Traveling to Krakow by train? Here’s what you need to know:
- Domestic Routes: High-speed trains connect Krakow to major Polish cities like Warsaw (2.5 hours), Wrocław (3.5 hours), and Gdańsk (5.5 hours). Tickets for high-speed trains start at $28.80.
- International Routes: Direct trains to cities like Prague, Vienna, and Berlin. Example: Vienna to Krakow takes ~5 hours, starting at $25.
- Airport Link: A 17-minute train ride connects Krakow Airport to the city center for $4.80.
- Main Station (Kraków Główny): Centrally located, modern facilities include ticket offices, dining options, luggage storage, free Wi-Fi, and direct access to public transport.
- Booking Tickets: Buy online, via mobile apps, or at station ticket offices. Reserve seats for high-speed trains.
Krakow’s rail network is efficient, affordable, and well-connected for exploring Poland and beyond. Keep reading for details on routes, ticket prices, station amenities, and travel tips.
Train Stations in Krakow
Kraków Główny Main Station
Kraków Główny, situated on Pawia Street (31-154 Kraków) in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, is the city’s central railway station. This modern hub features five island platforms with 10 tracks, connects directly to the Galeria Krakowska shopping mall, and offers several underground access points for convenience [4].
Station Facilities
The station is well-equipped with:
- 20 ticket windows in the main hall [4]
- A PKP Intercity customer service center and tourist information desk
- Left luggage options, including lockers and staffed offices
- Free Wi‑Fi throughout the premises
- Elevators, escalators, and other accessible features
- Waiting rooms, baby changing stations, and paid restrooms with contactless payment
- ATMs, currency exchange services, and a Biedronka supermarket in the main passageway [4]
- Shower facilities available for a small fee [4]
Access Points and Services
| Access Point | Services Available |
|---|---|
| Eastern Entrance | Taxi stand, ticket offices |
| Western Entrance | Taxi stand, access to Galeria Krakowska |
| Underground Level | Platform access, retail shops |
| Level -1 | Paid parking facilities |
Public Transport Connections
The station is well-connected to public transport, with tram stops at Galeria Krakowska Zachod and an underground tunnel linking to other routes. Several bus lines, including the #292 service to the airport, stop nearby. Taxi stands are available at both the eastern and western entrances [3].
Additional Amenities
Travelers will find a variety of dining options, cafes, and bilingual signage throughout the station. A direct underground passage connects the station to Planty Park, and paid parking is accessible from the northern and eastern sides. To avoid crowded areas, consider using the ul. Lubicz exit [4].
For those exploring beyond Kraków Główny, the city also features smaller stations like Kraków Grzegórzki near the Kazimierz district and Kraków Zabłocie, conveniently located near the Oskar Schindler Museum.
With its wide range of services and facilities, Kraków Główny ensures a smooth travel experience for all passengers.
Kraków Główny Railway Station Guide
Train Companies and Routes
Several rail operators serve Kraków, connecting the city to both domestic and international destinations. These services form a key part of the city’s transportation network.
PKP Intercity Services
PKP Intercity runs long-distance trains across Poland, with Kraków as a central hub. Their fleet includes:
| Train Type | Features | Primary Routes |
|---|---|---|
| EIP (Express InterCity Premium) | High-speed Pendolino trains with a bar-bistro car; reservations required | Gdynia – Warsaw – Kraków |
| EIC (Express InterCity) | Modern, air-conditioned carriages with a restaurant car on some routes | Major Polish cities |
| IC (InterCity) | Standard express trains with air conditioning | Nationwide coverage |
| TLK (Twoje Linie Kolejowe) | Affordable service with older carriages | Extended domestic network |
In addition to these long-distance options, regional train operators provide frequent local services.
Local Train Services
Koleje Małopolskie specializes in local routes within the Małopolska region, offering convenient connections to suburban areas and nearby towns.
Polregio links Kraków with neighboring provinces. For example, their route to Oświęcim (Auschwitz) costs 15 zł (about $3.75) each way [5].
Kraków also benefits from international rail connections.
Cross-Border Train Services
Leo Express provides international train services from Kraków, offering amenities like Wi-Fi, climate control, on-board catering, and power outlets. These trains primarily connect to the Czech Republic.
To check train schedules for all operators, travelers can visit the official portalpasazera.pl website. It offers detailed timetables and real-time updates [5]. When searching for international tickets, use the Polish spelling (e.g., "Kraków" instead of "Krakow") for better results.
Train Routes to Krakow
Cross-Border Routes
Krakow is well-connected to several European cities through direct international rail services. The Vienna–Krakow route, for instance, operates two trains daily: a daytime train that takes a little over 5 hours and an overnight option lasting about 7 hours, offering sleeper accommodations. Ticket prices for the daytime service start at approximately $25, while overnight fares range from $125 to $200, depending on how close to departure you book.
| Route | Journey Time | Starting Price | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vienna–Krakow (Day) | ~5 hours | $25 | Direct |
| Vienna–Krakow (Night) | ~7 hours | $125* | Sleeper Service |
*Overnight fares may rise to approximately $200 closer to the travel date.
In addition to these international connections, Krakow benefits from a well-developed domestic rail network, making it easy to travel within Poland.
Polish Train Routes
Krakow’s domestic rail services are efficient and link the city to major destinations across Poland. The EIP Pendolino high-speed train connects Krakow, Warsaw, and Gdynia, reaching speeds of up to 125 mph. The journey from Krakow to Warsaw takes just 2 hours and 19 minutes. Other key routes include:
| Destination | Travel Time | Service Type |
|---|---|---|
| Warsaw | 2.5 hours | Direct |
| Gdańsk | 5.5 hours | Direct |
| Wrocław | 3.5 hours | Direct |
| Poznań | 5.5 hours | Direct |
| Łódź | 2.5 hours | Direct |
| Częstochowa | 1.5 hours | Direct |
The EIP Pendolino offers amenities like a bar-bistro car and requires passengers to reserve their seats in advance. For longer trips, the EuroNight sleeper train Chopin provides an overnight service from Krakow to Munich, departing at 10:44 PM and arriving at 10:24 AM the following day.
Ticket Booking Options
Online Ticket Purchase
PKP Intercity allows you to book tickets online through its website or mobile app. These platforms also support international routes. Polrail Service, an official agent for Deutsche Bahn and SNCF, offers booking services for both Polish domestic travel and European connections [6].
If you’d rather buy tickets in person, check out the next section for station options.
Buying Tickets at Stations
At Kraków Główny station, you’ll find 28 staffed ticket offices where you can purchase tickets for domestic and international travel [2]. These counters accept multiple payment methods, including credit cards [4]. Additionally, automated ticket machines are available 24/7 throughout the station, making it easy to book tickets at any time [1].
| Service Point | Payment Methods | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket Offices | Cash, Credit Cards | Station Hours |
| Ticket Machines | Cards, Cash | 24/7 |
| Left Luggage Office | Cards, Polish Zloty | Station Hours |
Other Booking Methods
For international trips, tickets can also be booked through authorized rail websites, which are especially helpful for multi-country journeys. The German Railways website (int.bahn.de) is a reliable option for routes connecting Kraków with other European cities. Tickets can be issued digitally, printed at home, or picked up at station machines.
Train Tickets and Classes
1st and 2nd Class Options
Traveling to Krakow by train offers two class options: 1st and 2nd class. EIP (Pendolino) trains provide a higher-end travel experience, while EIC and IC trains feature air-conditioned cars. TLK trains, on the other hand, use older carriages for a more basic express service. Reservations are mandatory for EIP, EIC, IC, and TLK trains. For local routes, like the one to Oswiecim, tickets can be purchased on-site without prior booking.
Here’s a closer look at ticket types and pricing for both daytime and overnight trips.
Ticket Types
Ticket prices fluctuate, so booking early often means lower costs. Flexible tickets give you more options but come at a higher price than fixed tickets.
International Routes
- Berlin: 2nd class $30.50, 1st class $41.50
- Prague: 2nd class $16.50, 1st class $38.25
- Vienna: 2nd class $36, 1st class $47
Overnight Services
- European Sleeper seating starts at $53.50
- Nightjet sleeper options:
- 6-berth Couchette: $54.50
- 4-berth Couchette: $65.50
- 3-bed Sleeper: $76
- 2-bed Sleeper: $98.50
- Single-bed Sleeper: $153
Key Features of Tickets
- Digital tickets available for mobile use or printing
- International tickets cover cross-border travel
- Night train options include sleeping accommodations
For regional trains within Poland, tickets are valid for same-day travel without a specific time requirement. Local trips, like the Oswiecim (Auschwitz) route, cost around 15 zlotys ($3.50) each way.
Getting to Your Hotel
Public Transport Links
Kraków Główny is just a 10-minute walk from the Main Market Square and connects to the city’s bus and tram network, which serves most hotel areas. To plan your route, try the "Jakdojade" mobile app. It provides schedules and route suggestions in English, making it especially handy for reaching hotels in less central locations.
You can buy tickets from station machines (cards and cash accepted), kiosks, certain convenience stores, or directly from bus or tram drivers (cash only). Don’t forget to validate your ticket immediately after boarding – inspectors from the Municipal Transport Company (MPK) conduct regular checks, and unvalidated tickets can lead to fines. If you prefer a direct transfer, taxis are also an option.
Taxi Services
Taxi and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are available at Kraków Główny. Ride-hailing apps often provide better rates compared to traditional taxis.
| Service Type | Cost to City Center |
|---|---|
| Uber/Bolt | 50–60 zł ($12–14) |
| Traditional Taxi | Starting from 109 zł ($25) |
For a smoother experience, download the Uber or Bolt app before your trip. If you need to store your luggage, the station offers two staffed left luggage offices and automatic lockers that operate with złoty coins.
City Transport System
Once you’ve arrived and settled into your hotel, Kraków’s well-organized city transport system makes it easy to get around.
Bus and Tram Network
Kraków boasts an extensive transit system with 22 tram lines, 3 night routes, and 2 express connections. These routes conveniently link Kraków Główny station to major districts and popular tourist spots [7]. The system is managed by MPK (Miejskie Przedsiębiorstwo Komunikacyjne). Their official website offers detailed route maps and up-to-date schedules in English [7].
Transport Tickets
Kraków uses a time-based ticketing system for its public transport. Here’s a quick look at the current fares:
| Ticket Type | Regular Fare | Reduced Fare |
|---|---|---|
| 20-minute | 4 zł ($0.95) | 2 zł ($0.48) |
| 60-minute | 6 zł ($1.43) | 3 zł ($0.71) |
| 90-minute | 8 zł ($1.90) | 4 zł ($0.95) |
| Airport Express | 16 zł ($3.81) | – |
You can purchase tickets from station machines, mobile apps like SkyCash and Mobilet, local kiosks, or directly from drivers (cash only) [7].
Make sure to validate your ticket immediately using the yellow machines on board. Ticket inspectors frequently check for validated tickets, and failing to comply can result in hefty fines [7].
If you plan to explore the city extensively, consider the Krakow City Pass. It provides unlimited access to public transport and includes entry to various attractions [7].
Day Trips by Train
Kraków’s rail network makes it easy to plan day trips to nearby attractions. Hop on a train and explore some of the region’s most notable destinations.
Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau
You can take a train from Kraków Główny to Oświęcim (Auschwitz) station, with several departures daily. Some journeys might require a transfer. Once at Oświęcim station, local buses or a short taxi ride will get you to the memorial.
Getting to the Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just a 20-minute train ride from Kraków [8]. Trains run frequently from Kraków Główny to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station, which is conveniently located for visitors heading to the mine. It’s a fast and affordable way to reach this historic site.
Trains to Zakopane
Kraków is connected to Zakopane, Poland’s famous mountain resort, by regular train service [8]. Known as the country’s winter capital, Zakopane offers stunning mountain views. Trains run year-round, with extra services during busy seasons. This route is popular with skiers, hikers, and those looking to experience the area’s highland culture.
Check current schedules at rozklad.pkp.pl, as train times can change with the seasons. For booking tips and travel advice, refer to earlier sections to make planning easier.
Travel by Season
Winter Train Travel
Traveling to Kraków by train in winter (December through February) requires some extra planning. Temperatures often drop below freezing, especially in January, and snow is common, which can sometimes cause delays. Be sure to allow extra time for your journey and check the latest schedules and weather updates to stay prepared for any disruptions due to snow or freezing conditions. During busy travel times, additional scheduling challenges may also arise.
Busy Travel Periods
Train travel sees a surge in passengers during summer (July and August), Easter (March/April), the shoulder seasons (May/June and September/October), and December’s holiday season. If you’re planning to travel during these times, book your tickets early to secure your spot. Keep in mind that hotel prices also tend to rise in the week leading up to Good Friday [9].
Holiday Schedule Adjustments
During holiday periods, train schedules may be adjusted. Make sure to check with railway operators for the most up-to-date timetables before your trip.
Planning Tips
To make your trip to Kraków smoother, here are some practical tips to keep in mind. Book your Kraków train tickets at least 60 days in advance to lock in better prices. For instance, 2nd class fares start at €27.99 from Berlin, €32.90 from Vienna, and €15 from Prague.
When planning your trip, pay close attention to connections. Allow extra time for transfers, especially in larger cities like Berlin or Vienna, where changing stations may take longer than expected.
For overnight journeys, sleeper options can be a smart choice. On the Kraków–Munich route, prices range from €53.50 for a 3-bed sleeper to €126.70 for a private single-bed cabin. This option combines travel and lodging, saving both time and money.
Here are a few extra tips to keep everything on track:
- Reserve seats for EIP and most EIC, IC, and TLK trains.
- Keep digital copies of your tickets handy.
- Check train layouts on vagonweb.cz for a better sense of seating arrangements.
- Watch for schedule updates, especially during busy seasons or holidays.
Kraków Główny, the main train station, is a great hub for getting around. It connects easily to the city’s metro, bus, and tram systems, and taxis are conveniently available at the station entrance.
Finally, train fares often increase as your travel date gets closer, similar to airline tickets. Booking early not only saves money but also ensures you get your preferred travel times and accommodations.
