Warsaw to Krakow by Train
Direct high-speed service · from
Route Overview: Warsaw to Krakow
Travel from Warsaw to Krakow by PKP Intercity Pendolino in just 2 hours and 26 minutes. Poland's busiest rail corridor offers over 30 daily departures connecting the capital with Krakow, the country's cultural jewel and UNESCO World Heritage city.
The 293 km journey on the Central Railway Main Line (CMK) is served by high-speed EIP Pendolino trains reaching 200 km/h, plus Express InterCity, InterCity, and budget TLK options for every budget.
Promotional fares start from PLN 49 (approximately €11). Krakow Glowny station is steps from the Old Town, Wawel Castle, and the Main Market Square, making the train the most convenient way to arrive.
How Long Is the Warsaw to Krakow Train?
The direct PKP Intercity from Warsaw to Krakow takes approximately 2h 26min, with multiple daily departures.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Warsaw to Krakow?
Up to 30/day trains operate daily on the Warsaw to Krakow route.
Train Operator
PKP Intercity
Direct high-speed service · 2h 26min max
Which Stations Serve the Warsaw to Krakow Route?
Warszawa Centralna
- Metro M1 and M2 (Centrum station)
- City centre location near Palace of Culture
- RER Extensive bus and tram connections
Krakow Glowny
- Directly adjacent to the Old Town and Main Market Square
- Galeria Krakowska shopping mall connected to station
- RER Tram connections to Kazimierz and Podgorze
What Classes Are Available on Warsaw to Krakow Trains?
2nd Class (EIP)
- Reclining seats
- WiFi
- Power outlets at every seat
- Onboard bistro
- Air conditioning
1st Class (EIP)
- Wider seats with extra legroom
- WiFi
- Power outlets
- Onboard bistro
- Quieter carriage
- Air conditioning
How to Book the Warsaw to Krakow Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class (EIP) class. Prices shown are indicative and based on recent availability. Actual fares may vary.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Warsaw to Krakow Trains?
Poland's Busiest Route
Warsaw–Krakow is Poland's busiest intercity rail corridor with over 30 daily departures, including EIP Pendolino, EIC, IC, and TLK services.
Track Upgrade in Progress
PKP PLK is upgrading the Central Railway Main Line (CMK) for 250 km/h operation. During works, some EIP services may have slightly longer journey times.
Historic Krakow
Krakow Glowny station is steps from the UNESCO-listed Old Town, Wawel Castle, and the vibrant Kazimierz Jewish Quarter.
Super Promo Fares
PKP occasionally releases Super Promo fares from PLN 29 on selected services. These are limited quantity and sell out very quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions: Warsaw to Krakow
The fastest EIP Pendolino services take approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes. Express InterCity trains take around 2h 40min. During track upgrade works, journey times may be slightly longer.
Promotional fares start from PLN 49 (approx. €11). Standard EIP 2nd class fares are PLN 99–149. Super Promo fares occasionally drop to PLN 29 on selected services.
Over 30 trains run daily, including high-speed EIP Pendolino (fastest), Express InterCity (EIC), InterCity (IC), and budget TLK services. The first train departs around 03:30 and the last around 23:30.
The EIP Pendolino is fastest (2h 26min) with the best onboard facilities. EIC trains take about 15 minutes longer but are slightly cheaper. TLK is the budget option at 3h+ but significantly more affordable.
Yes, Krakow Glowny is directly adjacent to the Old Town. The Main Market Square (Rynek Glowny) is a 5-minute walk from the station exit through Galeria Krakowska.