How to Get from Krakow Airport to City Center and a Hotel

John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice is the main gateway for travellers coming to Krakow. Located about 15 kilometres west of the city centre, the Airport offers several convenient options for getting to the heart of Krakow. Whether you're looking for the quickest route or the most budget-friendly option, this guide will help you easily navigate your way from the Airport to the city centre or your hotel.

Table of Contents:

Train from Krakow Airport to Krakow Main Station

The train is the fastest way to reach the city centre from Krakow Airport. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes and brings you directly to Krakow Main Station (Kraków Główny), conveniently close to the Old Town and many hotels.

• Train Frequency: Trains run every 30 minutes during peak times, 60 minutes in the early morning and late evening.
• Train Cost: A one-way ticket from the Airport to Krakow Main Station costs 17 PLN.

During the daytime, trains are crowded, you can stand all the way from the airport to the city, and it will be extremely difficult to find space for luggage.

• How to buy train tickets from Krakow Airport: Get your train tickets from machines at the Airport, ticket counter or staff on the train. You can pay by cash in Polish zloty or with a credit/debit card.

If you buy your ticket from the train staff, after boarding the train you must first approach the staff. You may pay a fine of PLN 120–240 if you sit without a ticket and wait for the ticket inspector.

• Train Operation Hours: The first train departs around 4:00 AM, and the last train leaves after midnight or just after 1:00 AM, depanding on the season. You can check the train timetable on the official website https://kolejemalopolskie.com.pl/.

Private transfer is the most convenient way to get from the airport to the hotel

Are you travelling with children or several suitcases, or do you prefer to quickly resolve how to get from the airport to the hotel?

For a hassle-free experience, consider booking a private transfer:

• Flat, pre-paid fee - you don't have to worry about exchanging currencies or thinking about payment options in a local taxi or trains.
• An English-speaking driver will meet you at the arrivals hall and take you to your accommodation.
• You can add a child seat to the car or arrange space for a large amount of luggage.
• 24/7 customer support is at your service.

Airport transfers and exciting tours in Krakow can be booked on GetYourGuide.

Here's how easily order a transfer from Krakow Airport to your hotel or any other accommodation: 

1. Go to the Welcome PickUps website.
2. Fill out a simple form. 
   • From: Fill in Krakow Balice International Airport or Krakow Balice International Airport. 
   • Where: Fill in the name of your hotel.
   • Add the date and time of your plane's arrival. 
   • Change the number of passengers and luggage. 
3. Click the "Continue Booking" button to find out the cost of the transfer.
4. To order a transfer, simply add your contacts and flight number.

If you wish, you can add a child seat or send a message to the driver if, for example, you have bulky luggage.

• Journey Time: About 25 minutes to the city centre.
• Cost: The fare to the city centre is typically around 105 PLN.
• Convenience: Private Transfer is ideal for families with kids, late arrivals or those with lots of luggage.

Taxi in Krakow Airport

Taxis, a reliable and safe option, are available outside the arrivals terminal. They offer a comfortable and direct route to your destination in the city.

• Taxi journey Time: The ride will take about 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Taxi Cost: The fare to the city centre is around 129 PLN.

Public Bus from the Krakow Airport

Public buses are a cost-effective way to travel from the Airport to the city centre. The journey takes about 50 minutes to reach Krakow city centre.

• Bus Lines: Krakow Airport is served by three regular bus lines: 209, 300 and night line 902.
• Cost: A 1-hour ticket costs 6.00 PLN.
• Bus Tickets: Purchase your bus tickets from self-service machines at the Airport or the bus stop. You can pay by cash in Polish zloty or with a credit/debit card.

You must validate your ticket just after boarding the bus. Controllers in Krakow's public transport are frequent and impose 120–240 PLN fines on those caught without a validated ticket.

Please note that a bus ticket worth 6 zlotys is valid for 1 hour from the moment it is validated. You must buy another ticket if your bus journey lasts over 60 minutes.

Ride-Sharing Taxis in Krakow

Ride-sharing services like Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow operate in Krakow and can be a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

• Journey Time: Similar to taxis, around 25 minutes.

You might have to wait outside when you're getting picked up. There are fewer free cars at night, so the wait can take a long time.

• Cost: Prices may vary but generally start from 40 PLN.
• Advantages: The app allows booking and paying for your ride if you connect your credit or debit card.

How to get from Airport to Krakow - check the comparison table

No matter which option you choose, getting from Krakow Airport to the city centre is straightforward.

To help you decide, here's a comparison of the journey times and costs.

Tips for Travelers

• Currency exchange: Avoid exchanging money at Krakow Airport. The exchange rate there is terrible.
• Night Arrivals: Ordering a transfer or taxiing at the Airport is a better option. Trains are not available at night, and buses rarely run.

I hope this guide will help you quickly and easily choose the best way to get from Krakow Airport.