Warsaw to Krakow
Complete transport guide covering the EIP high-speed train, buses, and flights with prices, journey times, and booking tips
Warsaw to Krakow is Poland's most popular intercity route, connecting the modern capital with the historic cultural heart of the country. Whether you want the speed and comfort of the EIP high-speed train, the budget-friendliness of a FlixBus, or a quick flight connection, here is everything you need to know to choose the right option and book your journey.
Quick Comparison
| Transport | Time | Cost | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EIP Train | 2h 20m | 80-180 zl | High | Most travelers |
| Bus | 4-5 hours | 30-60 zl | Medium | Budget travelers |
| Flight | 1 hour (+transfers) | 150-400 zl | High | Connecting flights |
3 Ways to Get from Warsaw to Krakow
EIP Train
2 hours 20 minutes80-180 zlPKP Intercity (EIP Express InterCity Premium)
The EIP high-speed train is the fastest and most popular way to travel between Warsaw and Krakow. Trains depart from Warsaw Centralna station every 30-60 minutes and arrive at Krakow Glowny, which is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. The EIP is modern, comfortable, and reliable with free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a bistro car. This is the route that most travelers and locals prefer.
Pros
- +Fastest option at just 2 hours 20 minutes city-centre to city-centre
- +Trains depart every 30-60 minutes throughout the day
- +Advance fares start from just 80 zl when booked early
- +Krakow Glowny station is a 5-minute walk from the Old Town — seamless arrival
Cons
- -Peak-time fares can reach 150-180 zl without advance booking
- -Popular Friday afternoon and Sunday evening trains sell out weeks ahead
- -First class is comfortable but the price premium (50%) is not essential
- -Limited luggage space on busy services — board early for overhead rack space
Bus
4-5 hours30-60 zlFlixBus, PolskiBus (now part of FlixBus), Lux Express
FlixBus is the main operator on the Warsaw-Krakow route with multiple daily departures. Buses depart from Warsaw Zachodnia (West) bus station and arrive at Krakow MDA bus station, which is adjacent to the main train station and a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. Buses are modern with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reclining seats.
Pros
- +Cheapest option starting from just 30 zl when booked in advance
- +Multiple daily departures with flexible scheduling
- +Comfortable modern coaches with Wi-Fi and power outlets
- +Direct service with no changes required
Cons
- -Takes 4-5 hours — roughly double the EIP train time
- -Traffic delays can extend the journey, especially on Friday evenings
- -Less legroom and comfort than the train for the duration
- -Warsaw Zachodnia station is less central than Warsaw Centralna
Flight
1 hour150-400 zlLOT Polish Airlines, Ryanair
LOT Polish Airlines operates several daily flights between Warsaw Chopin (WAW) and Krakow Balice (KRK). The flight time is just 55 minutes, but factoring in airport transfers, check-in, and security, the total door-to-door time is 3.5-4.5 hours — similar to or longer than the EIP train. Flights make sense primarily for connecting passengers or those with exceptional fare deals.
Pros
- +Flight time is just 55 minutes — the actual flying is quick
- +Good for passengers connecting from international flights at Warsaw Chopin
- +LOT frequently offers promotional fares of 150-200 zl
- +Krakow airport is only 20 minutes from the city centre by train
Cons
- -Door-to-door time is 3.5-4.5 hours — barely faster than the EIP train
- -Airport transfers at both ends add significant time and cost
- -Full fares of 300-400 zl make it much more expensive than the train
- -Checked baggage costs extra on budget fares (50-100 zl per bag)
EIP Train Tips
Booking Platforms
Book directly on intercity.pl or the e-IC mobile app for the best prices and easiest ticket management. Tickets are fully digital — just show the QR code on your phone. Third-party platforms like Omio and Trainline also sell PKP tickets but may add a booking fee. Always check intercity.pl first.
Station Information
Depart from Warsaw Centralna — the city's main station in the heart of the centre, directly below the Palace of Culture. Arrive at Krakow Glowny — a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Both stations have food outlets, ATMs, and luggage storage. Platforms are well-signed in Polish and English.
Which Class to Choose
Second Class (80-130 zl): Comfortable seats with good legroom, power outlets, and free Wi-Fi. Perfectly fine for a 2.5-hour journey. First Class (120-200 zl): Wider seats, more legroom, quieter carriages, and complimentary water. Nice but not essential for this short route.
Pro Tips
Arrive 10-15 minutes before departure to find your seat. Window seats on the left side offer views of the Polish countryside. The bistro car serves coffee, snacks, and beer. Keep your ticket accessible for conductor checks (usually once during the journey). Free Wi-Fi is available but bring entertainment as backup.
Bus Tips
Departure Points
Most FlixBus services depart from Warsaw Zachodnia (West Station), which is connected to the centre by bus and tram. Some services also stop at Warsaw Centralna bus stop. In Krakow, buses arrive at the MDA bus station next to Krakow Glowny train station — equally convenient for reaching the Old Town.
Comfort and Amenities
FlixBus coaches are modern with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and an onboard toilet. Legroom is adequate but less generous than the EIP train. Bring a neck pillow for added comfort. Lux Express buses tend to have slightly more legroom and complimentary hot drinks on board.
What to Do First in Krakow
Just arrived at Krakow Glowny? Here is how to make the most of your first day.
Main Market Square & St. Mary's
Walk 5 minutes from the station through the Barbican gate into the Old Town. Head straight to Rynek Glowny — Europe's largest medieval market square. Listen for the hourly trumpet call (hejnal) from St. Mary's Basilica tower. Grab a coffee at one of the square's historic cafes and soak in the atmosphere.
Wawel Castle & Royal Hill
Walk south along Grodzka Street to Wawel Hill. Explore the Royal Castle, the Cathedral (where Polish kings were crowned), and the Dragon's Den cave. The views from the castle walls over the Vistula River are stunning. Allow 2-3 hours for the full Wawel experience.
Kazimierz & Dinner
Head to Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter now filled with atmospheric restaurants, bars, and cafes. Have dinner at a traditional Polish restaurant — try pierogi, zurek, or placki ziemniaczane. After dinner, explore the area's famous cellar bars for craft beer or Polish vodka.
Our Recommendation
EIP Train
For most travelers, the EIP train is the clear winner. Just 2 hours 20 minutes, comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and a seamless arrival in the heart of Krakow. Book 2-4 weeks ahead on intercity.pl for advance fares from 80 zl. The best balance of speed, comfort, and price.
FlixBus
At 30-60 zl, the bus is unbeatable on price. The 4-5 hour journey is comfortable enough with Wi-Fi and reclining seats. Best for budget travelers who have time to spare and want to save the difference for pierogi and beer in Krakow.
Flight
Only recommended if you are connecting from an international flight at Warsaw Chopin airport or find a promotional fare under 150 zl. For standalone Warsaw-to-Krakow travel, the EIP train beats flying on total door-to-door time and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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