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Exploring Krakow’s Nightlife: A Guide to Vodka, Beer, and Late-Night Snacks
Krakow: A City of History and Nightlife The medieval city of Krakow is stately and refined. Every inch of Krakow seems to ooze history. But beyond Old Town and not far from Wawel Castle is the thriving Krakow nightlife. Krakow is packed with interesting bars and clubs, and there are plenty of unique spots to sample Poland’s favorite alcohol — vodka. Check out our guide to Krakow nightlife. Vodka: Poland’s Beloved Spirit Some historians suggest that vodka originated in 15th century Poland. Whether or not Poland is the birthplace of vodka, Krakow is an excellent place to sample the distilled beverage. Vodka, or wódka in Polish, is a distilled beverage. Vodka usually has an alcohol content of about 40% and is produced from grains, potatoes, or, more rarely, sugar beets. Poland isn’t the only country to call vodka its own — Russia and other Central and Northern European countries are part of the “Vodka belt.” The Best Polish Vodka Zubrowka Known as Bison Grass vodka, this variety is herb-flavored and made with bison grass grown in the Białowieża Forest of Poland. Zubrowka has been made in Poland since the 16th century and is still extremely popular. Traditionally, a single blade of bison grass sits in the bottle. Vestal Polasie Founded in 2010, this young vodka has earned a stellar reputation. Vestal is a potato-based vodka, and the company is very selective about the spuds they use. Wyborowa This award-winning vodka has been in production since 1927, but its recipe is based on 500 years of knowledge. The vodka is made with rye or potatoes, and the unique bottle was designed by an architect. Popular Polish Beers Polish beer, or piwo, is nowhere near as popular as German or Czech beer, but this alcoholic beverage is still widely drunk in Poland. The country’s beer history can be traced back to the 9th century when Polish King Boleslaw I the Brave was nicknamed “The Beer Drinker.” Although three major companies now control 80% of the Polish beer market, there are about 100 microbreweries in Poland. Tyskie One of the oldest breweries in Europe, Tyskie has been brewed continuously for almost 400 years. Tyskie’s lagers are extremely popular. Żywiec This brewery was founded in 1856 and was once owned by the Habsburgs. Żywiec produces lagers and porters, and the brand is a source of pride for Poland. Okocim The brewery was established in 1845 by a German beermaker. During Poland’s communist era after WWII, Okocim was one of only two breweries allowed to sell beer. The brewery is now owned by the Danish Carlsberg Group but is still a popular Polish beer. Late Night Snacks After Drinking All the Vodka & Beer Zapiekanka: Poland’s Favorite Street Food Zapiekanka: hard to pronounce, easy to devour! Zapiekanka is an open-faced baguette sandwich topped with sauteed mushrooms, cheese, and sometimes other ingredients. It is often served with ketchup and is a popular street food in Poland. There are plenty of zapiekanka vendors in Kazimierz, but the best is Endzior in Plac Nowy. There is also a food truck near Hala Targowa (Market Hall) that serves sausages until 3:00 a.m. The mobile chefs roast the sausages over an open fire beside their food truck. Although this seems a little sketchy, the results are delicious, and the vendors are incredibly popular.
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Krakow’s Club Scene: Exploring the Best Nightlife Spots
Krakow: A Cultural Pulse with a Rich Club Scene Krakow, as one of the cultural pulses of Poland, boasts a rich club culture within its streets. The expansion of Krakow’s alternative scene is the result of a growing number of artists and organizations that aim to share their vision and bring out the best from the other side of Krakow’s cultural coin. The city's nightlife thrives in its diversity – from pubs to various types of clubs and open-air events. Prozak 2.0: The Underground Maze Prozak 2.0 is a maze that spreads over two levels with three dance floors, bars, and chillout zones. It often hosts prominent names in the techno scene, such as SNTS, Kollektiv Turmstrasse, and others. Situated in a medieval basement at Plac Dominikanski, this place has persisted as one of the oldest underground epicenters of Krakow. Szpitalna 1: The Hidden Rabbit Hole Szpitalna 1 is the “rabbit hole” that’s not easy to find at first sight. The entrance seems like a chill, casual cocktail bar, but once you get in, the stairs lead you to an underground, dark environment equipped with a powerful sound system. The labyrinth-like spacious venue allows people to circulate between bars and chillout zones. Don’t miss the great cocktails, and ask for recommendations if you are unsure which one to try. The program this place offers varies from raves (techno, acid, electro, disco) to rock and blues concerts. Święta Krowa: A Cozy Underground Nest Święta Krowa is another rabbit-hole bar/club. As you approach the stairs at the end of the hallway on Florianska Street, the music becomes louder. The stairs lead to this lovely little underground, cozy nest, with a small bar, chill zone, and a dancefloor. Various parties and performances happen here as well. BARKA: A Floating Party Experience BARKA is a popular restaurant that morphs into an unforgettable party experience when the sun goes down. Live performances, karaoke, raves – you name it! Often, this lovely little ship sails the river Wisla into the unknown, and it’s worth checking its calendar in advance to get informed about these events. Teatro Cubano: Latin Vibes and Dance Teatro Cubano is the perfect place for all who enjoy Latin dances, culture, and fiery vibes. Professional dancers often come to create a show and teach you some moves in case you feel uncomfortable dancing. Spice up your good time with a shot or cocktail. Coco Club: Good Vibes for Every Taste Coco Club is the place that promises good vibes, various music genres, and parties for everybody’s taste, attracting an international audience. A perfect combination of a modern, bold arrangement with the brick basement atmosphere of a historic tenement house creates an exclusive and cozy interior. La Bodega: A Refined Drink Experience La Bodega is located in a 15th-century cellar and is perfect for those with a refined taste in drinks. With its Rum Cellar straight from the Prohibition era, Latin rhythms mixed with modern pop culture, and cocktails that encourage socializing, it’s a must-visit spot. BRACKA 4 (B4): A Unique Music and Dance Venue BRACKA 4 (B4) is a unique place on the club map of Krakow. It’s made from a love for music and dance, consisting of several rooms and a dance floor with house, R’n’B, and old-school music. This combination is perfect for those who value a chill and unique atmosphere both during the day and at night. The café, gallery, and live music performances make every evening unforgettable.
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Top Attractions in Krakow. From Historic Sites to Scenic Parks
Krakow: A City of Fairytale Views and Rich History Krakow, the second-largest city in Poland, delivers fairytale views, with the towering Wawel Castle, as well as people-watching meccas such as Florianska Street and the Market Square. Dark times in the city’s recent history are evident in the Jewish ghetto memorial and Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, while green spaces such as Planty Park offer plenty of headspace. Market Square: The Heart of Krakow’s Old Town The buzzing heart of the UNESCO-attested Krakow Old Town, the Market Square, is where all the action has played out since the Middle Ages. Come here for bars packed into the cellars of medieval buildings, on-street cafes and restaurants, and landmarks including the central renaissance Sukiennice, or Cloth Hall, and Town Hall Tower (the hall itself was demolished in 1820). Wawel Castle: A Blend of Architectural Styles You can’t visit Krakow without exploring the medley of Gothic, Renaissance, Rococo, and Romanesque architecture that is the great Wawel Castle. The muddle of buildings is on a high point in the city, giving it an imposing presence. It was the home of the Polish kings and queens until the 1600s and has also been used as a barracks, a military hospital, and the official residence of the state governor following World War I. Planty Park: Krakow’s Green Belt The green belt Planty Park rings the whole area of Krakow’s historic Old Town. Pathways weave this way and that past sculptures, babbling fountains, and brick towers, while locals walk their dogs and cafes spill onto the surrounding streets. It’s filled with life in the summer and becomes a veritable winter wonderland during the colder months. Barbican: A Medieval Fortress The Barbican is the only remaining gatehouse of the medieval fortifications that once encircled the whole city. Its redbrick bulwarks and formidable turrets helped to fend off the Mongol hordes during the 13th century, and its circular design was on the cutting edge of engineering at the time. Today, occasional theatre productions and other art shows are hosted inside. Vistulan Boulevards: Scenic Riverbanks As the winding courses of the Vistula River snake through the heart of Krakow, its banks host wide spaces of greenery, ad hoc summertime markets, beer bars, and bobbing boat cafes. Hire a bike or go jogging, stop and watch passing boats on the river, or stroll along as you decide what to see in Krakow next. Plac Bohaterów Getta: A Sobering Memorial Cut through by rattling tram lines and fringed with shops and cafes, this central square of the Podgórze district is home to one of the most sobering memorials in the city. A series of large and small chairs have been placed in a grid across the cobbles, designed as a memorial to the people of the Jewish ghetto in Krakow, which was once located here. There is also a plaque marking the meeting place of the Jewish Combat Organization, a resistance unit that staged acts of sabotage against the Nazis.
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Discovering Krakow! A Journey Through Poland’s Historic Jewel
Krakow: Poland’s Ancient Gem Situated in southern Poland, Krakow is one of the country’s most ancient cities, its former capital, and a real pearl in its crown. The city lies on the banks of the Vistula River, known as the Queen of Polish Rivers. Krakow receives visitors from all over the world. A City That Captivates The town is filled with monuments and is impossible to visit in just one day, which is not really enough to experience the emotions this city can evoke. Its unique atmosphere has inspired artists and writers. Visitors fall in love with Krakow, and if they leave, then it is only to return another day. The city’s rich cultural and artistic life contributes to this fascination as much as the genuine character of its streets and little squares lined with restaurants serving local delicacies. Easy Planning for Your Krakow Adventure The range of accommodation and gastronomic services is very wide and easily available, which makes planning a trip to Krakow very straightforward. It is also a base from which to visit southern Poland. Zakopane, called “the mountain capital” of Poland, and Wroclaw are within easy distance from Krakow. Wawel Castle: A Renaissance Masterpiece The Wawel Castle is the first Renaissance castle and is one of Europe’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture built in Poland. It is open to visitors, and the many valuable works of art and antique furniture are certainly worth seeing. St. Mary’s Church: Gothic Splendor The gothic St. Mary’s Basilica, situated in the vicinity of the town square, was built in the fourteenth century. Its main attraction is the world’s greatest wooden altar, sculpted by Wit Stwosz (Veit Stoss). This church is also well known for its bugle-call played every hour from the top of one of the towers. Town Square: The Heart of Krakow The Town Square, situated at the heart of Cracow’s Old Town, is included on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. It is the largest medieval town square in Europe, measuring 656 square feet. In the past, it was a marketplace and the location for numerous official events. Kazimierz: A Historic Jewish District Kazimierz is a district best remembered as a former Jewish settlement. It was founded in 1335 by Casimir III the Great. The whole district was placed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites – the first such case in the world. Steven Spielberg’s movie, Schindler’s List, was shot in 1993 almost entirely in Kazimierz. Sukiennice (The Cloth Hall): A Renaissance Icon Situated at the heart of the Main Market Square, this renaissance building is one of the city’s most recognizable structures. During its golden age in the 15th century, Sukiennice was a major center of international trade and the source of a variety of exotic eastern products like spices, silk, leather, and wax, while Cracow, in turn, exported textiles, lead, and salt from the Wieliczka Mine.
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Top 3 Party Hostels in Krakow: For Those Who Don’t Need Sleep
Krakow’s Thriving Party Scene: Stay Close to the Action Krakow is known for its party scene, the partying capital as some would call it, but in order to fully experience that indisputably unforgettable scene, you have to be as close as possible to it. No one likes being stuck in traffic on their way to the party, or worrying on their way back to their boring Airbnb, scared they would wake up the host. If you are reading this, then you are in luck! You’ve just discovered one of Krakow’s gems, or if we’re being accurate, three… In this guide, we’ll talk about three of the best party hostels in town, so grab your notes, your Google Maps, and your credit card because you will want to book a room as soon as you’re done reading this. Greg and Tom: Vibrant and Central A 10-minute walk from the old town’s Rynek Główny square, this vibrant hostel is also an 11-minute walk from Kraków Główny train station and 2 km from Wawel Royal Castle. Greg and Tom hostel is known for its colorful, modern dorms that host up to 10 guests. The place is equipped with Wi-Fi access, personal reading lights, and lockers, but that’s not all. In Greg and Tom, you can book a tour, a ticket to a live concert, or a party! Let’s Rock: At the Heart of Krakow’s Nightlife At the heart of Krakow’s main square, Let’s Rock hostel is very special! And don’t take our word for it, check the reviews on their website. Let’s Rock hostel’s uniqueness lies in being close to the greatest pubs and clubs in the city. It also offers a wide variety of daily activities, from Polish Vodka tasting to Karaoke nights. All that at an affordable price, convinced? Havana: Popular and Lively Try walking anywhere in the main square and ask for Havana Club and Hostel, chances are that most people will tell you where it is. One of the most popular party hostels in Krakow, known for its lively colonial style, 24-hour front desk, and a communal modern kitchen. There is also a nightclub, a shared lounge, and a ticket service. The authentic opinions of our guests show that this is their favorite part of the city of Krakow. Couples like this location very much – for a stay for 2 people, they rate it 9.7.
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Exploring Krakow. A Journey Through History, Culture, and Unforgettable Nightlife
A Great History: Krakow’s Medieval Legacy Located in the south of Poland, on the largest Polish river, Vistula, Krakow is currently known as the medieval capital of Poland due to its collection of historical monuments and castles. In 1978, the Main Square and the surrounding chequered pattern of streets were included on the first UNESCO World Heritage List. In 2005, the Main Square was ranked first in the World’s Best Squares by the Project for Public Spaces. The Royal Route: A Journey Fit for Kings Tourists are always amazed by the Royal Route, a historical path leading from the main entrance gate (St. Florian’s Gate) to the Royal Wawel Castle at Wawel Hill. The Route was taken by Polish monarchs during ceremonial entries into the city, coronations, and funerals. Thanks to the Royal Route for Disabled Tourists project, this path can also be discovered by people with visual impairments and disabilities. Under the project, 12 bronze models offering a tactile experience of Krakow’s most popular sights have been produced, complete with inscriptions in Braille and wheelchair-accessible plinths. Krakow’s Infamous Jewish District: Kazimierz Kazimierz, once a separate town and now a district of Krakow, offers the unique atmosphere of a centuries-old coexistence of Jewish and Christian cultures. It’s a space filled with Judaist historical monuments of world importance, but also an area vibrant with life, antiques, art fairs, and live music in local pubs and restaurants. Unforgettable Nightlife: Krakow After Dark There’s no better place to start than in Krakow’s splendid Old Town where, beneath a facade of ancient architecture, are housed countless bars and pubs eager to cater to your pleasures. Those who have spent any time in Krakow will agree that few experiences rival discovering a fantastic new bar hidden down a dark alleyway or in a cloistered courtyard. If you’re new to the city or planning a short visit, don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through a selection of the best bars and pubs in Krakow, of course, after an hour of unlimited drinks to set you up for an unforgettable night. Check out our offers!
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