How to Get to Krakow from Different Departure Cities?

Krakow is Poland’s second largest city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Visiting Krakow, located in the south of Poland, usually requires some form of transport depending on where you need to come from. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to traveling to Krakow from the most common locations.

Flying to Krakow from Outside of Poland

The best option for travelers coming from abroad is to fly into Krakow’s Balice International Airport. The airport is served by dozens of airlines and carries both domestic and international flights from major cities across Europe. From Krakow’s Balice Airport, visitors can take an Airport Express bus directly to the centre of Krakow.

Getting from Warsaw to Krakow

The most direct route from the Polish capital of Warsaw to Krakow is by plane. Plenty of direct flights to Krakow Balice airport are available almost daily and the entire journey could take just 1 hour and 40 minutes. The other option is to take the train, which journeys from Central Station in Warsaw to Krakow Main Station and usually takes around 3 and a half hours with a change of train at Radom.

Getting from Berlin to Krakow

Trains will be the most comfortable way to get from Berlin to Krakow. The quickest journey to Krakow Main Station will take 8 and a half hours, with a change in Dresden, and usually stops at many popular places along the way. For those with more time looking for a budget option, there are plenty of discount bus services available from Berlin directly to Krakow and can take up to 12 hours, depending on traffic.

Getting from Vienna to Krakow

The quickest train connection from Vienna to Krakow Central Station will take around 8 hours with various stops in both Austria and Poland. However for those with more time, there are plenty of other budget options, including most notably a direct bus trip from Vienna taking around 10 hours.

Getting from London to Krakow

People traveling from London have 2 main options when going to Krakow. The quickest route will usually involve first taking a plane, flying with RyanAir or Wizz Air; directly to Balice Airport with an average 1 hour 45 minutes flight time, or alternatively you can opt for a cheaper travel option like taking the train with Eurostar to Paris, then change trains and head West towards Krakow, arriving at Main Station after about 24 hours of travel.

Overall, whether you’re looking for a budget option or more convenience, there are plenty of ways of traveling from different departure cities to get you to Krakow. There’s no doubt that traveling in Europe provides some exciting experiences and discovering the culture and attractions of this majestic Polish city is certainly no exception! Now that you know how to travel, you can start planning your stay in Krakow.

I’m sorry, but the blog post title “How to Get to Krakow from Different Departure Cities?” is referring to Krakow itself as the destination city. Therefore, I can provide you with an insider’s guide to the city of Krakow.

Insider’s Guide to Krakow

Krakow is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe, located in southern Poland. With its rich history, incredible architecture, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder that it is a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re interested in learning about Polish culture, trying traditional cuisine, or exploring historic landmarks, Krakow has something to offer everyone.

Local Attractions

One of the top attractions in Krakow is the Wawel Royal Castle, a breathtaking complex of buildings dating back to the 14th century. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, including the State Rooms, which are lavishly decorated with Renaissance and Baroque art. The castle also houses several museums, including the Royal Treasury, which showcases priceless artifacts and jewels.

Another must-see landmark is the Main Market Square, which is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. Here you’ll find the iconic Cloth Hall, a historic market dating back to the Renaissance era. The square is also home to the Basilica of St. Mary, a stunning Gothic church with a 13th-century altarpiece.

For those interested in Krakow’s Jewish history, the Kazimierz district is a must-visit. This former Jewish quarter is now a trendy neighborhood filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants. Visitors can take guided tours of the district to learn about the history of Krakow’s Jewish community and visit the area’s numerous synagogues and Jewish cemeteries.

Dining Spots and Cultural Experiences

Krakow is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which includes hearty stews, savory pierogi, and crispy fried pork cutlets. One of the best places to try traditional Polish food is the legendary restaurant, Wierzynek. This historic establishment dates back to the 14th century and has hosted some of the world’s most famous figures, including Pope John Paul II and Queen Elizabeth II.

For a truly immersive cultural experience, visitors can attend a Polish Folklore Show. These shows feature traditional dance performances, music, and costumes that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Poland.

Local History

Krakow has a fascinating history that dates back over 1,000 years. The city was the seat of Polish kings in the middle ages and was the cultural capital of the country for centuries. During World War II, Krakow was occupied by the Nazis, and the Jewish population was forced into a ghetto. Today, visitors can learn about the city’s history by visiting the numerous museums, including the Schindler’s Factory Museum, which tells the story of Oskar Schindler and his efforts to save Jews during the war.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to explore Krakow’s hidden gems, the Podgórze district is a great place to start. This quiet neighborhood is located across the Vistula River from the Old Town and is home to several unique attractions, including the famous “Concrete Jungle,” which is a group of Soviet-era housing blocks that have been turned into an art project.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to visit the Nowa Huta district, which is a planned communist city built in the 1950s. Visitors can take guided tours of the neighborhood to learn about life during the communist era and admire the unique architectural style of the buildings.

In conclusion, Krakow is an incredible city that is rich in history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring its famous landmarks, trying traditional Polish food, or delving into its dark past, Krakow has something for everyone.