You’ll step inside Krakow’s Viking-inspired axe throwing club and learn the basics from a local guide before playing games with your group. Snap photos in the quirky photo booth and soak up the lively atmosphere — it’s an unexpected highlight you’ll remember long after your night out.
So, we walked into Bad Axe Krakow after Marta from our hostel insisted it was “the most Polish way to start a Friday.” The place smelled like wood shavings and something metallic — not unpleasant, just different. Our instructor, Piotr, grinned when he saw how awkwardly I held the axe at first. “Don’t worry,” he said, “everyone throws like a chicken their first time.” He showed us the grip and stance, then let us try. I missed the target completely on my first throw and nearly hit the floor instead. Piotr just laughed and gave me a thumbs up — honestly made it feel less embarrassing.
There were other groups there too — some guys in suits (corporate team thing maybe?) and a birthday crowd singing off-key in Polish between rounds. The sound of axes thunking into wood is weirdly satisfying once you get used to it. We played little games against each other; my friend Anna somehow got competitive even though she’d never thrown before. At one point, someone shouted “Viking!” and we all tried our best warrior poses for the photo booth — I probably looked ridiculous with that helmet but who cares? The vibe was friendly, not macho or intimidating like I’d worried.
I didn’t expect to actually enjoy learning a new skill on a night out in Krakow, but there’s something about focusing on your throw while everyone cheers you on that sticks with you. Even hours later, walking back through Old Town with sore arms and smelling faintly of pine, I kept replaying that one perfect throw in my head. It’s not what I thought I’d remember from this trip — but yeah, it kind of is.
Yes, you’ll learn how to safely throw axes from a trained professional at the club.
Yes, you can arrange team events or birthday parties by contacting the club directly.
The club is located in central Krakow with public transportation options nearby.
This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.
You’ll get instruction from a professional, play games within your group, and use the Vikings Photo Booth for pictures.
Your evening includes hands-on instruction from a highly trained local guide, plenty of time to play games with your friends or fellow travelers on professional lanes, plus some fun moments snapping photos at the Vikings Photo Booth before heading back out into Krakow’s nightlife.
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