Vodka Tasting in Krakow: Best Vodka Tours & Bars

A Local’s Guide to Vodka Tasting in Krakow: through the alleys of the Old Town in search of the best Polish vodkas, uncovering historical icons and hidden gems, from homemade spirits and communist-era bars to the deep connection between vodka and local culture and folklore.

A vodka tasting in Krakow is a must for anyone visiting the city. Vodka is more than just Poland’s national drink, it’s a cornerstone of the local food culture and a key part of Polish folklore. While many people automatically think of Russia when it comes to vodka, it actually originated in Poland, not far from Krakow. Today, the city is one of the best places in the world for vodka tastings, featuring a vibrant scene of cozy, authentic bars and small shops that offer some of the finest handcrafted spirits in the region.

Despite this, most travelers struggle to find an authentic vodka tasting experience. Tourist traps and scams are everywhere, along with overpriced, low-quality vodka tours. That’s why we decided to gather our personal experiences along with those of fellow travelers to find the best vodka tastings in Krakow. Here, you’ll discover only the top options—some of which are even considered among the best in the world—offering great value for money and ensuring an authentic, quality experience.

The Best Vodka Tastings in Krakow: Top Experiences to Try

Vodka tastings in Krakow have gained significant popularity in recent years, with more bars adding tasting experiences to their menus, alongside numerous agencies and tour operators offering similar packages. However, the key to a truly authentic experience remains the same: to uncover the finest local vodkas and top-quality spirits from the region, you’ll need to step off the beaten path and trust the insights and recommendations of a local expert or seasoned enthusiast.

The city is now teeming with scams and tourist traps. What often happens is that many visitors get lured in by the various vodka tasting offers in bars or on the streets, ordering vague drinks that often have nothing to do with authentic Polish vodkas. You might end up getting drunk on some low-quality spirit masquerading as premium vodka, all while being charged inflated prices.

So, do yourself a favor: steer clear of these pitfalls and seek out an authentic, high-quality vodka tasting. It could turn out to be one of the most enjoyable and fascinating experiences you’ll have in Krakow. Polish vodka, with its myriad flavored variations, has a rich history and distinctive tastes that you can only find here.

Krakow is the place to be for this: it boasts some of the best bars and shops that serve artisanal spirits crafted from century-old recipes, often still untouched by mass tourism. For the Polish, vodka isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural cornerstone. It’s woven into countless stories, anecdotes, and legends and holds a central place in folklore, culture, and social rituals.

There’s a whole etiquette surrounding vodka, deeply woven into Polish traditions—whether it’s a wedding, birth, funeral, or everyday occasions and holidays like Christmas. But just walking into a bar and ordering a few shots or picking one of the many “vodka tastings” on the menu won’t cut it.

In fact, you’ll miss out on the rich local culture and folklore, along with the fascinating stories and history behind what you’re drinking, and it certainly won’t feel like a genuine tasting experience. To truly make the most of it, you need to explore vodka through the eyes of a local, someone who can guide you in choosing the finest vodkas and the most unique, rare flavors. They’ll take you to hidden spots that are as much an experience as the drinks themselves.

This way, you’ll have the chance to sample something truly special—something you’d be unlikely to discover on your own. That’s why we highly recommend booking a vodka tour: a guided tasting that takes you through several venues in Krakow’s Old Town, offering access to a wide selection of high-quality, local vodkas you won’t want to miss.

Of course, if you’re already a vodka expert and perhaps even a local, you might feel confident venturing out on your own (stick around; we’ve got some great tips for you). Otherwise, don’t hesitate to book one of the best vodka tours available. There’s even one that’s known to be among the best in the world. So, let’s dive in and explore the top options!

♥ Our Favorite Choice

Kraków Vodka Tour by Taste Vodka Kraków

The award-winning Kraków Vodka Tour & Tasting Experience by Taste Vodka Krakow is by far the best in the city. In fact, according to Tripadvisor, it ranks among the top vodka tasting experiences not just in Krakow, but worldwide, earning the prestigious Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best. With over a thousand positive reviews and a perfect 5 out of 5-star rating on major review platforms, this tour exceeds expectations, offering an authentic, fun, and engaging experience.

Intrigued, we decided to put it to the test (you can read about our experience here), and we can confirm: it’s truly one of the must-do activities in Krakow! For around three hours, you’ll feel like you’re hanging out with a local friend you’ve known for ages, immersing yourself in the fascinating world of Polish vodka and spirits, along with local food and culture.

You’ll gain deep insights into local customs, the social role of vodka, and how it plays a key part in various events, ceremonies, and rituals—from engagements and weddings to holidays like Christmas. The guides speak fluent English and share captivating stories, facts, and anecdotes based on the real-life experiences of their families and the people of the region.

So, it’s much more than just a tasting: it’s a chance to connect with local culture and uncover fascinating things you wouldn’t learn elsewhere. As for the vodka itself, this is where the tour truly shines: it’s a fun experience at a relaxed pace, set in a friendly and laid-back atmosphere. This is exactly how a vodka tasting should be.

The tour takes you on a walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town, discovering various small bars and shops that serve some of the best vodkas you’ll ever taste. Some are hidden gems loved by locals, while others are popular and atmospheric bars where you can soak up the vintage vibes of the communist era.

This will give you the chance to discover real hidden gems and taste some of the finest artisanal spirits the region has to offer. The tasting includes at least seven top-quality vodkas and goes far beyond the famous pure and crystalline varieties, offering a unique glimpse into the fascinating world of local flavored vodkas.

For instance, you’ll visit a place that feels like an alchemist’s workshop, with dozens of colorful flasks filled with vodka-based tinctures made from herbs, spices, and fruits. These are the authentic nalewki, still homemade today following centuries-old recipes, and they are among the most traditional vodkas in the world, something you can only taste here.

The guide will help you explore over 300 different types of vodka, ranging from classic potato and rye-based pure vodkas to more complex and adventurous varieties. Even if you’re not a vodka enthusiast, you’ll uncover a whole new world and end up loving it! This vodka tour is ideal for everyone, not just vodka lovers, but anyone curious about local food and culture.

The slow pace and abundance of food ensure that even those unaccustomed to vodka will easily manage the seven shots. By the end, you might find yourself just a bit pleasantly tipsy. Speaking of food, come hungry: as tradition dictates, vodka is served alongside plenty of delicious dishes.

You’ll enjoy a variety of local snacks, ranging from kiełbasa (traditional Polish sausages) to oscypek (the famous smoked mountain cheese), crunchy pickles, as well as jams, sauces, and other regional specialties. Additionally, the tour includes a stop at a traditional pierogarnia, where you can sample a selection of excellent handmade pierogi, both sweet and savory.

This is undoubtedly one of the best experiences you can have in Krakow, and the perfect way to connect with the local food culture while enjoying an authentic and satisfying tasting of the finest Polish vodkas—trying something you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

But it’s also the most popular and sought-after vodka tour, conducted in very small groups, so it’s highly recommended to book well in advance. When you book through the official website, you can cancel anytime up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. So, what are you waiting for? Check if your date is available and book your memorable vodka tasting!

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Krakow Vodka Tasting in a Hidden Bar

There aren’t many alternatives that offer a truly authentic vodka tasting experience with excellent value for money. One such option is the Krakow Vodka Tasting in a Hidden Bar, which differs from a typical vodka tour as it doesn’t involve walking through multiple venues. Instead, it takes place in a single location.

This hidden bar is essentially a small, concealed space located in an apartment within a historic building just a few steps from the Main Market Square. Here, you won’t have the same experience as a vodka tour, as the focus will be much more centered on vodka itself. The tasting, led by an experienced English-speaking guide, lasts about 1.5 hours and includes eight different types of quality Polish vodka.

As with other tastings, this experience is accompanied by local snacks, ranging from regional sausages to pâté, pickled vegetables, and mountain cheese. It could be a great alternative for those looking for something more budget-friendly while still enjoying a quality experience away from the city’s tourist traps. Advance booking is required.

Traditional Polish Food and Drinks Tasting Tour

We typically recommend exploring traditional vodkas and regional cuisine separately, as both are serious elements of Krakow’s culture that deserve a deeper dive. It’s challenging to capture their richness in a short tour. However, if you find yourself short on time—perhaps just spending a day or two in the city—you might want to make the most of your visit and sample as much local food and drink as possible.

The Traditional Polish Food and Drinks Tasting Tour is just what you need. In about three hours, you’ll get an engaging overview of local food and drinks, covering everything from street food to traditional specialties, including a brief introduction to local vodkas. We highly recommend it as it can easily replace a lunch or dinner, given the generous amount of food you’ll enjoy!

It’s like wandering through the charming streets of Krakow’s Old Town with a local friend on a guided walking tour, where you’ll sample over ten different local specialties. The tour kicks off with some street food and regional snacks, including the famous obwarzanek (Krakow’s own bagel), followed by tastings of some of the best Polish vodkas. After that, you’ll head to a traditional restaurant for a complete meal featuring starters, soup, and a main course. To top it all off, you’ll indulge in a delightful dessert!

What You Should Know About Vodka Tasting in Krakow

Krakow stands out as one of the best cities in Poland—and indeed the world—for experiencing a vodka tasting, and the reason is clear: this is the birthplace of vodka, with roots tracing back nearly a thousand years. The earliest versions of vodka were herbal tinctures utilized for medicinal purposes, a tradition that continues to influence the region’s traditional vodkas today.

One of the first historical records of vodka, and its evolution into the pure, crystal-clear spirits we know today, dates back to the 15th century in the Sandomierz area, not far from Krakow. Polish vodkas have developed independently and differently from their Russian counterparts, and even today, they remain quite distinct.

So when you’re in Krakow, one of the must-do experiences is an authentic tasting of high-quality Polish vodkas. Typically crafted from grains or potatoes, Polish vodka is celebrated for its exceptional quality and smoothness, making it a perfect choice for tastings.

Vodka is not only Poland’s national drink but also a cornerstone of the local food culture. The locals take great pride in their spirit, often integrating it into social gatherings, celebrations, and family rituals. There’s no better way to explore this rich cultural heritage than by participating in a vodka tour or guided tasting in Krakow.

Avoid the many touristy spots that have become all too common, where subpar spirits are passed off as authentic Polish vodkas and sold at inflated prices. Instead, venture off the beaten path to discover a world of genuine vodka bars cherished by locals, small shops offering excellent regional craft spirits, and countless other hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Be sure to try some historical icons, like J.A. Baczewski Vodka Monopolowa, one of the best and most authentic Polish vodkas, distilled purely from potatoes and subtly flavored with citrus fruits. Or consider Wyborowa, a perfectly clear rye vodka that has become an iconic representation of Polish vodkas and is a staple at local gatherings on special occasions.

As your vodka tasting continues, you might try a Żubrówka, infused with bison grass—an herb that grows exclusively in the Białowieża Forest, hand-picked and dried naturally in the wind and sun—famous for its distinct herbal flavor. Or perhaps Krupnik, a honey-based vodka that’s perfect for those with a sweeter palate.

Among the best herbal vodkas, consider trying Żołądkowa Gorzka or Wódka Dzięgielówka, an infusion made with vodka and angelica. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a shot of Śliwowica Podbeskidzka, a plum-based vodka with a potent 72% alcohol content.

But an absolute must-try is nalewki, vodka infusions made with herbs and fruits. These homemade tinctures can range from sweet to spicy, featuring flavors like cherry, quince, or even herbal blends that echo centuries-old recipes. You’ll find these unique offerings only in Krakow, and nowhere else in the world.

What to Expect from a Vodka Tour in Krakow

While you can easily walk into any bar and order a tasting, a guided vodka tour takes things to another level, offering much more than just a sampling of Poland’s famous spirit. First and foremost, a vodka tour in Krakow gives you access to the rich history behind the drink. Poland has been producing vodka for nearly a thousand years, and the story behind its evolution is fascinating.

A knowledgeable guide will walk you through the history of vodka and its centuries-old traditions, but even more compelling are the stories of the folklore and social rituals tied to it. It’s especially intriguing to learn about Polish engagements and weddings, where vodka plays a central role in the celebrations and rituals.

But that’s just the beginning—there are countless other stories and anecdotes that a local guide can share, giving you a unique insight into Polish culture. From traditional toasts to the ways vodka is used in family gatherings, these narratives provide a deeper understanding of life in Krakow. Engaging with these stories will make your visit far more culturally enriching and less superficial, offering a connection to the local way of life that goes beyond the usual tourist experience.

One of the main benefits of joining a vodka tour is the curated selection of venues. These tours typically avoid the touristy bars that often serve overpriced, lower-quality vodka, leading you instead to authentic local spots. These hidden gems are often places you might never stumble upon on your own—small, cozy bars and specialty shops where locals gather, and where the vodkas are of a quality rarely found elsewhere.

Each stop offers a carefully chosen selection of premium vodkas, ranging from well-known classics to lesser-known artisanal spirits made from grains, potatoes, or infused with herbs and fruits. A vodka tour is also a social experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the best vodka tours are not just about ordering a drink and taking a shot: they are immersive and entertaining experiences.

You’ll spend an enjoyable evening in the company of people from all over the world. These tours create a fun, relaxed atmosphere where you can connect with fellow travelers and locals alike, making it more than just a tasting, it’s a memorable night out.

One important distinction to make is that a vodka tour is very different from a typical pub crawl, and a quality vodka tour should not resemble one. Many so-called “vodka tours” sold to tourists in Krakow are, in reality, overpriced pub crawls that simply shuttle visitors between bars where low-quality spirits are served in a rushed, party-like atmosphere.

While these tours may advertise themselves as vodka tastings, they often focus more on quantity than quality, leaving you with little understanding of the craft behind Polish vodka. A proper vodka tour, however, is about appreciating the spirit itself, and the history, craftsmanship, and regional differences that make Polish vodka so unique.

It’s a more curated and intimate experience, allowing you to savor carefully selected vodkas and learn from knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the subject. The focus is on authentic flavors and premium spirits, not just drinking for the sake of it. By the end of a real vodka tour, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the drink’s cultural significance, rather than just memories of a night hopping between crowded bars.

That said, if you’re after a lively night out and the fun of exploring Krakow’s nightlife, there are plenty of excellent pub crawls available. Krakow is famous for its vibrant bar scene, and some pub crawls offer a great value, with plenty of drinks and fun for an affordable price. It’s a completely different experience from a vodka tour, but one that’s perfect if your goal is to socialize and enjoy a night of spirited fun. We’ve got a guide specifically dedicated to Krakow’s Best Pub Crawls, so you can find one that suits your vibe.

On Your Own: The Best Bars for Vodka Tasting in Krakow

Taking part in a vodka tour isn’t the only way to enjoy a vodka tasting in Krakow. However, as we’ve mentioned, it’s definitely the best option if you want to go beyond simply having a few drinks. A guided tour elevates the experience, leading you through the nuances of vodka tasting and uncovering the fascinating background that Polish vodkas carry with them.

Anyone who has visited a wine-producing country and participated in a tasting knows the difference: you can walk into any bar or restaurant and order a glass of wine, but it’s just not the same as taking part in a guided tasting. It’s an entirely different experience.

That said, if you’re already an expert on Polish vodkas, or perhaps a local who knows the customs and traditions well, you might just want to treat yourself to a proper vodka tasting on your own terms, in a city that has plenty to offer in this regard.

In that case, wandering between the best vodka bars and shops that sell high-quality regional spirits and authentic homemade nalewki, you’ll be spoiled for choice with hundreds of different vodkas to try. Clear and flavored, tinctures and liqueurs. All are of the highest quality and well worth tasting. Many of these places will be happy to help you with recommendations or even set up an impromptu tasting on the spot.

As vodka enthusiasts ourselves, always on the lookout for hidden gems, we couldn’t resist sharing a few tips for those who want to organize their own vodka tasting. Among these, some are truly iconic and are well accustomed to dealing with international visitors.

Some of our favorites include a few shops like Sklep Szambelan (at Bracka 9), which specializes in homemade nalewki, Regionalne Alkohole (at Miodowa 28), and Staropolskie Trunki (on Floriańska), which offer some of the most extensive selections in the city. The latter is also something of a vodka bar, serving an impressive range of local vodkas and high-quality spirits.

On the vodka bar side, classics include Wodka Bar (at Mikołajska 5), which—as the name suggests—is a popular spot for vodka lovers, boasting an incredible selection of around a hundred traditional, high-quality vodkas as well as locally produced flavored varieties. Though it’s now quite well known among tourists, it remains one of our top picks.

For locals, especially young people and students looking for cheap drinks, Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa is a go-to. This chain of shot bars has several locations across the city (including one on Floriańska and another in Kazimierz), offering decent quality vodkas at very affordable prices. A real highlight is their lemon vodka, arguably the best in Krakow.

Other interesting tips for your trip to Krakow

Planning your trip to Krakow? Here you will find lots of resources and advice from the locals that will surely come in handy:

• Krakow Travel Guide: Things to Do in and Around Krakow
• All You Need to Know Before Going to Krakow (Best Tips for Planning Your Trip)
• Krakow Free Tours: The Best Free Walking Tours of the Old Town and its Most Beautiful Neighborhoods

Here you will also find everything you need to know about the Best Things to Do and See in Krakow and the must-do day trips: Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mines.