By now, you’ve had a taste of December in Kraków that’s anything but one-note. We’ve covered everything from Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights to The December Drinking Scene in Kraków , checked out Christmas Markets & Mulled Wine | Finding That Good Feeling in Kraków, and dipped into Craft Beers & Kazimierz | Winter Warmers in the Old Jewish Quarter . You’ve got some context: beer, wine, festivals, markets, and the quirks of Polish holiday cheer.
Now, it’s time to go deeper. December isn’t just about sipping what you already know. Poland’s got a history of crafted, infused spirits that go way back. While vodka is the headliner, there’s more under the surface: mead (miód pitny), those mysterious homemade nalewki (infused liquors), and other drinks that tie into a different side of the country’s character. Let’s take a look.
When you think of mead, you might picture medieval banquets, knights, and huge wooden tables. You’re not totally off. Mead (miód pitny) is a honey-based drink that’s been around here for centuries. It’s sweet, sometimes too sweet for some people, but it warms you up in a way that feels old school, like you’re stepping into a piece of Poland’s past every time you raise a glass.
You’ll find mead in certain bars and at the Christmas Market, where it’s often served hot. Cold December evenings are the perfect excuse to give it a whirl. It’s not something you’ll down in large quantities—this stuff is more for sipping, letting the flavors unfold. Maybe you’re chatting with a friend, discussing how the month’s going, or just standing outside wrapped in a scarf. Mead turns a cold moment into something more thoughtful.
Now, let’s talk nalewki. These are traditional Polish infused spirits that can range from sweet and fruity to herbal and mysterious. Cherry (wiśniówka), quince (pigwówka), and walnut (orzechówka) are just a few examples. Think of nalewki like someone’s grandma’s secret recipe—often homemade, aged in jars, and passed down through generations. They’re not just drinks; they’re stories in a bottle.
This time of year, nalewki hit the spot. They warm you up, feel a bit more personal than a generic vodka or beer, and carry a certain pride. When someone pours you a glass of their homemade nalewka, it’s like they’re inviting you into their family circle. December’s about connection, tradition, and a sense of belonging—nalewki tie right into that vibe.
You won’t always see mead or nalewki advertised with neon signs. They’re subtle pleasures—ask your bartender if they have any local specialties. Some bars in Kazimierz or quieter spots around Old Town might surprise you with their selection. Don’t be afraid to admit you’re new to this. Bartenders and locals are usually happy to guide you through the options. Compare notes, try a couple, and find the flavor that sticks. It’s a bit like treasure hunting, except your reward is a glass of something you probably can’t pronounce but will love anyway.
December’s got all these moving parts: holidays, markets, traditions that go back generations. Mead and nalewki fit right into that puzzle. If you’ve been following along, you know we’ve experienced the festive chaos of Mikołajki, the warm glow of Christmas markets, and even ventured into craft beers in Kazimierz. Mead and nalewki bring in a different dimension. They’re less about the party atmosphere and more about slowing down, appreciating the depth of the season.
Picture this: you’ve had your fill of mulled wine and beer, the city’s a bit quieter tonight, and you’re in a low-lit bar talking quietly with friends. That’s when a small glass of nalewka or mead makes sense. It’s reflective, unhurried drinking. It can turn a casual night into something more meaningful.
Don’t forget the snacks. A bit of dried sausage, a slice of cheese, or a piece of smoked fish can bring out the flavors in your nalewka. Mead pairs well with sweeter treats—gingerbread, maybe some dried fruit. The right combination might make you feel like you’re tasting part of Poland’s cultural memory.
And while you’re at it, share stories. Talk about where you’re from, what brought you to Kraków this December, and what you’ve learned along the way. One of the best parts of these traditional drinks is how they open the door to conversation. They’re not shot-after-shot party starters. They’re more like a gentle invitation to slow down and listen.
You might be wondering how something so old school and mellow fits with the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl. Well, even party animals need a break from the madness. Sure, the crawl is about hitting hot spots and meeting people ready to have a good time. But mixing in a bar that serves mead or nalewki can add a twist to the night. It shows a different side of Kraków’s drinking culture, something beyond the standard club-and-shots routine.
If you’ve been reading about how we navigate this city all month, you know variety is key. One night you’re laughing over mulled wine in the Christmas Market, the next you’re sampling craft beers in Kazimierz. Now imagine sharing a nalewka or mead with a couple of strangers who have never tried it before. That’s how friendships start, and how travel memories get made.
December in Kraków isn’t about following a strict itinerary. It’s about stumbling onto experiences—some loud and rowdy, others quiet and rich. Mead and nalewki fit into that second category. They’re for the nights when you want to go a little deeper, taste something handcrafted, and feel connected to the generations who’ve raised glasses before you.
So, as you map out your December drinking adventures, put these infused spirits on your list. It’s not all about the hottest club or the cheapest beer. Sometimes it’s about savoring a drink that carries a bit of history, a bit of tradition, and a flavor you won’t soon forget. Cheers to that.