travel from krakow airport to city centre

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From Krakow Airport to the City Center: All You Need to Know

Krakow is well connected with major European cities, and its Kraków John Paul II International Airport is located just 15 km from the city center . Getting from Krakow Airport to the City Center is pretty easy, you have a wide choice of options depending on your needs. Here you will find all the useful information you need.

What you will find in this guide on how to go from Krakow Airport to the City Center:

Krakow airport: useful information for travelers

From krakow airport to the city center by bus, from krakow airport to the city center by train, transfer from krakow airport to the city center, from krakow airport to the city center by taxi, rent a car at krakow airport.

Krakow Airport is well connected to the City Center. In about 20-30 minutes you can easily reach the Krakow Old Town . The airport is open 24 hours a day, however for those arriving at night there are fewer options available, because trains don’t run at night (from midnight to 5.30) and night buses run less frequently than during the day, so it could be advisable to book a private transfer in advance, which is a comfortable and inexpensive solution (starting at only € 4-5 per person) and takes you directly to your hotel.

If you want to go from Krakow Airport to the city center on your own, the fastest way is by train (about 20 minutes). Public buses take around 50 minutes to reach Krakow Main Station.

The cheapest way is to go from Krakow Airport to the city center by bus (starts from 4.60 PLN). The train ticket is also quite cheap, starting from 12 PLN per person, one way.

Many people arrive at Katowice Airport instead of Krakow John Paul II International Airport (also called Krakow Balice Airport). Katowice Airport is located approximately 105 km from Krakow City Center , approximately 1.5 hours drive. In this case the best and cheapest solution is to book a private transfer .

The cheapest way to get from Krakow Airport to the City Center is by bus. However, it is also the slowest and least comfortable way, especially if you are traveling with your family and with heavy suitcases.

Public transport buses depart from a stop located just outside Arrivals. When you exit the main terminal building you have to go to the right, until you meet the separate lanes of the bus and taxi stop.

Tickets can be purchased from the ticket machines located in the Arrivals Hall and at the bus stop. You can recognize your ticket machine by the inscription “Krakowska Karta Miejska” and the name of the public transport company MPK SA. The ticket machine also accepts Visa and Mastercard credit cards, which is handy if you haven’t changed your coins yet. In Poland, the official currency is the Złoty. Euro is not accepted!

The ticket you need to go to Krakow’s City Center is the regular Agglomeration Zone I + II ticket , single journey (50 minutes), as the journey time from Krakow Airport to the City Center is approximately 50 minutes . The ticket price is 4.60 PLN. If you have the Krakow City Card you can take the bus for free. This card is very convenient, as it allows you to take all public transport and visit all the Krakow Museums for free.

Between 5.20 and 21.30 , Bus 208 departs hourly for Dworzec Główny Wschód, which is the main bus stop in the City Center, right next to the Krakow Main Station and within walking distance of the Krakow Old Town. This is the last stop, so you don’t have to be worried about getting off at the wrong place. You can check the timetable here .

Between 11.25pm ​​and 4.55am you can take the Night Bus 902 , which departs hourly for Dworzec Główny Wschód. There are no buses between 9.30pm and 11.25pm. You can check the timetable here .

The 252 bus, which also runs from this stop, does not take you to Krakow City Center, so you have to avoid it.

The train is a cheap and fast way to go from Krakow Airport to the City Center. The train station is located near the passenger terminal. From the Arrivals Hall you can simply follow the signs in English for “Train to city” , a footbridge directly connects the station with the terminals.

Tickets can be purchased from the ticket machines located in the Arrivals Hall and at the station. In the Arrivals Hall, the ticket machines are to the left of the currency exchanges. The right ticket machine is the one with the “Małopolska Karta Aglomeracy” sign.

You can select the language you prefer (including English) and you can also pay by Visa or Mastercard credit card. The ticket from Krakow Airport to Krakow Main Station costs 12 PLN.

Trains run between 05.25 and 24.39 and take approximately 20 minutes from the Airport to the City Center. The trains are modern and comfortable. You can find the timetables here .

The most convenient way to get from Krakow Airport to the City Center is to book a private transfer in advance . Transfers in Krakow are quite cheap , so they are a great choice, especially if you are traveling as a couple or as a family.

The most important thing is to book your transfer from a reputable, fully licensed and legal operator. This is because it is the only way to avoid running into scams and unpleasant situations.

We advise you to book with the most popular agencies , such as Civitatis and GetYourGuide , which offer the best value for money and guarantee the safety and quality of service , as well as excellent assistance.

Your driver will pick you up directly at the airport, will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall with a sign with your name on it, and will take you in the shortest possible time directly to your hotel or place of your choice in Krakow. The drivers are licensed professionals, speak several languages ​​and drive new and comfortable cars.

And if you are a large group , no problem: in addition to cars you can also book minibuses and coaches at unbeatable prices.

Another common option for getting from Krakow Airport to the City Center is by taxi, of course.

Official taxis have a dedicated lane right in front of the terminals building. As soon as you go outside the Arrivals Hall, just go left and it will be the first thing you will see.

Kraków Airport Taxi runs a flat-rate with set prices , and the fare from the airport to the city center is 89 PLN (roughly 20 €). This is because if you want to go by taxi, it may be better to book a private transfer in advance, which is more convenient.

If you want to visit the wonderful region around Krakow and drive to some of the most famous locations, such as Zakopane , Sandomierz , Katowice or Auschwitz , you could hire a car.

There are several car rental companies at Krakow Airport, located on the top floor of Arrivals. Just follow the signs that say “Rent a Car” and “Travel Agencies” . It is advisable to book in advance , in order to obtain much cheaper rates. You can find the best and cheapest car rentals on popular websites like Discovercars.com and Rentalcars.com .

Renting a car in Krakow can be quite cheap, and is a great choice if you want to make the most of your holidays in Southern Poland. Here you can find our guide on how to choose the best car rental in Krakow .

Useful Tips for Your Trip to Krakow

Here you will find ALL the advice you need about the  Best Things to Do and See in Krakow  and unmissable day trips, such as the one to  Auschwitz  and the one to the  Wieliczka Salt Mines .

Planning your trip to Krakow?  These are our in-depth guides with everything you need to know to plan an amazing trip to Krakow:

• Krakow Travel Guide: Things to do in and around Krakow
• All You Need to Know Before Going to Krakow (Best Tips for Planning Your Trip)

Experience Krakow

Krakow Travel Guide by a Local Native

How to get from Krakow Airport to Main Station, Old Town, City Center

When arriving to Krakow Airport, there are lots of ways to get to the Main Station:

• private drivers.

The cost of getting from the Airport to the city center varies from 4 zł (PLN) for a public bus, up to 100 zł (PLN) for a taxi.

There’s also a big difference in traveling time: the train will usually get you to the center twice as fast as any other method.

Some of these means of transport have free WiFi internet, electric outlets to charge your devices, bathrooms etc…

Read on to learn the important details.

Differences between the Main Station, Dworzec Glowny, Galeria Krakowska, Old Town, City Center, Main Market Square etc.

First, let’s explain, that the Main Station in Krakow is called “Dworzec Glowny” – that’s the Polish translation and the name on most of the stops surrounding the station. The station is a central hub for both public buses & trams, as well as trains, private buses, private minibuses and long-distance private buses (the “ RDA ” – Regionalny Dworzec Autobusowy , translated to: Regional Bus Station). The tour buses for guided tours also usually leave from around the main station.

The main station is connected (literally) with a shopping center called “Galeria Krakowska”. It is also about 1 km (0.5 miles) away from the Old Town & Main Market Square, which is also known as the center of the city.

Therefore, no matter if you want to go to the Main Station, Dworzec Glowny, Old Town, Galeria Krakowska, Main Square, City Center – you usually mean the same place. Just to be sure you end up where you want to be, use the Main Station, Dworzec Glowny or Galeria Krakowska naming . The Old Town & Main Market Square is a 10 minute walk away from the station, while the center of the city can be considered as a wider area.

What’s the fastest way to get to the center of Krakow from the airport?

• Taking the train is the fastest way to reach the center of Krakow. It’s a 20 minute ride.
• Taxis, ubers & private drivers will drive you to the center in about 35 minutes.
• Public buses usually take 50 minutes to reach the main station (they have many stops along the way).

If you take a public bus, taxi, private driver or an uber around 7:00 – 10:00 or 16:00 – 19:00, your travel time might easily double or triple, as these are the high traffic hours in Krakow. The train is not affected by traffic.

What’s the cheapest way to get to the Main Station from the airport?

• A public bus is the cheapest way to travel between the airport in Krakow & the main station (Dworzec Glowny). You need to buy an  agglomerative (Zone 1 + 2)  version of the ticket, since the airport is outside of the standard city zone. You can view the current prices here . Right now, an agglomerative ticket costs 4 zł (PLN) per person.
• The train is more expensive, but still cheap. It costs 9 zł (PLN) per person.
• Private drivers & uber drivers are not registered as taxis, so they usually don’t pay taxes or have the needed exams taken. This also allows them to lower the costs to about 40 zł (PLN). I highly discourage you from using these means of transport – you don’t have any rights when traveling this way.
• Taxis have taximeters installed, but sometimes you can agree on a fixed price when entering the vehicle. The price depends on the time of day (night is more expensive). There’s a starting fee of about 7 zł and then the price per km gets added and changes when you enter the city. Usually you’ll end up with a taxi price of around 90 zł (PLN) at daytime.

Is there a metro (subway, tube) in Krakow?

Nope, there is no subway in Krakow and there might never be, as whenever you stick a shovel into the ground, you find a monument that needs to be preserved. We built on top of the old structures, so now it’s a bit hard to make a metro.

The public transport is very well organized though, so don’t worry.

So, what’s the BEST way to get to the center?

By far, the best way to travel from the Krakow – Balice Airport to the center of Krakow is a train. Reasons being:

• It’s cheap.
• It’s fast.
• You have a lot of ways to get a ticket (including a cash / credit card machine & person on the train).
• You have a lot of space for your bags.
• You have free access to a bathroom.
• You have free access to WiFi internet.
• You have free access to electrical outlets (sockets) to charge your devices.
• You can hear the station names via the speakers and have a LCD display to see when you should get off.
• It’s clean & safe.

This is a no-brainer. The only circumstance at which you’d want to use something else are:

• when you arrive at the airport very late at night and the trains don’t run that late (which we’ll get into in a moment),
• when your accommodation is far from the main station and it’s better to take a cab or get off the public bus before reaching the station.

How to get a train ticket at the Krakow – Balice Airport?

You can get a train ticket:

• At the airport terminal in a machine (you can pay with cash or a credit card). When you leave the Arrivals zone, you will be on the bottom floor. There’s a ticket machine right next to the moving stairs, basically in front of Arrivals. Look around and you’ll see a black column which shows the time when the nearest train leaves. After buying the ticket, go up a level using the moving stairs and turn left to walk through a bridge straight to the train station.
• At the airport train station in a machine (you can pay with cash or a credit card).
• Inside the train in a machine (you can pay with cash or a credit card) – be sure you immediately go find the machine after entering the train or you may be fined for traveling without a ticket.
• Inside the train from a conductor (you can only pay with cash) – be sure to immediately go find the conductor (he should be in the 1st wagon) and say you want to purchase a ticket or you will be fined for traveling without one.

The price of the ticket is the same everywhere, so people usually buy it from the conductor.

By default, the ticket is valid for 2 hours and the start of that time is set to the nearest train departure for your route. If you want, you can ask the conductor or click a button on the ticket-selling machine and buy a ticket that will be good for a future ride, but you will have to specify the exact time the validation starts. Therefore, it’s usually best to buy the ticket just before or right when entering the train.

Krakow Airport train schedules – IMPORTANT CHANGES

The last train usually leaves at 00:20 and the next (first) train of the day leaves at 04:30 in the morning. The train leaves roughly every 30 minutes.

IMPORTANT CHANGES! Until 10th March 2018, the railroad is under maintenance. This means that some trains are replaced with buses. These temporary replacement buses are different from the standard public buses, mentioned above. They have a different path (as close to the train path as possible), less stops and the same price as a train (9 zł). Be sure to follow the procedure below to know if you should go to the train station to catch a train or go to the bus stop to catch a replacement bus.

• Open the official airport schedule website (click to open in a new tab) .
• Wait for the website to fully load. You will then see a search form at the top.
• In the first field, enter “airport”. You will see a hint with the full station name – click it.
• In the second field, enter only the letter “g”. You will see a hint with “Dworzec Główny” – click it (that’s the main station).
• Choose your estimated train departure date & time (I advise 40 minutes after the plane lands) and click “Find Connection”.

You will see a schedule. The train ride usually takes around 20 minutes. If the length is somewhere around 35 – 45 minutes, it means that it’s a replacement bus. You can also tell the difference from the little icons on a long line on this page – if it’s a train, the icon shows a train and a “OSOB.” text. If it’s a replacement bus, the icon shows a bus and a “ZAST.” text.

If the ride takes about 40 minutes but the text says “OSOB.”, it’s probably a mistake and it’s actually a replacement bus, not a train.

Sometimes it’s better to relax at the airport and wait for a train rather than go for the replacement or public transport bus (at which point they are quite similar, the public transport having more stops though but being half the price of the replacement bus).

The replacement buses leave from the same bus stop at which the normal public buses leave. It’s on the bottom floor, right in front of the Arrivals at the terminal building. If you want to ride it, ask the driver if this is a train replacement bus. The replacement bus doesn’t have a ticket machine inside, but you can still go with the ticket which you bought at the airport or buy it from the conductor.

Public transport schedule – day & night buses from Krakow Airport

The public transport buses leave from a stop which is right outside the Arrivals of the main terminal building. There is a public transport ticket machine somewhere at the terminal (or at the bus stop), but I don’t remember where, to be honest – just ask around.

Don’t mistake the train ticket machine with the public transport ticket machine. The public transport ticket machine has the letters “MPK” all around it (it’s the name of the public transport company), while the train ticket machine has trains all over it. They are two totally different companies.

The ticket for the public transport is not valid right after purchasing it. You can use it even a year later or give it to someone else.

• If it’s a 1 journey ticket, the ride starts when you validate the ticket in a machine which is on the vehicle you enter. When you leave the machine, the ticket is no longer valid and you can throw it away.
• If it’s a time-based ticket, the timer starts when you validate the ticket in a machine which is on the first vehicle you enter. You can then leave the vehicle and get to any other one (tram or bus), at which you don’t validate the ticket any more. The ticket expires when the time limit is reached, starting from the 1st validation. When you enter the ticket to the validating machine, it will print numbers on it. The last 4 digits are the hour and minute at which the validation occurred.

When you go from the airport to Krakow’s center, you’ll likely buy the “Single journey or 40 minutes” agglomerative ticket, which costs 4 zł per person. The price of the ticket is the same everywhere you buy it. The price for public transport is the same no matter if it’s the middle of the day or if you’re riding a night bus.

To get the current timetable (for buses, it changes from time to time):

• Open the official public transport schedule website (click to open in a new tab) .
• Use the search field under “List of stops”. Type in “airport” and click the hinted stop name. Then, hit Enter (Return) on your keyboard.
• You will see a list of bus-line numbers which travel to and from this stop. Currently, the bus number 208 travels to the main station during daylight (every hour), while the bus numbered 902 travels to the main station during the night (also every hour). After clicking a line number, click the proper route direction ( Kraków Airport – Dworzec Główny Wschód , not the other way).

If you want to get to your destination using public transport, I highly recommend using the JakDojade.pl website (click to open in a new tab) . First, change your language to English by clicking a gear icon in the top right corner and by selecting “Angielski” from a dropdown menu. Then you can enter staring & ending points (they can be street names etc., not only names of the stops) or pick a line number from the left to see its route.  Remember, that this website does NOT work with train transport – it only considers public transport (trams & buses).

Remember that you need a agglomerative (Zone 1 + 2) version of the public transport ticket and you need to validate your ticket in a machine immediately after entering the bus. If you don’t validate the ticket, you will be fined if an inspector checks your ticket.

Taxi from the Krakow Airport

If you want to take a cab, don’t  just exit the terminal where you’ll see the taxi stop right in front of you. The taxis that park there are painted black and cost about 2,5 times more than regular ones (the reason being, they pay to park there and have to make up for it in cost).

I recommend calling the “Wawel Taxi” (it’s just a company name, not related to the Wawel Castle at all). Call these numbers to order a taxi (you might need to type in the Polish country code +48 in front to dial from your phone):

• 800 66 66 66
• 12 266 66 66
• 501 44 96 66

The operators work all the time and can give you an estimated cost of the journey. Say you’ll meet the driver at the “kiss & fly zone” which is paralel, just next to the black taxis stop. If you exit the terminal, you’ll see where the cars park for kiss & fly right in front of you. The taxi will be there in a few minutes.

Pro tip: if you ask the cab driver for a 10% discount because you drove this company before, they will give it to you.

You can ask for an estimate or ask for a fixed price, but usually the taximeter does the counting while you drive.

Taking an uber or private transfer from the Airport?

As for uber, go for it if you wish. Works the same as everywhere.

As for private transfers, don’t do it. You might get scammed and it will ruin your trip.

Have more questions about public transport in Krakow?

Write your questions in the comments section below or contact me .

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Krakow airport to city center; How to get there?

Read how to get from krakow airport to city center.

Ciema! The historical and culturally rich city of Krakow draws visitors from all over the world. Most likely, if you’re thinking about visiting this lovely Polish city, you’ll land at Krakow Airport . The question then becomes How to get from Krakow airport to city center?

I’ll examine several modes of transportation, their benefits and drawbacks, and give you all the information you need to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip in this complete guide.

When you arrive at the airport in Krakow , your journey through this alluring city begins.

However, you must first figure out how to travel from the airport to the city center before you can begin exploring the ancient streets and thriving culture.

Fortunately, there are a variety of transportation choices accessible, each with their own benefits and factors to take into accoun

Let’s examine these choices in greater detail so you may choose wisely for your journey.

Table of Contents

How to get from Krakow Airport to city center by bus

Krakow Airport is well-connected to the city center by public buses operated by MPK Krakow. The two primary bus lines serving the airport are:

a. Bus Lines 300/152/209/124

Route : Krakow Airport (Balice) – Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny)

Frequency : Buses run approximately every 30 minutes during the day, with reduced frequency in the late evening and early morning.

Travel Time : The journey typically takes around 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Ticket : You can purchase tickets from the ticket machines located at the bus stop or onboard the bus. Remember to validate your ticket.

b. Night Bus Line 902

Frequency : Night buses operate during the late evening and early morning hours, with less frequent departures compared to daytime buses.

Travel Time : The night bus journey takes approximately 40-45 minutes, similar to daytime buses.

Ticket : You can buy tickets onboard the night bus from the driver. Be sure to have cash for payment.

How to get from Krakow Airport to city center by train

The city center and the Krakow Airport are both accessible by train. Follow these directions to go to the city center:

Following the signs for the train station (Kraków Lotnisko) after leaving the airport terminal is step one in getting to the train station.

Conveniently situated next to the airport terminal building is the train station.

b. Krakow Airport (Kraków Lotnisko) to Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Gówny) Train Line S2 Route

Trains operate frequently throughout the day.

Travel Time: This is one of the quickest methods to go to the city center, taking about 18 to 19 minutes.

Ticket: You can buy rail tickets online or via ticket vending machines. Prior to boarding, don’t forget to validate your ticket.

Krakow Airport to city center by taxi

At the airport in Krakow , taxis are widely available. You can easily find the approved taxi stands by leaving the airport terminal. Make sure the taxi you hire has a clear taxi business emblem on it and is licensed.

Taxi prices are determined by a combination of time and distance. Depending on traffic, the approximate fee from the airport to the city center should be between 60 and 90 PLN.

Payment: Cash and credit cards are typically accepted in taxis, but it’s a good idea to double check with the driver before setting off on your trip.

Tipping: Although it is not required, it is customary to round up fares or leave a little gratuity of 10% or less to express gratitude for the service received.

You can select the mode of transportation that best meets your needs and schedule for a hassle-free trip to Krakow’s city center now that you have full information on the various bus lines, train services, and taxis available at Krakow Airport.

Private transport from Krakow airport to city center

Leave the planning and driving to someone else with this private transfer.

Your private, air-conditioned luxury vehicle will transport you to your destination once your English-speaking driver picks you up from the airport or your hotel.

Drivers watch flights and meet you when they land, so inbound transfers don’t have to worry about delays.

Easy transportation to and from Kraków International John Paul II Airport Don’t worry about arranging taxi services or locating the best public transportation.

Wi-Fi and a free city map are provided. Travel in a Tesla or a premium Mercedes Benz. Click to book your private transport.

What is the distance between Krakow Airport to city center?

The John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice in Krakow is located about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the city’s core.

Depending on the form of transportation you choose and the level of traffic, the actual travel time may change.

Krakow Airport

Kraków-Balice Airport, often known as John Paul II International Airport, is a significant transportation hub in southern Poland.

The main entry point to the city and the surrounding area is this international airport, which is located about 11 kilometers (7 miles) west of Krakow’s city center.

Since it initially started operating in the early 1960s, Krakow Airport has had a long and illustrious history.

To keep up with the expanding needs of both domestic and international tourists, it has undergone considerable expansions and modernizations over time.

The airport, which bears Pope John Paul II’s name and is dedicated to him as a renowned person in Polish history, is a symbol of the city’s lively culture and its success as a popular tourist destination.

Krakow Airport plays a crucial role in linking visitors to the alluring charm and rich heritage of Krakow and its surrounds thanks to its advantageous location and ongoing efforts to improve services.

Krakow Airport:FAQ’s

Is there 2 airports in krakow.

The John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice is the only airport in Krakow. It serves as the city’s and the surrounding area’s primary airport.

Is Krakow Airport a big airport?

The airport serving Krakow, is not one of the biggest in Poland or even in all of Europe.

It is an international airport of average size. It might not be as big as some of the bigger airports in Europe, such Frankfurt Airport or London Heathrow Airport.

How many gates does Krakow airport have?

Can i use euros in kraków.

Although the Polish zloty (PLN) is the country’s official currency, certain tourist-oriented establishments in Krakow might accept euros.

However, in order to achieve a better exchange rate, it is suggested to use zoty for the majority of transactions.

Do you tip taxi drivers in Kraków?

Although tipping taxi drivers is not required in Krakow, it is common to round up the fare or give a little gratuity as a sign of gratitude for excellent service.

Do Polish taxis take credit cards?

However, it’s usually a good idea to double check with the driver before setting out, especially if you prefer to pay by card. Many taxis in Krakow do accept credit cards.

The Wrap-up: Krakow airport to city center; How to get there?

We’ve covered a variety of modes of transportation from Krakow Airport to the city center in this comprehensive guide.

Whatever your preferences—convenience, cost-effectiveness, or customization—there is a method of transportation that will work for you.

You can make an informed decision and begin your Krakow experience with ease now that you have all the information you require.

Enjoy your trip to this stunning and ancient city!

Read more of my blogs!

• Best Hotels in Poznan
• 28 interesting facts about Poland
• Zakopane Morskie Oko

Pozdrawiam and see you in Poland,

My name is Krystian, I am 35 years old and a proud father of a 2 years old son.

I have lived in Poland until I was 6 years old. After that we moved to The Hague in Netherlands, were I spend my whole childhood.

Just like many people I have a huge passion for travelling. So far, I have visited more than 30 countries and planning on visiting more!

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7 Ways To Get From Krakow Airport to City Center

Coming to Krakow for a weekend, but don’t know how to get from the airport to the city center? In this guide we show you 9 different ways of doing so.

The bus is one of the most popular ways to get from Krakow Airport to city center. Buses run frequently and they are relatively cheap. The ride takes about 30 minutes.

There are a few different bus companies that operate between Krakow Airport and city center. The most popular company is probably Polskibus. Polskibus operates several different routes between the airport and city center. They have an online booking system that makes it easy to book a ticket in advance.

If you are traveling with luggage, it is important to note that there is a limit of two pieces of luggage per person on the bus. If you have more than two pieces of luggage, you will need to take a taxi or another form of transportation.

Krakow airport is located about 17 kilometers from the city center. This means that it is possible to walk to the city center from the airport. However, this is not recommended for those with heavy luggage or for those who are not comfortable walking long distances.

Another option for getting from Krakow airport to the city center is to take a bus. There are several bus lines that run between the airport and the city center. This is a good option for those who do not want to walk or for those who have heavy luggage.

The third option for getting from Krakow airport to the city center is to take a taxi. Taxis are available at the airport and can take you directly to your destination in the city center. This is the most expensive option, but it is also the most convenient.

Overall, there are three main options for getting from Krakow airport to the city center: walking, taking a bus, or taking a taxi.

• Taking a taxi is probably the most expensive but also the most convenient option as soon as you arrive at Krakow airport. There is a special lane for taxis and you will be able to find many of them waiting in front of the terminal. The average price for a taxi from Krakow airport to city center is around 60 PLN (15 EUR).
• You can also take the bus to get from Krakow airport to city center. The bus stop is located in front of the terminal and the ride into town takes around 25 minutes. The fare is 4.40 PLN (1 EUR) per person.
• Another option is to take the train from Krakow airport to city center. The train station is located about 10 minutes from the airport by foot. The journey into town takes around 15 minutes and costs 4.40 PLN (1 EUR) per person.

Uber is a popular rideshare service that is available in many cities around the world, including Krakow. You can use the Uber app to request a ride from Krakow Airport to your destination in the city center. Uber rides are typically very affordable, and you can pay for your ride using the app.

To request an Uber ride from Krakow Airport, open the app and enter your destination. Then, select “Airport” as your pickup location. A list of available Uber drivers will be displayed, and you can choose the one you would like to request a ride from. Once you have selected a driver, you will be able to see an estimated fare for your ride. When you are ready to request the ride, simply tap the “Request” button. Your driver will then come to pick you up at the airport and take you to your destination in the city center.

The first way to get from Krakow Airport to the city center is by train. There is a direct train that runs from the airport to the main train station in Krakow. The journey takes about 25 minutes and tickets can be purchased at the airport or in advance online.

If you are staying in a hotel or apartment in Krakow, you may also be able to arrange for a shuttle service to pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodation. This is often a cheaper and more convenient option than taking a taxi.

There are several ways to get from Krakow Airport to the city center. One option is to rent a car. This is a good option if you are comfortable driving in a foreign country. There are several rental companies located at the airport. You can also book a rental car in advance online.

Another option is to take a taxi. Taxis are readily available at the airport and can take you directly to your destination in the city center. This is usually the most expensive option, but it is also the most convenient.

You can also take public transportation from the airport to the city center. The airport has a train station with direct service to the city center. There are also several bus lines that operate between the airport and the city center. This option is usually the cheapest, but it may take longer to reach your destination.

Taxi from Krakow Airport to City Cente

Taxis are the most popular and convenient way to get from Krakow Airport to the city center. Taxis can be found right outside the airport terminal and the journey into town takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost of a taxi from the airport to the city center is around 40-50 PLN.

Another option is to take the bus from Krakow Airport to the city center. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes and tickets can be bought at the airport or online in advance. A single ticket costs around 10 PLN.

The third option is to take a train from Krakow Airport to the city center. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes and tickets can be bought at the airport or online in advance. A single ticket costs around 9 PLN.

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• 4 good reasons why you should visit Krakow if you live in the UK September 7, 2022
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Krakow has only one airport  – Balice John Paul II International Airport. It is located about 10 kilometres west of the centre of Krakow and is very well-connected by public transport . It also has a lot of car rental options. According to the Airhelp portal, this is the second-best-rated airport in Poland. This guide aims to make your journey from the airport as smooth as possible. After reading this article, you will know how to get from Krakow Airport to the city centre in 20 minutes. For about 4 EUR! There are other transportation options: bus or taxi, but they are either less convenient or more expensive.

Before we dwell into details, we present a brief comparison of options of getting from Krakow Airport to Krakow city centre:

Train from Krakow airport

Based on our experience, leaving Krakow Airport by train is the fastest and most convenient choice. The SKA1 train leaves the Airport train station every hour between 5 am and midnight. The first train leaves at 4.17 am, and the last train leaves at 0.38 pm. If your destination is Krakow city centre, you may get on any train that leaves Krakow Airport. The journey from Krakow Airport to Krakow Glowny – main train station – lasts about 19 minutes – you should get off at the sixth station. From here, the old town is within walking distance. And if you need to buy some food, Simcard or just withdraw some cash, it’s good to know that after arriving at Krakow Glowny railway station you’ll find yourself next to a shopping mall – Galeria Krakowska.

All trains leaving the airport pass through Krakow Glowny Train Station, but some go further – to Wieliczka. If this is your destination, make sure that you are on the right train, and stay on the board another 30 minutes after passing Krakow Glowny.

The trains are modern and comfortable – equipped with electricity sockets, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. They are also easy to board with a pram or wheelchair.

Krakow Airport train station is very close to the terminal and arrivals hall, just behind P1 parking and car rentals. To get to the platform, it’s best to take the footbridge over the taxi and kiss&fly area. The route is clearly marked. It takes about 5 minutes to get from the terminal to Krakow Airport train station.

A train ticket from Krakow Airport to Krakow Glowny costs 17 PLN , and to Wieliczka 21 PLN . You may buy tickets in ticket machines at the arrivals terminal (cash/card payment), train station ticket machine (cash/card) or onboard from the ticket inspector (cash only). To buy a ticket from the ticket inspector, look for him on board.

Bus from Krakow Airport to the city centre

Bus stops are just in front of the terminal. You may buy bus tickets at the ticket machine at the arrivals terminal, at the bus stop, online or inside the bus. Remember to validate your ticket onboard.

During the day

Krakow Airport is served by two local bus lines ( 209 and 300 ). Both go in the direction of the city centre, but none of them go directly to the main train station. Buses reach the ring around the Krakow Old Town in about 40 minutes. Then you need to either change or walk (about 15 minutes). As the Airport is located in Zone 2, if you want to buy a 24, 48, 72 hours or 7-day ticket, make sure you buy a 1+2 zone ticket. The cheapest ticket that will enable you to get to the city costs 6 PLN (60 minutes/one ride ticket). If you plan to stay in Krakow for a couple of days, read our article on public transport in Krakow to choose the ticket that best suits your needs.

There is only one bus line that runs at night. Bus 902 leaves the Airport in the direction of the city every hour. The first bus at 11.25 pm, the last at 4.55 am. The trip to the Main Train Station (Krakow Glowny) lasts about 30 minutes, but the bus passes the Old Town on the way, so you may want to get off earlier. The tickets are the same as for day buses. Visit the Krakow MPK website to check the updated schedules of buses from Krakow airport.

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Useful resources:

• Full schedules of all buses departing from Krakow Airport on the official Krakow Public Transport website , where you can find the most accurate and up-to-date information
• Jakdojade mobile application for Android and Iphone . You may check schedules, routes, and buy tickets in this app.
• Full schedule of trains departing from Krakow Airport on the official website of Koleje Malopolskie .

Taxi from Krakow Airport

If you have heavy luggage or just want to get directly to your hotel, a taxi is the only option. Krakow Airport officially recommends using the “ Krakow Airport Taxi ” company. They park in the first lane after you leave the arrivals terminal. They offer good quality, but their price is slightly higher than other taxis – up to 89 PLN for the trip to the main square (Rynek Glowny). Generally, taxi fare from the airport varies from 70 to 120 PLN. Avoid using non-corporate taxis and always check the price list on the taxi door. Most frauds happen when you take a non-corporate taxi from the airport, so be careful.

Alternatively, you may use Uber or Bolt – their price depends on the current demand, but they are usually cheaper than taxis. And the good thing is that you know the fare in advance and there is almost no chance of being cheated. Another option is FreeNow – an official taxi that works similarly to Uber and Bolt. Register with FreeNow App with code lqnfsq07p to receive a voucher for 20 PLN (about 5 EUR).

Tip: Freenow, Uber and Bolt often tease you with the immediate arrival time when you want to book a taxi, but then it turns out you need to wait 15–20 minutes. It happened to me twice at the Krakow Airport. So it might be sometimes better to take the train.

Other Krakow Airport transportation options

If you don’t plan to go to the old town, but you want to go to another city instead, you have some options, too.

You may go straight from the airport to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp Museum, Warsaw, Wroclaw, Zakopane, or Prague. Check Flixbus or Neobus websites for details and schedules, or book your ticket here .

Staying at Krakow Airport

If you land late in the evening or at night or just need to check in early in the morning, maybe it’s better to stay in or around the airport. The airport is quite small, but you may find an area to stay for a couple of hours. There are shops and cafés, but most of them close at 10-11 pm. There are only two hotels within walking distance: Hilton Garden Inn Krakow Airport and AirPark Balice , you may look for others here , but you will need to arrange a transfer service from the airport.

If you are considering coming to Poland through other airports, read our articles on getting from the airport to the centre of Gdansk , Warsaw , Wroclaw , and Poznan .

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How to get from Krakow Airport to the city centre [2024 updated]

• by bestkrakowwalks

Arriving in Krakow, Poland, is an exciting beginning to an adventure filled with historical marvels and cultural delights. If you’re landing at John Paul II Krakow Airport (KRK) and aiming to swiftly navigate your way to the vibrant heart of the city, there are several convenient transportation options available. Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of a taxi or the cost-effectiveness of public transport – train and bus knowing the best ways to traverse the distance from Krakow Airport to the city centre will ensure a smooth start to your exploration of this enchanting destination.

Train: the most efficient

Taking a train is definitely the most effective, usually the fastest and rather cheap way to get from Krakow Airport to the city centre of Krakow. The regional train line SKA1 connects Krakow Airport (Kraków Lotnisko) and the town of Wieliczka via Krakow Main Station (Kraków Główny). With its modern amenities and punctual schedules, the SKA1 train (operator name: Koleje Małopolskie sp. z o.o.) has become a preferred choice for commuters and travelers seeking a quick and comfortable journey, providing an excellent alternative to taxis or buses. Its seamless connectivity has made exploring Krakow more accessible and has enhanced the overall travel experience for those arriving at or departing from the airport.

The train platform is located very conveniently in the airport terminal building. Leaving the arrival zone you just need to go through the passage over the road and then down the escalator directly to the railway platform. The only train departs from here is the one you are looking for – SKA1 to the city centre. No other directions, no other lines, no way to get lost.

Tickets can be purchased in the ticket machines located on the platform and inside each train or alternatively the train conductor also sells them. The price is 17 PLN (approx. 4 EUR). You may pay with card or in PLN banknotes/coins .

The travel time is just 17 mins . The SKA1 train stops several times on its way but the orientation is easy – all the stops are announced both on the screens inside a train and by voice. SKA1 line rides frequently – the first trains depart from the Airport station at 4:17 and 5:17 am. Then starting from 6:17 am they run every half an hour (6:47, 7:17, 7:47 and so on) until 6:17 pm (18:17). Evening departures are every hour: 7:17, 8:17, 9:17, 10:17, 11:17 pm and the final one already after midnight at 12:37 am. In general, the trains appear on time and on SKA1 line there are modern vehicles exclusively. Expect air-conditioned unit with low floor proudly produced in Poland.

You may check the up-to-date timetable here – type “Krakow Lotnisko” as “from” and “Krakow Glowny” as “to”.

The Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) might not be the most convenient option for you. If you’re staying closer to the famous Jewish Quarter , consider leaving a train on the newly opened (September 2023) ‘Kraków Grzegórzki ‘ station. The stop nearest the Schindler’s Factory and the ghetto area is called ‘Kraków Zabłocie ‘.

Taxi: the fastest (sometimes)

Right, sometimes we land tired, hungry and carrying plenty of suitcases. We just want to get in a taxi and be dropped off just in front of the entrance to our hotel. A taxi is also a recommended option to get from the Krakow airport to any point in the city.

Upon leaving the terminal building there are 4 lines for the cars. The first one is occupied by the official Airport taxis waiting for the passengers.

The price of the licensed taxis is fixed and depends on the kilometer range from the Airport to the destination place:

The distance between the Aiport and most of the hotels located in the city centre should be zone 4 or 5 so expect to pay 89 or 109 PLN for your ride . Yes, huge difference if you’re travelling alone but if you share this cost with some travel companions, then taking an official Airport taxi is worth considering as you don’t need to wait – just take a car that is already waiting for you.

However, most of the people interested in a private transfer look for cheap taxi alternative . There are three main taxi operators available via mobile app: Uber, Bolt and FreeNow . On average, non-official taxis are about twice cheaper than the ones with ‘Krakow Airport’ logo on the doors.

So why anyone takes the official taxi? Well, there are some disadvantages of Ubers and Bolts. First, you need to order them first and then a driver who accepted your request starts coming to the airport. Usually, it takes at least 5-7 mins since you make an order until you see your driver.

Another thing is a flexible price system of cheap taxis. When hundreds of passengers leaving the airport at once and all of them start requesting a ride, the Uber algorythm rises the prices up – sometimes significantly. It may turn out that the official airport taxi is actually cheaper than any so called ‘cheap’ taxi.

And how long it takes to get from the airport to the city centre by taxi? Well, we cannot tell you the exact timing as it heavily depends on traffic. The distance between these points is about 15 km. If you land in the late evening such a ride would last approx. 20 minutes. But if your arrival to Krakow is during the peak hours (7-8 am or 3-6 pm), please expect to spend even up to an hour in your cab! It might be less, but it is always unpredictable! Trains are more reliable for sure.

Bus: the cheapest

Public buses are not that great alternative as they used to be a few years ago. The city of Krakow decided to supsend the bus lines 208 and 292 that were connecting the Airport with the city centre.

For now (December 2023) there are three lines departing from Krakow Airport bus stop which is located just outside of the entrance from the terminal. Line 209 connects a nearby village of Morawica with Rondo Grunwaldzkie which is one of the main roundabouts and public transport hubs in Krakow. You may have a convenient change to numerous tram and bus lines here. The main disadvantage of line 209 is its timetable which does not offer any regular intervals.

Much better option is line 300 . It starts its route from the same Airport stop and bring the passengers to Rondo Grunwaldzkie as well. The departures are every 30 minutes.

Line 902 is a night connection however Krakow Airport does not operate during night hours normally. Hence, this line is not used by most of the passengers.

According to the timetable, it takes 27 minutes for line 209 and 23 minutes for line 300 to get from the airport to Rondo Grunwaldzkie. The actual time, as described in the taxi section above, varies from 25-30 mins to even one hour depending on traffic.

The main advantage of the the bus connection is its price. The single ticket costs as little as 6 PLN (1,4 EUR). This price applies to all the lines, even the night one 902. Buying a tickets is simple. There are ticket machines at the bus stop and inside each bus. Some mobile apps like ‘SkyCash’ can be useful as well. Please note, that the drivers don’t sell the tickets. Also all the tickets must be not only purchased but also validated inside the vehicle – there are small yellow or orange ‘boxes’ to insert your paper ticket.

A tip from the locals: In Krakow there are quite a few ticket inspectors working on a daily basis. It’s too risky to travel without a valid ticket. Fines are even up to 300 PLN and yes, the ticket inspectors do speak English on an enough level to inform you about the given fine.

For public transport planning check out JakDojade site . It allows passengers to plan the trip and see most of the vehicles live on a map. Try ‘Krakow Airport’ as a start point and ‘Rondo Grunwaldzkie’ as your terminus.

We hope you found this article useful. In case of any questions please feel free to reach out to Best Krakow Walks team. And when you arrive from the airport and look for some activities and tours in Krakow, check out our tour offer here!

How to get from Krakow airport to the city center (Krakow Old Town)?

If you are planning a stay in Krakow, chances are that you will need to go from the airport to the city center .

During my vacation in Krakow, I met tourists who paid a small fortune for this trip, when in fact there are very simple solutions to get to the center of Krakow from the John Paul II International Airport. So, I offer you a little guide full of advice to make your arrival in Krakow as smooth as possible!

Krakow Airport: John Paul II International Airport

If you are coming to Krakow from abroad, you will most likely land at the John Paul II International Airport, located in Balice, only 6.8 miles west of Krakow's city center .

It is an airport that was long neglected in favor of another airport in the region, Katowice-Pyrzowice, but it has now become Poland's second-largest airport after Warsaw-Chopin Airport. Nevertheless, it remains an airport on a human scale.

How to get from Krakow Airport to the city center (Krakow Old Town)

If you want to reach the center of Krakow from the airport , you have several options:

• Take the train;
• Take the bus;
• Book an airport transfer to Krakow city center in advance;
• Take a taxi;
• Rent a car at the airport and drive to Krakow.

Let's take a closer look at these options.

Take the train from the airport to Krakow city center

The train is the most cost-effective way to get from Krakow airport to the city center. Everything is well signposted in the airport to reach the train station, which is located in the airport itself. You can buy your ticket on the platform.

To give you an idea of how simple it is, the first time I went to Krakow, it only took me 20 minutes from the moment my flight landed on Polish soil until my train departed, even though I didn't know the airport at all! There is just a footbridge to take from the arrivals terminal to the train station.

The line you will take is SKA1 , which passes through Krakow airport, Krakow's main train station near the city center, and goes to Wieliczka, the town where beautiful salt mines are located.

You can find the train timetable here , knowing that the airport is called "KRAKÓW LOTNISKO" and the main train station in Kraków is called "KRAKÓW GŁÓWNY".

You can take the train with a bicycle (there are compartments that accept bicycles), and you just need to add a small supplement to the price of your ticket. The same applies if you have a dog (guide dogs travel for free).

Other animals and equipment such as strollers, skis, and snowboards do not require additional baggage fees .

The ticket price is really affordable. I paid less than 3€ for a modern train with plugs under the seats and screens that allow you to visualize the route and the duration of the stops at each station.

The trip from the airport to downtown Krakow takes about 20 minutes . Once you arrive at Krakow Glowny station, you are less than a 10-minute walk from the historic center (Krakow Old Town). The local streetcar passes right in front of the station, so you can quickly get to your accommodation if it is further away!

Taking the bus from Krakow airport to the city center

If the train schedule doesn't work for you or isn't compatible with your flight schedule, you can try taking the bus from Krakow airport to the city center .

You have several lines to choose from:

• Line 209 towards Salwator takes about 21 minutes to complete and stops west of Krakow's Old Town at the terminus of streetcar lines 1 and 2. From there, it takes just over 5 minutes to reach the Old Town. You can find the timetable here .
• Line 300 towards Os. Podwawelskie is an alternative; the journey takes about 21 minutes to Szwedzka station, south of the Vistula. From there, you can take streetcar line 18, which goes to the city center along the Wawel Castle. I find this route a little less convenient because the bus arrival station is a little further away than with line 209. The timetable for line 300 is available here.
• Line 902 is a night bus option. The timetable for line 902 is available here. You can get on at Kraków Airport and get off at the Jagiellonian University stop or at the Bagatela Theater stop. The journey takes about 25 minutes.

The former 252 and 208 lines no longer serve the airport.

The airport website provides the indicative price of bus tickets in zlotys, the Polish currency, with the equivalent in euros.

Booking a transfer in Krakow between the airport and city center

If you have a lot of luggage or are afraid of getting lost when you arrive in Krakow, you can book a private transfer with a driver who will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your destination in Krakow city center.

You can book in advance with Cracow Holidays . They have an excellent reputation. I also recommend GR8 Way, which offers a transfer from Krakow airport in an electric vehicle. You can check prices and book here .

If you are traveling with your family or a group of friends, it can be advantageous to use a driver who charges "to the group" instead of "to the passenger." For example, with this transfer offered by Krakow4You , you will pay the same price for up to 4 people in the car. This is great for small groups!

As Poland has a lower cost of living than other countries in Europe, these transfers are relatively affordable.

Taking a taxi from Krakow Airport

This is usually the most expensive option. There is a taxi service at Krakow airport, and the price is based on the distance traveled. You can see the rate table here .

To give you an idea of the distance, there are about 7 to 9 miles between Krakow airport and the city center (main square), depending on the route taken, so you will be in zone 3 or 4 .

The waiting time for the taxi is charged.

Getting from Krakow airport to the city center by car

The last option is to rent a car at Krakow airport for the duration of your stay and use it to travel to the city center.

There are many car rental services available at the airport, including international companies like Europcar and Hertz, as well as local rental companies. One of the most reputable options is Odkryj-Auto . Rates may vary depending on the time of year, but to give a rough idea, expect a budget of around 25€ per day for a small air-conditioned car. You can also check out "TopCars" at John Paul II airport.

Once you have the car, take the A4 and DW780 roads to reach the city center. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

I hope you have a great stay in Krakow!

Hello! On this blog, I share my photos, insights, and travel tips from journeys in France and around the world. I launched this blog in French in 2014 and began translating some articles into English in late 2022. I have a special passion for solo travel! In March 2023, I was blessed with my son James, and I've already begun introducing him to the joys of traveling as a solo mom with a baby.

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How to get from Kraków Airport to the city centre?

How to get from airport to the city centre? We encourage all passengers to make use of the possibility of traveling to/from our airport by train. The new Kraków Airport train station is located near the passenger terminal, at the rear of the multi-storey car park. The connection is operated by Koleje Małopolskie (regional railways company operating in Małopolska Region). Travelling by train is the fastest way to get from the airport to the city center (the journey takes about 18 minutes). Trains are equipped with air conditioning, power outlets, Wi-Fi and ticket machines. All trains also have spaces for disabled passengers and persons with reduced mobility (PRM).

All trains operates 7 days a week.  Current timetables available here .

Kraków Airport train station is fully adapted to the needs of passengers with disabilities, so that the disabled person /PRM will receive our assistance from the exit of the train, to take a seat on the plane.

For more information regarding assistance for disabled passengers and persons with reduced mobility (PRM) – click here

Tickets and fares:

• Kraków Airport – Kraków Main Train Station: PLN 8,00
• Kraków Airport – Wieliczka Salt Mine: PLN 11,00
• luggage: free of charge
• dogs: PLN 3,00

For more information:  click here

Where to buy a ticket 

• rail connections by koleo.pl
• passenger terminal, level 0 (ticket machine)
• train station (ticket machine)
• train (ticket machine or train conductor on board before the train starts movement)

Payment in cash or with credit/debit cards.

More information on:  Kraków Airport

Photo © Anna Karahan

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Getting From Krakow Airport to City – Everything You Need to Know

If you’re flying into Krakow, chances are you’ll be landing at John Paul II International Airport. From there, it’s about a 15-minute journey into the city center – and there are a few different ways to make that trip. Here’s a quick rundown of your options for getting from the airport to Krakow’s lovely old town.

Private Transfer

If you’re looking for a way to get from the airport to your hotel with ease, then a private transfer is your best option. While there are many ways to get from Krakow airport Balice, taking a private transfer is by far the most convenient.

You can book your transfer with Welcome Pickups in just a few clicks, and your professional driver will greet you at the airport and drive you straight into your hotel.

Inform the driver of your desired destination, sit back, and relax as you’re whisked away to your hotel. Plus, there’s no need to worry about getting lost or struggling with luggage, as the driver will take care of everything for you.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, taking a private transfer is the best way to start your vacation in Krakow off on the right foot.

If you’re looking for another great way to get from Krakow airport to the city center, why not try taking the train?

The Krakow Airport Train Station is located just a short walk from the terminal, and trains run regularly throughout the day. You can purchase your tickets from any of the following three locations: the Arrivals Hall, the station platform, or directly from the train conductor.

The journey takes just over 15 minutes, and trains arrive directly at Krakow Central Station.

From there, it’s easy to catch a tram or bus to your final destination. Whether you’re visiting Krakow for business or pleasure, the train is a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Ticket Cost: 14PLN (3$)

The most common way to get from Krakow airport to the city center is by bus. Krakow Airport is served by three regular bus lines: 209 and 252, and one night line: 902. The buses run frequently and have relatively affordable prices.

You can either buy your bus ticket from the machine in the Arrivals Hall or wait and purchase it at the stop. While the bus journey may take slightly longer than getting the train, it is generally more comfortable and less expensive.

Plus, you’ll get to see more of the city as you travel into town!

Ticket Cost: 5 PLN (1$)

* Don’t forget to validate your ticket

If you’re looking for the easiest way to get from Krakow Airport to the city, taking a cab is your best bet. Just look for the cab rank outside of the terminal and hop in. In terms of cost, it’s more expensive than taking a private transfer, but if you’re not on a budget, it’s definitely the way to go.

Another option is to rent a car. This can be a great way to explore the surrounding areas, such as Zakopane or the Wieliczka Salt Mine .

Discovercars.com has the best deals on car rental, so you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. And with a rental car, you can come and go as you please, without having to rely on public transport. If you’re looking for a more flexible and timely option, consider renting a car.

Hope I could help!

Have a safe flight to Poland!

Bartosz is a travel writer, photographer & founder/editor of theuniquepoland who tells stories of adventure, history and current affairs. He writes mainly about travel, with special focus on Poland. He loves travelling, discover new unknown and inspire others.

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How to get from Krakow Airport to the City centre?

October 14, 2021.

Welcome to Kraków! Before you start exploring you need to find out where you’ll be flying to and how to get from Krakow airport to the city centre and to your hotel.

WHAT IS THE NAME OF KRAKOW AIRPORT?

If you land in Krakow you will arrive at John paul ii international airport, named after Krakow’s most famous former resident. You may also see the airport called “Krakow-Balice’ airport. Rest assured, this is the same airport as the John Paul II airport. No doubt, the first thing you’ll need are options for getting from Krakow airport to the city.

KRAKOW AIRPORT TO CITY CENTRE: TRANSPORT OPTIONS

Flights to Krakow arrive at Krakow airport  (John Paul II: Kraków-Balice International Airport) . Which is about 17km outside of the city centre. 

 There are several options for getting from the airport to the centre of Krakow and the good news is, all of them are pretty straightforward.

Unless you’ve arranged a Krakow airport transfer already, then you have four main options for getting from the airport to the city centre:  Bus, Train, Taxi,  and  Ride Share  (Uber/ Bolt/ Freenow).

Easiest option :  Airport Taxi/ Rideshare app- Uber/ Bolt/ Freenow (45zL/€10 approx: 25 mins)

Cheapest option  : Bus (6zl: 45-60 mins)

Fastest option : Uber/ Bolt or Airport Taxi. (25 mins)

Other options : Kraków Airport Taxis/ Hotel transfer (100zl) 

Recommended option : Uber or Bolt (we’ll explain why below).

Most Eco-friendly option : Train (12zl- 45 mins: 25 mins once you’re on the train).

KRAKOW AIRPORT – TO CITY CENTRE BY TRAIN

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

25 mins once you’re on the train. (Around 45-60 minutes with waiting time and added walking either side)

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Where do i go.

Follow the signs on the floor of the airport from the terminal. They lead you up to the 1st floor where you cross the road bridge and then head down the ramp to the train station platform. 

WHERE DO I GET A TICKET?

From the automated machines on the platform or from the conductor on the train. 

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?

 The Krakow airport train travels directly between Krakow airport and Rynek Glowny (Kraków main station). 

You should get off at this station regardless of where you’re staying. The centre of Kraków is only small and unless you’re staying particularly far away, this will be the closest station. It is closest to where most tourists stay and closest to both Krakow Old Town and the Jewish Quarter. 

Krakow Rynek Glowny (meaning Main square) is located just a short walk from Krakow Old Town. The station is actually part of the main shopping centre- Galeria Krakowska. 

Kraków Rynek Glowny is only a 10-minute walk from Krakow Old Town (see the Krakow airport bus section below for instructions on where to go next). The station is also well connected if you’re getting a connecting tram or bus to your accommodation. 

HOW OFTEN DOES THE KRAKOW AIRPORT TRAIN RUN?

The train from Kraków Airport to Kraków Old Town runs every half hour (up until around 11.30pm). The journey time to Rynek Glowny is around 25 minutes, with ten minutes needed on either side for walking. If you’re unsure which station is yours, it’s the one where everyone else gets off too! 

Train tickets costs 12zl per person (less than £3/€3). Tickets can be purchased from automated machines in the airport close to the train platform, or from the ticket inspector on the train. 

Train times can be checked on the platform (or  here ). 

ANYTHING ELSE?

Sometimes there are maintenance works taking place on the train line between Kraków airport and Rynek Glowny. In which case a rail replacement bus, will you take you to and from Krakow airport to the city. 

Tickets can be bought on the bus itself, but be aware you might need coins (see travelling by bus below).

Seems simple enough right? So why did we recommend you travel from Kraków airport by Uber/ Bolt? Read on… 

KRAKOW AIRPORT TO CITY BY UBER/BOLT 

WHERE DO I NEED TO GO? 

Walk out the main exit of the terminal and cross the first road (which is for drop-offs and airport taxis). You should cross beneath the footbridge running above the road. Wait on the paved area between the first road and the second road, which is about halfway underneath the bridge above you.

Cars enter the airport grounds from the left side of the airport terminal as you exit, so chances are, your driver will pull up on that side. 

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW? 

So why did we recommend at the start, that you travel by Uber or Bolt instead of the train, if the train is cheaper? 

An Uber/ Bolt costs around 40zl where as the train costs 12zl.

So while there’s a significant difference in price, if you’re travelling in a group of 2 or more, then you’re already paying at least 24zl between you to get the train. And you still have to make your way to your accommodation when you get to Kraków main station.

Where as with Uber/ Bolt you are driven directly. Yes, for two people the cost is around 20zl more than the train, but when you put that into perspective, it’s about £4/€4 between two and saves you any hassle. If you’re travelling in a 3 or 4, it will even be cheaper than travelling by train.

Bolt is sometimes cheaper than Uber, depending on the time of day, but not always and not by much. There is also Freenow for another option.

With a ride-share taxi, you can relax and be driven to your destination without having to wait or walk with your bags.

You also know how much you’re being charged beforehand and you know the route your driver will take. So there is no worry that you might be taken the wrong way or be charged to remortgage the driver’s house!

So for peace of mind that you don’t need to worry, paying that extra 12zl might be worth it. 

And yes, before you say it, too many cars on the road is bad for the environment and the train is more eco-friendly. However, you’re going to spend all weekend making up for it, because the centre of Kraków is only small and perfectly walkable, so now you’ve got no excuse. 

On that note…

Join our Free walking tour:  KRAKOW OLD TOWN  or  KRAKOW JEWISH QUARTER . The best and cheapest way to see the city! 

KRAKOW AIRPORT TO CITY CENTRE BY AIRPORT TAXI

Airport taxis are the way to go if you want to arrive in style. They cost a bit more, but you’re paying for comfort.

You can pre-order a taxi from the official Krakow airport taxi company  here .

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW? 

This is the official airport taxi operator for Krakow airport. There are other taxis stationed out the front of the terminal. You can flag one down or more than likely someone will approach you.

These are more expensive than an Uber/ Bolt but they will be waiting there for you, ready to go. That said, if you do order an Uber or Bolt from Krakow airport to the Old Town, it will usually arrive very quickly anyway.

The journey from Kraków airport to Kraków centre by taxi, takes around 30 minutes. 

Prices can vary with some charging up to 100zl. You can try to negotiate to try to get it cheaper.

Read practical info including how to get to Auschwitz and the Krakow Salt Mines-  GETTING AROUND KRAKOW

KRAKOW AIRPORT TO CITY CENTRE BY BUS

6zl per person for a single fare (lasting 1 hour)

WHERE DO I FIND THE BUS?

Come out of the arrivals hall – and exit the terminal. You will be on the ground floor. Once outside the terminal building, turn right and walk along the front of the building until you see the bus stop with 208, 252 & 902 written on it (pictured above).

WHERE SHOULD I GET OFF THE BUS?

The last stop is Krakow MDA (bus station).

WHERE DO I GET A TICKET FOR THE BUS?

A single journey (1-hour ticket) costs 6zl and takes around 45 minutes. Services 208 & 252 operate between the city and the airport, with the 902 service operating through the night. 

If you’re arriving into Kraków airport at night when there are no trains, or you’re on a budget then the bus is a good money-saving option. 

Be aware drivers don’t take money on buses. There is a ticket machine at the bus stop which takes card payments. You will need to validate your ticket in the little orange box, once you get on the bus.

PURCHASE TICKETS FOR KRAKOW TRAMS & BUSES ONLINE

Download  Jakdojade  which is a great Krakow travel planner app and very helpful for getting around the city. You can purchase tickets directly through the app, using your card.  

Firstly, you top up your online ‘wallet’ and then use this credit when buying tram or bus tickets online. Once on the tram, enter the code you will see displayed high up on the walls of the tram. e.g- ‘HY-203.’

Note- Don’t actually purchase the ticket until you are on the bus because they have a time limit of 1 hour and it will start to count down once purchased! 

WHERE DO I GO NEXT?

Walk inside the shopping centre building keeping Burger King on your left.

TO REACH KRAKOW OLD TOWN FROM THE TRAIN BUS/STATION:

Regardless of course, on where your accommodation is, you will firstly need to exit the shopping centre building that contains both the train station and the bus station.

Walk directly through the shopping centre for a few minutes until you pass Mcdonald’s on your left and Carrefour on your right. Continue straight ahead, up the stairs, to exit the building.

Depending on how far your accommodation is, you can either walk or jump on a tram from here. Krakow Old Town is only a short walk.

The easiest way to reach the Old Town is to walk, keeping the shopping centre building on your left and the tramlines to your right. Walk for 3 minutes until you reach the underpass. Head directly through the underpass.

You will emerge from the underpass on the outskirts of the Old Town, in the Planty Park that surrounds the town. The path leading uphill to the right (left of the stairs), will lead you to the Old Town.

It’s another 5 minutes’ walk to the Krakow main square from here.

TO REACH KRAKOW’S JEWISH QUARTER- KAZIMIERZ FROM THE TRAIN/BUS STATION:

Download the Jakdojade travel planner app (mentioned above) for help with trams. A 20-minute tram ticket is usually enough and costs 4zl. This can be purchased through the app or there are ticket machines onboard the trams. 

The number 3 tram (heading left as you exit the shopping centre building) runs from outside the Galeria Krakowska shopping mall towards the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz (alight at Miodowa, the 4th stop).

KRAKOW AIRPORT TRANSFER TO THE CITY CENTRE

If you are coming to Krakow and budget isn’t your main concern, then the easiest way to get from the airport to the city is to get a Krakow airport transfer. This option is often the most costly, but it does save tourists any hassle. You can arrange an airport transfer through your hotel. Once at the airport, you will emerge from baggage collection into the arrivals hall. Chances are you will see someone holding a sign with your name on and ‘hey, presto!’ off you go. If you don’t see your name, call the company you have arranged the transfer with. Chances are, they are parked nearby. It will also be very easy to use the same company for your return journey.

GETTING FROM KATOWICE AIRPORT TO KRAKÓW 

Some flights to Krakow, land at Katowice airport, which is around 90 minutes away from Krakow.

If you’re flying into Katowice Airport and need to get to Krakow, the best option is to get a bus from one of the dedicated bus companies.  

There is no quick or direct route from Katowice airport to Krakow via public transport. Although there are public buses running between Katowice centre and Kraków. However, you will still need to make your way to the centre of Katowice from the aiport and take a bus from there. 

Alternatively, the simplest option is to book a coach journey online in advance, which runs direct, between Katowice airport and Kraków Rynek MDA (Krakow Bus station).  Flixbus  offers tickets from Krakow to Katowice airport and back from as low as €5 when booked in advance.

To get to know Krakow and learn the history and culture of the city, join one of our  KRAKOW FREE WALKING TOURS  or our delicious  KRAKOW FOOD AND VODKA TOUR .

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How to Get From Krakow Airport to Krakow City Centre by Train

When I travelled to Krakow in Poland last year, I had originally planned to take plenty of photos and have a full in-depth explanation of how to buy your train tickets at the airport before boarding the train to Kraków Główny station in the centre of the city. However this did not happen as due to engineering works, there was only one train an hour into Krakow and thankfully we noticed we had less than five minutes to make the train so we had to quickly run or we would have had a long wait for the next one. The train station at Krakow Airport is very easy to find and is clearly signposted in the arrivals hall along with plenty of information and prices of the different ways to get into the city centre. The train station is located across a walkway on the other side of the car park opposite the terminal building. You can check the timetables for the trains from Krakow Airport (Kraków Lotnisko / Airport) to Kraków Główny here online. This train service also travels to the Wieliczka Salt Mine (Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia).

As we had to quickly run to make the train, I did not even see where the ticket machines were located inside the airport terminal or at the airport train station. Thankfully I had read online before we travelled that it was possible to buy tickets on the train itself and this worked out better for us as not only did it save us precious time but I can now easily say that even if you have to run for the train like we did, you will have no problem buying tickets once onboard the train.

The ticket machines onboard the train were incredibly easy to use. After selecting which language (Polish or English) you would like to use, you will need to: Select “Ticket for this train” Select how many tickets you need and if the tickets are full price, for a child etc Select “Confirm first stop – Kraków Lotnisko / Airport” Select “Kraków Główny” as your destination if travelling to the city centre or “Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia” if travelling to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. We paid for our tickets with a credit card. An adult ticket from Krakow Airport to Kraków Główny is 9zł (£1.87) and to the Wieliczka Salt Mine is 12.50zł (£2.60).

Do not put your tickets away as they will be checked by a conductor once the train is on the move. Kraków Główny is the fifth stop and the journey time is approximately twenty minutes. There are television screens overhead to show you the train route as well as estimated arrival times at each station.

Kraków Główny station is located next to the Galeria Krakowska shopping mall and Krakow Bus Station. There is also access to the trams which stop close by. The station is only a few minutes walk to the Old Town – just follow the signs for Stare Miasto. I visited Krakow in September 2017. All prices and information are correct at time of publication. Pin this Blog Post on Pinterest Follow Me on Instagram Follow Me on Bloglovin’

• Krakow Airport
• Kraków Główny
• Train Travel

17 thoughts on “ How to Get From Krakow Airport to Krakow City Centre by Train ”

Brilliant instructions – thank you very much!

You’re welcome. Have a great time in Krakow 🙂

Thank you Nikki, your instructions saved us a lots of headaches traveling with children 😉

Glad I could help 🙂

Can you pay with cash on the train?

Hi Jason. To be honest I’m not sure. Does anyone reading the comments here who’s been to Krakow know the answer?

Great comprehensive details, many thanks for making life easy

Wish I’d seen this before arriving. But it’s EXACTLY what we saw and did so would have been very useful.

Thank you for your comment Brian and it’s great to know that nothing has changed as this will be useful to anyone else heading to Krakow. I hope you had a great time 🙂

Glad I read all the comments, too! Since Brian get went through there, then I’m all set for arriving tomorrow! Thanks for details and photos. Massive help. 🙂

You’re welcome Mel and enjoy Krakow 🙂

Very Well done 👍🏻 clear instructions, very easy to use especially for the “older crowd”, keep it up!

Thanks Dave 🙂

Thanks Nikki this was just the information I was looking for. Will make the transfer from the airport to Krakow Old Town stress free. Good to know you can get your ticket on the train.

You’re welcome Kim. I’m so glad I had seen that you could buy tickets on the train before I went or else I would have missed that train. Have fun in Krakow 🙂

Superb! a really competent instruction

Thank you Amelio 🙂

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Getting from Kraków City Centre to Kraków Airport

Easy ways to reach krakow airport from the city centre.

Travelling from Kraków city centre to John Paul II International Airport Kraków , commonly known as Kraków Airport , is a straightforward journey that you can complete in less than an hour using various modes of transport .

Located about 15 kilometres west of the city , the airport offers several convenient options to suit your schedule and budget. Whether you prefer the speed of a train, the economy of a bus, or the comfort of a taxi , each option provides a reliable way to ensure you arrive at the airport in good time for your flight.

When choosing your mode of transport to Krakow airport , consider that the train is a fast and popular choice , taking approximately 20 minutes to reach the airport from the main railway station, Kraków Główny.

On the other hand, public buses offer a more economical service, with journey times around 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

If comfort and ease are your top priorities, a taxi or private transfer can provide a stress-free ride directly to the departure terminals.

Preparing for your departure is more than just selecting a transport option; it’s essential to factor in additional time for traffic, check-in, and airport security procedures. By planning in advance and allowing ample time for these processes, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free start to your journey.

Table of Contents:

Transportation Options

Exploring the transportation options available makes your journey from Kraków City Centre to Kraków Airport efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the various modes you can choose based on convenience and preference.

Public Transport

The Kraków Airport is connected to the city centre via MPK S.A bus services. Specifically, bus lines 209 and 300 , along with the night line 902 , provide regular links. Remember, the 208 service is currently suspended. Tickets can be purchased from machines at the bus stops , on board from the driver, or via mobile apps.

Taxi Services

Bolt, Uber and other reputable taxi operators offer services from Kraków City Centre to the airport .

Ensure you get an official taxi—typically queued outside train and bus stations—to avoid overcharging. A trip to the airport usually takes roughly 25-30 minutes , traffic dependent.

Rideshare Options

Ridesharing apps like Uber offer a convenient alternative to taxis and can be summoned via your smartphone. The app provides fare estimates and route options, often with cashless transactions for added convenience.

Private Transfers

For a more personalised service, you might opt for private transfers. Various companies allow pre-booking online, ensuring a driver waits for you at a specified location to take you directly to the airport.

If driving your own car , the airport is roughly 15 kilometres from the city centre. Upon arrival, there’s parking available at the airport with spaces for short- and long-term stays. Ensure to check the current parking rates and availability.

Train Services

For a speedy and comfortable transfer, you can use the Koleje Małopolskie’s train that connects the main train station in Kraków with the airport.

Keep in mind that the train station is conveniently located near the airport entrance, minimising the need for additional transfers.

Purchasing Tickets

When planning your journey from Kraków City Centre to Kraków Airport , ensure you understand the ticket purchasing options available to make your trip hassle-free.

Online Booking

You can conveniently book your bus tickets online . Online booking is advisable for a smoother travel experience, allowing you to secure a seat ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons.

Ticket Machines

For immediate travel plans, ticket machines are located at various points in the city centre and at the airport. They offer a quick method to purchase tickets on the spot.

Payment can often be made using both cash (in Polish złoty) and credit/debit cards . These machines provide instructions in multiple languages, making it easier to navigate your purchase.

Bus Stations

If you prefer purchasing your bus tickets in person or need additional travel advice, visit one of the many bus stations in the city centre. Staff at the ticket counters will assist you in buying the right ticket for your destination.

It’s important to note that bus stations might have longer queues, so plan with a buffer of extra time before your intended departure.

Accommodation and Layovers

When considering where to stay for a layover in Kraków , your options are conveniently split between staying near the airport for ease of transit and enjoying the sights and sounds of the city centre for a more leisurely and enriching experience.

Airport Hotels

If you’re looking for the utmost convenience during your layover, staying at a hotel near Kraków Airport might be your best option.

There are several hotels located within a short driving distance of the terminal, many offering shuttle services to and from the airport . By booking a hotel close to the airport, you typically gain additional advantages such as:

• Early check-in/late check-out options, useful for unusual flight times
• Soundproofed rooms, ensuring a good night’s rest despite nearby air traffic
• Direct booking through platforms like Booking.com, often providing free cancellation up to 24 hours before your stay

Kraków City Centre Stays

Alternatively, you might opt to stay in the Kraków City Centre . This area hosts a diverse range of accommodation , from opulent hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. By staying in the city, you gain:

• Easy access to major sights like the Main Square , Wawel Castle , and the Kazimierz district
• A taste of local culture and cuisine with numerous restaurants and bars
• The flexibility to book your accommodation through reliable services like Booking.com with the benefit of customer reviews to guide your choice

To secure the best rates and ensure availability, consider booking your city centre stay well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Navigating to and from the Airport

When travelling to and from John Paul II International Airport, also known as Krakow Airport (KRK) , it’s crucial to understand both the facilities available at the airport and the vast array of transport links that connect you to the city centre.

Airport Facilities

John Paul II International Airport is equipped to facilitate a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Upon entering the terminal at Krakow Airport, you’ll find a well-organised layout leading you to various services.

• Check-in Desks: Located near the entrance, they are clearly marked for ease of access.
• Shopping & Dining: Explore a variety of shops.
• Passenger Services: Information desks and kiosks are positioned to guide you.

Airport Transport Connections

The airport offers diverse modes of transportation, ensuring swift and efficient travel to the Kraków city centre.

• Private Transfers: You may book an airport private transfer service, offering direct travel to your destination.
• Bus: Regular lines operate between the airport and the city, including a direct bus service which takes approximately 30 minutes.
• Train: A convenient rail link connects you directly to the main railway station in the city.
• Taxi & Rideshare: A taxi rank is available outside the terminal building, with rideshare options typically providing a cost-effective alternative.

Alternatives to Kraków Airport

When travelling to or from Kraków and the surrounding region, it’s useful to know that Kraków Airport, also known as John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice, is not your only option.

Should your travel plans require flexibility or Kraków Airport does not serve your desired destination, there is another airport you might consider.

Nearby Airports

Katowice Airport (KTW) – Katowice Airport , also known as Pyrzowice, is approximately 100 kilometres from Kraków and can serve as a viable alternative. It is an international airport located in the Silesian Voivodeship and is the fourth busiest airport in Poland in terms of passenger traffic. Direct connections between Kraków and Katowice Airport are available, including bus services and train routes that may require a transfer. Here are the key details:

• Location: Pyrzowice, Silesian Voivodeship
• Distance from Kraków: ~100 km
• Transport Options: Coach services like FlixBus, Train with transfer, Private transfer/taxi
• Travel Time: Roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by bus or car

Using Katowice Airport can be particularly beneficial if you find more suitable flight schedules , cheaper tickets, or if flights from Kraków Airport do not directly meet your travel itinerary. It is also a practical choice during peak travel times when Kraków Airport is particularly busy .

Remember to account for the additional travel time to Katowice Airport when planning your journey to ensure a stress-free trip.

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Download the KRK Airport app

Can I book a taxi in advance?

Kraków Airport operates its own taxi company. It is called Kraków Airport Taxi. You can book a taxi in advance at http://www.krktaxi.pl/ or by contacting the Kraków Airport Taxi dispatch office at: +48 12 258 0 258.

Can I pay for a public transport ticket in Euro?

Public transport tickets can only be purchased in PLN.

How can I get to the city centre?

Two municipal buses line (300 and 902 - a night line) run from Kraków Airport. Furthermore a train operated by Koleje Małopolskie will take you to the Main Railway Station in Kraków and to Wieliczka. Alternatively, you can use the services of Kraków Airport Taxi. Click here to get more information .

How far is the city centre?

The straight-line distance to the city centre is approximately 11 km.

How long does it take to get to the airport from the Kraków city centre?

The required time differs depending on the means of transportation and traffic congestion. A bus ride takes about 45 minutes, a train ride is around 20 minutes and a taxi ride takes about 25 minutes.

How long does it take to get to the city centre?

The required time differs depending on the means of transportation and traffic congestion. A bus ride takes about 45 minutes, by trains it takes about 20 minutes. Should you decide to take a taxi or a mini-bus, it will take 25 minutes.

How much does it cost to get to the city centre?

All information on travelling to or from Kraków Airport can be found here .

Where can I buy public transport tickets? Can I purchase them with a payment card?

Bus and train tickets can be bought in ticket machines located in the passenger terminal (level 0), in front of the arrival hall. Ticket machines accept payment cards. You can also buy tickets from the ticket inspector on a train (cash or card) or in a ticket machine on a bus (only with card). Payment only in cash (coins) via ticket machine at the bus.

Can't find answers to your questions?

How to Get From Krakow Airport to City Centre. Easy Ways to Get to Airport

Many tourists come to Krakow by plane and the number of passengers at the Krakow airport is constantly growing. After landing in Balice you need to get to the city centre of Krakow. How to get from the Krakow Airport to the Krakow Old Town and Market Square? How to get from Krakow city center to the airport Balice? Here is a guide and all the easy ways to get to Balice and the centre of Krakow. How to get to Krakow Airport?

Uber, Bolt, taxi

The easiest and most obvious way to get from Krakow Airport to Old Town or from city center to the aiport is to order a taxi, Bolt or Uber. Everything has already been written about the honesty or lack thereof of taxi drivers in Poland, so we won’t write about it here, we refer you to the local media.

To get from Krakow airport to the city centre, it is also possible to take a taxi collected at a taxi stand near the airport entrance. Rides tend to be more expensive in such cases. There is Airport Taxi from 29 PLN for the ride up to 4,9 km from the airport, 49 PLN for 5 to 8,9 km ride, 69 PLN for 9-12,9 km. It is possible to get to and from the airport cheaper.

As a reminder, there is a Bolt and Uber service in Krakow , but even with prices lower than taxi prices in Krakow these are not the cheapest ways to get to the airport either. Krakow airport is located in a town away from Krakow, so the cost of getting there is higher.

Public transport bus

You can get from Krakow city center to Krakow airport and from the airport to the centre by public transport. After landing you need to go to the Krakow Airport bus stop in Balice. There are two daily lines to the city departing from this stop – line 208 leading to the Krakow Glowny railway station. On your way to the centre, get off the bus at the Pl. Inwalidów stop. Here you can comfortably change to another means of transport as it is only a few tram stops to the Market Square in the Old Town district.

If you go all the way to the end, you will pass the Galeria Krakowska building, from where it is easy to get to the railway station and Market Square. Alternatively, you can just take a quick walk towards the Main Market through the Karmelicka Street from Pl. Inwalidów.

You can also take bus line 252 from Krakow Aiport to Osiedle Podwawelskie. Bus stops closest to the city center are called: Muzeum Narodowe and Jubilat.

There is also a night bus to the airport. The bus line number is 902. This is a night bus running from 11:25 pm to 4:55 am. The night bus from the airport actually runs every hour. It goes around Blonia and the National Museum ( Muzeum Narodowe ) to the main railway station ( Dworzec Główny ). The best way to get to the centre is to get off at the Bagatela Theatre ( Teatr Bagatela ) stop and the best way to get to the airport is to wait for the bus on this stop. Tickets can be purchased on the bus by paying by card.

Train from Krakow Glowny railoway station to Balice Airport

One of the most convenient ways to get to the centre of Krakow and from the centre of Krakow to the airport is a train. The train runs on the route from Wieliczka Rynek to Krakow Airport. The train, operated by Koleje Małopolskie, stops at the Krakow Glowny railway station in the center of Krakow and finishes it’s run at the station by the airport.

The train ride takes about 20 minutes and a ticket for the train to the airport from the city center of Krakow costs not more than 3,30 EUR. The railway station at Kraków Airport is located behind the car park.

Getting by minibus or bus

There are also minibuses and buses from the Krakow bus station ( Małopolski Dworzec Autobusowy ) to the Krakow airport in Balice. Buses run daily. There are buses of companies such as Neobus, Flixbus, Leo Express and private minibuses that will get you to the aiport. However, the travel time here depends on the traffic jams in Krakow. At rush hour it can therefore take a long time to get there.

Usually the trip from MDA takes about 30 minutes, but if you don’t want to be late for your flight, it’s better to plan an earlier departure from the city center. The price of a minibus to the airport is around 3,30 EUR, so if you are travelling with several people it may turn out that it’s cheaper to choose Uber or Bolt.

Getting to Balice by car

The airport terminal in Balice near Krakow is located at 1 Kapitana Mieczyslaw Medweckiego Street . The airport is situated about 11 kilometres west of Krakow city centre, not far from A4 motorway. If you’re travelling by car, we don’t need to explain how to get there – you can enter the airport address into your car’s navigation system. At Krakow Airport you can leave your rented car or park your car in one of the many car parks located nearby.

How to get to Krakow airport – summary

The airport in Krakow is not too close, but also not too far from the city centre, so getting there is not as complicated as from some airports located in large Western European capitals or smaller but attractive tourist regions.

Thanks to the relatively short distance from Krakow’s Main Square, getting there even by public transport is not too complicated and takes about 30 minutes. You can get from the airport to the centre and from the centre to the airport by quite efficient public transport or using Uber, Bolt or taxi.

It’s better not to use private companies operating shuttle buses because they can be very expensive in compare to the described methods .

The current timetables from the Balice airport can be checked on the websites of MPK Kraków ( mpk.krakow.pl/en ), Koleje Małopolskie ( malopolskiekoleje.pl/index.php ) and the official website of the bus station ( rozklady.mda.malopolska.pl/?lang=eng ) in Kraków respectively. If you read in Polish you can also read polish article on how to get to the Krakow Aiport on one of polish travel blogs ( Jak dojechać na lotnisko w Krakowie? ).

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