Our guide to the price of beer in Krakow has all you need to know about the cost of frothy brews in this amazing town of clubs, pubs, and nightlife venues.
Krakow has long been a paradise for beer lovers looking for quality and affordability. While prices have crept up over the years, Krakow remains one of the most budget-friendly cities in Europe to enjoy a drink.
Compared to places like Paris, London, or even neighbouring Berlin, Poland’s historic city offers excellent value for your złoty.
Whether you’re seeking a midweek happy hour or just need a quick supermarket beer to go, Krakow’s beer scene has something for every budget.
Luckily we’re pretty big on sniffing out the finest beer deals in the city cos we also love our brews. Here’s a local guide to keeping it cheap…
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This is just one part of our complete guide to the nightlife in Krakow
What’s in this guide to the price of beer in Krakow
What is the price of beer in Krakow?
The average cost of a beer in Krakow ranges from 10 PLN to 18 PLN.
However, you’ll find a range of prices depending on the location. Supermarkets and convenience stores are where you’ll score the cheapest beers, starting as low as 3 PLN for a can of local brew.
On the other end of the scale, restaurants, hotel bars, and especially the airport can charge up to 30 PLN per beer. Whether you’re saving up or splurging, it’s easy to find a beer for any budget in this city.
Why is beer so cheap in Krakow?
The affordability of beer in Krakow is largely due to Poland’s lower overall cost of living. The minimum wage in Poland sits at about 28 PLN per hour, meaning wages and prices generally trend lower than in other European nations.
That keeps essentials (like beer, of course) at a friendlier price point. There’s also a relatively low alcohol excise duty on beer in Poland—currently 10.4 PLN per hectoliter of pure alcohol. Compare that with places like France, where beer duty is a hefty €7.96 per hectoliter, or the UK, where it’s almost four times higher than in Poland. Only Germany, Romania, and Spain impose lower alcohol taxes, helping to keep Poland’s prices appealingly low. For a deeper dive into beer taxes, check out this Beer Tax Guide.
Is the price of beer increasing in Poland?
When I first moved to Krakow in 2013, I remember heading out for a beer and paying around 4 PLN (about 80p or $1) for a glass. Sadly, those days didn’t last. I’ve watched as beer prices have slowly but steadily risen over the years, especially since the pandemic.
So, not only has inflation impacted Poland’s economy, but increasing excise duties on alcohol have also driven prices up.
The excise duty on beer is set to rise to about 12.7 PLN per hectoliter by 2027, meaning at least a 5% hike is expected due to tax alone.
Statistics back up the price hike: the average cost of beer in Poland has risen from around 2.75 PLN per 500 ml in 2017 to nearly 4 PLN per 500 ml by 2023. And while Krakow still offers affordable options, the days of 4 PLN pints are a fond memory for many locals and travelers alike.
Where can I get the cheapest beer in Krakow?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beer experience, Krakow has you covered. Here’s a rundown of the best places to grab a bargain…
First off, we’ll say this: Supermarkets are where you’ll find the cheapest beers. Local brands like Tyskie or Zywiec can go for as little as 3 PLN per can, while some craft varieties hit closer to 10 PLN. Major chains like Biedronka and Carrefour are reliable options for picking up cheap beer to take back to your accommodation or enjoy in a park (if local laws allow).
Then there are the bars that we head to when we’re a bit tight on cash…
- Alternatywy – An underground bar on Mala Rynek, Alternatywy is known for its laid-back vibes and great deals. On select midweek nights, beer prices dip to around 4 PLN for 500 ml. It can get wild here and there was once karaoke. We can’t guarantee all the great beer deals/sing songs are still going as we haven’t been back in yonks. Will make a grand return soon.
- Bania Luka – A Krakow classic, Bania Luka offers affordable drinks and eats, with schooner-sized beers priced at just 4.5 PLN. For an extra 8 PLN, you can enjoy a hot plate of Polish classics like pierogi or sausage, which pair perfectly with a cold beer. Bania Luka’s no-frills atmosphere and cheap prices make it a local favorite.
- Pijalnia Wodki Piwa – Another Krakow institution, Pijalnia Wodki Piwa (or simply “Pijalnia”) is known for its 4 PLN beers and no-nonsense vibe. This is a bar where locals and tourists mingle over budget-friendly drinks and traditional bar bites, like herring or pickles. Pijalnia’s affordability and unique setting make it a must-visit for anyone on a tight budget.
Krakow’s beer prices may be on the rise, but it’s still very possible to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.
