View our Blog
Follow the party
Afro
Christmas Markets & Mulled Wine | Finding That Good Feeling in Kraków
Embracing the Markets (Finally) Alright, so this is the third blog of our December drinking series, and I know the order’s been a bit off. If you missed the early action, check out [Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights | Let’s Kick This Off]. That’s where I basically said “forget the intro” and jumped right into one of this month’s first excuses to raise a glass. And if you’re curious why we started the series that way, swing by [The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before] to see how I finally got around to explaining myself. Now that you’ve got a sense of how December rolls around here, it’s time to hit the heart of Kraków’s holiday season: the Christmas Markets. While I might’ve kicked things off with a hangover and half a plan, the Markets have been here all along, waiting to show you what holiday drinking in this city is really about. The Heart of Kraków’s Holiday Atmosphere The Main Square’s Christmas Market isn’t some hidden gem—it’s right there in the Rynek Główny, ready to smack you with holiday cheer the second you step inside. Wooden huts, Christmas lights, grilled cheeses (oscypek, if you want to sound like you know your stuff), and enough gingerbread smells to make you hungry even after a full meal. Tourists, locals, expats—they’re all in the same boat, wandering from stall to stall, sipping, snacking, and getting a feel for December’s character. Mulled Wine: Your Go-To Warm Up If there’s one drink that screams “Drink me now, it’s cold as hell!” it’s mulled wine (grzaniec). Hot, spiced, and perfect for warming your hands while your feet slowly freeze to the cobblestone. I don’t care if you’re a beer guy the rest of the year—this stuff hits right after a long day of gift shopping or dodging crowds. One cup, two cups... suddenly that cold night doesn’t feel so bad. And if you’re not into mulled wine, no big deal. Try honey mead (miód pitny) or hot beer—yeah, hot beer, don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it. Every stall has a twist, something unique, something that might just become your new December go-to. Eating While You’re Drinking (Because You’re Not Stupid) Now, remember what I said about not drinking on an empty stomach back in [Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights | Let’s Kick This Off]? It still applies. Pierogi, oscypek with cranberry jam, sausages—these aren’t just snacks; they’re what keeps you from keeling over after a few hot beverages. Plus, it’s the stuff that makes the Market more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a whole experience, and eating is part of the deal. The People Make It Interesting Let’s not forget that it’s the people who bring this all together. The market is a magnet for all sorts—some folks calm and cozy, others a little more rowdy. After a couple of mulled wines, it’s easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger. Before you know it, you’re comparing notes on which stall sells the best gingerbread or which bar to hit afterward. We touched on this sense of community in [The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before], and it still stands. December in Kraków is as much about who you meet as what you drink. Next Stop: The Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl Look, the Market’s great, but it’s not a place you’ll stay all night. Eventually, you’ll want music, warmth, maybe a few stronger drinks at better prices. That’s when the Krakow Animals pub crawl comes into play. After the Market warms your heart (and liver) with mulled wine, the Pub Crawl shows you what’s next—bars, clubs, and a crowd ready to keep the night rolling. Think of it like a progression: Start with a holiday scene at the Market (mulled wine, snacks, and a good feeling). Move on to the Pub Crawl when you’re ready to test your night-owl skills. Wake up with stories you won’t get anywhere else. Embrace the Flaws I’m not going to sell you some perfect postcard moment. The Market gets crowded, the weather can suck, and sometimes the mulled wine is better at one stall than another. It’s all part of the experience. If you’ve read the previous posts, you know by now December here is about rolling with what comes your way. Embrace it: the imperfections, the last-minute changes, the idea that your “plan” might just blow up once you have that first drink in hand. Wrapping It Up So there it is: The Christmas Markets, a core part of Kraków’s December drinking scene is part of how December works around here.
Read more
Afro
The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before
Better Late Than Never, Right? So, here we are with the introduction that should’ve kicked off this December blog series. Instead, I jumped straight into Mikołajki last time. Why? Because it was December 6th, I was already halfway into a round of shots, and let’s just say writing wasn’t top of my priority list at that exact moment. By the time I remembered I owed you a proper intro, I’d already dropped a whole blog about Mikołajki. Not exactly a smooth start, but hey, this is Kraków in December—we do things a bit backwards sometimes. Life’s too short to follow all the rules. Now that we’ve had our fun with St. Nicholas Day, let’s zoom out a bit. December in Kraków isn’t just about one holiday. It’s a month full of traditions, late nights, and new friends crammed shoulder-to-shoulder in bars tucked down old cobblestone streets. It’s about a certain character that the city takes on when the weather gets cold and everyone decides the best way to deal with it is to raise a glass. And trust me, there’s a good feeling that comes along with it. What This Series Is All About This blog series is your inside look at how Kraków drinks its way through December. Forget the polish tourism pamphlets—this is about real nights out, from the hectic club-hopping to the mellow afternoons sipping mulled wine at the Christmas Market. I’m here to show you what’s worth trying, what’s worth skipping, and how to find that sweet spot between partying like a nutcase and actually remembering the next morning. We’re gonna cover it all: Mikołajki: Already done. You saw how it goes—small gifts, a few drinks, a warm-up for the rest of the month. Wigilia (Christmas Eve): Not a big bar night, but we’ll talk about how to keep the spirit alive afterward. Polish Traditions & Drinks: Mulled wine, hot mead, infused vodkas, and winter ales. We’ll dig into these. The Christmas Market: How to navigate the stalls, what to drink, and how not to freeze your ass off while doing it. New Year’s Eve (Sylwester): The big finale. The fireworks, the champagne, the absolute madness of it all. You’ll get the rundown on each of these, along with a few personal stories from the field. I’m not pretending to be some all-knowing expert, but I’ve been guiding pub crawls for a while and I’ve seen a thing or two. I’ll share what I know: where to start your night, what to try if you’re a total newbie, and how to avoid coming off like a complete tourist (although sometimes that’s half the fun). December’s Personality: Cold Weather, Warm Bars December in Kraków might not be warm, but it’s got something better—it’s got character. The city’s old stone buildings glow under Christmas lights, the bars stay open late, and locals mix with expats and travelers to create an atmosphere that’s tough to beat. The cold outside makes that first sip of a hot drink inside feel downright perfect. It’s not about being fancy, it’s about embracing what’s in front of you: a crowded bar, a steaming mug of grzaniec (mulled wine), and the kind of conversation you only have when everyone’s escaping the same chill. You’ll notice this good feeling is most obvious at night, when a few drinks have softened the edges of the day. Strangers talk to strangers a little easier. You try a new drink just because your neighbor at the bar recommended it. A random Christmas carol might float in from the street, and suddenly everyone’s humming along. December sets the stage; you just have to show up and play your part. Why I’m Doing This (Other Than the Obvious Fun) You might wonder: why write these blogs at all? Well, besides the fact that I said I would (and I’m already late), I actually like giving newcomers a heads-up. Kraków has this underground energy that tourists don’t always get to see. Sure, the city’s known for cheap drinks and a wild nightlife, but there’s more to it than just slamming shots. There are traditions woven into the way people drink, the drinks they choose, and the reason they gather. It’s a chance to taste a bit of the local culture, not just the local booze. The Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl—Your Shortcut If you’re short on time or just not in the mood to figure it all out yourself, that’s where the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl comes in. I’m part of that crew, and we’ve got this down to a system. One ticket, a bunch of bars, no guesswork. You’ll meet a mix of people who’ve come to do the same thing as you—drink, talk, maybe sing a carol off-key after a few too many. By the end of the night, you’ll have a better feel for what makes December in Kraków worth sticking around for. Apologies for the Messy Schedule Look, I know this intro is late. But think about it—what’s a drinking guide to December if I don’t get caught up in the moment myself? If I’d stayed home writing a perfect introduction on December 1st, I might’ve missed out on the very stuff I’m here to talk about. So, sorry-not-sorry for the delay. The whole point is that December here can catch you off guard, lead you down a side street, and have you leaning over a dimly lit bar discussing life with someone you just met. What’s Next From here on out, I’ll try to keep things in order… maybe. We’ll dive deeper into the traditions, the drinks, and the spots that make Kraków tick during December. I’ll tell you where to get the best mulled wine, how to handle Christmas Eve when most people are home with family, and what to expect as the month barrels towards New Year’s Eve. If you’re new to the city, buckle up. If you’re a local, you might see your own habits and hangouts reflected back at you. December in Kraków isn’t perfect. It’s rough around the edges, a bit chaotic, and sometimes the drinks hit harder than you expect. But that’s kind of the point. There’s a realness here, a certain character you can’t fake. And whether you’re drinking with old friends or total strangers, there’s a good feeling that you’re part of something more than just another night out. So, consider this the official start—even though it’s technically blog number two. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s navigate December together. It might not be flawless, but it sure won’t be boring. Cheers.
Read more
Afro
Mikołajki & Early December in Kraków | A Down-to-Earth Drinking Guide
No Fancy Introductions—Just Getting Started Alright, so I’m supposed to start this whole December blog series with a neat little introduction, right? Yeah, that’s not happening. It’s December 6th—Mikołajki—and I’m writing this with a slightly fuzzy head becuase priorities happen, my friend. I know I promised a slick intro, but when you’re knee-deep in shots and everyone’s yelling “Na zdrowie!” it’s hard to remember your to-do list. So, we’re kicking off with Mikołajki. I’ll get to the intro later (or never—nah, I’ll get there, don’t worry). What the Hell is Mikołajki Anyway? For those who have no idea, Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) falls on December 6th. Kids wake up to small gifts—usually sweets—and adults tend to treat themselves to a few drinks. It’s not New Year’s Eve crazy, but it’s a decent enough excuse to raise a glass. And really, who’s gonna complain about an extra reason to indulge? The Early December Buzz By the time Mikołajki rolls around, Kraków starts humming with a certain character. There’s a good feeling out there in the cold streets—people buying gifts, grabbing gingerbread, and sipping mulled wine at the Christmas Market. Even if you’re not scoring any fancy presents today, you still feel that something’s in the air. It’s like the city’s giving you a wink and a nod, telling you the holiday madness is only just warming up. What to Drink Today Let’s get into the fun part. On Mikołajki, you’ll see locals dipping into bars, ordering hot mulled wine (grzaniec) or honey mead. If you’re more of a vodka guy, cherry vodka or a quick shot of something stronger works. It all goes down easy when your face is half-frozen. Personally, I like to keep it simple—beer with a shot on the side. This way, I stay warm, and I stay interested. Getting Into the Crawl While you’re out there soaking it in, don’t forget the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl is always an option. Sure, it might be early in the month, but December’s a long stretch of celebrations. Why not kick it off right? Come join us, and we’ll bounce you through a couple of spots that won’t disappoint. By the end of the night, you’ll know the bars worth returning to when the real holiday chaos comes knocking. A Softer Start to the Holiday Madness Think of Mikołajki as a practice run. The bars aren’t nuts yet, and you can actually claim a decent seat. This is your chance to test out the local drinks and meet new people before the crowds triple in size. Trust me, once you know your way around these spots, you’ll be set when mid-December hits and everyone’s shifting into full party mode. About That Missing Introduction If you’re wondering where the formal introduction to this blog series is—well, I was busy getting drunk, my friend. That’s the whole point of December in Kraków: you live it first, write about it second. Consider this a teaser. I’ll give you that official intro later, once my head clears. For now, just roll with it, grab a drink, and enjoy the moment. Embrace the Warm-Up So here’s the deal: Mikołajki might not be the wildest holiday on the Polish calendar, but it sets the tone. It’s a signal that the real party’s still ahead. You’ve got a whole month of celebrations, traditions, and drinking sessions waiting for you. So raise that beer, knock back that shot, and if you want some solid company, join us on the pub crawl. This is just the warm-up to December’s main event, and trust me, you won’t want to miss a second of it. Cheers!
Read more
Afro
Halloween With Krakow Animals Pub Crawl
Embracing Halloween in Kraków Hey team, so as it's Halloween today, it got me thinking of when I first arrived in Poland. When I first arrived in Kraków! I was unfamiliar with the excitement surrounding Halloween. Back home, it wasn't a big deal, but here, it was an entirely different thing! Discovering Kraków's Halloween Spirit As I was strolling through the streets of the Old Town, obviously I was impressed by the architecture as we all are who are lucky enough to have come here, but what was even more exciting was that most of the buildings were adorned with flickering jack-o'-lanterns and other decorations that brought the city to life in a scary, undead-type way haha. The city was booming with energy, and I was gearing up for the night of my life. Half drunk already, I heard this homeless man rambling about ghosts… and he was speaking English! I thought, man, if he actually has some tales to tell, this would make an unreal story. Random ghost stories on Halloween in Kraków! Haha, as it often does, curiosity got the better of me, and I went over and asked the man what he was talking about. He looked at the bottle of vodka in my pocket and said in a very Slavic English accent, "I'll tell ya for a shot!" So, obviously, I opened the bottle! He took a long swig and looked up at me; I'll never forget the way he looked—a sly grin forming. "Okay, dobrze, you want to know what I was speaking about?" I nodded, and he motioned for me to sit. Between swigs of vodka, he began to share some pretty outrageous stories, tales, and myths, and on any other day, I wouldn’t have believed them haha, but it’s Halloween; anything can happen on Halloween. Whispers of the Demon of Łysa Góra He took a swig of his vodka before beginning. "Have you heard of the Demon of Łysa Góra?" he asked, his voice lowering. "Bald Mountain? No, I haven't." "Long ago," he began, "villagers gathered atop Łysa Góra to perform ancient rituals—stare rytuały. They wanted to harness dark powers, to control forces beyond our world." "What happened?" I asked, leaning in. "They summoned something they couldn't contain," he said gravely. "Strange lights—dziwne światła—were seen in the sky. Those who went up the mountain never returned. Even today, hikers speak of unnatural sounds—nienaturalne dźwięki—whispers that aren't carried by the wind." He glanced around before continuing. "Some say the demon still guards the mountain, a sentinel born from mistakes of the past. On nights like this, when the moon is full—pełnia księżyca—you can feel its presence." A chill ran down my spine. It almost seemed as if the mountain itself was watching us. (Read more about the history and legends of Łysa Góra here. ) Beware the Strzyga He leaned in closer. "But the demon is not the only thing to fear. You must be careful of the Strzyga." "What's a Strzyga?" I asked. He eyed me seriously. "A creature with two hearts and two souls—dwa serca i dwie dusze. By day, they appear human, blending seamlessly into society. But by night, they transform into monstrous beings, feeding on the life force of the living." "How can you tell if someone is a Strzyga?" I questioned, both skeptical and intrigued. He smirked. "You can't. Some say they avoid eye contact—unikać kontaktu wzrokowego—or their shadows move independently—cień żyje własnym życiem. Others believe they possess knowledge beyond their years. But tonight, with everyone in costumes, it's impossible to know who, or what, you might encounter." He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "So be cautious, my friend. Not everything is as it seems." (Learn more about the mysterious Strzyga here.) Looking at the time, I realized I was late for the pub crawl, and I decided he had earned the bottle, so I left it with him and headed straight for Let's Rock Party Hostel! Joining the Halloween Pub Crawl I pieced together a last-minute costume—a pirate hat and an eye patch—and headed downstairs to where the pub crawl was starting. The place was alive with energy, decorations everywhere. They even had a professional face painter painting faces haha, very cool. People dressed as vampires, witches, and creatures I couldn't even name filled the room. We set off into the night, moving from one club to another. Each venue embraced the Halloween spirit fully, with themed drinks, haunting music, and elaborate decorations. The city's dedication to the celebration was evident at every turn. A Vampire's Trick Amidst the fun in Prozac 2.0 (I think it was), a tall figure dressed as a vampire bumped into me, nearly causing me to spill my drink. "Sorry about that!" he exclaimed with a grin, flashing fake fangs before disappearing into the crowd. It wasn't until I was at the bar buying another drink that I noticed my wallet was missing. Damn it! Panic set in. I informed one of the pub crawl guides, who helped me retrace my steps, but the wallet was nowhere to be found. On the way to the next club, we saw the police, so we went to report the theft. Communication was a challenge. The officer spoke little English, and with the help of a translator app, I explained what happened. "He was dressed as a vampire," I said. The officer gave a weary smile, gesturing to the window where countless vampires roamed the streets. "Tonight, everyone is vampire," he said. "Very difficult." Realising the improbability of finding the culprit, I thanked him and returned to the group. The Kindness of Strangers Back at Let's Rock, I contemplated calling it a night. But my new friends wouldn't hear of it. "Don't worry about it," one said. "We've got you covered." They pooled their resources to ensure I could continue enjoying the evening. Their generosity turned a very sad situation into one of my favorite nights I can remember. "You're part of the family now," another added with a reassuring pat on the back. Obviously, I paid them all back the next day, but it was so nice of them to just help a stranger out like this. As the night wore on, I had to retell the tales the old man had told me. "Do you think there's any truth to the story of the Lady in White?" I asked. One of them nodded thoughtfully. "My grandmother used to tell me about her. Some say she's been seen near the castle on misty nights." Another chimed in, "And the Strzyga—my uncle swears he encountered one during his military service. He said the man's eyes reflected no light, even in the dark." I'm sure they were just trying to scare me even more, but the blend of local legends and the festive atmosphere made the experience all the more memorable. A Halloween to Remember By the time the first light of dawn appeared, I realized that despite the setback, this night had become something special. Losing my wallet to a vampire was an unexpected twist, but it added to all of the stories I'd have to share with everyone back home. As I settled into bed, I couldn't help but smile. Kraków had welcomed me with open arms, shared its secrets, and given me a Halloween unlike any other. Join the Festivities Yourself If you find yourself in Kraków during Halloween and want to experience the nightlife and Halloween the way I did, buy a ticket here! https://www.krakowanimalscrawl.com/Just keep an eye on your wallet—those vampires are sneaky!
Read more
Afro
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!
Read more
Afro
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
Read more