Krakow, the former capital of Poland is now the cultural capital of Poland and is one of the many reasons it has become a major tourist destination in Europe. Once the home of Kings, it is now perfect for every type of traveler, no matter if you are interested in its rich history & culture, stunning architecture, or infamous party scene. You can

Deciding which area, what star rating, what website, or what advice to believe, can all get a bit overwhelming, especially when you want your trip to be perfect. 

That’s where we come in, we have put together this extensive list of the very best hotels in Krakow. 

To make life easier, we’ve broken down Krakow into different districts with the best hotels in each one. 

Krakow Districts 

Krakow is broken up into three main districts, the Old Town (Stare Miasto), Kazimierz & Podgórze. The three districts might be close to one another (all accessible by foot) but each has its own distinct vibe. In this section, we will break down each area and why you should (or shouldn’t) choose a hotel in each one.

The Old Town (Stare Miasto)

The beating heart of Krakow, Krakow’s old town, and surrounding streets are so beautiful that they’re UNESCO world heritage listed. As you walk down the cobbled streets, each building looks as stunning as it did years and years ago. The other good thing about the UNESCO honour is that any new buildings must adhere to strict regulations to keep them in line with the heritage-listed surroundings.

Krakow’s Old Town is the hub of all the main tourist attractions including St Mary’s Church, Wawel Castle, The Barbican & Cloth Hall. Some of Krakow’s best-rated restaurants & cafes are all nestled just off the main square, you could spend a weekend in Krakow and never need to leave the old town.

Besides the extra price tag for staying in the very centre of town one thing that you will notice is the thriving nightlife scene. After dark, Krakow’s nightlife comes alive,  you don’t have far to walk after a night out. The downside of this benefit is that it’s much noisier than other parts of Krakow, so you may find yourself surrounded by tipsy tourists if you are here over the weekend. 

Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)

Kazimierz is the laid back version of the old town, tight streets filled with street art and cosy alleyways zig-zag their way around Kazimeriz leading to the main attraction Plac Nowy.

Popular among locals for its many food stalls, food truck parks, cafes and beer gardens, Kazimierz gets even busier at night, with most of the top-rated restaurants in Krakow located here. There’s also a string of dive bars, clubs and shot bars to enjoy your night out.

Kazimierz is the heart of Jewish culture in Poland, with a long and rich Jewish history. Here, explore this culture and even go for a cocktail in a repurposed synagogue called Herve.

Podgórze

The name Podgórze roughly translates to the base of a hill. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe on your next visit to Krakow, then Podgorze is where you need to stay. Podgórze is just over the river and a short walk or tram ride from Kazimierz and the Old town. This unique district is full of great restaurants and is home to many fresh up-and-coming bars.

Best Hotels in Old Town, Krakow

Hotel Indigo Krakow – Old Town

Hotel Indigo Krakow is located in a historic building built in 1836 right in the heart of Kraków. It’s only a few minutes walk to the main square via Krakow’s most famous street Florianska. 

The rooms were designed with inspiration from three of the country’s greatest painters, giving the hotel a truly contemporary feel that could only be described as an elegant boutique, while not taking from the luxurious & modern features you would expect in any top-rated hotel.  

Amenities include rainfall showers and complimentary WiFi, guests also have access to the sauna & fitness centre, intimate vodka bar, and restaurant Filipa 18 which serves modern Polish cuisine sourced from local markets. The hotel has recently added the charming Sky Bar on the 6th floor, which has a fantastic view of the Kościuszko Mound, Old Kleparz & Church of St. Florian.

For some more great hotels in Krakow check out Kayaks guide to the 16 best hotels in Krakow.

Source: Hotel Indigo

Sheraton Grand – Old Town

This five-star hotel is one of the biggest in Krakow with over 232 rooms, so it’s no surprise they have rooms to cater for groups of all sizes. The hotel offers spectacular riverside views as it’s located practically on the banks of the Wisla river, only a few steps from Wawel castle. 

To really enjoy the scenery you can visit the 360-degree view or relax in the glass-roofed atrium, swim laps in the heated indoor pool, workout at the 24-hour fitness centre, or eat at one of their four restaurants & cafes

Rooms have been recently renovated with the unique comfort of the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience bed.

Source: Sheraton Grand

Hotel Copernicus – Old Town

Hotel Copernicus is housed in a renaissance building with a Gothic façade on the oldest and undoubtedly most beautiful street in Krakow.

Some of the hotel’s many features include original historic interiors, sauna & swimming pool in the repurposed cellars, Michelin guide recommended restaurant, stunning glass courtyard, and intimate library. In the summertime, sit out on the terrace with panoramic views overlooking Wawel castle.

Rooms are spacious, fitted with style furniture that matches the historic times & all marble bathrooms for that truly royal touch. This property is recommended for couples or those looking for the royal feel. 

It’s no surprise that past guests included Noble prize winners, Morgan Freeman, George W. Bush – the president of the United States and Prince Charles of Wales.

Souorce: Hotel Copernicus

Stradonia Serviced Apartments – Old Town

Next up on the list is not a Hotel but it certainly deserves a mention on our list. At the time of publishing, Stradonia Serviced Apartments was one of the top-rated of all hotels on Tripadvisor – that’s no small feat for a hotel that’s technically not a hotel. 

The best way to describe Stradonia is luxury serviced apartments without the hefty price tag that come with a 5 star rated hotel,  just 200 m from one of the city’s greatest treasures, Wawel Royal Castle. The property is located in a renovated 16th-century building with a shared lounge and co-workspace and a 24-hour reception. 

The property has a classic contemporary design that lets you relax from the moment you step through the door, every room includes a balcony or a terrace, a kitchenette with a dishwasher and an oven, perfect for couples, business travelers, large groups, or families.

Source: Stradonia Apartments

Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto – Old Town

Opposite the entrance to Galeria Krakowska and the railway station. Less than 15 minutes from the Main Square, perfectly located in relation to all the most important places in Krakow

One of the top features of this hotel is its top-notch tour desk and ticket service that is great for those who want assistance in planning their trip on the ground. 

It has a restaurant, fitness centre, a bar and a huge shared lounge that is perfect to wind down after a long day exploring Kraków, The Winestone Restaurant is award-winning and is often frequented by guests from customers not staying in the hotel.

Source: Mercure Hotel

Best hotels in Kazimierz, Krakow (Jewish District)

Puro Hotel Kazimierz

Located on the border of Kazimierz, Puro Hotel is perfectly situated in one of the trendiest parts of Krakow while only being a few minutes walk to the centre of Old Town. 

The hotel offers a full fitness centre, sauna, 2 external terraces, and a garden. There are multiple shared lounges and from the lobby, you can enter the popular cafe MAK bread & coffee as well as Halicka restaurant.

The rooms are chic modern, fully equipped with a private bathroom fitted and include free toiletries, flat-screen TV, fridge air conditioning & more. 

Source: Puro Hotel

Metropolitan Boutique Hotel – Kazimierz  

The Metropolitan is one of the most beloved hotels in Krakow, well at least according to the 2,951 guests that have left a review on TripAdvisor. This support pushes the Metropolitan Boutique Hotel to the #1 spot in the hotel’s category (while only being a 4-star hotel). 

This hotel doesn’t have one stand-out feature like some of the others on the list, it’s a well-rounded property that has just the right amount of everything to suit almost all types of guests.

It is a newly renovated 19th-century building located between the Old Town & Kazimierz, close enough to be walking distance to all the hot spots yet far enough away from the noise so you can unwind after a long day. Guests can relax in the lobby bar and enjoy a meal in the on-site restaurant Fab fusion that which offers live music most nights of the week. 

Source: Metropliton Hotel

Best hotels in Podgorze, Krakow

Qubus Hotel – Podgorze

Situated on the banks of the Vistula river you can enjoy a complimentary boat cruise on their bright red Q-boat that will take you from your hotel all the way to the foot of the Old Town &  Wawel Castle.   

The hotel includes an elegant restaurant that serves award-winning buffet breakfasts, two separate bars one of which is a cosy piano bar perfect for a cocktail after a long day. There is also a swimming pool and hot tub on the top floor with great city views.

If you are here for business you can enjoy the fully equipped business centre available to all guests. 

(We are not affiliated in any way with the mentioned hotels and we do not receive any financial benefit or aid for linking to these hotels. This list was compiled because we truly enjoy these hotels and want you to have the best time possible on your visit to Krakow).

Source: Qubus Hotel

The most amazing part about America is that it’s a melting pot. Different cultures and people from around the world reside in the USA, influencing the cities that they live in. Whether it be food, values, or customs, somehow the energy of nightlife stays the same– completely electric!

Major party cities in America are the most visited areas for international tourists. There’s no better way to experience a new culture than to submerge yourself in the party scene. We’ve compiled a list of cities who take pride in their nightlife.

Las Vegas

With the millions of tourists that flock to Las Vegas year round, it’s one of the most visited cities in the entire world. It’s known as Sin City for a multitude of reasons: gambling at casinos where you lose big or win big, drinking before the sun goes down and stopping after it comes back up, clubbing until your shoes or heels have to come off… The debauchery is endless!

If you like to party, beware that the best nightclubs in Las Vegas offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience to their guests BUT they can sometimes be expensive and difficult to get into. Securing a spot is only half the battle, the other half is waiting in a very long line to enter! And if you’re pregaming like all the smart people do to reduce the cost of drinks, the buzz is sure to get killed.

The most cost-efficient, and not to mention stress-free, way to get into all the top clubs and bars is by joining a Las Vegas club crawl. Crawl companies like LA Epic Club Crawls hit up some of the best Las Vegas nightclubs. Listed below are some of the hottest venues that you need to check out if you’re in Las Vegas.

Hakkasan Nightclub

Photo Credit: Hakkasan Nightclub

Hakkasan Nightclub has 5 levels to their nightclub, each with their own vibe and music style to accommodate any visitor that may walk through their doors. Their levels are the Hakkasan Restaurant, Private Dining, Club & Lounge, Main Room & Pavilion, and their Mezzanine.

Located in MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

Omnia Nightclub

Photo Credit: Omnia Clubs

With 3 rooms called the Main, Heart, and Terrace, Omnia is well known for their kinetic chandelier that flows with the vibes in the room. The most electrifying experience is watching that chandelier recoil downwards to the dancefloor while the beat builds up to an insane drop! 

Located in Caesars Palace. 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

Drais Nightclub

Photo Credit: Drai’s Group

Drais satisfies the partygoers that can go all day into the night with a beachclub AND nightclub! Their pool is a multi-level rooftop spot, offering luxury leather seating along with private tables. Vegas pool parties are seasonal, so it’s essential that you take the chance when you can! And those who party into the night get to dance under their nightclub’s epic 80-sided LED disco ball.

Located at The Cromwell Hotel & Casino. 3595 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

Fremont Street Experience

Photo Credit: Vegas Experience | Fremont Street Experience

Fremont Street is another notable party scene in Las Vegas. Take a stroll under the LED Viva Vision canopy with 16.4 million brilliant pixels! The best bars on Fremont Street are basically right around the corner from each other, making it easy to experience all that Downtown Las Vegas has to offer. It’s even easier if you join a guided Fremont Street bar crawl!

Located in Downtown Las Vegas. E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

Miami

Boiled down, party scenes consist of the same elements: partygoers, alcohol, cash, clubs, bars… But there’s something about Miami that has a distinct vibe to it! Maybe it’s the ocean breeze that gives Miami nightlife some edge. Who’s to say? Either way, it’s an experience you can’t get anywhere else. Listed below are some of the top clubs.

LIV Nightclub

Photo Credit: LIV

We are no fools– we have to start with the most iconic venue in the entirety of Miami nightclubs. LIV Nightclub sets the tone for an epic night: soaring ceilings and electric lighting all encompassed in a dome shape. Paired with multi-level areas, there is so much room to get lit!

Located in Fontainebleau Hotel. 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140

Vendôme Nightclub

Photo Credit: Vendôme

Inspired by Place Vendôme in the heart of Paris, Vendôme Nightclub elicits the same luxury and high-end entertainment to make for a dazzling Miami experience. This club made its debut in only May of 2021. And in this short time period, Vendôme has already earned its title as one of the best nightclubs in Miami!

Located at 743 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Daer Dayclub & Nightclub

Photo Credit: Hard Rock Nightlife

Daer is another venue that offers partygoers the opportunity to get lit all day into the night. Their dayclub offers three pools, luxe seating, private cabanas, and a whopping 40-foot LED screen for DJ performances. Pool parties in Miami don’t get better than this! To make matters even more epic, Daer Nightclub won a 2020 Mondo Award in the nightclub category. Its insane and stylish lighting design is equipped with 150 moving lights to shine upon its always-packed dance floor.

Located at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. 1 Lucky St, Hollywood, FL 33314

Los Angeles

If you’re trying to party in California, Los Angeles is the place to be! Influencers around the world congregate to this very city, so you know there are many opportunities for juicy content (also known as remarkable life events for the normies). But even with that recommendation, there are so many areas to experience Los Angeles nightlife. The most recommended are Hollywood Boulevard and Downtown Los Angeles. Another plus is that they’re less than an hour’s drive away, so a night could be split into 2 to get more bang for your buck! Here are some venues that know how to party.

Hollywood: Avalon Nightclub

Photo Credit: Avalon Hollywood

This famous nightclub is known for its deep-rooted history in Los Angeles’ music culture. Avalon has held its title as the best nightclub in Los Angeles for years now. When people learn that The Beatles had their first-ever West Coast performance in this very club, their minds are blown away! It’s typical for Avalon to have renowned artists and DJs to walk through these doors. Avalon knows how to party (and after-party, too!).

Located at 1735 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

Hollywood: Ballet Hollywood

Photo Credit: Ballet Hollywood

Ballet Hollywood lives up to its name with their decor and architecture. A grandeur chandelier welcomes you into the nightclub, leading you to a grand piano covered in diamonds amidst the dance floor. Don’t let these pristine elements fool you though, it goes down in Ballet Hollywood! The energy here makes it one of the best Hollywood nightclubs.

Located at 6623 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Downtown Los Angeles: Exchange LA

Photo Credit: YourEDM

This newly renovated version of Exchange LA reawakened the nightclub into vibrancy! It doubles an event space for all sorts of shows but most importantly a nightclub venue to serve their patrons daily. If there’s one place you need to visit to experience Los Angeles nightlife, it’s Exchange LA! You’ll get extra points if there’s a huge DJ playing– it can get packed and crazy!!

Located at 618 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Want to party in America?

Party scenes can be taunting with the many different venues, dress codes, and price tags. With club crawl companies, experiencing top-tier nightlife in any city is made easy! You get express entry with no cover charges into multiple venues. Some venues offer exclusive drink offers only available to those on the crawl. Party hosts guide you throughout the night to make sure you can drink with no worries!

Photo Credit: LA Epic Club Crawls

If you are intrigued by any of the venues listed above and want to visit them in the most cost and energy-efficient way possible, LA Epic Club Crawls is for you! LA Epic Club Crawls is a premiere nightlife tour company. They operate in major party cities throughout America, like the ones listed above! LA Epic hosts over 650 crawls annually, and over 40,000 guests combined throughout these locations! Don’t be afraid to hit them up for your trip overseas, they’ll make your experience EPIC.

Krakow is a beautiful city full of rich history. But what makes Krakow such a great place to visit is that it also has a diverse and unique nightlife culture. There are many things to do in Krakow at Night; no matter what you are looking for, there is something for everyone. 

Krakow is undoubtedly amazing but sometimes it can be hard to sort out the good from the bad and find a nice bar that is exactly to your liking. We have put together this guide of Krakow by night to find the right option for your night out in Krakow.

We have broken the best things to do in Krakow at night into the following categories: 

• Where to go in Krakow
• A relaxed evening
• I want to go out but still get up before midday
• I want to get home when the sun rises 

Where to go in Krakow

Before we get into Krakow by night, you should be aware of the different districts of Krakow and what each has to offer. There are three districts you need to know about: The Old Town, Kazimierz and Podgórze. Each is enjoyable in its own way and offer something different from one another. However, they are close by, so even if you’ve had a few too many vodka shots, it’s easy to find your way around.

If you are looking for a mix of amazing architecture, stunning churches weaved between overpriced restaurants and great clubs the old town (Stare Miasto) is the place for you. The Old Town is host to some of the best clubs that are open all night. You can also find some amazing and decently priced restaurants. Still, the majority of the venues are overpriced and marketed towards tourists. If you’re interested, the Krakow Crawl has a guide to the Best Polish Restaurants in Krakow. 

Kazimierz and Podgórze are situated on either side of the Vistula river. If you are looking for some more relaxed things to do in Krakow, you will love either one. In Kazimierz you will find a great mix of bars, late-night cafes, restaurants, art shows and everything in between. Podgorze is great for a nice dinner and a late-night relaxed drink by the river. 

Krakow at Night: A relaxed evening 

If you’re the kind of person who likes to be in bed by a reasonable time and get up early for the morning walking tour, this will be for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit crazy, then skip ahead to our final section.

Check out one of Krakow’s game pubs

You can’t get very far in Krakow without stumbling past a game pub (board game cafe). Maybe it’s because Krakow is a student city, or maybe it’s because Polish people just love board games! Whatever the reason, Krakow has a variety of fun, and quirky board game bars located all over the city. One of our favourites in the Old Town is Cyber Machina; it has a mix of video games and board games that will keep the whole crew entertained. If you find yourself in Kazimierz, then the one to go to is Domówka Cafe. The name translates to ‘Home Cafe’, and this perfectly encompasses the vibe of the bar. They have a wide range of Polish and English board games.

Experience the darker history of Krakow by night (ghost tour)

Although we’re talking about relaxing things to do in Krakow at night, we think you can have a relaxing (maybe a little bit spooky) evening by joining this tour. City Walks Krakow: A walk with the dead will take you around the city and give you a glimpse into the darker side of Krakow’s history. You’ll hear tales of ghoulish ghosts and gruesome deaths. It’s a great way to see a different side of the city while enjoying Krakow at night. 

 Learn some authentic Polish recipes 

What’s one of the most important parts of any culture? Well, the food, of course, and Polish cuisine is both heartwarming and homely. You could, of course, go out and check out some of the great Polish restaurants around Krakow but an even better way is to roll up your sleeves and get in the kitchen with Babcia (that’s Polish for grandma).  

You can find a range of evening Polish cooking classes, but our favourite is Delicious Poland’s Pierogi Cooking Class. Pierogi is the most famous Polish dish and arguably one of the best. They are small dumplings filled with sweet or savoury feelings and are normally steamed or fried. Polish food is very heavy and rich, it does a great job of soaking up alcohol, so you can have an extra shot of vodka while cooking.

Check out one of Krakow’s food truck parks

If you visit Krakow in the warmer months (April to August) one of the nicer things to do in Krakow at Night is to check out one of the many food truck parks. Krakow has a long history with street food. This stems from Poland’s communist past when people were forced to find cheaper alternatives. The Zapikanka is one item that can still be found all over Poland and is a great late-night snack (think of it as the Polish version of a 3 am kebab).

Krakow has always had many food truck parks, but due to the pandemic and the push to eat outdoors with government restrictions, food trucks and food truck parks have exploded in availability and popularity. Some of our favourites are Bezogródek Tropical Spot which is located just outside the Old Town and has a bar and DJ, and Judah Food Market in Kazimierz. You can check out this full guide to Krakow Food trucks for more information.

Treat Yourself to some fine dining

Krakow is home to many spectacular restaurants. Due to the exchange rate of EUR and GBP to PLN, you can have a fine dining experience at a third of the normal cost. There are too many great places to list them all, still, some of our favourites are Nadwiślańska Resto & Vodka Bar and Art Restaurant. You can expect great food and amazing service at both of these restaurants. You can also check the Michelin Guide for more choices. If you want to double down on a discount, then book your stay during Restaurant Week. This is a week where all the top restaurants in Krakow offer set menus of 3-course meals plus a drink for 59 PLN (13 EUR)

Another great option is a Polish Food Tour

Night Run 

If you are looking to get a workout during your Night out in Krakow, once a year in April Krakow hosts Bieg Nocny. This 10 km race must be completed within 90 minutes. The next edition of the Night Run 10 kilometres is scheduled for April 23, 2022.

Even if you’re not interested in taking part in the run, you can grab a drink at a rooftop bar and spectate.

I want to go out but still get up before midday

This section is for the people who want to go out for drinks, get a little bit tipsy but know their limits and still get up in the morning to enjoy the day without a debilitating hangover.

Comedy show

Before you read any further, don’t worry; you don’t need to do a crash course in Polish because it’s all in English! Krakow Standup Comedy does fortnightly shows in the heart of the Old Town at Szpitalna 1. They host some big names as well as many local favourites. They also host Open mic nights, if you dare to try that out.

Pub quiz

If you are travelling with friends or here with some colleagues, one of the best things to do at Night in Krakow is to show off your obscure knowledge and useless facts in a game of pub quiz.

You can find a few different bars that host pub quiz nights around Krakow, and they range in length and quality, and one of our favourites is TEA time Brew Pub – Mondays at 5 pm.

Food and Vodka tour

Trying to find a great place for dinner and a drink can be tiresome when visiting a new city. Joining a food tour is a simple way to have some great local food and tasty vodka while meeting some fellow travellers along the way.

Check out some live music in Krakow 

You may know Krakow for its many vodka bars and party Nightlife, but Krakow also has a thriving live music scene. Although most venues are hidden away, down an alleyway or in an obscure venue making them hard to find sometimes. 

Krakow has a very strong Jazz scene which is great for seeing many talented local bands. Still, no matter whatever you are into, you can find something that hits your tone. Check out this guide for a list of the best live music venues in Krakow. One of our favourite places to go in Krakow at night is Stalowe Magnolie.

Watch a game and mingle with the locals

If you’re a sports fan or a football fan in particular, then you are spoiled for choice when it comes to Krakow at Night as there are many great sports bars and pubs all over the city. For football, the best place to go in the Old Town is 442 sports pub, they have more plasma screens than you can count and a basement with a big screen and a mini stand that gives you the feeling of being at the games.

Take a stroll down the Vistula River 

There are many chilled-out beer gardens, rooftop bars and boats with sundecks dotted all across the Vistula river. The ones located closer to the Old town have a great view of Wawel Castle, but anywhere you choose will have a pleasant view. For example, you can start in Kazimierz and work your way down the river until you get to Wawel Castle, having a drink at each bar on the way. Another great option is Forum as it has a beach bar and a big food hall with a variety of options.

I want to get home when the sun rises 

This section is for the real party people who want to go all out and experience the best and craziest things to do in Krakow at Night.

Hype Park – A mini-festival in the city

Hype Park has only just recently opened and is already becoming the number one spot in the city. This is because there is nothing else like it, and it has the feeling of a mini-festival.

Hype Park is located just north of the Old Town and is an all in one nightlife experience. It’s a cross between a food truck park, festival, beer garden and an all-around great place to get drunk. 

They have multiple bars, food stalls, hang out areas, DJs and bands. It’s open all day and night and costs 10zl to enter after 7 pm. It’s best to get in early as the lines can sometimes last hours. 

Party all night in the Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town has some amazing bars and clubs, but finding them and looking for fun and unique things to do in Krakow at Night can be hard for someone new to the city. Joining a pub crawl can solve this problem. You get to visit the best bars and clubs in the city without waiting in line, and you don’t have to worry about trying to meet new people because you will have a group of 20+ people with you. The Krakow crawl hosts a night like no other, but you can check out this Krakow Nightlife guide if you’re looking to visit some of the best bars and clubs on your own.

If your looking to only go to one club, then the best option is Four Music Club.

Get Crazy in Kazi 

The district of Kazimierz, which is also known as the Jewish quarter, doesn’t have any clubs and is mostly bars and restaurants, but that doesn’t stop it from being a great place to let loose. The heart of Kazi is Plac Nowy, which is a small square full of street food stalls and bars. It is a great spot to start off your night of shenanigans.

Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa is one of the best bars at Plac Nowy to warm up as it has 1 EUR shots and is packed with both locals and tourists. You go in any direction from here, and you will find a great bar or pub with a lively atmosphere. The best part is most bars have reasonable prices for drinks. It’s also a great place to go for pre-drinks before joining The Krakow Boat Party. Some of our favourite bars in Kazi are

• Hevre
• Piękny Pies
• Entropia

Final Thoughts 

No matter what you are looking for, Krakow at night has something for everyone. If you’re looking for something else or have any questions about what we have mentioned, please leave a comment or contact us via email, as we love sharing all we know about Krakow. Check out Momondo’s Krakow Guide for travel inspiration.

The challenges of putting together a memorable stag party weekend can be overwhelming. The stag party games, the accommodation, the tickets… aaaahhhhh it’s just too much. We know you want to make it the most epic weekend of your best mate’s life, but with an unorganized bunch of mates you have, it’s looking near impossible.

Don’t Worry! That’s where we come in.

What’s the best way to have a great stag party…….? It’s having the reckless fun and crazy Stag Party Games. 

So we have put together this complete guide of Stag Party Games as our goal is to help you have an unforgettable stag do.

We’ll also:

• Break down and explain the best  Stag Party Games.
• Offer some stag party survival tips.
• Stag party tips & tools for the organiser.
• Some stag party recommendations just for Krakow.

STAG PARTY – GAMES

We have broken down the stag party games into 4 categories so you can choose what suits your group best.

• Drinking Games
• Team Stag Party Games
• Embarrassing Sh*t
• Just for the Stag 

DRINKING GAMES

BUFFALO

You might have come across this one before as it’s a classic pub crawl game. Like most of the games on this list, it gets harder to play as the night progresses. It’s said that the Buffalo drinking game comes from the cowboy days of the Wild West when the use of your right hand (the shooting hand) was at times a matter of life or death. Now it’s just a matter of being drunk or drunker.

Rules: Everyone in the group including the stag must only drink with their non-dominant hand. If you spot another player drinking with their dominant hand and calls buffalo, the player that was caught out must finish the rest of their drink as quickly as possible, all in one go. Players can hold their drink with either hand as long as they don’t drink with it.

BEER BONG

We dare you to find a better and quicker way to get drunk, this one is more of a novelty than a drinking game but certainly deserves a place on our list, you can buy these online but we recommend making your own and here is a video how.

Rules: There are no rules for this one, just fill it up and let gravity do the rest.

BEER PONG 

The classic red cup drinking game that can get the party going. Great for beginners and pros alike. Below are the basic rules, if you have played this before then you probably have your own house rules.

Rules: Line 6 red cups on either side of a long table, each glass should be filled quarter the way with beer, generally played by teams of two in which each team takes a turn throwing a table tennis ball into the other team’s cups. Once a ball lands in a cup, the cup is taken away and the opponent then drinks the contents of the cup. If both teammates’ balls land in a cup, the balls are rolled back and they get to shoot again. 

Bonus Rule: Add a number at the bottom of every cup that correlates to set rules that were previously decided. The person who loses the cup needs to drink and do whatever the rule states.

Team Stag Party Games

BOAT RACE

Don’t worry, no boats needed for this game, just two teams and 2 bottles of vodka, or if you want to start the night a bit slower you can water it down with some mixers like cola or juice.

Rules: Everyone lines up into two even teams and each takes a bottle, start at one end and the first team that makes their bottle to the other end empty wins

FEELING WISE

After a few drinks, it can be annoying listening to how drunk your mates are so this games can solve this while also adding some fun to the night. 

Rules: All members of the stag party group are prohibited from saying how drunk they are, this includes any other version of the term like wasted, smashed, gone..etc. Instead, all stag do members must say that they are “feeling wise”.  Each time a player makes a mistake they must do a predetermined punishment.

THE B WORD

This stag party game is by far the simplest of the games on our list but could be the hardest & most dangerous. We put together a little list of the best sports bars in Krakow here that are all stag friendly and a great place to start the day’s drinking. 

Rules: No one except for the stag is allowed to use the word “Beer” for the entire weekend, you are free to use any other word, for example, brewski, brew, cold one, juice, hooch, moonshine, tummy buster, liquid bread, sauce, suds, slops, tinnie, golden nectar…….etc. You could even say it in Polish “Piwo”. Just don’t use the B-word or you have to down your drink (or your next drink if you don’t have one in hand).

Embarrassing Sh*t (Games)

NICKNAMES 

This game can be kept clean or can be turned up a notch for those who like to live dangerously.

Rules: Each member of the group will be given a nickname that is decided on by the group, each member can only be called by their nickname and call others by their nicknames the entire stag do weekend, no matter where, when or how serious the conversion. If any member of the stag party is to break the rule then you guessed it…the next round is on them. Nicknames should all be voted on before the stag party begins. 

TOY SOLDIERS

This game works especially well if you are thinking of booking in one of our shooting packages for your epic stag party weekend. 

Rules: Before the night begins the best man will put as many toy soldiers in a bag as there are stag do members, each stag party member then pulls out a soldier at random. That is now your pose. No matter if you’re on a free walking tour or between pubs, if at any moment the best man shouts the command “Assume the position!” all members must hold the pose of their toy soldier for 15 seconds. 

THANK YOU, GOVERNOR

This stag party game is a bit more flexible and the main phrase of the game can be changed to something that might get a few more laughs each time it’s said. 

Rules: All stag party group members must stand up and proudly say the phrase “Thank You Governor” when they finish their drink loud enough so that all stag do group members in the area car hear them, if you get caught out by another group member not thanking the governor you become the new governor and the next round of drinks are on you. 

GAMES JUST FOR THE STAG

BEER FOR ONE AND BEER FOR ALL.

We are finishing the list off with a simple stag do game and a sure-fire way to make sure no one can wimp out of getting some of the good stuff down their neck.

Rules: When the stag drinks everyone else drinks, It’s that simple, no if’s or buts about it, when the stag drinks everyone in the group is obligated to drink no matter if you’re hungover, just eaten or just spewed, if the main man drinks YOU DRINK! We suggest starting this game off at one of Krakow’s many shot bars. 

BONUS GAME: RULE CHECK

If you want to get even more serious when it comes to planning your stag party games we suggest deciding on the games & nicknames you want to use before heading into the stag weekend and printing them on a card for each member of the stag party.

This not only means no one has an excuse to say they didn’t know the rules, but you can also throw in “Rule Check” as an extra game, if someone calls out “rule check” all stag party members must pull out the rule card/book from their pocket and hold it in the air for all other members to see, the punishment for breaking this one is up to you to decide. Also having the rulebook as an excuse might get you out of trouble with the locals.

STAG PARTY SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR KRAKOW

It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt and on a stag party, it’s not a matter of if, but a matter of when. If you follow these stag party survival tips, it should hopefully stop anyone from ending up in hospital……or jail! We have taken most of this information from our Epic Nightlife Survival Guide 

Bars & Clubs

• If you are looking for clubs then The Old Town (Stare Miasto) is where you want to be, all the clubs are within walking distance, full of locals & tourists and go early into the morning. 
• The best club in the Old Town is FOUR Music Club.

• The other main distinct is Kazimerz (Old Jewish Quarters) this is where you will find endless unique bars & pubs, more casual and a great place to start the night before hitting the clubs. 

• If you are looking for something even more laid back and relaxed then Podgorze is for you mostly full of hip restaurants and a small handful of casual bars. 

• The bouncers at most bars and clubs aren’t very friendly, so don’t look at them or say anything to them. If they ask you to leave you should do so promptly.

Drinking & Drugs

• If you order drinks at any bar or club, you must let the bartender know exactly what you want, otherwise, you may end up drinking vodka with gold flakes and a very expensive bill. We recommend always asking for the cheapest option.

• Drinking in public is a big no-no, Krakow city police are always on the lookout for unwitting tourists they can slap with a hefty fine.

• Drugs are even more illegal and you will get a lot more than just a fine. The quality is also not worth wasting your money. You’re better off buying a few extra shots of vodka

• Scams – For a more in-depth list of Scams in Krakow to watch out for in Krakow check out this guide from Krakow Crawl

Strip Clubs & Promoters  

STAY AWAY, strip clubs in Krakow are just there to steal tourists’ money. Not a week goes past in summer when we don’t hear of stag groups getting ripped off, intimidated into paying more than they should or sometimes much worse. 

Street Girls

If two friendly and good looking ladies come up to you late at night offering to take you to a bar with them you can be almost 100% sure they will be employees of the previously mentioned strip clubs. The prices of drinks at such places will be at least 10 times and the drink menus don’t have any prices on them. These venues usually have big scary security guards that will be more than happy to rough up anyone not willing to pay the bill. 

STAG DO TIPS & TOOLS FOR THE ORGANISER

Language

We have put a shortlist of basic Polish that should help impress some of the local ladies. 

Hello! – Cześć!

How are you? – Jak się masz? 

Two beers please – Dwa piwa proszę

No – Nie / Tak – Yes

Please – Proszę

What’s your phone number? – Jaki jest twój numer telefonu?

You are beautiful! – Jesteś piękna!

I’m drunk – Jestem pijany

Locals

Krakow is known to have some of the friendliest locals in Poland, this is due to it being a student city with more than 200,00 students and the locals are used to tourists as it has been a hotspot for travellers as long as the city has been around.

Currency

Poland may be in the EU but like some of its slavic neighbours it still uses its own currency, which is th Złoty, you can exchange EU/GBP at any of the exchanges (Kantor) around the city. Be careful you are getting a fair rate, it should be around 4.5 zł to 1 €, always check google before accepting the rate offered.

Weather

Summer is pimping hot and temperature hits +30° so don’t forget your swim gear if you want to take a dip in one of Krakow’s many lakes, If visiting in winter don’t forget to pack a extra warm jacket as it gets down to -20 in the winter, all clubs will cloak jackets for around 2 zl.

Flights & Accommodation

It’s highly likely you already know & have used these in the past but we have thrown them in for good measure.

Looking for cheap flights check out: Google Flights or Skyscanner.

Looking for a Hostel or apartment: Hostel World or Airbnb

Restaurants

We suggest doing a quick trip advisor or google review check before heading into any restaurants, especially ones of the main square as it can be very hit and miss, we have also put a list with some of our favourite Polish restaurants in Krakow, check it out here. 

Getting Around

Write the address on all your phones of your accommodation or take a business card from the hotel/hostel so you can at least show that to the taxi driver when you’re too drunk to put a sentence together, if you are getting a taxi after dark we suggest using uber/bolt or another app rather then jumping in a taxi from the street. 

KRAKOW RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STAG PARTIES

Just to make it even easier for those of you that cringe at the thought of all the organization that needs to be done, we put together a quick list of links to the best bars, clubs restaurants & more in Krakow, this list sums up what we would plan if one our best mates were coming to Krakow for their stag party.

Accommodation

The Little Havana Party Hostel – Cuban Themed Hostel

Greg & Toms Beer House – Hostel, Bar & Restaurant 

Draggo House – Hostel & Apartment

Stradonia – Upscale Apartment 

Aparthotel Stare Miasto – Upscale Apartment 

Puro Hotel – Hotel 

Amber Hotel – Upscale Hotel 

Restaurants

Warsztat Restaurant & Café – Cheap & Tasty

Moa Burger – Best Burgers in Krakow

Nota Resto – Fancy & Formal

Milkbar Tomasza – BIG Breakfast 

Babcia Malina – Traditional Polish

Starka – Traditional Polish

Nadwislanska – Hipster & Funky

Velo – Hipster & Funky

Bars & Clubs

442 – Sports Bar

Prozac – Techno Ravecave

Shine – Biggest Club in Krakow

COCO – Fancy Nightclub

Teatro Cubano – Cuban Themed (most popular)

Bubble Toast – Hipster Cocktail Bar

Alchemia – Alternative Bar (Kazimierz District)

Pijalnia wódki i piwa –Vodka Shotbar

House of Beer – Polish Beer House

Nightlife Activities

Krakow Crawl –  Bar & Pub Crawl

Krakow Boat Party – River Cruise & Pub Crawl 

Vodka Tour – Guided Bar Tour w/ Vodka Tasting

Alternative Crawl – Bar Crawl (Kazimierz district)

More Tours & Activities 

Polish Food Tour – Traditional Polish Food & Drink Tour 

Krakow Stag Activities – AK-47 Shooting, Paintball, Go-Karting & more

City Walks – Free Walking Tours of Krakow, Auschwitz & Salt Mines Tours

Final Words 

We mentioned a couple of times through this post to stay away from the strip clubs in Krakow….that does mean you have to stay away from strippers! We can organise some to come directly to your apartment, during your limo transfers or just about anywhere else, check the babe’s tab here or contact us directly. 

A stag weekend is something special and we all want our best mate to have an epic weekend, I can say this from my own experience as my stag party was planned by the other 2 out of 3 owners of the boat party last August (2020) and it was one of the best weekends of my life, apart from my wedding of course.. *cough couch*. I will remember it for the rest of my life, the good, the bad and the weird, at Krakow Boat Party we want to make sure your stag party weekend you are planning is one for the record books. 

So don’t hesitate to get in contact with any requests, questions big or small or if you simply need some recommendations on planning your stag weekend.

If you have a stag party game on this list, let us know in the comments below. 

The Nightlife in Krakow is immense and has something to suit everyone’s lifestyle and budget. From its fantastic club scene to the array of cocktail and themed bars, there really is something for everyone.

But where do you begin?

Sure, you could leave it up to chance and hope to stumble across a hidden gem or a local hotspot, but more often than not, you end up in a touristy hangout or an absolute dive regretting not doing your research first. This is because a lot of Krakow Nightlife is hidden away.

That’s where we come in!

We’ve prepared this guide to help you navigate your way to an unforgettable night out in Krakow. This historic city has one of the most  underrated nightlife scenes in Europe, and with our help, you’ll get to experience every last bit of Krakow’s Nightlife.  

Our goal is to help you have an unforgettable night on your next visit. We’ll also:

• Tell you what makes Krakow’s nightlife so unique.
• Breakdown the main nightlife districts of Krakow.
• Show you the best bars and hidden local favorites. 
• Tell you what clubs to visit and where locals go to party in Krakow.
• Provide you with tips on how to navigate Krakow nightlife while staying safe

Why you need to experience Krakow nightlife and what it’s like:

It’s said that Krakow has more bars and clubs per square mile than any other city in Europe. We’re not sure how accurate that is, but what we do know is Krakow Nightlife is one of the best nightlife scenes in all of Europe.

It doesn’t matter if you’re into live music, sports bars, hidden bars, karaoke, or just a nice place to have dinner and a drink, Krakow has it all. This eclectic city can lend its unique nightlife to it being one of the most popular student cities in all of Poland. Every year, huge crowds swarm upon Krakow to undertake their studies both locally  and from abroad. 

This, plus Krakow’s low prices, means it attracts a diverse range of tourists visiting the city. The conversion rate of the local currency (the zloty) is very favorable for currencies like the Pound (GBP), Euro, and US Dollar (USD). We have put together this Krakow at Night guide to make sure you get the most from your night out in Krakow. We guarantee you’ll find something you’ll love.

Krakow Nightlife districts

There are three main districts when it comes to Krakow Nightlife; The Old Town (Stare Miasto), Kazimierz (otherwise known as the Jewish Quarter), and the up and coming district of Podgorze. Although each district is small and close by to one other, they each have a unique vibe. 

If you are looking for the best clubs in Krakow, then the Old Town (Stare Miasto) is the place to go. Krakow Clubs offer everything from Top 40 commercial music to 70s clubs, Cuban hangouts, and a developing Techno scene. The Old Town also has multiple great Jazz bars and several local bars and pubs. Due to the UNESCO heritage listing of the entire main square, most bars and clubs are hidden away down an alley or down a winding staircase. It’s always good to remember that drinks and food prices in the Old Town are higher than the rest of the city as it’s a popular tourist spot. Krakow Crawl offers a guided tour of the best clubs and bars in the Old Town.

Kazimierz is where you’ll find what seems like an endless amount of bars and pubs. It’s a great place to go for a casual drink, meet some locals or finish off the night in one of its fantastic cocktail bars. It’s a favorite among locals, but you can still find a fair few tourists hanging about down there. Kazimierz is also packed full of food trucks and street food, so you can get your midnight snack fix on your way back to your hotel.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed evening or a couple of casual drinks, then Podgorze Is the place you’re looking for. This district is full of great restaurants and many of the newest/coolest bars in town.

Image source: Cracow By Drone Facebook

Krakow Nightlife Survival tips 

Here are a few tips to help you navigate your night out in Krakow and stay safe. You can also check out our more in-depth survival guide here.

Currency

Poland still uses its own currency, which is the Złoty. The conversion rate is around 4.5 zł to 1 €. Just be careful when changing over money, as most currency exchanges (Kantor) in the old town have terrible rates; however, all bars and clubs accept cards. 

Don’t drink in public 

Drinking in public is illegal in Poland, and the city Police love handing out fines to foreigners.  

Security

Polish people are very friendly; however, the security at most bars and clubs in Krakow tend to be on the angry side, so don’t look at them or speak to them. If they ask you to leave, you should do so promptly.

Ordering drinks 

We advise specifying precisely what drink you want or check the price before ordering. If you don’t, you will be given the most expensive option available. 

Avoid strip clubs

For the gentlemen out there this should be obvious. But for all others: the strip clubs will steal all your money, and the police won’t be any help, please avoid.

Order a taxi or uber 

If you jump into a random cab on the street, it is very likely the driver might try to rip you off. If you are too drunk to get home, it’s best to call and book a taxi or order an Uber

Now to get to the most important stuff, where to go for a drink!

Top 4 cocktail bars in Krakow

Bubble Toast

District: Old Town 

The only way to describe Bubble Toast is “Instagram and Champagne” As you can see from their photos, this place is an Instagrammers paradise, and it’s impossible to take a bad photo while having a drink here. They also offer a great range of high-quality champagne based cocktails and a simple but eloquent snacks menu.

Address: plac Szczepański 5, 31-011 Kraków

Image Source: Bubble Toast

Cocktail Bar & Bilard – (B4)

District: Old Town 

This bar delivers exactly what the name says. They serve great cocktails and have multiple private billiard tables, so you can grab a drink and play some pool in privacy. The elegant decor, combined with the historical structure of the walls, creates a unique atmosphere. 

Address: 4 Bracka, 31-005 Kraków

Image Source: Cocktail Bar & Bilard

Opus Lounge Bar

District: Old Town

The Opus lounge bar has an interior design inspired by classic British decor. The bar is located in the basement of a 19th-century tenement house, with a fancy fireplace, leather armchairs, and a stylish library, which results in a unique ambiance like no other place within Krakow’s Nightlife. It is an ideal place for intimate social gatherings, business, and private meetings. The bar also offers a great menu with some vegetarian options too.

Address: plac Kossaka 6, 31-106 Kraków

Image source: Bachleda Luxury Hotel

Mercy Brown Dive Bar 

District: Old Town

Mercy Brown Dive Bar is a beautiful little cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe.  The location is somewhat difficult to find, as it is located within another establishment. Once you walk past the cloakroom and traverse the stairs, you will enter a dark and comfortable bar. It is more pricey than most bars in the area but worth every penny. They also offer live music on selected nights. We recommend booking in advance or get in early as they get swamped, and you might get turned away.

Address: Straszewskiego 28, 31-113 Kraków

Image source: Mercy Brown

Top 8 Bars in Krakow 

Antycafe

District: Old Town 

Just a few steps away from the main square, Anty Cafe Really offers an alternative atmosphere in Krakow Nightlife thanks to its sinister decor. You’ll find an array of candlelit corners, abstract art, and strange videos being some of the only forms of light. Although it is a big bar, it has a very cozy feel and a great place to meet up with some friends for a relaxing drink.

Address: Sławkowska 12, 31-014 Kraków

Image source: Antycafe

Alchemia

District: Kazimierz 

Alchemia is one of the oldest and most famous bars in Krakow, and a Krakow Nightlife guide isn’t complete without it. The bar is dimly lit with candles that are placed all over the walls and tables. There are alchemist tools on the walls and ceilings. Each of its different rooms and cellar having a unique atmosphere, almost anyone can find their nook. Downstairs you can catch a range of local and international bands that play there daily. They also have a relaxed indoor smoking section and great food.

Address: Estery 5, 31-056 Kraków

Image source: Klub Alchemia

Herve 

District: Kazimierz

This venue’s vibe and decor embody what you can expect in the district of Kazimierz, where it’s located. The bar is built in a dilapidated synagog. The mix of classy modern design draped against old synagogue murals that are still peeling off the walls gives this bar a lot of character and makes it a great place to have a drink when exploring the surrounding area. 

Address: Beera Meiselsa 18, 31-058 Kraków

Image source: Herve

Let’s Sing Karaoke Bar

District: Old Town 

Let’s sign is an intimate karaoke bar in the main square.  They have well-priced drinks and are connected to the party hostel above it, so you can expect a party here and some backpackers looking to make some new friends.

Address: Grodzka 34, 31-044 Kraków

Image source: Let’s Sing

U kacpra

District: Old Town 

U Kacpra is Krakow’s favorite karaoke bar.  This place has a unique atmosphere and is always full of locals and tourists singing their lungs out. Don’t worry about the language barrier as most of the songs they play are in English, and to top it off they have cheap drinks too!

Address:  Sławkowska 2, 31-011 Kraków

442 Sports pub

District: Old Town 

It’s the best place in Krakow to have a drink and watch the game, and you’ll never miss a moment at 442 sports pub. This modern open-spaced, luxurious sports bar nearly has more screens than all the other sports pubs in Krakow combined! 

Address: Świętego Tomasza 20, 31-020 Kraków

Image source: 442 Sports Pub

T.E.A. Time Brewpub

District: Kazimierz

If you’re missing some top quality English beer (that’s made on-site) and the atmosphere of an English sports pub, then TEA Time brewpub is the spot for you. They have six hand pumps with a rotating selection of beers available from light and refreshing pale ales through to rich, full-bodied stout and porter. They also show football and have regular quiz nights.

Address: Dietla 1, 31-070 Kraków

Image source: Tea Time

Krakow Standup Comedy

District: Different Venues each week

Although it’s not a bar, Kraków Standup Comedy is defining & refining the English language comedy scene in Kraków! They are the oldest and longest-running English standup show in the city and have weekly comedy events include Open Mics nights & Headliner Shows. Check out their Facebook page for the next event.

Image source: Krakow Standup Comedy

Top 6 clubs in Krakow

Teatro Cubano 

District: Old Town 

If you can only visit one place when exploring Krakow’s Nightlife, make sure it’s Teatro Cubano. You will find a mix of all sorts of people here, from students and locals to tourists and regulars. This Cuban themed club is open every night of the week and always has different events, live shows, and DJs. They are busiest on the weekend so make sure you arrive early so you don’t get stuck in the line (it goes to the end of the street and around the corner). Their popularity is due to the great music, huge dancefloor, fantastic bar staff, and drink specials, but one of the best things is that they serve food(sliders and fries) all night at the bar at the front of the club. 

Address: Jagiellońska 10, 31-010 Kraków

Image source:

Krakow Boat Party

Although it’s technically not a nightclub, it’s definitely one of Krakow’s best parties and gives you the full experience of Nightlife in Krakow. On the Krakow Boat Party, you’ll party for 2-hours as you cruise up and down the Vistula river while enjoying unlimited beer, rum, gin, vodka, mixers, live DJ, photographer, and photo booth. After that, the party continues with an after-party pub crawl to three of Krakow’s best clubs with a free welcome shot and free entry at each venue. 

Shine

District: In the middle of The Old Town and Kazimierz

If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket and glamorous in Krakow’s Nightlife, then Shine is the club for you ( make sure you are looking your best as they have a strict dress code). Shine is located halfway between the Old Town and Kazimierz and is over 1000 m2 which makes it one of the biggest clubs in Krakow.  

Address: Starowiślna 16, 31-032 Kraków

Image source: Shine Club

FOUR

District: Old Town

Four is a modern club with a big dance floor and a few different VIP areas that can be booked for a private event. This club has some of the biggest and best Polish and international DJs and weekly themed events. 

Address: Jagiellońska 6, 31-010 Kraków

LBDR

District: Old Town 

Located in Krakow’s heart in the Old Town is La Bodega Del Ron, which means The Rum Cellar in Spanish. It switches from a casual bar and pizza hangout during the day to one of Krakow’s top nightlife spots at night. There is a latin/caribbean theme throughout the club that gives it a great vibe and adds to the atmosphere of the nightlight parties they have. 

Address: Rynek Główny 6, 31-042 Kraków

Image source: La Bodega Del Ron

Prozak 2.0

District: Old Town

Prozak is one of Krakow’s oldest and most infamous clubs and the undisputed home of Techno in Krakow. With so many different rooms ,nooks and crannies, Prozak can be likened to a labyrinth where you can easily lose yourself in the musical maze! Check out their awesome promo video here.

Address: plac Dominikański 6, 33-332 Kraków

Image source: Prozak 2.0

Top 3 beer gardens in Krakow 

Mleczarnia

District: Kazimersz

Mleczarnia is an unassuming bar that most people stumble across and decide to pop in for a quick drink but end up staying all day and night. This is due to the relaxing atmosphere and great priced drinks. They also have a small quirky, candle light bar across the road that is part of the same venue.

Address:  Rabina, Beera Meiselsa 20, 31-058 Kraków

Image source: Mleczarnia

Klub Re

District: Old Town 

Klub Re has a great garden bar with plenty of outdoor seating and friendly staff.  If you want a quiet and chilled night with a little music in the background, come here!

Address: Świętego Krzyża 4, 31-027 Kraków

Image source: Klub Re

Stara Zajedznia

District: Kazimersz

Stara Zajedznia has one of the biggest beer gardens in Krakow. due to it being built on an old tram depot from 1913. In fact, the main hall behind the beer garden is on the UNESCO world heritage list. Make sure you check their page before visiting as they host a variety of public and closed events.

Address:  Świętego Wawrzyńca 12, 31-060 Kraków

Image source: Stara Zajezdnia

Top 4 wine bars in Krakow

Barawino

District: Kazimersz 

A night out in Krakow isn’t complete without trying some local and imported wines, and the best place to do that is BaraWino. This wine bar and shop doesn’t discriminate and isn’t just for wine yuppies; It was started by Marek Kondrat, one of Poland’s most famous actors who is now also a sommelier with a passion for wine. His aim is to create a place that would be friendly for all people interested in wine, whether professionals or amateurs.

Address: Mostowa 1, 31-061 Kraków

Image source: BaraWino

Czarna Owca Wino Bar

District: Kazimersz

Czarna Owca Wino Bar (Black Sheep Wine Bar in English) is a cozy and stylish bar where you can enjoy a glass from their wide selection of wines, and their friendly sommeliers will be happy to help you to choose a bottle or two. They can accommodate smaller and large groups and have a great selection of snacks to pair with their wines. 

Address:  Dajwór 20/LU6, 31-052 Kraków

Image source: Czarna Owca Wino Bar

Two Drops

District: Kazimierz

Two drops specialize in the two of the most important things in life – Wine & coffee. It is newly opened with a modern interior and is a great place to start your morning or night when exploring the district of Kazimierz.

Address: Mostowa 14, 31-061 Kraków

Top 4 vodka bars in Krakow

Wodka Cafe

District: Old Town 

Wodka cafe is one of the smallest bars in Krakow and one of the most popular bars for locals and tourists. This snug little bar is located in the Old Town just off the main square on Mikołajska street. They have an extensive range of local and international vodkas that are served in charming sipping glasses in sets of 6 on a wooden platter. The vodka platters are intended to be shared, but we think you can keep them all just for yourself! 

Address: Mikołajska 5, 31-027 Kraków

Image source: Wodka Cafe

Bunia Luka & Pijalnia piwa i wódki

District: Everywhere

These are actually two different chains but they are both very similar. They both have locations all over Poland and offer extremely low priced vodka and drinks. With 1GBP/EUR  shots, they’re a great place to start the night or to stagger in late. 

Ambasada Sledzia

District: Old Town 

Ambasada Śledzia is a vodka and śledź bar. There are many similar bars in Krakow, but Ambasada Śledzia was the original and in our opinion still the best.. śledź is a traditional polish dish; its pickled hearing served cold and generally with a shot of vodka. It’s definitely an acquired taste but worth a try.

Address:  Stolarska 8/10, 31-030 Kraków

Nadwislanska Resto & Vodka Bar

District: Podgórze

Nadwiślańska is more of a restaurant than a bar; however, it is one of Krakow’s top spots to go for a drink. The modern and industrial style restaurant and bar is a local favorite. They stock over 250 different vodkas, and it is arguably the biggest vodka collection of any bar in Krakow. Located in the historical area of Podgórze, its unique decor has a modern but warm and funky design, which is great for relaxing over a cocktail made by one of their experienced bartenders. They also have a diverse and well-thought-out menu, but our favorite is their tapas selection.

Address:  Nadwiślańska 5, 30-527 Kraków

Image source: Nadwiślańska Resto & Vodka Bar

Final word

Krakow Nightlife is undoubtedly one of the best in Europe. This once-hidden gem is now one of the most popular destinations to visit for everyone. There are so many things to do in Krakow, whether it’s a backpacking pitstop, stag or hen weekend, or just a cheeky getaway; we’re confident that there’s something here for everyone. 

For those of you that like to get the party started before the party, we have some epic drinking games to check out on our Stag Do Drinking Games list.

We hope to see you soon and as always if you’re thinking of visiting Krakow then drop us a line so we can help you plan an unforgettable time!

Bania Luka

You haven’t fully experienced Krakow until you have done some vodka shots at Bania Luka, this fine establishment is about as Polish as you can get, frequented by students, tourists, businessmen after work and everyone else in between, all are welcome and Bania. Open 24 hours with a very basic menu of traditional polish food. Choose from a selection of 1EUR/5PLN shots like the Chuppa Chuppa or infamous Maddog, no matter the time of day or night there you are sure to have a good time at Bania Luka whether it’s in the afternoon for a snack and some vodka tasting or in the late hours of the night when nothing else is open and you’re trying to keep the party going.

If your looking to drink some vodka at a club then Four is the best option.

Address: Szewska 13, 31-009 Kraków & Plac Szczepański 6, 33-332 Kraków

Pijalnia Wódki

Pijalnia Wódki is a chain of laid back traditional Polish vodka bar that can be found in almost all major and some smaller cities in Poland. Don’t let the fact its a chain scare you off each bar feels like a local dive bar, friendly bartenders open 24 hours. The decor makes it seem like you are drinking back in communist Poland with its distinct green stools, old newspapers for wallpaper and retro appliances. They are famous for there selection of mixed vodka shots, everything from the tobacco infused vodka shot to flavoured Chupa Chupp vodka, all for only 1 EUR each.

Address: Floriańska 34, 31-019 Kraków

Wodka Cafe

This cozy little bar is located in the Old Town just off the main square on Mikołajska street, it is one of the smallest bars in Krakow, but that doesn’t stop it from being extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. Abit fancier then some of the other bars on the list they offer served in sipping glasses that look like cute little minute wine glasses for vodka

Another great option is to take a Vodka Tour.

Address: Mikołajska 5, 31-027 Kraków

Szototo

If you are looking for the weirdest, wildest and widest selection of vodka shot cocktails in Krakow then Szototo is the place for you. Situated in an alleyway leading to the main square along with other bars is this small “shot” bar with hundreds to choose from and only 5 Zloty/1 EUR a shot. Shots with whipped cream, candies, fruits, shots that have to be set on fire, shots with 95% strength alcohol, Szototo has them all.

Address: Pasaż Bielaka, 33-332 Kraków

We have put together a list of the best places you can grab a cold one and watch the football in Krakow.

442 Sports Pub

A brand spanking new bar and an ideal place for any sports fan with over 30 screens showing Sky Sports live matches (with English commentary). This is the new king of sports in Krakow and is perfectly located in the heart of the old town on Tomasza street. 442 Sports Pub is clean, professional a tad more pricey but definitely worth it for comfort and the sheer amount of screens showing the footy!

Address: Świętego Tomasza 20, 31-020 Kraków

English Football Club

Exactly as the name suggests, English Football Club specialises in showing all of the English Football matches throughout the week. This basement bar is your typical Krakow cellar bar with a maze of small intimate rooms to tune into the match plus one larger room with a big screen and projector. The best thing about this place is that even though they don’t have a kitchen, they’ll order pizza for you from the joint next door and serve it right to your table! Without a doubt a great place to watch football in Krakow on your next visit.

Address: Mikołajska 5, 31-271 Kraków

Bull Pub

Busy, loud and very rowdy is what you can expect at Bull Pub. It’s one of the busiest sports bars in Krakow due to its very central location and popularity with tourists from the UK. They do great burgers and pub meals, offer a wide selection of English ales and ciders on tap and have two separate beer gardens (front and back). There’s a TV on just about every wall so no matter where you sitting you’ll be able to watch the football. As we said early this place is rowdier than others so make sure you’re prepared for that!

Address: Mikołajska 2, 31-027 Kraków

Some Place Else

Located in the lobby of the Hilton hotel, they are self-titled as a sports bar but be prepared as this is definitely a hotel bar (with hotel bar prices to match). Definitely more on the fancy side than the other bars we’ve listed but on the upside, they have a great kitchen, lots of big screens and are generally very quiet so you’re sure to get a seat without a reservation.

Address: Powiśle 7, 31-101 Kraków

Tea Time

Situated on the Wisla river, tea time is a quaint bar that’s just far enough out of the old town that you won’t get any riff-raff. Very popular with locals due to their great craft beer selection and because they’re Poland’s only proper ale bar with real ale served through hand-pumped casks from the brewery below. They have medium-sized screens in all rooms playing all the big games, prices are as expected for craft and imported beer, plus they have complimentary salted peanuts. What more could you want?!

Address: Dietla 1, 31-070 Kraków

Bania Luka

Bania Luka is a popular student bar that also attracts locals and tourists due to its very cheap prices. A beer here costs just 7zl and they also serve cheap traditional Polish bar snacks like pierogi and Kielbasa sausage. At the bar, they also mix up just about any flavoured vodka shot you can think or you can choose from their specialised shot menu. In terms of watching football here, there are a handful of screens dotted around the place but the main draw is the large back room fitted with a huge projector screen and ample seating space. Commentary is usually in Polish but we think that the cheap prices and awesome atmosphere make it an awesome choice for watching football in Krakow anyway!

Address: Szewska 13, 31-009 Kraków

Krakow is fast becoming the party city of Europe thanks to cheap flights from most major European cities and the awesome exchange rates from GBP & EUR. You’ll find just about everything you could want for a weekend getaway; rich culture & history, breathtaking architecture, mouth-watering food but best of all – a party scene that rivals some of the best in the world.

To make things easier we have written this guide to the top 6 party hostels in Krakow…in no particular order:

Gret & Tom Beer House

Smack bang on the busiest street in town (Florianska), Beer House is one of three ‘Greg and Tom’s’ hostels in Krakow. The hostel is named after ‘Beer House Restaurant’ on the first level, which is open to the public and serves a delicious range of traditional polish as well as all of the pub classics.

If you stay here, you’ll enjoy free buffet breakfast and dinner (served from the restaurant) every single night! They also offer an epic pub crawl that runs 7 nights a week which joins up with the other two Greg & Tom’s hostels in town. Check out HostelGeeks for more great hostels

Address: Floriańska 45, 31-019 Kraków

The Little Havan Party Hostel

As the name suggests, this Hostel is Cuban themed top to bottom. Previously a university building, The Little Havana Party Hostel has been converted into a little slice of Havana in the centre of Krakow with a separate club, hostel and restaurant that all compliment each other.

The back end of the ground floor (which was once the main lecture hall) now has a Latino night club that is wall to wall busy 7 nights a week. On the weekend the queue is literally around the corner, BUT if you’re a hostel guest you go straight in without waiting. The other half of the ground floor is a shots and sliders bar that serves delicious mini burgers late into the night

The upper three levels of the building are the hostel which contains a variety of dorms, common room, chillout area, foosball table, couches and a 24-hour bar. Little Havana works alongside the top-rated pub crawl in Krakow on Trip Advisor, so if you’re looking for a great party hostel in Krakow then you can’t go wrong here!

Address: Jagiellońska 10, 31-010, Kraków

Draggo House

One of the newest hostels in Krakow, Draggo House is just off the main square on the quaint street of Gołębia. You notice the party hostel vibe almost instantly as the entire entry path has crate couches along one side.

You’ll find a newly renovated bar underneath the hostel that has fast become the number one karaoke bar in Krakow. At the very end of the path, you will find a beer garden that offers complete privacy to drink, laugh, party and eat at the smoked grill restaurant (name and link). Although new on the scene, Droggo House is an awesome party hostel in Krakow and we highly recommend it.

Address: Gołębia 6, 31-007 Kraków

Greg & Toms Party Hostel

The little brother of the Beer House hostel and one of the original & longest-running party Hostels in Krakow. They have set the standard very high when it comes to partying. When you check-in, you are greeted with a shot of Polish vodka and you’d better believe the reception staff join in on the action!

One of the smaller party hostels in Krakow, it’s a great choice for smaller groups or solo travellers as you end up becoming best mates with other guests over some shots and a few rounds of beer pong. As the day turns into night, you meet up with the crew from the Beer House Hostel for a private pub crawl that runs 7 nights a week all year round.

Address: Mikołaja Zyblikiewicza 9, 31-021 Kraków

Lets Rock Hostel

The best hostel beer garden in Krakow: is how I would describe Lets Rock in one sentence. Let’s Rock is located right in the middle of the city just a few steps from the Main Market Square and Wawel Castle.

The ground level consists of a bar and massive beer garden or you can head upstairs to the hostel that serves free breakfast every day. To top it all off, there is an underground karaoke bar that’s open 7 nights a week.

Address: Grodzka 34, 31-044 Kraków

Mohito Hostel

Mohito Hostel is a superbly located brand new hostel. Not as ‘party focused’ as some of the others on our list but will not disappoint if you’re looking to be in the heart of the city and prefer are chilled out vibe. They have a wide selection of affordable dorms or private rooms plus you’ll be served free breakfast every day.

Address: Tomasza 8, 31-014 Kraków

That’s our list of the best party hostels in Krakow so leave your thoughts below or check out the rest of our content here.

Opus Lounge Bar

The Opus Lounge Bar is a unique and exclusive cocktail bar in the vaults of the Bachleda Luxury Hotel just outside the old town. Inspired by British style; you’ll find a fancy fireplace, leather armchairs and a stylish library that results in a unique ambience. Choose from a wide selection of top-shelf liquor from all corners of the globe or one of the signature cocktails like the Salted Caramel Margarita! There is a food menu, that has everything from caviar served on crushed ice with buckwheat blini to quail egg and lemon and Mini beef burgers served with onion marmalade. It doesn’t get much fancier than this.

Address: Plac Kossaka 6, 31-106 Kraków

Sababa Cocktail Bar

Sababa is one of several Hebrew slang words meaning “great” or “cool” and those words describe it very well. Sababa is located above Hamsa, one of the most well known Jewish restaurants in the heart of the Jewish district of Kazimierz. This cocktail bar is dimly lit, with a very intimate and cosy almost dive bar-like feel. The barmen can make you all the classics or try one of their signature cocktails.

Address: Szeroka 2, 31-056 Kraków

Movida Bar

Formally known as Paparazzi, Movida advertise service that will meet expectations of even the most demanding customers and offer cocktails that will satisfy even the most sophisticated palates. If you’re looking for a top-notch cocktail bar, in the heart of the old town then this is the spot for you! There are televisions showing all the big sports games and a selection of beers on tap for the friends that would rather some brown water instead of a tasty cocktail.

Address: Mikołajska 9, 31-027 Kraków

The Goose

There is no shortage of top-quality cocktail bars popping up in Krakow. The Goose has just recently opened and from the reviews looks like it’s here to stay. Located in Zabłocie, it has a cosy feel and magical vibe that you would hope to get from an intimate cocktail bar. The bar has an extensive menu of classic cocktails but also meets all requests.

Address: Zabłocie 23/24, 30-701 Kraków

Unity Bar

Located in the lobby of Hotel Indigo, Unity Bar has the setting and decor that are both classy and cosy at the same time. Serving a variety of rediscovered classic cocktails, the beverage menu is extensive, well thought and if you can’t find what you’re looking for then the bartenders are willing to experiment. Prices are as expected for a hotel bar but the ambience and feel far outweigh the few extra zlotys you would spend per drink.

Address: Świętego Filipa 18, 31-150 Kraków

Z ust do ust

A hidden speakeasy in the Jewish quarter that you can find them by solving a series of riddles on their website or by asking one of the locals. Their bartenders are highly skilled and passionate about the art of making cocktails and it’s definitely a different way of spending your evening. They even serve drinks in miniature bathtubs, complete with a plastic ducky on top! If you’d like to experience something out of the ordinary during your trip to Krakow, Z ust do ust is a must-do.

Address: you have to figure it out on your own :)

Bubble Toast

Self-described as “the most instagrammable place in Krakow” we whole-heartedly agree with this statement. Everything from bathtubs on the dancefloor, an adult-sized ball pit, novelty-sized ice creams sticking out of the walls, an old school style merry go round themed corner, complete with horses as seats, to a ceiling with a blanket of hanging bananas. It doesn’t get more instagrammable than this place. The drinks menu is a carefully selected set of prosecco cocktails that are simple and tasty, accompanying the drinks is a small but thoughtful list of toasties.

Address: plac Szczepański 5, 33-332 Kraków

Lastriko

Located in in the heart of the Tytano industrial complex at Dolne Młynów. Lastriko is unlike most cocktail bars as this venue offers lots of big open spaces, exposed concrete, a funky vibe that is a mix of classic style with new age culture and art. They regularly host well known Polish DJ’s providing a more upbeat cocktail bar experience if you looking to stay out a bit later then usual! Lastriko is one of our top picks in Krakow.

Address: Dolnych Młynów 10, 31-124 Kraków

Mercy Brown

Although last on our list, this is one of the best cocktail bars in Krakow. Here you’ll find some of the highest quality liquors, hand made tinctures and an ever-changing selection of signature cocktails. Take a step back in time to the 1920s vintage era of style and elegance, with chandeliers, frilly lampshades and plush velveteen couches. Here you can enjoy live jazz performances…that is of course if you can find the hidden entrance located beneath the Smakolyki restaurant.

Address: Straszewskiego 28, 31-153 Kraków

We all like to save a few dollars here or there, so our friends at City Walks Krakow have put together a list of all the free activities in Krakow available each day of the week, some of these may already be o your Krakow must see list.

MONDAY

1. Rynek Underground History Museum – The main exhibit ,“In the footsteps of Krakow’s European identity”, makes use of holograms constructed by using projectors alongside fog machines and several dozen screens and projectors to recreate the atmosphere of Kraków seven hundred years ago.

Opening hours: 10:00 – 20:00

Tickets

2. St. Adalbert’s Church (Kościół św. Wojciecha), Parts of this church date back to the 11th century before the main square ever existed. You’ll notice this because the entrance is 2 metres below street level which is actually the original street level of medieval Krakow. You’ll learn more about this at the Rynek Underground Museum.

Opening hours: 10:00 – 16:00

3. Schindler’s Factory Museum of History Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory , A former metal item factory in Kraków, is now hosting two museums: the Museum of Contemporary Art and a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków. Many visitors are a little disappointed by the lack of memorabilia about the factory itself which was highlighted in the film ‘Schindler’s List’. However, we assure you the museum that is in its place is one of/if not the best museums about Krakow’s storied WWII and post WWII history.

Opening hours: 10:00 – 14:00 (Closed on the first Monday of the month)

Tickets

TUESDAY

1.MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art, The aim of the gallery is to present and support contemporary art and artists, in particular art from the last two decades. The Museum includes a library, bookshop, café and contemporary art conservation laboratory.

Opening hours: 11:00 – 19:00

2.Polish Aviation Museum, A museum of old aircraft and aircraft engines. It is located at the site of the no longer functional Kraków-Rakowice-Czyżyny Airport. This airfield, established by Austria-Hungary in 1912, is one of the oldest in the world.

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 19:00

WEDNESDAY

1. New Jewish Cemetery,The cemetery covers an area of about 4.5 hectares. It is located at Miodowa 55–58 Street, in the historic Jewish neighbourhood of Kazimierz. The Cemetery is a registered heritage monument featuring a well-preserved historical mortuary.

Opening hours: 09:00 – 14:00

THURSDAY

1.Wawel Castle, Is the centrepiece of Krakow’s medieval history and exemplifies why Krakow is known as the city of kings! It consists of many structures situated around the main courtyard and cathedral which was the site of all former Polish king coronations. Wawel castle is one of the must-see sites in Krakow where photo opportunities are in abundance.

Opening hours: Daily: 6 am till sunset.

Tickets

FRIDAY

1. St Mary’s Church, Foundations date back to the early 13th century. Listen out every hour for a trumpet signal called the Hejnał mariacki played from the top of the taller of Saint Mary’s two towers. That’s every hour, every day of the year played by an actual trumpeter and not a recording!

Opening hours: 10.00 – 14.00 (Free admission every day)

SATURDAY

2. Krakus Mound, Undoubtedly the best place in Krakow to enjoy a sunny day while sipping on a few beers. It’s the highest point in Krakow, located in the Podgorze district which is only a short tram ride from the old town. Also known as Krakow mound, it has a mythical past thought to be the final burial place for the founder of Krakow, King Krakus. From the top, you can view the abandoned Liban Quarry and the site of a work camp used during WWII. In 1993, Steven Spielberg used Liban as the set of all the scenes from Schindler’s List that take place in the Płaszów concentration camp.

Opening hours: 24/7 (public park)

Sunday

1.The National Museum of Krakow, Established in 1879, this is the main branch of Poland’s National Museum. The main draw card for the NMK is the famous Leonardo Da Vinci ‘LADY WITH AN ERMINE’…. the museum regularly hosts talks from scholars and art experts from all over the world as well as regularly featuring exhibitions from some of the biggest art institutions in the world.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 16.00

2. Archaeological Museum of Krakow, Step back in time to a period of pagan beliefs. Admire the statue of Światowid – a pagan god with four faces from the 9th and 10th century, which was discovered in 1848 in Zbrucz along many more archaeological treasures found in the Lesser Poland Region. Originally the Monastery of St. Michael, the building was functionally changed in the 19th century completely. The Austrians, who were stationed in Krakow at that time, established a prison here. Paradoxically, the place inherited the name of the pre monastery and became known as the prison of St. Michael. It was closed down after WWII.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 14.00

3.The Walery Rzewuski Museum of History of Photography in Krakow, was founded in 1986 and is home to over 70,000 objects, photographs and photographic equipment. This is one of the richest collections that covers the history of photography from its beginnings to the present day.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 15.30

If you are short for time and want to see as much as possible or simply prefer having a local show you around, check out our good friends over at City Walks.