This text will help you plan an evening with a drink in two historic parts of Krakow: Kazimierz and Rynek Podgórski. It explains the differences between the neighborhoods, recommends trusted bars and pubs, gives tips on how to avoid common tourist mistakes, and adds practical advice about transport, reservations and etiquette. At the end there is a short FAQ and an invitation to share the article.
If you want specifics — the guide includes recommendations for well-rated spots: cocktail bars, wine bars, pubs with good beer, and a few restaurants around Rynek Podgórski worth visiting after a walk.
Kazimierz and Rynek Podgórski sit close to each other, but they tell different stories. Kazimierz is the historic Jewish quarter full of narrow streets, atmospheric venues and lively nightlife. Rynek Podgórski lies on the other side of the Vistula in the Podgórze district — it has its own intimate market square with restaurants and a steadily growing food scene.
In practice this means a walk between the two is quick and pleasant: in a few minutes you can cross Bernatek Bridge (or another nearby bridge) and shift from tourist-busy Kazimierz to a calmer, more local Podgórze. Plan your visit so you can enjoy both atmospheres in this part of the city.
Historical traces are strong in both areas — Kazimierz still shows many reminders of Jewish culture, while around Rynek Podgórski you’ll find places tied to wartime history and 20th-century factories. Combining an evening of bars with a short historical walk is a great idea.
If you’re after signature cocktails and an elegant vibe, Kazimierz and the nearby Old Town have several cocktail bars worth attention. Look for places with good reviews that focus on high-quality ingredients and a thoughtful menu.
Examples that often appear in lists of Krakow’s best cocktail bars include venues with original cocktails and hidden speakeasy-style interiors. Expect higher prices and the possibility of needing a table reservation on weekends.
A few tips: arrive a bit before the evening rush, order a classic or ask the bartender for a recommendation. Many cocktail bars appreciate reservations, especially on weekends and for larger groups.
In Kazimierz you’ll find intimate wine bars with a good selection of natural and small-producer wines. These places are perfect when you want to sample several bottles in a relaxed atmosphere.
Wine bars often pair wine with small plates — cheese boards, cured meats and tapas that complement the tasting experience. Choose places with a well-curated list and staff happy to explain a wine’s origin and style.
If you plan to buy a bottle to take home, check whether the venue also operates as a shop — that’s a convenient way to bring back a bottle you liked.
For beer lovers, Kazimierz offers both classic pubs and places with a wide craft-beer selection. Around Plac Nowy you’ll find bars with relaxed vibes, outdoor areas and street-food options.
At Rynek Podgórski you’ll find several restaurants and bars with good reviews serving beer and simple snacks. To avoid tourist crowds, consider visiting pubs a bit farther from the main sights — you’ll often meet more locals there.
If you plan a long beer evening, check whether a place has a taproom or a microbrewery on site — that usually guarantees a more interesting beer selection and a friendly atmosphere.
Rynek Podgórski has gained popularity in recent years thanks to new restaurants and restaurateur projects. It offers an intimate square atmosphere with a growing number of well-rated culinary venues.
Plan to start with a walk around Rynek Podgórski and its surroundings — there you’ll often find restaurants recommended by local guides and spots recognized in local food scenes.
One example of a well-established restaurant in the area gained attention for its modern approach to cuisine and welcoming interior. After dinner you can move to a nearby bar for cocktails or wine.
Assuming everything in the center is open late. Many small wine bars and intimate cocktail bars have limited hours or closed days. Check opening times before you go, especially outside the high season.
Relying only on card payments. Although most places accept cards, small pubs and food stalls may prefer cash. Carry a little Polish złoty with you.
Picking the first place on the main street. Venues without reviews or with low standards can be overpriced and underwhelming. Look for places with good recommendations or ask locals for suggestions.
Rynek Podgórski used to be the market square of the separate town of Podgórze, which explains its distinct character compared with Kazimierz. It’s not just a smaller square — it’s a different chapter of the city’s history.
In Kazimierz you can still spot traces of the Jewish community in architecture and small details of the tenement houses. A walk between bars is also a walk through historical layers that affect which places open in these neighborhoods.
Some of the most interesting venues don’t have big signs — sometimes you enter through a side door, a courtyard or even a kitchen. Those places often offer the most authentic experiences.
Book a table in advance if you plan an evening in a popular cocktail bar or on a weekend. For small groups it can be enough to arrive near opening time.
Getting there: Kazimierz and Rynek Podgórski are within easy walking distance of the city center. You can also use public transport or a short taxi ride. Parking in the center can be difficult, so walking or public transport is often the better option.
Etiquette: tipping is not obligatory but leaving about 10% for good service is common. In cocktail bars treat the bartender with respect — if you want a signature drink, describe your taste rather than dictating exact ingredients.
Is Kazimierz safe in the evening? Yes — it’s a popular tourist area and generally safe, but like in any city keep an eye on your personal belongings.
Do I need to dress up for a cocktail bar? It depends on the place — most cocktail bars accept smart casual. For higher-end venues it’s a good idea to dress a bit more elegantly.
Where to find local craft beer? Look for pubs and bars with extensive beer lists and for places described as taprooms. Local recommendations and menus usually point to the best bottles and taps.
I hope this guide helps you plan your evening in Kazimierz and at Rynek Podgórski — choose the type of place that matches your mood: an elegant cocktail, a relaxed wine night or a craft-beer outing.
If you enjoyed this article, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help others plan a great visit to Krakow. If you’d like to explore Krakow with a private guide, consider booking a tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Have a great evening and enjoy Krakow!
