17 Steps Cocktail Bar

Imagine a place where classic elegance meets the modern art of mixology—that's the perfect description for 17 Schodów Cocktail Bar. Located in Szczecin, this unique bar was the first in the region to boast a truly grand collection of spirits. It houses over 450 different bottles from around the globe, making it a mecca for connoisseurs of fine drinks visiting Poland.

17 Steps Cocktail Bar. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The name of the establishment has a literal meaning: exactly 17 steps lead guests down into the cozy basement of a historic tenement house in the Podzamcze district. There, on level -1, you'll find the heart of the bar—a magnificent eight-meter counter with soft lighting that immediately draws the eye. The atmosphere is infused with the aesthetics of jazz, soul, and blues, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed evening or a romantic date.

This bar isn't just a spot on the map; it's an expert-recognized destination, ranked among the best in the world by TripAdvisor (Travellers’ Choice). A professional team of bartenders and the meticulous attention to detail in the interior transform a simple drink into a true aesthetic experience. If you're looking for a place with soul and world-class service, this cocktail bar is a must-add to your city itinerary.

For your convenience, we've gathered the establishment's current contact information. If you're planning a visit with a large group, we recommend contacting the staff in advance.

At 17 Schodów Cocktail Bar, the primary attraction is the immersion into the world of professional mixology. You don't have to just order from the menu; you can chat with the bartender, who will craft a personalized cocktail based entirely on your preferences. Watching masterpieces with perfect presentation come to life behind the 8-meter bar is a visual delight in itself.

For those who love atmospheric relaxation, the sounds of jazz, blues, and soul regularly fill the air, with live music nights often held on Wednesdays. It's the perfect time to grab a cozy table and savor a retro-style moment. Be sure to try their signature snacks—the aperitifs here are curated to perfectly enhance the flavors of your chosen drink.

Since the bar is highly popular with both locals and tourists, we strongly recommend booking a table in advance, especially if you're planning to visit on a Friday or Saturday. The bar offers free Wi-Fi and accepts card payments, ensuring a comfortable experience. It's a great spot to either kick off a long night in Szczecin or provide a smooth, relaxing finale to a busy day of sightseeing.

The 17 Schodów Cocktail Bar is located at Targ Rybny 1, right in the heart of Szczecin's historic district. If you're already in the city center, a pleasant walk to the bar won't take long. From the main railway station, Szczecin Główny, you can reach it on foot in just 10–15 minutes while enjoying views of the Oder embankment.

For those who prefer public transport, trams 1, 3, 6, 7, and 8 stop nearby. The closest stops are Plac Rodła or Rybny Rynek, both just a couple of minutes' walk from the bar's entrance. If you're taking a taxi, simply give the driver the name of the Podzamcze district—it's one of the most popular areas in the city.

Travelers arriving from Szczecin-Goleniów Airport will find it most convenient to take a shuttle to the city center (about a 45-minute trip) and then transfer to local transport or walk. Please note that parking in the Old Town area is limited, so walking or cycling is the best way to get around this part of the city.

17 Schodów Cocktail Bar is a landmark of the modern bar culture that Poland has recently embraced. It was the first of its kind in the city, offering guests more than just drinks—a true collection of liquid art. The bar's location in a beautiful tenement house in the Podzamcze district highlights the link between the city's historical heritage and its contemporary rhythm.

Interestingly, the name 17 Schodów is not just a catchy phrase; it's a literal description of the visitor's journey to the "heart" of the venue. Guests must descend exactly 17 steps to reach level -1. There, they are greeted by an impressive eight-meter bar counter, which is considered one of the longest and most stylishly designed in the region.

Although the bar itself is a relatively young establishment, it quickly gained recognition and earned a spot among the world's best venues according to TripAdvisor. This achievement was made possible by the expertise of its founders from Event Bar, who brought a professional approach to mixology and service. Today, the place is seen as a modern classic that carefully preserves the atmosphere of old-school speakeasy bars.

The Podzamcze district, where the bar is situated, is a historical gem in its own right. The restored buildings and cobblestone streets provide the perfect backdrop for a venue specializing in both classic and signature drinks. A visit here allows travelers to experience the continuity of hospitality traditions within the architectural charm of old Szczecin.

To fully appreciate the skill of the bartenders and the cozy atmosphere, we recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours for your visit. This is enough time to sample one or two signature cocktails from the extensive menu and enjoy some exquisite appetizers.

If your visit coincides with a live music night (such as on Wednesdays) or if you're visiting with a large group for a leisurely catch-up, time will fly by, and you could easily spend the entire evening here. Keep in mind that the bar is extremely popular on weekends, so it's best to arrive early or book a table to avoid waiting for a seat.

17 Schodów focuses on evening and nighttime entertainment. Please note that Monday is a day off, and the establishment is closed.

On all other days, the bar doors open at 18:00. From Tuesday to Thursday, the bar operates until 01:00; on Friday and Saturday, the hours are extended until 02:00; and on Sunday, it closes at midnight. We recommend arriving shortly after opening if you want to secure a spot at the legendary bar counter without a prior reservation.

Szczecin is a city of rich architecture and numerous interesting locations, many of which are within walking distance of the bar. A stroll through the historic center after your visit is the perfect way to end the evening.