A Night Out with Cracovians

A popular party destination with tourists, Krakow is best explored with a little help from the locals. Here are a few pointers on where Cracovians go to enjoy an evening with friends.

Once considered the most futuristic building in Krakow, the vast Hotel Forum is today an empty hulk. Though its long-term future is uncertain, for now it serves as a busy attraction on the banks of the Vistula river. 

The Kazimierz District – Krakow's Jewish quarter – has an array of bars and cafes where Cracovians often socialise in the evening. Whether it's traditional drinking establishments or bohemian cafes, Kazimierz has both in abundance. 

As well as a thriving and eclectic night-life, anyone visiting the Kazimierz District can't help but notice its striking street art – inventive illustrations, colorful graphics and vast murals abound.

The murals in this quarter often focus on Krakow's Jewish history, creating a vivid link between past and present – like this piece by Israeli art collective Broken Fingaz, commemorating a Jewish family who once lived in the area.

Once the historic center of an independent city, Podgórze is one of the largest of Krakow's districts. With a slower pace than other parts of the city – and a variety of restaurants and cafes – Podgórze is many Cracovians' choice for a relaxing evening out. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly for a city renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, Krakow is famed for its festivals. With more festivals than any other European city, Cracovians may spend an evening listening to a literary talk, dancing to indie rock, or sampling pierogi, for example.

Set against the splendor of Krakow's historical buildings, the festival line-ups – from poetry performances to electro – are enriched by the city's backdrop. 

Just outside the city, too, are festivals staged in nearby forests, celebrating alternative lifestyles and dance music. 

Krakow's festival scene caters to specialized tastes. To take two examples: for lovers of futurism, there is the Megabit Bomb Festival dedicated to Polish sci-fi writer Stanisław Lem, while anyone into avant-garde music will relish the Sacrum Profanum Festival.

Whatever Cracovians choose to do in the evening, they're always treated to the sight of the city at night – a place where contemporary life plays out on the most spectacular historical stage.