The Wroclaw Bar Scene

Wroclaw is just one of those places that surprised me on a lot of different levels. After visiting Krakow and Warsaw for extended periods of time, my expectations were high, and the city more than delivered in unique ways. I had no idea what an architectural gem this place is with a Market Square that is equal parts vibrant restoration from World War II and fun nightlife. If you don’t want to venture out of the heart of the Old Town, here are my 6 picks for hitting up the Wroclaw bar scene.

6. The Wroclaw bar scene embraces sexy lighting.

With a nod to moody/red lighting, rock and roll, and boozy drinks, Whiskey in a Jar definitely makes you forget that you are in the heart of baroque Wroclaw. The edgy vibe is brimming with music and a super friendly waitstaff. The drinks are good, if not a touch generic. Still, it’s an interesting place in a great location.

The bar at the back of the space is insanely cool with lots of dark purple and up lit bottles that set the tone for a night of partying. There is even a skeleton riding a motorcycle mounted on the wall. Small concerts are held here on select nights, so be on the lookout for that. Additionally, there is a gnome near the entrance. You actually need to look pretty hard if you want to find him, but don’t worry, he’s definitely there. My hunch is that he wouldn’t want to miss a night out among the partiers flooding the Wroclaw bar scene.

5. Dance, dance, dance the night away at Heca.

Sitting in pretty much the dead center of the most beautiful buildings in Old Town, it’s impossible to miss Heca. As a solo traveler, this actually wasn’t my favorite destination, mostly because I didn’t feel like grinding with strangers to techno music in the basement of this small space. However, if you want to get your groove on with a bunch of friends amidst the hip Wroclaw bar scene, this is a great place for boogying. Just be warned that the dance floor isn’t huge, so you might want to go on the earlier side of the night.

4. Good vibes at Bernard.

Located in a historic 3-story building as part of the Wroclaw bar scene in Market Square, there is definitely an area that is more of a restaurant and a space that is more of a bar. The cocktails here are on point, and while nothing is over the top, everything is solidly good. You will find unique elements in your drink, as one of the bartenders I chatted with told me they like to incorporate surprising accoutrements. When I asked why, he told me that they try to make everything a bit special. Additionally, Bernard prides itself on serving up Czech beer. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this pub takes its name from Bernard Beer.

3. Taszka’s killer wine bar.

I was pleasantly surprised, when I haphazardly wandered in this space from the main square and landed in a truly elegant wine bar. Airy and spacious, this place is kitted out in gorgeous blue and white tiles that give off a real Mediterranean vibe. Specializing in Portuguese vino, this is a wonderful spot to stop in for a drink. Everything feels grown up, but not in a fussy way.

2. The doctor will see you now.

As a mainstay of the thriving Wroclaw bar scene, Doctor’s Bar is located in the heart of Market Square. Be warned that it is usually busy. Popular with tourists and residents alike, it is owned by the local brewery, Doctor Brew. Don’t worry if you are having trouble figuring out what you want to drink. The staff here is incredibly generous with letting you sample different beers until you find one that suits your palette. When I went, there were 8 brews on tap. And, as I have said in other posts, beer typically isn’t my thing. So, the bartender kindly let me try a variety of drafts until I found something I liked.

Bathed in white washed walls, the space feels particularly upscale with modern touches. While I definitely recommend this place for drinking, please note that it is also well liked for food. Honestly, no matter if you are tying one (or a few) on or saddling up for a meal, Doctor’s Bar is welcoming. Even as a solo traveler, I never felt uncomfortable here.

1. Embrace prohibition at SpeakEasy.

I have actually seen mixed reviews for this place online, and I have no idea why. I loved it, because the bartenders are exacting with their drinks. The bar serves up unique and clever concoctions alongside classic throwbacks. Everything is made with great care and comes out perfectly. Both of my cocktails were delicious, and the ambience felt so old school and mysterious that I couldn’t help but adore this space.

There is a lot of super comfy seating, and even the bar stools are velvet with lots of padding. The literal reference to prohibition permeates through the design and spirit of the bar with dark lighting, old school lamps, and a SpeakEasy vibe, hence the name.