By now, everyone knows Kraków is charming. It’s got cobbled streets, a castle straight out of a fairytale, and more pigeons than you can shake a baguette at. But let’s get to the real reason you came to this corner of Poland: the baked goods.
Yes, pierogi get the headlines, but Kraków’s bakeries are where the real flour power lies. So, loosen your belt a notch and prepare your inner carbivore—we’re about to take a buttery, flaky, gloriously gluten-filled journey through Kraków’s best bakeries. Without further ado, here are the best bakeries in Kraków;
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Stara Pączkarnia
If you’re on a mission to find the best pączki in Kraków—and let’s face it, you should be—Stara Pączkarnia is your holy grail. Tucked behind a small walk-up window, this place serves up piping hot pączki so fresh, you can actually watch them being made right in front of you. These deep-fried Polish doughnuts are traditionally filled with rose jam.
However, the real fun lies in the modern twist: think oozy blueberry, rich toffee, indulgent bounty (yes, like the coconut-chocolate bar), salted caramel, and several chocolate variations. Whether you’re a dessert purist or a flavor adventurer, pączki from Stara Pączkarnia prove that Kraków absolutely nails dessert.
Cukiernia Cichowscy
Cukiernia Cichowscy is one of Kraków’s most timeless spots to indulge your sweet tooth. Established back in 1945, this classic café and bakery is a nostalgic portal to post-war Poland, complete with an interior that feels lovingly untouched by modern trends. The elegant, old-fashioned design evokes the kind of charm you’d expect from a European patisserie frozen in time—in the most delightful way.
It’s the perfect place to pause your sightseeing and savor a quiet moment over cakes, biscuits, and handmade chocolates. Among the standouts is their kremówka, a traditional Polish cream cake so perfectly executed it might ruin you for all others. For those in a hurry or simply wanting to bring a little sweetness home, the takeaway counter offers the same irresistible delights to go.
Zaczyn
Zaczyn is a standout among Kraków’s modern bakeries, offering a fresh, contemporary take on classic baked goods. Known for its excellent variety of breads, breakfast items, and irresistible sweet buns, it’s a local favorite that draws loyal crowds. It gets worse on Sundays as the line spills out the door in anticipation of the next batch from the oven. But the wait is worth it!
The wheat-rye bread, in particular, strikes a perfect balance between hearty and flavorful. Also, the sweet buns—filled with custard and topped with either raspberry or baked peach—are the kind of treat that stays with you long after the last bite. The peach version delivers one of the most memorable food experiences Kraków has to offer (just be careful—it comes with a heat warning).
Lajkonik Piekarnia i Kawiarnia
Lajkonik Piekarnia i Kawiarnia is a distinctive spot where the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee. It’s a cozy haven perfect for a quiet morning or an afternoon break, offering an array of fluffy buns, indulgent cakes, and generously filled sandwiches all prepared on-site.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy to lose track of time while savoring something sweet or savory. It’s the kind of place where the food delights, the setting soothes, and the taste may just surprise you.
Piekarnia Mojego Taty
Piekarnia Mojego Taty is a beloved Kraków bakery known for its hearty breads, golden croissants, and perfectly chewy obwarzanki. However, the real scene-stealer might just be their traditional Polish flatbreads. Baked fresh throughout the day, these hand-held treats are made from bread dough and generously filled with savory ingredients.
Equally tempting is their lineup of sweet, yeast-based baked goods—fluffy buns and fruit-studded pancakes. The pancakes are made with plum, strawberry, gooseberry, or peach, all finished with a thick, crumbly topping that tastes like childhood and comfort rolled into one. Whether you’re after a rustic loaf or a dessert that sticks to your fingers, this bakery delivers classic Polish flavors in every bite.
Massolit Books and Cafe
Massolit Books and Cafe is a charming refuge for anyone who believes that literature and cake are natural companions. Tucked away in Kraków, this old-school bookshop retains the feel of a bygone era. It’s filled with creaky wooden shelves and obscure titles you didn’t know you needed until you found them.
Beyond the books, it doubles as a cozy cafe, serving a tempting array of vegetarian-friendly dishes and homemade cakes that have earned a loyal following. Run for years by owner David, Massolit has become something of a cultural institution, offering both intellectual sustenance and a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.
Wesoła Cafe
Since 2014, Wesoła Cafe has quietly become one of Kraków’s most beloved spots for a top-tier cup of coffee. But caffeine alone isn’t what keeps locals and travelers returning. The cozy café also offers a tempting lineup of homemade cakes, perfect for rounding off a long chat or a lazy morning.
Wesoła’s all-day breakfasts are a mainstay, while weekday lunches add a savory touch to the menu. Recently expanded after a decade of success, the space now extends into the evening, welcoming guests with natural wines and carefully crafted dishes. With its laid-back vibe and genuinely cheerful energy, it’s more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to linger.
Charlotte
Charlotte has become something of a Kraków institution, blending the elegance of a French patisserie with the relaxed charm of a bistro and wine bar. Found in the heart of the Old Town at Plac Szczepański, this bustling spot draws locals and tourists alike with its timeless appeal.
Known for its all-day breakfast offerings, Charlotte tempts with crisp croissants, fresh baguettes, and delicate French pastries that arrive from the oven with clockwork precision. The menu leans into French culinary tradition with a selection of tartines and open-faced sandwiches.
Conclusion
Kraków might be famous for dragons and medieval squares, but the city’s real magic lies behind its bakery counters. Whether you like your bread crusty and existential or sweet and sprinkled with poppyseeds, Kraków delivers.
