The Best Rooftop Bars In Kraków

There’s nothing better than enjoying a cold beer, or cocktail – gazing over a gorgeous city from a rooftop bar.

The rooftop bars in Krakow are often hidden gems, unnoticed by tourists and even locals.The venues can be expensive, and sadly there isn’t much of a rooftop party scene. Regardless, the relaxed atmosphere and breath-taking views make it totally worth seeking them out anyway.

Vidok 

Incredible view of the river and castle

Vidok sits atop the orange Jubilat building next to the Wawel Castle. It’s a good spot for food, but what you really want is a few drinks or a bottle of wine, while you admire the view. This view honestly can’t be matched anywhere else in Krakow. That’s why this one’s at the top of our list for rooftop bars in Krakow. 

Vidok has magnificent views of the Wawel castle and the Wisła river. With fairy lights also dotted around the terrace, pictures are all the more insta-worthy from this spot. Service is also not too bad (given the usual standard in Poland). The down side to this place is that it’s not very vibey. For a spot with a good location, a perfect view, and reasonably priced food and drinks, I’m really surprised how lacklustre the ambiance is. 

Stary Hotel Sky Bar

 Looking out onto the main square and St. Mary’s Basilica

Hotel Stary Sky bar overlooks the main square in Krakow’s Old Town. It’s the perfect place for mid-week cocktails, or to kick off a summer weekend.

Fair warning – drinks are a bit pricey here. Cocktails range between 45 – 70 PLN, and wine is available only by the bottle. The view is great, but the atmosphere’s a little dead unless you’re there with a group of friends.

METRUM Restobistro

The best view of Kraków’s Old Town. Unfortunately no alcohol, but the definition of a hidden gem. 

METRUM, in stark contrast to Sky Bar, is more studenty, and always bustling with activity. However, it also feels like you’re tucked away in your own quiet, peaceful spot – be it on the terrace or inside. 

Note: We have to say straight away that unfortunately Metrum doesn’t serve alcohol at the moment. It’s amazing for coffee, cake, or a cheap lunch, but the view itself is worth forgoing the booze. Now for the difficult part – finding it.

You’ve got to make your way down a few side streets off the main square. You then head through the doors of the music academy, and up the elevator to the top floor. You can find your way to the terrace, and outside you’ll be greeted by one of the best rooftop view of the city centre. Totes worth the effort.

U Ziyada Restaurant at Przegorzaly Castle

An Uber to the outskirts of Krakow brings you atop a historic villa with beautiful views across Kraków’s Wisla valley.

Ziyada is just outright gorgeous. This lovely villa sits atop a hill on the outskirts of Kraków and has an interesting history. It was built by a prominent Polish Art Historian in the 1920’s. The villa was occupied during WW2 as a Nazi headquarters. It served as the seat of the Department of Forestry, and is now home to a fantastic hotel, bar and restaurant.

The views here are absolutely stunning. The villa sits at the edge of the Wolski Woods. If you look out from the terrace, you’re able to see across all of Krakow, the Vistula river, and on a clear day all the way south to the Tatra mountains. The wine list is extensive, the food reasonably priced, and the coffee pretty decent for a tourist spot in Poland.

Cafe Szał

Directly in the middle of the main square

If you’re after a romantic, unique venue in the city centre, Cafe Szał is definitely for you. Enjoy a coffee and a freshly- made Panini, while overlooking Kraków’s main square and St. Mary’s Basilica. Cafe Szał has gained popularity not only because of it’s desirable location, but also the quality of food on offer. Although prices are a little above average, this venue without a doubt provides a pretty special view!

Rubinstein Hotel Sky Bar

Romantic skyline views of the Wawel Castle

Kraków is a magical place, filled with a rich history. In Polish, it’s said that the Jewish quarter of the city is one of the few places where one can actually feel the past on one’s skin. On Szeroka 12, stands an old tenement house from the XVth century. This is in fact the Rubinstein Hotel, a place in which Helena Rubinstein (an icon in the cosmetic industry) once lived. On the 5th floor of this charming building, you’ll find the Sky Bar, which overlooks the Wawel Castle, Jewish quarter and Kraków’s Mounds. It’s one of the venues where you go to simply appreciate life and enjoy a delicious dinner or sunset drinks surrounded by breath-taking views. The place offers Central-European cuisine, as well as traditional Polish meals. The prices are affordable, although not as an everyday treat. Unless you say otherwise!

Opium

Rooftop Loft in the Jewish Quarter

Ever wanted to feel like a hipster, or be thrown into an American 90’s film? Well, this is your chance! Opium Music Club is a great low-level rooftop bar in Krakow. It’s located in the Jewish quarter, and offers a one of a kind opportunity to chill-out while listening to some smooth R&B or Jazz. They serve delicious cocktails in a cosy, loft-like venue. It’s perfect for a drink with friends, a date, or maybe even spending some alone time while simply enjoying the views that this part of the city provides. There’s a LOT of green here, with ivy and wild flowers, and soft music in the background. If that isn’t the definition of relaxation, then what is? However, on the weekends it can get a little bit crazy… Soft Jazz turns into 80’s and 90’s hits, rock’n’ roll and even pop! Although the atmosphere changes slightly, the prices remain untouched. Definitely affordable for a night out with friends.

Sheraton Grand Sky Bar

Fantastic river and castle view

Now if you don’t mind paying 90PLN for a glass of bubbly at this rooftop bar & lounge atop the Sheraton Hotel, then this is the place for you. Extortionary drinks prices aside, the view is really stellar. You’ve got a 230 degree view of the Vistula River and the Wawel Castle, in either the sunshine or undercover. An excellent bar for a date night drink before dinner, or an afternoon lemonade in the sunshine (much more affordable).

Definitely one of the best rooftop bars in Krakow for the view and service, but last on the list because of the price-factor. We prefer a bit more value for our money!

If you’re done checking out the rooftop bars in Krakow, why not book a vodka tasting with us to see more of the city at ground-level? Or if you’re after a great spot to stay, try our list of the best places to stay in Krakow.