{"id":197091,"date":"2026-04-26T10:01:18","date_gmt":"2026-04-26T09:01:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/?p=197091"},"modified":"2026-04-26T10:34:21","modified_gmt":"2026-04-26T09:34:21","slug":"warsaw-to-krakow-train","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/blog\/warsaw-to-krakow-train\/","title":{"rendered":"Warsaw to Krakow by Train: Times, Tickets, Prices and Passes"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/span><\/span>Viktiga slutsatser<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
  • The train journey from Warsaw to Krakow covers approximately 250\u2013300 km and takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes on the fastest services, with an average journey time of around 3 hours and 3 minutes across all train types.<\/li>\n
  • There are around 23 direct trains operating daily between the two cities via PKP Intercity, running from early morning until late evening with no changes needed.<\/li>\n
  • One-way fares in second class start from around 60\u201380 PLN when booked in advance on promotional offers, rising to 120\u2013180 PLN for standard tickets, and prices increase significantly closer to departure.<\/li>\n
  • Both Interrail and Eurail passes are valid on PKP Intercity services, but you\u2019ll still need to pay for a separate seat reservation \u2013 for just this route, a point-to-point ticket usually works out cheaper.<\/li>\n
  • Departures are mainly from Warszawa Centralna, arrivals at Krak\u00f3w G\u0142\u00f3wny, both central stations with easy connections to city transport and within walking distance of key attractions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    <\/span><\/span>Warsaw to Krakow Train Basics (Answering Your Core Questions Fast)<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

    Let\u2019s cut straight to it. The Warsaw to Krakow train is one of the most popular routes in Poland, and direct connections run throughout the day. The fastest trains complete the trip in about 2 hours and 47 minutes, while the average journey time sits around 3 hours and 3 minutes depending on stops. Trains from Warsaw to Krakow typically cover a distance of 250 km (approximately 157 miles), making rail the most practical way to travel between the two cities for most passengers.<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Distance by rail: approximately 250\u2013300 km depending on route variant<\/li>\n
    • Fastest journey: around 2 hours 20\u201347 minutes on EIP Pendolino<\/li>\n
    • Average journey: about 3 hours across all train types<\/li>\n
    • Daily frequency: around 23 direct trains, with frequencies reaching 18 to 34 trains per 24 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      For a typical weekday in October 2026, expect the first train to depart Warszawa Centralna around 05:00\u201306:00, with the last train leaving around 21:00\u201322:00. Train times vary by timetable change, so check the current Krakow train timetable close to your travel date.<\/p>\n

      The main train types on this route are EIP (Express InterCity Premium Pendolino) as the fastest and usually most expensive option, followed by EIC (Express InterCity) and IC trains which are slightly slower but often more affordable.<\/p>\n

      <\/span><\/span>Timetables and Frequency<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

      Trains commonly run from early morning until late evening, with at least 2\u20133 departures per hour across all categories during peak daytime periods.<\/p>\n

        \n
      • EIP (Express InterCity Premium Pendolino):<\/strong> About 2 hours 20\u201330 minutes on the fastest runs<\/li>\n
      • EIC (Express InterCity):<\/strong> Usually around 2 hours 30\u201345 minutes<\/li>\n
      • IC (InterCity):<\/strong> Often 2 hours 35 to over 3 hours depending on stops<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        The first train from Warsaw to Krakow typically departs just after 05:00, while the last train leaves around 21:00\u201322:00. These are patterns rather than fixed times \u2013 always verify against current schedules.<\/p>\n

        Most services are direct with no need to change. Occasional slower regional combinations exist but are rarely worth considering unless travelling very late at night or during engineering works. Direct connections remain the standard for this route.<\/p>\n

        <\/span><\/span>Train Operators and Train Types on the Route<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

        This route is dominated by PKP Intercity, Poland\u2019s national operator. While booking platforms may display names like Deutsche Bahn or RegioJet, these merely facilitate ticket sales \u2013 the trains themselves are operated by PKP Intercity trains. Deutsche Bahn and RegioJet provide direct services through booking partnerships, but you\u2019ll be riding Polish rolling stock.<\/p>\n

        EIP (Express InterCity Premium) Pendolino:<\/strong><\/p>\n

          \n
        • The high speed train flagship with compulsory seat reservations<\/li>\n
        • EIP trains feature air conditioning, reclining seats, and power outlets throughout<\/li>\n
        • The fastest Warsaw to Krakow option, usually priced higher than other categories<\/li>\n
        • Express InterCity Premium represents the top tier for comfort and speed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          EIC (Express InterCity) Trains:<\/strong><\/p>\n

            \n
          • Classic express services with comfortable carriages in first class and second class<\/li>\n
          • Slightly slower than Pendolino but still a fast train covering the distance efficiently<\/li>\n
          • Features a restaurant car on most services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            IC Trains:<\/strong><\/p>\n

              \n
            • Modernised carriages with 1st and 2nd class seats<\/li>\n
            • Sometimes includes a bistro or trolley service for snacks and drinks<\/li>\n
            • More stops mean marginally longer travel time but often the best value<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              PKP Intercity also operates TLK (Tanie Linie Kolejowe), which offers budget travel options using older rolling stock and taking longer journey times \u2013 not ideal for this corridor when faster options are available.<\/p>\n

              All these intercity services differ sharply from regional operators like Koleje Mazowieckie or Polregio, which would require changes and dramatically inflate your trip duration.<\/p>\n

              <\/span><\/span>Tickets, Prices and How to Book<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

              Ticket pricing operates on a yield-management system: the ticket price depends on train category, class, promotional availability, and booking timing.<\/p>\n

              Realistic price ranges in PLN for one-way 2nd class:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                \n
              • EIP:<\/strong> Promo fares from about 80\u2013120 PLN, standard fares 180\u2013250 PLN<\/li>\n
              • EIC\/IC:<\/strong> Promo fares from about 60\u201390 PLN, standard fares 120\u2013180 PLN<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                The cheapest ticket price for a train from Warsaw to Krakow is approximately \u20ac5 (around 22 PLN), while the average ticket price is around \u20ac24 (roughly 105 PLN). Train tickets from Warsaw to Krakow can start from as little as \u20ac10 when booked in advance, while average prices reach around \u20ac37 if purchased on the day of travel.<\/p>\n

                First class typically costs 30\u201360% more than second class, offering more space, a quieter environment, and sometimes included refreshments on selected services.<\/p>\n

                Main ticket types:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                  \n
                • Kampanjpriser:<\/strong> Tied to a specific train, limited availability, cheapest option<\/li>\n
                • Standard fares:<\/strong> More flexibility for changes or refunds<\/li>\n
                • Weekend\/Family discounts:<\/strong> 20\u201330% reductions on qualifying trips<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Tips f\u00f6r bokning:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                    \n
                  • Tickets for intercity trains usually go on sale 30 to 60 days in advance, with early booking securing the lowest rates<\/li>\n
                  • Tickets can typically be purchased up to 30 days in advance, allowing you to take advantage of early booking discounts<\/li>\n
                  • Ticket costs can vary significantly based on booking time, often ranging from approximately $6\u2013$25 when booked in advance to over $100 for last-minute purchases<\/li>\n
                  • Avoid peak departures like Friday evening and Sunday afternoon when prices and occupancy spike<\/li>\n
                  • Book train tickets through the official PKP website or apps \u2013 digital e-tickets with QR codes are scanned alongside ID<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    It is recommended to book train tickets in advance to secure lower prices and ensure availability. I recommend buying early whenever possible. Train tickets from Warsaw to Krakow can be booked online, with options available through various platforms including official railway websites and independent booking services.<\/p>\n

                    <\/span><\/span>From City to Train: Stations in Warsaw and Krakow<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

                    Both main stations sit close to historic centres and are straightforward to navigate.<\/p>\n

                    Warszawa Centralna:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                      \n
                    • Major departure point for the train from Warsaw to Krakow, with long-distance platforms beneath a central concourse<\/li>\n
                    • Connected to tram, bus, and metro M1 lines, right in the business and shopping district<\/li>\n
                    • Facilities include ticket counters, machines, left-luggage lockers (20\u201350 PLN\/day), waiting rooms, food outlets, and lifts for accessibility<\/li>\n
                    • Arrive 15\u201320 minutes early to scan departure boards and locate your platform<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      Other Warsaw stations:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                        \n
                      • Warszawa Wschodnia and Warszawa Zachodnia sometimes handle through trains<\/li>\n
                      • Your ticket specifies the correct boarding point \u2013 check before your journey start<\/li>\n
                      • Transfer between stations takes 5\u201315 minutes by S-Bahn or taxi (20\u201340 PLN)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        Krak\u00f3w G\u0142\u00f3wny:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                          \n
                        • Main arrival station located just north of the Old Town, integrated with Galeria Krakowska mall and the bus station<\/li>\n
                        • Walking distance to the historic centre is around 10\u201315 minutes on foot \u2013 you can reach Mary\u2019s Basilica and Rynek G\u0142\u00f3wny easily<\/li>\n
                        • Tram lines 1\/6\/8 provide quick connections to Wawel and other city attractions<\/li>\n
                        • Services include ticket offices, information desk, lockers, ATMs, and clear signage in Polish and English<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                          <\/span><\/span>Platsreservationer, klasser och upplevelser ombord<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

                          All PKP Intercity long-distance IC trains on this route run with compulsory or strongly recommended seat reservations, which are usually included automatically when you buy a ticket. Reservations are mandatory on all EIP trains and most other Intercity services, typically included in the ticket price.<\/p>\n

                          Andra klass:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                            \n
                          • Typical 2+2 seating with a mix of airline-style rows and facing comfortable seats with tables<\/li>\n
                          • Power outlets at or between seats on most modern carriages<\/li>\n
                          • Second Class on trains between Warsaw and Krakow includes comfortable seats with power outlets, fold-down tables, and free WiFi on certain services<\/li>\n
                          • Overhead luggage racks and larger shelves at carriage ends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            F\u00f6rsta klass:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                              \n
                            • 2+1 seating layout with wider class seats, more legroom, and quieter coaches<\/li>\n
                            • Trains from Warsaw to Krakow typically offer both First Class and Second Class seating options, with First Class providing more spacious seating and additional amenities such as complimentary food and drink service at your seat<\/li>\n
                            • On some EIP and EIC services, at-seat service is available<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                              Bagage:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                \n
                              • No formal weight limits for normal suitcases and backpacks \u2013 treat it like a transport box situation where common sense applies<\/li>\n
                              • Trains generally have dedicated luggage racks and overhead storage, with EIP trains offering more spacious storage than older IC\/TLK models<\/li>\n
                              • Extremely large items may incur a small fee<\/li>\n
                              • Keep valuables with you, stow heavy bags in end-of-carriage racks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                Onboard facilities:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                  \n
                                • Toilets in each or most carriages, air conditioning on EIP\/EIC\/IC services<\/li>\n
                                • Many trains on the Warsaw to Krakow route feature dining cars where passengers can purchase a variety of food and beverages, including local Polish dishes<\/li>\n
                                • Onboard services on EIP and EIC trains include a complimentary drink for all passengers<\/li>\n
                                • A restaurant car, bistro, or trolley offers hot meals, snacks and drinks at mid-range Polish prices<\/li>\n
                                • Wi-Fi availability varies \u2013 download tickets and entertainment offline as backup<\/li>\n
                                • Small pets and assistance dogs are permitted with appropriate documentation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                  <\/span><\/span>Rail Passes on the Warsaw\u2013Krakow Route (Interrail & Eurail)<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

                                  Both Interrail and Eurail passes are generally accepted on PKP Intercity trains in Poland, including EIP, EIC, and IC services between Warsaw and Krakow. You can travel free with your pass on these services, but there\u2019s a catch.<\/p>\n

                                  Even with a pass, you must obtain a seat reservation for each long-distance train:<\/p>\n

                                    \n
                                  • IC and EIC reservations: approximately 20\u201330 PLN<\/li>\n
                                  • EIP (Pendolino) reservations: around 40\u201360 PLN, and they can sell out \u2013 reserve as early as possible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                    V\u00e4rdebed\u00f6mning:<\/strong> A typical one-way point-to-point fare costs around 120\u2013180 PLN bought in advance for 2nd class on IC\/EIC. Compare that to the per-day cost of a rail pass. A 4-day Interrail pass might work out to roughly 1500 PLN, which would cover maybe three round-trips \u2013 but you\u2019d still pay reservation fees on top.<\/p>\n

                                    Practical example:<\/strong> If you\u2019re only travelling Warsaw to Krakow and perhaps one other Polish leg, a pass is usually not cost-effective. Your best bet is point-to-point tickets. For travellers taking multiple long-distance trains across several countries in Europe, the pass math starts to work.<\/p>\n

                                    Pass holders must carry both the physical or digital pass and any required reservation slip. Conductors will check both onboard \u2013 plan accordingly.<\/p>\n

                                    <\/span><\/span>If Direct Trains Are Unavailable: Alternative Options<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

                                    Direct services are the norm on this route, but during very late-night hours, engineering works, or specific dates, you might face limited choices.<\/p>\n

                                    Slower rail combinations within Poland:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                      \n
                                    • Regional trains via intermediate cities (such as Katowice or Radom) significantly increase travel time \u2013 often 5\u20137 hours or more<\/li>\n
                                    • May require separate tickets for regional operators like Polregio at 50\u2013100 PLN per leg<\/li>\n
                                    • Only consider this as a last resort<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                      Non-train alternatives:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                        \n
                                      • Long-distance buses (FlixBus and others): usually cheaper fares in PLN but slower at 4\u20136 hours, departing from road-based stations outside city centres<\/li>\n
                                      • Domestic flights (Warsaw Chopin to Krak\u00f3w Balice): short 50-minute airtime but 2\u20133 hours added for transfers and security, typically 200\u2013500 PLN total \u2013 rarely worth it unless combining with international connections<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                        Whenever at least one daytime PKP Intercity service operates, the direct train remains the most efficient choice. Departing from central city locations beats airport logistics every time. There\u2019s no LTG Link service on this route \u2013 stick with PKP Intercity for domestic travel between these two cities.<\/p>\n

                                        <\/span><\/span>Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

                                        Polish long-distance trains are easy to use, but a few habits make travel even smoother.<\/p>\n

                                        Check-in and boarding:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                          \n
                                        • Arrive 15\u201320 minutes before departure to locate your platform, especially at busy Warszawa Centralna<\/li>\n
                                        • Read departure boards for train number, destination, departure time, and platform \u2013 announcements are usually Polish first, sometimes English<\/li>\n
                                        • Day tickets don\u2019t require early check-in \u2013 just find your carriage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                          Seat and carriage location:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                            \n
                                          • Reservation slips or e-tickets show carriage and seat numbers<\/li>\n
                                          • Carriage numbering is displayed on the outside of the train<\/li>\n
                                          • Board the correct carriage from the journey start to avoid navigating crowded aisles with luggage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                            Etiquette and comfort:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                              \n
                                            • Quiet phone use, keep luggage out of aisles, don\u2019t occupy reserved seats<\/li>\n
                                            • Bring water and food even though the car with catering is available \u2013 prices are mid-range but convenience varies<\/li>\n
                                            • Light layers help since air conditioning can run cool<\/li>\n
                                            • Relax and enjoy the scenery through central Poland<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                              Keep an eye on announcements for minor delays or platform changes during busy periods. Conductors are helpful if you have questions \u2013 don\u2019t hesitate to ask.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Warsaw to Krakow by PKP Intercity: fastest 2h20\u20132h45. ~23 direct trains daily from Centralna to G\u0142\u00f3wny. Fares from 60 PLN.","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":132847,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"ilj_linkdefinition":["Warsaw to Krakow by train","Warsaw to Krakow train","Warsaw{-2}Krakow"],"csco_display_header_overlay":false,"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[60],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-197091","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-route","8":"cs-entry"},"acf":{"reseller_list":"","operator_list":"","destination_country":"","summary":"","related_destinations":"","dynamic_map":"","show_related_destinations":false,"faq_items":[{"question":"Do I need to print my ticket for the Warsaw to Krakow train?","answer":"Digital tickets on a smartphone are widely accepted on PKP Intercity trains. Keep your QR or bar code clearly visible, and have matching identification ready where required. Printing works as a useful backup if you\u2019re worried about battery life, but it\u2019s not mandatory when using official e-tickets from PKP or authorised platforms. DB trains or other international booking confirmations should also work digitally."},{"question":"How early should I arrive at Warszawa Centralna before departure?","answer":"If you\u2019re unfamiliar with the train station layout, arrive around 20\u201330 minutes early to find the correct platform and carriage, especially during peak hours. Frequent travellers who know the station can arrive closer to 10\u201315 minutes before departure. There are no airport-style security checks \u2013 simply find your train and board. The course from station entrance to platform is straightforward once you\u2019ve done it once."},{"question":"Is the Warsaw to Krakow train safe to take at night?","answer":"PKP Intercity trains on this route are generally considered safe, including evening services. Conductors are present throughout, and other passengers populate the carriages. Standard personal safety practices apply: keep valuables in sight, use bag locks if desired, and choose a reasonably populated carriage. Night services running after 22:00 are less frequent but remain staffed and monitored."},{"question":"Can I take a bike on the Warsaw to Krakow train?","answer":"Some IC and EIC trains offer limited bike spaces that must be reserved and paid for separately (typically 10\u201320 PLN), subject to availability. EIP Pendolino trains usually have stricter rules and may not accept full-size bikes. Check specific train details when you book and purchase the bike supplement where allowed. Folding bikes in bags are more flexible."},{"question":"What happens if my train is delayed or cancelled?","answer":"Minor delays are handled simply \u2013 your ticket remains valid, and arrival times adjust accordingly. For significant disruptions or cancellations, contact PKP Intercity staff at ticket desks for rebooking options. Under EU rail passenger rights, delays over 60 minutes may trigger compensation at 25\u201350% of ticket value. Keep receipts if additional expenses occur, and use discount codes for future bookings when offered as goodwill gestures."}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197091","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=197091"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197091\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":197108,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/197091\/revisions\/197108"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/132847"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=197091"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=197091"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/everyrail.com\/sv\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=197091"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}