Krakow to Warsaw Trains

The best and most popular way is by direct high speed train. The train is the most convenient, comfortable and reliable way to travel between the two city centers. It takes you from Kraków Główny to Warszawa Centralna in as little as 2 hours 17 minutes, with no traffic, airport transfers or parking to worry about.

Trains cover a distance of approximately 300 kilometers between Krakow and Warsaw, about 292 km on the rail line. The driving distance is approximately 290 km, or 180 miles. The distance is short and the line is built for high speed, so the train is the quickest way to cover it.

Average travel time between Krakow and Warsaw is 2 hours 34 minutes. On fast direct services, travel time is approximately 2 hours 19 minutes to 2 hours 40 minutes. The fastest train takes 2 hours 17 minutes. The longest train journey can take 4 hours 10 minutes on slower trains that make more stops.

EIP trains are the fastest on the route. EIP trains are high-speed Italian-made Pendolino trains that reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. They cover the Krakow and Warsaw distance in about 2 hours 17 minutes, the fastest trip available. They also have comfortable reclining seats, air conditioning and first class carriages.

Express Intercity Premium is PKP Intercity's top high speed service. If journey time matters most, the EIP train is the one to book. It has the shortest travel time, free WiFi, power outlets and good leg room for a pleasant journey.

EIP trains are the fastest and most modern option. EIC trains make fewer stops than IC trains, but they are not as fast as EIP. IC trains are slower and make more stops than EIP trains, so their travel time is longer, but tickets are often cheaper.

Most trains are run by PKP Intercity, which operates the EIP, EIC and IC services. RegioJet and Leo Express trains also operate on this route, which adds more departures and price options.

There are approximately 23 trains operating daily on this route. Daily departures run from early morning to late evening, so it's easy to find a train from Krakow that suits your plans.

Trains depart from Krakow to Warsaw as early as 00:28. The last train usually leaves in the late evening, around 22:00. Times can change by season, so check the current timetable before you travel.

All trains depart from Kraków Główny, Krakow's main train station. It sits in the city center next to Galeria Krakowska and the MDA Krakow bus station, about 10 minutes on foot from the Old Town.

Trains arrive at Warszawa Centralna (Warsaw Dworzec Centralny) or Warszawa Zachodnia. Many services also stop at Warszawa Wschodnia. Warszawa Centralna is the most convenient station for most passengers, because it is in the city center near the Palace of Culture and Science. The nearby Warszawa Śródmieście and Warszawa Gdańska stations connect you to the metro and local trains.

Train tickets from Krakow to Warsaw start at $31, and the average ticket price is around $23 USD. The price depends on the train type, class and how early you book. First class and Business Class tickets on the EIP train cost more than second class seats on IC trains.

Book as early as possible. Most train companies release tickets 3–6 months ahead, and discounted tickets are available if you book in advance. Prices can increase closer to the travel date, especially on Fridays and Sundays. You can purchase Warsaw train tickets on the Rail Ninja website or app and pay with over 20 payment methods.

• Economy Class includes free WiFi and power outlets.
• Business Class offers spacious seats and a quiet car.
• First class has wider seats and fewer seats per car.
• Relax Class features leather seats and large fold-down tables.

Yes. Free WiFi is available on all trains, so you can stay connected on your phone or laptop. Dining cars serve a variety of snacks and meals, along with hot and cold drinks.

Passengers can usually bring hand luggage and a suitcase at no extra cost. Bags go on the overhead racks or in the luggage areas at the end of each car.

For one or two passengers, the train is usually cheaper once you add fuel, tolls and parking. Travel time by car is roughly 3 hours under normal conditions. Driving gives you flexibility, but city traffic in Warsaw and parking can be stressful.

Buses are a great budget option, though they take longer depending on traffic. Bus travel time is approximately 3.5 to 5 hours, compared with about 2 hours 34 minutes on average by train. Most buses leave from MDA Krakow.

Not really. The flight itself takes about 50 minutes non-stop, but total door-to-door time is roughly 3.5 to 4 hours once you add airport transfers, security and boarding. The train takes you city center to city center faster.

Yes. After booking on the Rail Ninja website or app, you receive an e-ticket that you can show to the conductor on your phone. There's no need to print it.