Getting from Kraków Airport to the city center or old town, couldn’t be easier (or cheaper). You have so many options, from the convenient airport bus to luxurious private transfers. And it only takes between 20 and 40 minutes.
After living in Kraków on and off for five years, and visiting countless times since, I have tried them all. So let’s take a closer look at the best transfer options for your wallet and preference.
Article overview
Kraków Airport to the city center
Krakow Airport, also known as John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice (KRK), is located around 15 kilometers west of the city center. It is open 24/7, though transport options are limited after midnight.
The airport has two passenger terminals, T1 for international flights and T2 for domestic flights. It is the second busiest airport in Poland after Warsaw, serving almost 10 million people a year.
The modern T1 terminal was only completed 8 years ago, but there are already talks about extending it to accommodate the rising number of people visiting Krakow.
Living in Norway, I often fly to Krakow or Gdansk to get access to more destinations in Europe through budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizzair.
Krakow is a very compact and walkable city so I only recommend renting a car if you plan on exploring the surrounding area and cities.
Krakow Airport train
Is there a train station at Kraków Airport? Yes, it is hidden behind the large car park and accessed via a pedestrian bridge from terminal T1.
Taking just 20 minutes and costing 17 PLN (just under €4), Koleje Małopolskie (KML) trains from Krakow Airport to the city center, offer the best value in terms of cost and time.
Trains depart for Krakow Glowny from 04:17 to 01:24, leaving every 30 minutes during the day. Early morning and late trains operate hourly, and expect fewer departures during the winter months. Make sure to check the current timetable.
The trains are modern and comfortable, with power outlets and free Wi-Fi that actually works.
Krakow Glowny is the main train station, located on the northeast side of the Old Town, on the lover level of Galeria Krakowska. The area is very busy, and I don’t like walking up here late at night, so I rarely take the train if I’m not staying close by.
How to buy tickets for the train
You can buy your ticket in the arrivals hall, on the station platform or from the conductor on the train. The arrivals hall is probably your best bet, so you can take your time without a line of people behind you.
You’ll find the grey ticket machine just left of the currency exchange. It says “Małopolska” on the side with a colorful logo at the front and sides.
To your left is the escalator that takes you up to the first floor and the pedestrian bridge. Just follow the signs that say “Train to city” to the end of the bridge and take another escalator down to the train platform.
Train from the city center
The train station (Kraków Główny) can be a little overwhelming with many providers and platforms, so I recommend getting there well before the departure time.
Again, look for machines marked “Małopolskie” and choose Krakow Lotnisko (Krakow Airport). If you’re unsure, just ask someone or buy from a conductor on the train.
Enter the train station through the lower level of Galeria Krakowska shopping mall or on the right side of the building when coming from the Old Town.
Krakow private airport transfer
After a long flight or if you’re arriving late at night, having a private driver waiting for you in the arrivals hall is the best option.
Having tried many different companies, I like this transfer company the best. They kept an eye on my flight, so I didn’t have to stress about letting them know my flight was delayed.
I was met by a lovely driver who helped me with my luggage and took me straight to a new Mercedes van. I only paid €29 when booking online in advance, definitely money well spent.
Pro tip >> Very often when booking my accommodation through Booking.com, I get a free driver from Krakow Airport. So be sure to check this before you book anything else.
Taxis at Krakow Airport
The other most convenient option to get from Krakow Airport to the city center is by taxi because there are almost always taxis waiting. Just head left after you exit the arrivals hall.
There are two types of taxis you can choose from, regular and black ones. The exclusive black taxis offer a premium experience. They are more expensive but provide a higher level of service, comfort and sometimes even complimentary amenities.
Taking a taxi from Krakow Airport to the city center generally takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
How much is a taxi from the airport to old town Kraków?
Depending on where you’re staying in Krakow, you will pay 89-109 PLN (€20-25) for the regular taxi (set by zones). Just a little cheaper than the private transfer.
The exclusive black taxis cost somewhere between 150 and 200 PLN (€35-46). I usually splurge on one if the flight has been bad or I need a little pick-me-up.
I recommend confirming the fare before starting your journey to avoid surprises. Most taxis accept credit cards, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
Bus from Krakow airport to the city center
The cheapest but slowest way from Krakow Airport to the city center is by bus. Buses usually take around 40 minutes, but last time it took under 35 minutes. So not that much slower than a taxi.
Exit the terminal and walk all the way to the right to find bus 300 which runs twice an hour, from 05:32 to 22:52. There are only 4 stops between the airport and Krakow Old Town (7 stops total).
If you’re staying in, west or north of the old town, you can get off at the Jubilat stop. When I’m staying in Kazimierz, I often use the Rondo Grunwaldzkie stop. You can find the timetables here.
The night service, line 902, operates hourly. This is your best option if you have a flight in the middle of the night and haven’t booked a transfer.
Pro tip >> The Jakdojade app provides detailed and up-to-date information on all forms of public transportation in Krakow, including trams, buses and trains.
Buy tickets for public transport in Krakow
Bus tickets can be purchased in the arrivals hall or at the bus stop with cash or card. Public transport tickets in Krakow are sold for 20/60/90-minute journeys or extended periods from 24 hours to 30 days.
Krakow is a very compact and walkable city, so unless you’re staying for a long time, you most likely won’t use public transport very often.
To get from Krakow Airport to the city center, a 60-minute ticket at 6 PLN (€1.4) is sufficient to cover the journey. Don’t forget to validate your ticket in the stamp machine on the bus.
The last time I was in town, I tested the iMKA ticket app for the first time. It was easy to set up and use, but only necessary if you’re staying for more than a weekend in Krakow.
Rondo Grunwaldzkie 04 is the bus stop I often use when taking the bus back to the Airport from Krakow City Center. You can see the majestic Wawel Castle in the background.
To get from Krakow Airport to the city center, you can also use rideshares like Bolt and Uber. It usually takes around 10 minutes for a driver to arrive.
I like to use Bolt, the European version of Uber because you can also hire e-scooters and e-bikes and order food. To find your driver, exit the airport and walk across one lane of traffic to the left. Then you will see a row of cars and taxis lined up.
How much is an Uber from Krakow Airport to City Centre?
I paid 70 PLN (€16) once because of bad traffic, but usually, the price is around 60 PLN, which is quite reasonable compared to traditional taxis. And I appreciate the option to pay through the app.
Conclusion: Best Krakow Airport transportation
So as you can see, how to get from Krakow Airport to the city center depends on when you arrive and what you want to spend.
I often find myself taking the bus, unless I’m staying on the east side of the Old Town, then I sometimes take the train. If I’m arriving late I usually book this private transfer.
Here’s a quick summary of all transportation options:
- Bus: The cheapest but slowest option, with several stops along Krakow city center.
- Train: Affordable and quick, but you have to make your own way to your accommodation.
- Private transfer: VIP feel, cheaper than the exclusive taxi. Often free through Booking.com.
- Taxi: The quickest option, located right outside the door. Though quite expensive.
- Rideshares: A bit of a wait, but often 50% cheaper than the airport taxi.
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