Kraków airport transfers from Balice
Kraków's passenger airport is at Balice, west of the city. The train is a straightforward choice for the main station, while public buses and taxis suit different addresses and arrival times. Choose your transfer around your accommodation's location, especially if you are staying south of the Old Town.
The airports
- Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK)
- about 11 km west, around 20 minutes by train to Kraków Główny
Every way from the airport to Kraków
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TrainAirport train to Kraków Główny | KRK | around 20 minutes to Kraków Główny | The main station and northern Old Town |
| BusPublic airport bus | KRK | allow roughly 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the service | Cheap travel when the route suits your address |
| TaxiOfficial airport taxi | KRK | roughly 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic | Luggage, groups and direct accommodation access |
How each one works
Train: Airport train to Kraków Główny
Follow the terminal signs to the airport railway station via the covered link. Buy a rail ticket from a ticket machine before boarding. Get off at Kraków Główny for Kleparz, the northern Old Town or onward trains.
Bus: Public airport bus
Use the signed public bus stops outside the terminal and check the current route and destination on the airport's official site. Buy a ticket valid for the airport journey and follow the validation instructions for that ticket type.
Taxi: Official airport taxi
Follow signs to the official taxi rank outside arrivals. Give the driver your full accommodation address and confirm the fare arrangements before leaving. Ask where the vehicle can stop if your accommodation is on a restricted Old Town street.
Arriving late or leaving early
Check the last train and current night bus arrangements on the airport's official site before departure. If public transport does not fit your arrival, use the official taxi rank or arrange a transfer. For an early flight, allow for the journey and your airline's recommended check-in time.
Before you land
- Check your accommodation entrance on a map before choosing between the station and a direct road transfer.
- Airport rail tickets and city transport tickets cover different services, so buy the ticket for your chosen journey.
- Allow extra time to reach street level and find an onward tram after arriving at Kraków Główny.
Kraków airport transfers from Balice
Which airport serves Kraków?
Kraków John Paul II International Airport at Balice serves the city. Its airport code is KRK, and it has a rail connection to Kraków Główny.
Does the airport train stop in the Old Town?
Get off at Kraków Główny, beside the northern side of the center. Continue on foot or by tram to your accommodation.
Is the train useful for Kazimierz?
It gets you to the main station, where you can continue by tram or taxi. Include that onward journey when comparing transfer options.
Can I rely on public transport after midnight?
Check the timetable for your arrival night on the airport's official site. Do not assume the airport train runs throughout the night.