A Local Guide to Kraków Beer Reviews

Kraków, the city of kings, is often overlooked when it comes to its contribution to the brewing industry, even though the city’s beer production dates back as far as the 14th century. Home to some of the oldest and most renowned breweries in Europe, Kraków has an impressive range of beer styles and tastes to explore. From the complex flavours of the dark and malty Wojewodzka beer to the crisp and tart flavours of Żywe, and the strong herbal notes of the Wojska Polskiego Pale Ale, Krakow has something for everyone.

In this article, I’ll take you on a tour of Kraków’s pubs, breweries, and beer selections, and provide a comprehensive beer review to help you find the perfect brew. So let’s get started!

The Best Brews in Kraków

Kraków’s beer options are varied and diverse. Whether you’re looking for an everyday lager or a craft beer made with local ingredients, there is something for everyone. Here is a guide to some of the top breweries in Kraków:

Wojewodzka Brewery

If you’re looking for a classic Kraków beer, a visit to Wojewodzka Brewery is a must. Located on the corner of Rynek Glowny Square, this family-run brewery has been producing beer since 1810, making it one of the oldest and most respected breweries in all of Kraków. Famous for their dark lagers, Wojewodzka produces some of the finest porters and stouts in all of Krakow. With a full-bodied flavor and aromas of coffee and chocolate, their dark lager is a must-try for any beer lover.

Żywe Brewery

Established in 2012, Żywe (pronounced zhee-VAY) is one of Krakow’s newer craft breweries. Founded by three passionate friends who wanted to create something special, Żywe has quickly become one of the most popular craft breweries in all of Poland. Their beers are unfiltered, unpasteurized and naturally carbonated, giving them a unique flavor and aroma. Their flagship beer, the Żywiec Premium Pale Lager, is light and crisp with subtle notes of citrus and honey.

Wojska Polskiego Pale Ale

Wojska Polskiego is an award-winning brewery owned by the Polish military. Their signature beer is a pale ale made from locally grown rye grains, giving it an earthy flavor with subtle herbaceous notes. This thirst-quenching pale ale is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

The Best Krakow Beer Pubs and Tap Houses

No visit to Kraków would be complete without sampling some of the best local beers at one of the city’s pubs or tap houses. Here are some of our favorites:

Jozefina Pub

Jozefina Pub is one of Krakow’s most beloved beer bars. This cozy pub serves up all of Wojewodzka’s classic beers, as well as their special seasonal releases. The atmosphere at Jozefina is relaxed and welcoming – perfect for chatting with friends over a few pints. The small kitchen offers up delicious snacks to accompany your beer.

Browar Spiska

Browar Spiska is an innovative craft brewery located just outside of Krakow’s old town. This tap house serves up unique beers with local ingredients like juniper cakes, blackcurrant flowers, horseradish, and more. All of their beers are unfiltered and unpasteurized for maximum flavor and aroma. The spacious tap room also features a large selection of board games for those looking for a more immersive experience.

Dzik Pub

Dzik (pronounced DIKE) is one of Krakow’s oldest pubs. Established in 1948, Dzik still holds true to its traditional roots – serving up classic European lagers alongside other Polish beers. The pub has rustic wooden décor and a cozy atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re back in time. Along with its unmatched selection of beers, Dzik also serves traditional Polish dishes like pierogi (dumplings) and kotlet szaber (pork cutlet).

Experience Beer Tourism in Kraków

For those looking to explore Kraków’s beer culture in detail, there are several beer tours available in the city. These tours offer guests a chance to visit some of Krakow’s best breweries and taste their signature beers – all while learning more about Krakow’s rich brewing history. One popular tour is the Kraków Bochnia Salt Mine Tour, which takes guests on an off-the-beaten-path journey through Polish beer production. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just curious about the brewing process, this tour will give you insight into Kraków’s unique beer-making tradition.

Conclusion

Kraków has plenty of unique beers to offer tourists as well as locals alike. From traditional brews from Wojewodzka to innovative craft beers from Żywe, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city. Take your time exploring Kraków’s pubs and tap houses, or join a guided tour for more in-depth insights into Polish beer production – either way, you won’t be disappointed! So why not book a Kraków Bochnia Salt Mine Tour, savor some local specialties, and get the inside scoop on Kraków’s beer culture?