Kraków offers a lot in the evenings — from atmospheric pubs in Kazimierz to stylish bars in the city centre — but historic buildings and steps can surprise you. Before you go out, it’s worth checking a few things: whether the entrance is at street level or if there is a ramp, whether the interior provides enough space to manoeuvre, and whether there is a toilet adapted for wheelchair users. The city publishes a special guide to accessible venues, and some places cooperate with the municipal "Gastronomy and Shops" programme — these are good starting points for planning.
Prepare a short list of 3–5 nearby venues — that way, if the first one turns out not to be fully accessible, you have alternatives without needing to travel far. Call ahead and ask about specifics: door width, steps before the entrance, space for a wheelchair at a table, and whether the restroom is accessible. Staff are often happy to help if you let them know in advance.
If you travel with a companion, agree on a meeting place and a route that takes into account pavements and pedestrian crossings — many bars are near tram and bus stops, but the distance from the stop to the entrance can vary.
The most reliable starting point is the city’s accessibility materials: Kraków publishes a comprehensive guide for tourists with disabilities that describes attractions, cultural institutions, hotels and eateries and highlights places with facilities. The guide is available in print at municipal information points and in online language versions.
It’s also worth checking lists of partners in the city’s gastronomy programme — some venues offer special discounts and facilities for people with limited mobility. This is a practical way to find bars and restaurants that declare readiness to serve customers with special needs.
Remember that “accessible” can mean different things: no thresholds at the entrance, the ability to use a lift, an accessible toilet, or simply a ground-floor space. That’s why it’s best to ask about the specific features that matter most to you.
The city and local initiatives regularly publish lists of restaurants and venues taking part in accessibility actions. Among well-regarded places that appear in municipal documents as involved in accessibility projects are network cafés, local bistros and long-established restaurants. Examples that are often listed in municipal gastronomy overviews or accessibility projects include Bistro Rucola and selected outlets of the Lajkonik chain. Also pay attention to venues that have participated in projects to make menus more accessible, introducing Braille menus or special menu formats.
Restaurants previously highlighted in municipal accessibility projects have included places such as Pod Aniołami, Plac Nowy 1, Vanilla Sky, Pizza Fresco, Biała Róża and restaurants in selected hotels. These are examples of well-rated addresses that may be better prepared for the needs of diverse guests, though the exact level of accessibility should always be confirmed by phone before visiting.
If you dream of an atmospheric pub in Kazimierz, plan your route and check alternatives — not all places in that district have step-free entrances, but there are ground-floor pubs and more modern venues that pay attention to accessibility.
Call before you go — the simplest way to avoid disappointment. Ask specifically about: a ramp at the entrance, door width, tables suitable for a wheelchair, restroom availability and the possibility to reserve a table near the entrance.
If you plan an evening outing, check transport options. Kraków has taxis adapted for people with disabilities and rental services for medical equipment, which are listed in the city guide. Trams and buses increasingly have low-floor vehicles — this makes reaching the centre and Kazimierz easier.
Bring a small emergency kit: a protective mat for ramps, tape for edging (if you often need small auxiliary solutions) and a small repair kit for your wheelchair. It’s also useful to have an app or a note with phone numbers for medical help and the places you plan to visit.
Assuming that “the centre equals accessibility” — many historic buildings have steps and narrow entrances even when the street looks easy to navigate. Always check the details rather than relying on the facade’s appearance.
Not contacting staff before arrival — many problems can be solved with a short call or message. Staff can prepare a table near the entrance, help with carrying items or point to an alternative entrance.
Failing to plan alternatives — double-check your route and have a plan B. If a venue turns out to be unsuitable, it’s helpful to have a list of other nearby places you can reach easily.
Kraków publishes a special guide for tourists with disabilities, available in print at city information points and in electronic versions. The publication describes not only monuments but also cultural and entertainment offerings and practical services such as wheelchair rental or taxis for people with disabilities.
Local programmes to improve accessibility are under way in the city, and some cultural institutions and hotels have implemented induction loops and provide menus in Braille. This shows that “accessibility” is not only about the absence of thresholds but also about meeting the needs of people with different kinds of disabilities.
Note that some bakeries and café chains in the centre take part in municipal partnership programmes and offer discounts or special service — a small, practical convenience while sightseeing.
Are all bars in the centre accessible? No — many still have stairs or narrow entrances. It’s always best to call ahead.
Where can I find a list of accessible toilets? The city’s accessibility guide includes lists of places and services friendly to people with disabilities; tourist information points also provide details about toilets adapted for wheelchair users.
Can I rent a wheelchair in Kraków? Yes — the city guide and local services list rental companies for rehabilitation equipment. It’s wise to reserve in advance.
- Check whether your chosen venues have step-free entrances or a ramp.
- Call to ask about an accessible toilet for a wheelchair user and the possibility to reserve a convenient table.
- Plan your route taking into account low-floor trams or taxis adapted for people with limited mobility.
- Have alternative nearby spots ready in case you encounter accessibility problems.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — sharing practical tips helps others plan a comfortable stay in Kraków.
If you’d like, you can also use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — on the site you will find contact details and a tailored tour offer for people with disabilities. With an individual guide it’s easier to visit the best bars, pubs and cafés while avoiding barriers and using local conveniences.
Good luck discovering Kraków — wishing you safe and enjoyable evenings on behalf of the guide and the whole guide team!
