Traveling to Warsaw by train is efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly. Warsaw, Poland’s capital, is a major rail hub with excellent domestic and international connections. Here’s why trains are a great choice:
- High-Speed Options: PKP Intercity’s EIP trains reach up to 124 mph, making routes like Warsaw-Krakow as quick as 2 hours 23 minutes.
- Convenient Stations: Key stations like Warszawa Centralna are in the city center, open 24/7, and connected to public transport.
- International Routes: Direct trains link Warsaw to cities like Berlin, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, with affordable fares starting at €27.99.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Trains produce up to 96.5% less CO2 than flights on similar routes.
- Modern Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and dining options are available on most trains.
Quick Comparison of Key Routes:
| Route | Duration | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Warsaw-Berlin | 5h 50m | €27.99 |
| Warsaw-Prague | 8h 30m | €28.00 |
| Warsaw-Krakow | 2h 23m | $11.45 (49 PLN) |
Whether you’re planning a domestic trip or exploring Europe, Warsaw’s rail network offers speed, comfort, and accessibility. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in.
Warsaw’s Main Train Stations
| Station | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Warszawa Centralna | City Center | Open 24/7, fully accessible, metro connection |
| Warszawa Wschodnia | East of Vistula River | 7 platforms, 800+ daily trains, limited accessibility |
| Warszawa Zachodnia | Western Warsaw | Links to international buses, undergoing renovation |
Warszawa Centralna Station
Located in the heart of Warsaw, Warszawa Centralna is the city’s main railway hub. This station operates around the clock, offering ticket offices, luggage storage, and free Wi-Fi. It’s directly connected to the Centrum Metro station and nearby landmarks through an underground passage that links it to Warszawa Śródmieście WKD and Warszawa Śródmieście PKP stations [2]. Passengers can enjoy a range of amenities, including VIP waiting lounges, a supermarket, cafés, charging points, currency exchange, and 24/7 restrooms.
Warszawa Wschodnia Station
Warszawa Wschodnia is the city’s second-largest station and handled 13.5 million passengers in 2022, ranking as Poland’s fifth busiest [6]. With over 800 trains passing through daily [4], it features seven platforms connected by tunnels. Available facilities include:
- Ticket offices and vending machines
- Luggage lockers
- Dining options
- A pharmacy and supermarket
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- A taxi stand
However, the station faces challenges. Its platforms are only partially covered, and accessibility for disabled passengers remains limited [5].
Warszawa Zachodnia Station
Warszawa Zachodnia serves both rail passengers and international bus travelers [3]. While undergoing renovation, it remains a crucial hub for domestic and international routes. Basic services are available, and public transportation ensures regular connections to central Warsaw.
These stations form the backbone of Warsaw’s extensive rail network, each playing a unique role in connecting the city.
Train Companies and Routes
After learning about Warsaw’s train stations, let’s dive into the key rail operators and the routes they manage, both within Poland and internationally.
Three main railway companies serve Warsaw, each specializing in specific types of travel and destinations.
PKP Intercity Services
PKP Intercity offers long-distance and international train services across Poland. Their fleet includes four service categories, each tailored to different needs:
| Service Type | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| EIP | High-speed premium service | Modern trains, business-class options |
| EIC | Long-distance express | First and second-class seating |
| IC | Standard long-distance | Comfortable, affordable travel |
| TLK | Budget-friendly long-distance | Basic amenities, lower fares |
For international routes, PKP Intercity connects Warsaw to major European cities:
| Route | Duration | Service Type |
|---|---|---|
| Warsaw-Berlin | 5h 50m | EuroCity |
| Warsaw-Prague | 8h 30m | EuroCity |
| Warsaw-Budapest | 11h 25m | EuroCity/Euro Night |
| Warsaw-Vienna | 7h 15m | EuroCity |
While PKP Intercity handles premium and long-distance routes, regional travel is managed by other operators.
Koleje Mazowieckie (KM)
Koleje Mazowieckie specializes in regional travel within the Masovian region, including the Warsaw metropolitan area. Their network connects passengers to key regional destinations and offers convenient access to Modlin Airport. The airport service includes:
- A train to Modlin station.
- A shuttle bus to the airport terminal.
- Integration with Warsaw’s public transportation system.
Passengers with a valid one-day Warsaw transit ticket can ride KM trains for free [8].
Additionally, SKM Warszawa complements these regional services with frequent local connections.
SKM Warszawa Local Trains
SKM Warszawa operates a suburban train network, linking Warsaw’s neighborhoods with nearby communities. Fully integrated with the city’s public transportation system, SKM allows easy transfers between trains, metros, trams, and buses.
SKM trains serve all three major Warsaw stations (Centralna, Wschodnia, and Zachodnia) and provide regular connections to:
- Warsaw Chopin Airport
- Business hubs
- Residential areas
- Shopping destinations
- Schools and universities
Timetables for SKM and other rail services can be found on the unified Polish rail platform [8].
International Train Routes
Warsaw’s position as a key rail hub makes it a prime starting point for international train travel across Europe. With modern amenities and direct connections, it’s easy to reach several major European capitals.
Berlin-Warsaw Trains
The Warszawa/Gdynia-Berlin-Express runs several times daily between the two capitals, completing the trip in about 5 hours. Passengers can choose between first- and second-class seating, and there’s also a restaurant car for added convenience. Tickets start at roughly $30.79 (€27.99) for second class and $41.79 (€37.99) for first class [11]. Additionally, there are direct train options linking Warsaw and Prague.
Prague-Warsaw Trains
Three direct trains operate daily between Warsaw and Prague [9]. The EuroNight sleeper train departs Warsaw Centralna at 8:00 PM and arrives at Prague Hlavni at 7:51 AM, covering about 740 km (460 miles). Second-class tickets are priced from approximately $30.80 (€28), while first-class options begin at around $52.80 (€48) [1].
Vienna-Warsaw Trains
The "Chopin" EuroNight service offers both daytime and overnight options. The overnight train leaves Warsaw Centralna at 8:00 PM and arrives at Vienna Hauptbahnhof by 5:25 AM. Travelers can enjoy air-conditioned EuroCity coaches, a variety of seating and sleeping arrangements, and a restaurant car. Second-class fares start at about $47.19 (€42.90) [1].
Make sure to have the proper travel documents. EU citizens can travel with an ID card, while others will need a passport and possibly a visa. Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure [10].
Trains Within Poland
Poland’s domestic rail routes connect Warsaw to major cities across the country, complementing its international services and playing a key role in the nation’s transportation network.
Warsaw-Krakow Trains
The Warsaw-Krakow route sees around 30 daily departures [12]. The fastest option, the Express InterCity Premium (EIP), completes the trip in just 2 hours and 23 minutes. Other services take up to 4 hours and 3 minutes [12].
Here’s a quick breakdown of train types on this route:
| Train Type | Travel Time | Features | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| EIP Pendolino | 2h 23m | Air conditioning, buffet car, complimentary drinks | $11.45 (49 PLN) |
| EIC | 2h 45m | Modern coaches with reserved seating | $9.35 (40 PLN) |
| IC/TLK | 3h – 4h | Budget-friendly with basic amenities | $8.75 (37.40 PLN) |
Warsaw-Gdansk Trains
The Warsaw-Gdansk route offers about 24 daily departures [13]. The quickest EIP trains cover the distance in 2 hours and 36 minutes, while other services take up to 3 hours and 41 minutes [13]. These trains operate on a modernized line, reaching speeds of up to 124 mph (200 km/h) [7].
EIP "Pendolino" trains include features like:
- Mandatory seat reservations
- Complimentary drinks in first class
- Access to a buffet car
- Air-conditioned carriages
- Power outlets at seats
Warsaw-Wroclaw Trains
Traveling between Warsaw and Wroclaw? This route offers around 17 daily departures [12], served by Express InterCity (EIC) and InterCity (IC) trains. Passengers can choose between first and second class seating. Seat reservations are mandatory and cost 3 PLN when purchased at Polish train stations [7]. Keep in mind that tickets are specific to the operator you choose.
How to Buy Tickets
Here’s how you can purchase Warsaw train tickets using different methods:
Website Booking
You can buy tickets for Warsaw trains through official rail websites or platforms like PolishTrains.eu. These sites support multiple languages, accept major credit cards, and send tickets directly via email or SMS [15].
Apps and Station Tickets
The Jakdojade app (available for iOS and Android) is a handy tool for real-time transit updates, interactive route maps, and intercity travel planning. It’s frequently updated with station details and integrated features for seamless trip management [16][17].
Prefer in-person service? Tickets can also be purchased at staffed station counters, which accept credit cards.
Other Booking Options
For more complex itineraries, specialized rail booking platforms might be a better fit. Additionally, PKP InterCity conductors onboard trains can process payments via mobile credit card systems.
| Booking Method | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Station Ticket Office | In-person help, instant ticket issuance | Last-minute trips, cash transactions |
| Official Website | Easy booking with competitive fares | Advance planning, simple routes |
| Mobile Apps | Real-time updates, digital ticket storage | Local travel, flexible scheduling |
Train Classes and Fares
Class Differences
Polish trains provide both first- and second-class options, each catering to different needs. For example, on IC trains traveling from Warsaw to Krakow, a first-class ticket costs around $25, while second class is priced at $17. EIP first-class passengers enjoy perks like complimentary meals and extra legroom, whereas other IC services include a refreshment service and a free drink.
Train Types and Speeds
Polish rail services include a variety of train types, each offering unique features:
- Regio: Local trains with second-class seating only.
- TLK: Regional trains offering both first- and second-class seating, along with a refreshment trolley.
- IC: Inter-regional trains equipped with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a buffet car.
- Express InterCity (EIC): Premium trains featuring a restaurant car and complimentary drinks.
- EIP Pendolino: High-speed trains with reserved seating, a buffet car, and meal service for first-class passengers.
These differences also affect ticketing and reservation rules.
Ticket Options
Seat reservations are required for all PKP InterCity services, including TLK, IC, EIC, and EIP trains [14]. Domestic tickets can be purchased up to 30 days in advance, while international tickets are available 60 days ahead. Local Polregio services, on the other hand, offer unreserved seating. Tickets can also be bought directly from onboard conductors (except on EIP trains), though additional fees may apply.
For the fastest travel option, EIP Pendolino trains connect Warsaw to Krakow at a high-speed rate. A basic fare for this route costs approximately €30 ($33) [18].
Station Transport Links
Taxi Services
At all Warsaw train stations, you’ll find official taxi services like Opti Taxi, Tanie Taxi, Atu Taxi, Ele Taxi, and iTaxi. These services typically charge a base fare of $2–$2.50 (7–8 PLN) and about $0.90 (3 PLN) per km during the day or $1.35 (4.50 PLN) per km in the evening [21]. For instance, a quick 8-minute ride connects Warszawa Centralna and Warszawa Wschodnia [19]. Stick to taxis with visible meters to avoid issues. If taxis aren’t your preference, Warsaw’s public transport system is another convenient way to get around.
City Transport Links
Warsaw boasts an extensive public transit network, making it easy to travel across the city. The system includes metro lines, trams, and buses, all operating on a unified ticketing system. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options:
| Transport Type | Operating Hours | Single Ticket Cost | Daily Ticket Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Lines | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | $1 (3.40 PLN) | $4.50 (15 PLN) |
| Trams | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | $1 (3.40 PLN) | $4.50 (15 PLN) |
| Day Buses | 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM | $1 (3.40 PLN) | $4.50 (15 PLN) |
| Night Buses | 11:00 PM – 5:00 AM | $1 (3.40 PLN) | $4.50 (15 PLN) |
The metro is a particularly fast option. For instance, you can travel from Warsaw Centralna to Warsaw Gdanska in just 7 minutes on metro Line M1 [19].
Walking Routes
For shorter distances, walking is a great choice. Warsaw Centralna is well-placed for exploring the city on foot. The historic Old Town Square, for example, is just 2.7 kilometers away, a walk of about 33 minutes [19]. The station is equipped with escalators and elevators, making it easy for travelers with luggage [19].
Warsaw Wschodnia also has useful amenities, including a Costa Coffee, minimarkets, and a pharmacy [19]. To plan your walking routes or integrate them with public transport, the Jakdojade app is a handy tool [20].
Travel by Season
Planning train travel in Warsaw requires understanding how the seasons can impact schedules and conditions.
Winter Travel
Traveling to Warsaw in winter, from December to February, comes with its own challenges. Temperatures often drop below freezing, which can disrupt rail schedules [23]. Reports from September 2024 highlight frequent weather-related issues, such as train cancellations and temporary border crossing closures [22].
| Winter Travel Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Weather Delays | Expect frequent updates to schedules due to snow and rain |
| Border Crossings | Severe weather may lead to temporary closures |
| Night Trains | Book early, especially for routes serving winter sports destinations |
| Temperature Range | Below 32°F (0°C), which can affect station operations |
As winter conditions ease, travel patterns naturally adjust.
Summer Travel
Summer is the busiest travel season in Warsaw, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10–24°C). This period sees a significant increase in passenger numbers [24].
Here’s what to expect:
- More Frequent Services: Certain routes run more often to meet tourist demand [7].
- Advance Booking: Essential for popular routes during the peak season [24].
- Comfortable Conditions: Most modern trains are equipped with air conditioning for a pleasant ride.
Holiday Travel
Polish holidays and festivals can lead to schedule changes [7]. It’s important to check official websites for updates and secure tickets in advance.
Quick Facts
Here’s a quick overview of Warsaw’s rail network and travel essentials:
| Station Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | City center |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible for passengers with disabilities |
| Facilities | Includes shopping centers and underground passages |
| Connections | Direct links to key areas of the city |
| Notable Landmarks | Złote Tarasy, Palace of Culture and Science |
Key Journey Times:
- Berlin: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Vienna: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Krakow: 2 hours 18 minutes [1]
Travel Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Seat reservations are required for EIP, EIC, IC, and most TLK trains [1].
- Stations display both platform (peron) and track (tor) numbers [19].
- Stops at Centralna are typically brief, lasting just a few minutes [19].
- Personal alcohol consumption is not allowed in regular seating cars [19].
Getting Around the Station:
Warszawa Centralna offers modern facilities and excellent connectivity. Its underground network connects directly to major landmarks like Varso Tower and the Złote Tarasy shopping center [2]. The station is fully equipped for passengers with heavy luggage and ensures easy navigation for everyone [3]. Plus, its central location makes it a great starting point for exploring Warsaw’s top attractions [3].
