Krakow is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and one of the best party cities in the world. The city is filled with history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one, Krakow has something to offer everyone.
One of the biggest draws of Krakow is its nightlife. The city is home to a wide variety of bars, nightclubs, and other venues that cater to all tastes and preferences. From traditional Polish pubs to trendy cocktail bars, there is something for everyone in Krakow. The best areas to party in Krakow are the Old Town and Kazimierz, both of which are filled with a variety of different venues.
Key Takeaways
- Krakow is a popular tourist destination with a vibrant nightlife scene.
- The city offers a wide variety of bars, nightclubs, and other venues to cater to all tastes and preferences.
- The best areas to party in Krakow are the Old Town and Kazimierz.
Best Areas to Party in Krakow
Krakow is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and venues to choose from. Here are some of the best areas to party in Krakow:
Krakow’s Old Town
Krakow’s Old Town is the most popular area for nightlife in the city. It is home to a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs, making it the perfect spot for pub crawls and bar-hopping. The Old Town is also known for its live music venues, where you can catch local and international acts performing.
One of the most unique bars in the Old Town is Alchemia, which has a cozy atmosphere and serves up delicious cocktails and Polish vodka. For those who prefer gin, Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa is a popular spot that serves up gin and tonics in a relaxed atmosphere.
Kazimierz
Kazimierz is the Jewish Quarter of Krakow and is known for its eclectic nightlife scene. The area has a bohemian vibe and is home to a variety of bars and clubs, including jazz clubs and cigar bars.
One of the most popular bars in Kazimierz is Singer, which is located in a former sewing machine factory and has a unique atmosphere. For those who want to dance the night away, Prozak 2.0 is a popular club that plays a mix of electronic and pop music.
Podgórze
Podgórze is a lesser-known area for Krakow nightlife but is still worth checking out. The area has a more laid-back vibe and is home to a variety of bars and pubs.
One of the best bars in Podgórze is Teatro Cubano, which serves up delicious cocktails and has a cozy atmosphere. For those who want to play some arcade games while enjoying a drink, Cybermachina is a popular gaming pub that serves up craft beer.
Plac Nowy
Plac Nowy is located in the heart of Kazimierz and is known for its lively atmosphere. The area is home to a variety of bars and pubs, including some of the best shot bars in Krakow.
One of the most popular bars in Plac Nowy is Alchemia od Kuchni, which serves up delicious pierogi and other Polish dishes. For those who want to enjoy a drink while playing some games, Cosmic Golf is a popular spot that has mini-golf and other games.
Overall, the Krakow nightlife scene is diverse and exciting and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bar to enjoy a drink or a club to dance the night away, Krakow has it all.
Krakow Nightlife Tips & Advice
Krakow Nightlife Reviews
Krakow has a bustling nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from. Visitors can find everything from traditional pubs to trendy clubs. Cybermachina, located in the heart of the city, is a popular spot for gamers and geeks. For those who enjoy live music, Harris Piano Jazz Bar is a must-visit. Wyborowa is a great spot for gin lovers, with a wide selection of gin-based cocktails. Visitors should check reviews before visiting a venue to ensure it meets their expectations.
Krakow Nightlife Security
Krakow is generally a safe city, but visitors should still take precautions when enjoying the nightlife. It is recommended to stay in groups, avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on personal belongings. Visitors should also be aware of their alcohol consumption to avoid putting themselves in vulnerable situations.
Krakow Nightlife Popularity
Krakow nightlife is popular among locals and tourists alike. During peak season, some venues can get crowded, so visitors should arrive early to avoid long lines. Visitors should also be aware that some venues may have a cover charge, especially on weekends. It is recommended to check the venue’s website or social media pages for information on cover charges and opening hours.
Krakow’s nightlife offers a variety of experiences for visitors, from traditional pubs to trendy clubs. Visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety and be aware of prices and cover charges before ordering. By following these tips, visitors are sure to have an enjoyable and memorable night out in Krakow.
Cost of Partying in Krakow
One of the biggest appeals of the Krakow nightlife scene is its affordability, especially when compared to other European cities. However, prices can fluctuate depending on the type of venue and the time of year.
Drinks
In general, a pint of local beer at a typical bar in Krakow will cost between 8-12 PLN (around $2-$3), while imported beers might set you back by 12-20 PLN ($3-$5). For the spirit enthusiasts, a shot of vodka ranges from 4-10 PLN ($1-$2.5). Wine lovers can expect to spend around 10-20 PLN ($2.5-$5) per glass.
Cocktail prices tend to be higher, especially in more upscale venues like Shakers Club or Baccarat Music Club, with a price range of 20-50 PLN ($5-$13) per cocktail. The cost can rise even further for more elaborate or exotic drink choices.
Entry Fees
Most bars in Krakow do not charge an entry fee. Nightclubs, however, usually do. Clubs like Frantic and Prozak 2.0 typically charge an entrance fee ranging between 10-30 PLN ($2.5-$8), depending on the event and the day of the week. The upscale Baccarat Music Club, known for its luxury vibe, could ask for a higher entrance fee, typically around 20-50 PLN ($5-$13).
VIP and Bottle Service
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP tables and bottle services are available at most nightclubs. This can range from 200 PLN to upwards of 1000 PLN ($50-$260), depending on the venue and the type of bottle.
Food
Snack prices vary, but if you wish to taste traditional Polish bar snacks like herring at Ambasada Sledzia, it will cost you around 5-15 PLN ($1.5-$4). For a late-night meal, expect to pay around 20-40 PLN ($5-$10) at most places.
Transportation
Krakow’s city center is quite compact, so many venues are within walking distance of each other. However, if you need a taxi, a typical ride within the city center will cost around 15-20 PLN ($4-$5).
Best Bars in Krakow
Alchemia
Nestled in the heart of Krakow’s Kazimierz district, Alchemia is a staple in the city’s bar scene. Its atmospheric setting draws inspiration from the medieval alchemists, with candle-lit interiors and antique furnishings creating a unique, welcoming ambiance. Alchemia’s diverse music scene, extensive drink menu, including local beers and craft cocktails, plus its intimate live music performances make it an essential stop.
Wodka Cafe-Bar
A visit to Poland would be incomplete without sampling its national spirit – vodka. Wodka Cafe-Bar, situated in the Old Town, offers a mind-boggling array of vodkas, showcasing the best of Polish distilleries. The cozy, traditional interiors, knowledgeable staff, and an extensive menu of vodkas to sample (either straight or in cocktails) make Wodka a must-visit for spirit enthusiasts.
Harris Piano Jazz Bar
For the jazz lovers, there’s no better place than the Harris Piano Jazz Bar. This soulful bar located near the Main Market Square is renowned for its nightly jazz concerts and well-stocked bar. The musicians’ expertise coupled with a warm, inviting atmosphere makes this bar a hit among locals and tourists alike.
Ambasada Sledzia
Translating to ‘Herring Embassy,’ this bar is perfect for those looking to experience traditional Polish snacks along with their drinks. Ambasada Sledzia offers a wide variety of herring dishes, alongside local beers and vodkas, making it a unique cultural experience within Krakow’s bustling nightlife scene.
Eszeweria
Tucked away on a quiet Kazimierz street, Eszeweria offers an ethereal escape. Known for its romantic, bohemian atmosphere, this bar, adorned with vintage furniture and fairy lights, is a haven for lovers of quaint, quirky locations. Their outdoor seating is perfect for summer evenings, complemented by a great selection of wines and beers.
Best Nightclubs in Krakow
Frantic Club
One of the most popular nightclubs in Krakow, Frantic Club, located in the Old Town, is a hub for party-goers seeking a vibrant, electric atmosphere. With an impressive roster of resident and guest DJs playing an array of music genres, Frantic Club offers an unforgettable night of dancing and revelry.
Prozak 2.0
Dubbed as the pioneer of Krakow’s underground clubbing scene, Prozak 2.0’s cutting-edge music and minimalist interior attracts a crowd of edgy, contemporary party-goers. The club hosts a variety of techno, house, and electronic music events that keep the dance floor packed till dawn.
Shakers Club
If you’re a fan of exquisite cocktails and love to dance, Shakers Club is your place. This upmarket venue offers an extensive cocktail menu and high-energy dance music. Its sleek, modern interiors and professional bartenders serve up a unique cocktail of energetic vibes and world-class service.
Coco Music Club
Known for its diverse music policy, Coco Music Club in the heart of the city offers a mix of R&B, disco, dance, and house music. Its vibrantinteriors, plush seating, and an impressive light show provide an inviting atmosphere for a night of fun and dancing.
Baccarat Music Club *Temporarily Closed*
Baccarat is the embodiment of luxury nightlife. Known for its extravagant interiors that mimic a royal palace, this club hosts spectacular shows, themed parties, and features live DJs who play a variety of music genres. For those looking to splurge, Baccarat also offers VIP sections and bottle service.
Krakow Pub Crawls
Of course, no discussion about Krakow’s nightlife would be complete without mentioning the infamous Krakow Crawl.
For those who want to experience multiple aspects of the Krakow nightlife in one exciting night, the Krakow Crawl is an unmissable experience. This organized pub crawl takes visitors on a thrilling journey through some of the best bars and clubs in the city. Starting in the Main Market Square, the Crawl typically includes visits to 4 bars and clubs, with free welcome shots at each bar, and wraps up at a popular nightclub, often with VIP entry included.
What makes the Krakow Crawl stand out is its focus on creating a fun, social atmosphere. You’ll get to mingle with fellow travelers from around the world, participate in lively drinking games, and even get a glimpse into the local party culture. Led by knowledgeable local guides who know the city’s nightlife inside out, the Krakow Crawl ensures a safe and utterly entertaining night out. It’s a fantastic option for those new to the city, solo travelers, or anyone looking to meet new people and enjoy a variety-packed night out in Krakow.
You can book the Krakow Crawl in advance here.
Krakow Nightlife Conclusion
The Krakow nightlife, with its kaleidoscope of options ranging from enchanting bars to pulsating nightclubs, has an indomitable spirit that can charm every visitor. It manages to strike a beautiful balance, offering both affordable and luxurious experiences that resonate with the city’s rich history and vibrant, modern energy.
You might find yourself sipping on meticulously crafted cocktails amidst a crowd dancing to electric beats or tasting traditional Polish vodka in a candle-lit, vintage setup. Maybe you’ll enjoy a quiet summer evening in a charming garden or immerse yourself in the soulful rhythm of a jazz performance. From the cobbled streets of Kazimierz to the grandeur of the Old Town, every corner of Krakow invites you to become a part of its enchanting nightlife.
So, whether you’re a budget backpacker, a luxury seeker, a history buff, a music enthusiast, or a foodie, Krakow’s diverse and dynamic nightlife will not disappoint. Your experiences here won’t just revolve around drinks and dance, but will also offer cultural immersion, gastronomical delights, and the chance to make unforgettable memories. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to leave with a piece of Krakow’s magic in your heart, and perhaps a hint of longing to return and relive the mesmerizing nights in this magnificent city.
