Man Out of You," the only song I sing. Even though I'm pretty tone-deaf, it turns out if you sing the same song over and over again for years, you start to sound….not great. But not terrible either. My friend Ben, as usual, went for his 100th rendition of The Killers' "Mr. Brightside." We listened to a few other people singing as the drinks are cheap and the spot is lovely. After this, I bet you can guess what we did. The Krakow Animals Pub Crawl - Click right here to get yourself a ticket Conclusion - Forum Przestrzenie — The Ultimate Hangout Spot Forum Przestrzenie has something for everyone. Whether you're gearing up for a night of fun, enjoying some delicious food, or trying your luck in the theme park, you're sure to have a great time. Just be wary of the coin machine and the rigged punching contest, obviously. Title: "Forum Przestrzenie Krakow: The Ultimate Guide to Food, Fun, and Nightlife" meta_description: "Discover Forum Przestrzenie in Krakow - your go-to spot for amazing food, exciting activities, and unforgettable nightlife experiences. Learn about the best restaurants, theme park attractions, and insider tips for making the most of this vibrant Krakow hotspot."
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Baron Restaurant & Bar & Shisha - Your Pub Crawl Guides Go-to Spot in Krakow
Baron Restaurant & Bar & Shisha - My Go-to Spot in Krakow So, I've been to Baron Restaurant far too many times not to write a blog about it. The first time was with my girlfriend. We had heard such good things from most of our friends that it had to be one of the first restaurants we visted upon arriving in krakow. So anyway, we went there very hungry, hoping for a delicious meal. We walked up to the door, and a very polite young lady came up, introduced herself, and offered us a nice seat right in the corner. Looking around at the decor, it was a pretty cool spot. Drinks to Kick Things Off After no time at all, the young lady came and asked us if we wanted drinks. Of course, haha, still humming from the pub crawl the night before, we wanted some drinks. Feeling a bit tired too, we decided to start with espresso martinis. We chatted for another 5 minutes, and our drinks arrived. Absolutely delicious! We joked that they were so good we might have to come back one time and get drunk on them. As she gave us our drinks, she asked what we would like to have for dinner. I already knew I wanted the Chicken Curry, as that was the dish multiple friends had raved about. But my girlfriend, haha, she's a little indecisive. Maybe as all girlfriends are, I don't know, but mine definitely is. She couldn't decide between the Caesar Salad and the Chicken Shawarma Arabi. After a long, thought-out decision and a very patient waitress, she settled on the Chicken Curry, haha, probably to avoid food envy. Click here to see the menu! The Chicken Curry Experience Two more espresso martinis later, our food arrived. Hot, check. Seasoned, double check. Delicious, triple check! The chicken was moist, even for a curry, and the flavors sent me somewhere close to heaven—Arabic heaven, I mean. If they have this food there, haha, that's where I'm going! One of the best things about having a girlfriend, and even better when she gets the same meal as you, is that you get an extra helping right at the end. DELICIOUS! Dessert Time - Another Espresso Martini! For dessert, you guessed it, we had another espresso martini. All in all, our first visit was nothing short of spectacular. I thought I was doing a favor for a friend, and he ended up doing me one. Returning to Try More of the Menu We have been back about six times since that first visit, tasting most of the menu. My girlfriend's new favorite dish is the Shawarma Arabi; every time she thinks about it, she gets hungry. I love everything, but mostly the Chicken Curry. On our second visit, we decided to mix things up a bit. We started with the Hummus and Warak Enab as appetizers. The hummus was creamy and rich, just perfect with the warm pita bread. The Warak Enab—vine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices—were a delightful surprise. My girlfriend couldn't stop raving about them. Main Courses and Shisha For the main course, I tried the Kofta Ezmir—minced grilled beef with tomato sauce and basmati rice. It was amazing! The meat was tender, and the sauce had just the right amount of spice. My girlfriend went for the Chicken Fahita—grilled chicken fillet with onion, paprika, mushrooms, mozzarella cheese, garlic sauce, and potato wedges. She loved it so much that she barely left me any, and that's saying something! Of course, we couldn't leave without trying the shisha. Baron has one of the best shisha bars in Krakow. The selection of flavors was impressive, and the atmosphere was perfect for relaxing after a hearty meal. Becoming Regulars - Pub Crawl Pre-Game By our third visit, we felt like regulars. The staff even remembered our names! This time, we brought along some friends from the Krakow Party Animals pub crawl. We thought it would be a great idea to fuel up before a night out. We ordered a mix of Set Menus to share—Set 3 with Sambusak Feta-Spinach, Hummus, and Falafel, and Set 5 with Chicken Strips, Nuggets, and Cheese Sticks. It was a feast! After the meal, we headed out for another legendary Krakow pub crawl with the Krakow Party Animals. Let me tell you, starting the night at Baron Restaurant & Bar & Shisha is the way to go! Exploring the Full Menu Over the next few visits, we tried almost everything on the menu. The Falafel Wrap became my go-to lunch option—tortilla with yogurt sauce, hummus, falafel, iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. So good! My girlfriend fell in love with the Orange Feta Salad—fresh vegetables, herbs, oranges, feta cheese, and toasted sunflower seeds. Final Touch Now, whenever friends ask for restaurant recommendations in Krakow, we always tell them about Baron. It's not just the food; it's the whole experience—the friendly staff, the cozy atmosphere, the amazing shisha bar. Thanks, Baron, thanks guys! We have enjoyed, will continue to enjoy, and I hope the people who read this blog also get to enjoy! Click here to enjoy! And afterwards, why not come back for a pub crawl with Krakow Party Animals? Just not on a full stomach—that could be dangerous, haha. And click here to really enjoy!
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Top 3 Instagrammable Bars in Krakow
Top 3 Instagrammable Bars in Krakow As you well know if you have been keeping up with my blog, Krakow’s nightlife is legendary! blending historic charm with modern vibrancy to create unforgettable nights out. If you're planning to go out in this beautiful city, why not make it visually unforgettable by visiting the most Instagrammable bars? Whether you're a photography enthusiast or just love sharing your pics on social media, these top 3 bars offer the very best backdrops to up your social media game and make everyone back home even more jealous of your travels. 1. Alchemia Location: Kazimierz District Description Smack bang in the middle of Kazimierz district, Alchemia is one of the city’s most iconic bars. Combining gothic architecture with modern design elements, this bar features dim lighting, vintage furniture, and an array of eclectic decor pieces that create a magical and mysterious atmosphere. Why it’s Instagrammable Unique Decor: Intricate chandeliers, antique mirrors, and vintage bookshelves provide stunning photo opportunities. Atmospheric Lighting: Soft, moody lighting enhances the bar’s gothic charm, perfect for creating dramatic looking photos. Live Performances: Occasionally hosts live music and performances, adding dynamic elements to your photo backdrops What to Capture Pose near the grand chandelier or the vintage bar counter. Capture the intricate details of the decor, such as the antique mirrors and unique furnishings. Instagram Handle @alchemiakrakow 2. Rubinstein Hotel Sky Bar Location: Kazimierz District Description Rubinstein Hotel Sky Bar is a bit of a hidden gem located on the 5th floor of the Rubinstein Hotel, a 15th-century tenement house in Krakow’s vibrant Jewish Quarter. Once home to Helena Rubinstein, a pioneer in the cosmetics industry, the bar now offers some pretty amazing views of the city. Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter included. Why it’s Instagrammable Romantic Views of Wawel Castle: The Sky Bar offers a picture-perfect view of Wawel Castle, especially beautiful at sunset. Historical Setting: Located in a building with rich history, the bar’s blend of old-world charm and modern elegance creates a unique backdrop for photos. Stylish Rooftop: The cozy and stylish seating arrangements, coupled with panoramic views, make it a top spot for capturing beautiful memories. What to Capture Sunset Over Wawel Castle: Snap a photo just as the sun sets behind the castle, casting a golden glow over the city. Historic Charm: Capture the blend of modern decor and the historic charm of the building’s architecture. Instagram Handle @skybar 3. Bunkier Café Bar Location: Planty Park, Near the Old Town Description Right next to the Planty Park, on the Szewka side. Bunkier Café Bar is a trendy spot that seamlessly blends industrial and rustic aesthetics. Featuring exposed brick walls, metal accents but most importantly it looks like a bunker! Why it’s Instagrammable Industrial Charm: Exposed brick, metal fixtures, and large windows provide a stylish and edgy backdrop for photos. Colorful Lighting: Creative lighting installations and neon signs add pops of color and visual interest. Artistic Murals: Murals and graffiti art that enhance the bar’s artistic vibe. What to Capture Take photos of the colorful murals and graffiti art on the walls. Capture the industrial elements, such as the exposed brick and metal fixtures, in your background. Instagram Handle @cafebunkier Final Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot Lighting Tips Golden Hour: Visit bars during the golden hour or early evening for the best natural lighting. Ambient Lighting: Utilize the bar’s ambient lighting to enhance your photos, especially in the evening. Posing Ideas Angles: Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Shoot from above for group selfies or get close-ups of your drinks against the bar’s decor. Framing: Use the bar’s unique features as natural frames for your shots, such as archways, windows, or decorative elements. Conclusion Krakow’s vibrant nightlife scene is not only perfect for enjoying great drinks and lively conversations but also for capturing stunning photos that will, as I said, make everyone back home super jealous. From the gothic charm of Alchemia to the panoramic views at Sky Bar, these top Instagrammable bars offer the perfect blend of ambiance and aesthetics for the very best photos you can take while you’re on your visit here in krakow. Ready to capture your night out? Plan your Instagram pub crawl today and explore the city’s most photogenic bars!And when your phone memories full from all the amazing photos you’ve taken come join us for our pub crawl. We may not have rooftop views but we have unlimited alcohol, fun games and a whole lot of crazy fun people to party with plus the VIP entrance and welcomes shots to 4 of the best clubs in krakow. Book your pub crawl with us today “Krakow Animals” or tomorrow and the day after.
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Fat Thursday in Krakow A Sweet Prelude to Your Pub Crawl Adventure
The Mystery of Fat Thursday Fat Thursday I'm sure you're thinking. What could possibly be fat about Thursday? Is it a day dedicated to fat people or a day dedicated to getting fat? Could even be a day dedicated to losing fat haha so I decided to finally get to the bottom of what today was really about. A Sweet Surprise in the Common Room Went downstairs to the common room to ask the receptionist what Fat Thursday was. But I discovered with my eyes before I could say a thing. I saw where the breakfast is meant to be laid out an entire table of donuts haha so this is what Fat Thursday is all about in Poland. What a beautiful free breakfast I would say, even know there's no protein in this food haha While we ate I found out what's happening. Fat Thursday in Poland guys. So if you were cutting up or in the middle of a diet, it's not the day for you. The Lowdown on Tłusty Czwartek Tłusty Czwartek, or Fat Thursday, is a popular Polish holiday celebrated on the last Thursday before Lent. Apparently my friends celebrate it every week, haha. Still special for us, but I wouldn't be able to do it every week (maybe) It's all about indulging in sweet and fatty foods before the fasting period begins. The main treat of the day is pączki—delicious, deep-fried doughnuts filled with jam or cream and covered in powdered sugar or glaze. Another popular pastry is faworki (crispy, sugar-dusted angel wings). On this day, Poles eat millions of pączki, believing it brings good luck. Tłusty Czwartek is similar to Mardi Gras, offering one last feast before Lent, and is a fun, delicious tradition loved across Poland. The Polish Donut Paradox If you didn't get to celebrate this day don't panic, the Polish have this day each and every week! Which makes me super curious how they are all so skinny. Anyway, I had a couple of donuts (pączki) and went back to sleep as I always do after a heavy pub crawl night in Krakow. Afternoon Adventures: Round Two of Donut Delights Mid afternoon came around and the guys in my room who had slept in wanted to experience this day also. So obviously I tagged along haha why not make the most of this day. First stop Dobra Pączkarnia - Click here for DELICIOUSNESS ! – Famous for its wide variety of fillings and freshly made pączki. And when I say fresh I mean fresh!! This is probably my favorite donut place in the world. Cukiernia Michałek: The Quest for Nutella Cukiernia Michałek - Also Click here for DELICIOUSNESS. Cukiernia Michałek is a popular bakery with delicious pączki and other traditional sweets. We came here next because Dobra Pączkarnia didn't have any Nutella flavored ones and we thought actually our sweet day wasn't over until we had our favorite fillings. And they had em pistachio and Nutella were the favorites. Mouth watering foods of the gods. FAT THURSDAY WOOHOO! Walking Off the Guilt (Sort Of) Afterwards we took the long way back to the hostel to help a little with the guilt that I just ingested around 2000 calories in 2 hours haha oh well I'm sure I'll burn the calories tonight at pub crawl. And if you want to join me in a fun filled night of clubs, alcohol, dancing and fun go grab a ticket. Ticket to FUN!
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