Everything You Need to Know About the Beers of Krakow

Krakow is home to a number of internationally renowned breweries and classic Polish beers. From traditional pilsners to wheat beers and craft favorite IPAs, Krakow has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned beer fan or new to your craft beer independence, this guide will help you identify the best beers to try in Krakow.

Traditional Polish Beer

Poland is the birthplace of several classic lagers, pilsners, and porters. Traditional Polish beer has been made for centuries using top-fermenting yeast, which gives each brew a unique flavor. Here are a few of the most popular Polish beers to look out for in Krakow:

• Żywiec: Founded in 1856,Żywiec is one of the oldest breweries in Poland. This traditional beer is characterized by a crisp, bitter taste, with a slight hint of hops and a golden color. Żywiec is one of Euorpe’s most popular beers, and for good reason.
• Tyskie: Tyskiewas founded in 1629 in the city of Tychy. It’s one of the most recognized Polish beers in the world and comes in four distinct versions. Most popularly, Tyskie is brewed in a traditional style and boasts a crisp taste and light, golden color.
• Okocim: Founded in 1845 by Johann Gotlieb Reissa, Okocim is another of Poland’s oldest beer makers. It blends a light-bodied taste and floral aroma to create a unique flavor that is slightly malty yet soft on the palate.

Craft Breweries in Krakow

Krakow is home to a growing number of craft breweries and brewpubs. Whether you’re looking for something funky and experimental or something more traditional, there’s something for every beer fan. Here are a few of the best craft breweries in Krakow:

• St. E Brewers: Operating out of a converted, 19th-century apartment near the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, St. E Brewers delivers an ever-rotating selection of craft beers. Their beer menu includes everything from light ales, IPAs, hoppy pilsners and even lagers with a contemporary twist.
• Mash Brewery: Located on the Jutrzenki Street in Krakow, Mash Brewery serves up a selection of American-style ales and lagers brewed on a range of traditional brewing equipment. From unique takes on classic styles to limited-edition collaborations and experimental releases, Mash delivers some of Krakow’s most creative beers.
• Stare Browary Kąpliccy: Descended from 19th-century brewers dating back to 1823, Stare Browary Kąpliccy offers a wide range of classic lager, pilsners, amber ales and stouts. This popular brewery operates out of three locations across Krakow, delivering a selection of classic brews no one else can match.

Krakow’s Best Craft Beer Bars

Krakow boasts an impressive selection of craft beer bars—no matter what part of the city you’re in. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

• Alchemia Browar: This cozy bar on Grodzka Street is known for its extensive selection of craft beers and lagers from across Europe. If you’re looking for something unique and adventurous, Alchemia Browar is the place to go.
• Lokie The Pub: This popular traditional pub serves up one of Krakow’s best selections of craft beer and lager. With over 70 different varieties on offer, you’re sure to find something you like here.
• Craft Pub House: This comfortable bar specializes in Polish porters, stouts, ales and lagers. It’s also home to one of Krakow’s oldest microbreweries and typically offers at least two house made specialties.

Whether you’re looking for traditional Polish ales and lagers or something more adventurous from one of Krakow’s burgeoning craft beer scenes, there’s something for everyone. So don your favorite beer lover’s t-shirt and head out to explore all that Krakow has to offer! If you’re ready to start exploring all the fantastic beers Krakow has to offer but don’t know where to start, why not take advantage of some fantastic brewery tours in Krakow? These tours are perfect for anyone looking to dive deep into what makes Krakow’s beers so distinctive and delicious, as well as those who want to finally make their move from drinking mainstream lagers to something more flavorful and authentic. With personal care taken by local brewers and guides, you can expect to be in for an unforgettable experience no matter which tour you choose. So why not seize the moment and book one of these incredible beer tour packages now?

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Krakow

Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland, is a destination rich in history, tradition, and natural beauty. Beyond the charming old town, Krakow is home to hidden treasures that only locals know about. From local attractions to dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, this insider’s guide has got you covered for an unforgettable trip to Krakow.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While in Krakow, make sure to visit the Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square, and the Jagiellonian University. However, to escape the crowds, explore some of the lesser-known attractions such as Kazimierz or the Dragon’s Den. Kazimierz, the old Jewish District, is replete with narrow streets and cozy courtyards that offer a glimpse into the city’s multicultural heritage. On the other hand, the Dragon’s Den is a mysterious limestone chamber in Wawel Hill, which according to legend, was home to a dragon that terrorized the city.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Stories

Polish cuisine is hearty, tasty, and often accompanied by beer. While in Krakow, indulge in pierogi – dumplings with various fillings, or try a traditional soup like barszcz (beetroot soup) or żurek (sour rye soup). For a unique experience, visit a milk bar – a cafeteria serving Polish comfort food at affordable prices. The milk bar, a symbol of communist food culture, is now making a comeback in the city. A visit to a milk bar is a great way to experience local cuisine and see some of the preserved remnants of Poland’s communist past.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, and Art

Krakow is a city that takes pride in its customs and traditions. Every year, the city hosts various festivals such as the Lajkonik Parade – a medieval tradition that features a man dressed as a Tatar warrior riding a wooden horse, or the Festival of Jewish Culture, a celebration of Jewish music, art, and history. Krakow also has a thriving art scene with numerous galleries and museums devoted to various artistic genres. The MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Museum are two must-visit spots for art enthusiasts.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

Krakow’s rich history is full of captivating stories. One such tale is that of the Salt Mines, which date back to the 13th century. The Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is 327 meters deep and includes a salt cathedral, a subterranean lake, and stunning rock formations. Another interesting story is that of Oscar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved more than a thousand Jews during the Holocaust. The Schindler Factory Museum, dedicated to his life and deeds, is a fascinating glimpse into Krakow’s wartime history.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

Apart from the well-known tourist attractions, Krakow offers several unique experiences that will stay with you a long time. Take a ride in one of the city’s retro trams, which are still in operation and offer a nostalgic trip back to the 1970s. Alternatively, go on a bike tour, and explore the city’s hidden secrets with a local guide. Another unique experience is to visit the Krakus Mound, a prehistoric hill that offers panoramic views of the city. Finally, end your day with a beer tour and experience the different types of local beers that Krakow has to offer.

In conclusion, Krakow is a city that has something for everyone. With this insider’s guide, you can experience the city’s hidden gems and delve deeper into the local food, culture, and history. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, or history nerd, Krakow will enchant you with its unique mix of tradition and modernity.