What are the best pubs and bars to visit in Krakow?

Krakow is a beautiful old city full of amazing pubs and bars. As the nightlife in Krakow is quite vibrant, tourists and locals alike flock to its streets for that much-needed beer or shot of vodka. The old town district, particularly around the Old Market Square, is one of the best places to head to for an evening of particular interest. You will find here a diverse range of pubs, serving up drinks from all ends of the spectrum and giving a real insight into the local culture and traditions.

When visiting Krakow, it is a must to head to some classic pubs and bars. We have put together a comprehensive guide to the best spots in town to give you an authentic taste of Krakow’s culture and nightlife.

Alchemia

Alchemia is located in Krakow’s old Jewish district and can be found on Estery Street 25. This small, welcoming pub offers a range of homemade beers and lagers. The prices are rather reasonable and the atmosphere is very relaxed. With its unique decor (it has an old-fashioned fridge at the bar stocked full with soft drinks), Alchemia is popular with both locals and tourists. With the nearest metro station being five minutes away, this is one of the best places to go for a beer in central Krakow.

Cafe Botanica

Cafe Botanica on Starowiślna 48 is a great place to get your morning cup of joe, with some delicious alcoholic drinks being served during the evening. It may look like any regular cafe from the outside, but this cafe will transport you to a unique environment. With cozy sofas illuminated by candlelight, Cafe Botanica is perfect for anyone looking for a romantic evening out in the city. If you are looking for something more traditional, then their beer selection is excellent.

Pijalnia Wódki I Piwa

If you are looking for a real Polish experience then the Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa on Starowiślna 21 won’t disappoint you. This small beer hall is situated just outside of the Old Town district and has been in operation since 2013. The atmosphere here is electric, with live music often playing in the background. The beer menu at Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa offers more than 30 types of beer which they serve in pint glasses or larger bottles depending on your preference.

The Bruxelles Bar

If you are looking for something a bit different then The Bruxelles Bar on Bracka 20 is a great option. This Belgian-style bar has a wide selection of Belgian beers on tap, as well as a range of interesting cocktails, spirits, and snacks. It is here that you will get a real taste of Belgium and experience what it feels like to be in one of its most famous cities, Brussels. The staff here are very friendly and speak both Polish and English, which makes it ideal for tourists visiting Krakow.

Loading Zone

Regarded as one of the best bars in Krakow, Loading Zone on Mikołajska 2 is one of the city’s most popular destinations for nightlife and parties. This bar offers a wide range of craft beers as well as tasty cocktails and other alcoholic beverages. During the warmer months, they open their outdoor terrace so that visitors can enjoy their drinks while admiring views of Cloth Hall – a particularly stunning landmark! Top DJs play sets here each night, getting everyone in the party spirit with some amazing beats.

U Jakuba Bar

U Jakuba Bar on Mikołajska 11 is one of Krakow’s more unusual establishments. As it gets darker outside, the lights start to come down and this converted attic continues to become an increasingly unique setting in which to enjoy a beer or two with some friends or like-minded travelers. Don’t let its small size fool you as there’s plenty going on inside – from live DJs and live bands to board games and discussions about everything from philosophy to music. It is definitely worth heading here for a bit of an alternative Krakow drinking experience.

Mleczarnia Pod Jabłoniami

If you fancy something a bit less intense then head over to Mleczarnia Pod Jabłoniami on Senatorska 11. This small restaurant offers vegan meals during the day as well as an assortment of craft beers that they serve each evening. This place not only serves drinks but also transmits knowledge; every night they have a weekly educational lecture dedicated to different topics, such as craft beer brewing or vegan cooking, followed by tasting sessions which everyone can try out. It is great fun and provides visitors with an insight into local vegan culture which they may not have had prior.

WOD-KA

The last spot on our list is WOD-KA on Szewska 9/10 – a truly unique bar in the heart of Krakow that is split into two sections – one focused on vodka and one focused on beer. With this unique concept you can try out different types of vodka from all over Poland or take a tour of their various beer taps from across Europe! What makes this place unique is their friendly atmosphere; it’s popular amongst locals who come here for a chat or to try something new out during happy hours or weekly specials.

Krakow has something for everyone; whether you’re looking for one of many traditional pubs serving up vast selection of beers or more modern brewpubs, there’s sure to be something to satisfy even the biggest beer admirer! If you wish to spice up your evening, why not take part in Krakow’s Private Polish Beer Tasting Tour with a Beer-Expert, where an expert can guide you through the process of exploring some great beer experiences within Krakow’s best bars and pubs? In the end it all comes down personal preference – just take note of our guide above, find where you fit and enjoy!