How long is the train journey from Prague to Krakow?
The train ride from Prague to Krakow generally takes between seven to nine hours, depending on the service chosen. Direct services are faster, while connections extend travel time. The duration also varies with the type of train for some high-speed options reduce the journey time. Considering the distance between the two cities, the train provides a balance of comfort and speed.
Is the train from Prague to Krakow scenic?
Yes, the train journey from Prague to Krakow is scenic, especially as it winds through the hilly landscapes of the Czech Republic and Poland. You’ll go through a variety of vistas, including rolling hills, dense forests, and small villages. The route traverses the Moravian region and Silesian countryside. It's an enjoyable experience if you’d like to get to see more of the beauty of Central Europe's countryside.
What are some recommended stops or attractions to visit along the road trip from Prague to Krakow?
Driving from Prague to Krakow offers opportunities to explore scenic and historical sites. Notable stops include the UNESCO-listed Kutná Hora, the charming town of Olomouc, and the beautiful town of Štramberk. Don’t forget to try the town’s signature desert Štramberk Ears.
What is the best time of year to travel from Prague to Krakow by car for the most scenic experience?
The best time to take a ride from Prague to Krakow is during late spring, summer, and early autumn. Traveling during these periods not only means passing through the Czech and Polish landscapes and towns at their most colorful, but also having good weather conditions to explore on the way.
Is there a sleeper train from Prague to Krakow?
Yes, there is a sleeper train service available from Prague to Krakow, which is a convenient overnight travel option. It is ideal if you are looking to save on accommodation for a night and make the most of your travel time. The sleeper trains offer various accommodation options ranging from seats to couchettes and sleeping cars, depending on different comfort preferences and budgets.
What is the best way to travel from Prague to Krakow?
The best way to get from Prague to Krakow is by a door-to-door private car service. With this option, you have the flexibility to explore as many towns and cities as you’d like and spend your time without worrying about parking, fuel costs, driving, and vignettes. Your driver picks you up from your exact location, takes you to the door of your accommodation and helps you with your luggage. Alternatively, you can go for a sleeper train for a more cost-effective choice.
You’ll spend some good time in Prague drinking Czech beer, walking through the Charles Bridge, and stuffing yourself with svičková and guláš. Why not expand your trip more into Eastern Europe to continue exploring the neighbor of the Czech Republic? Plan your car trip from Prague to Krakow, through which you’ll get to meet different regions of the country before you enter Poland and its hilly landscapes and towns full of history.
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The distance between these two big cities is around 332 miles (535 km), which takes five and a half hours more or less—surely this is without the stops and possible traffic jams around Prague and Brno. But don’t let the distance scare you—the ride will be so comfortable and fun with the stops you’ll take that it’ll feel way shorter.
So you’ll start the journey from the capital and its surroundings will quickly turn into vast fields of the Czech countryside. Heading towards Brno, the second-largest city in the country, you’ll be passing the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands with small Czech villages on either side of the way. Be especially sure you are looking out of the window around Moravia since the rolling hills are bright yellow with rapeseed fields around here. Then, the route will take you past the Silesian Beskids, a mountain range forming the Czech-Polish border.
Let’s talk about the stops you need to take because simply it’s a pity to miss them. Start with Kutna Horá, a small town but a very memorable one. It used to be a very rich trade center thanks to its extensive silver deposits. Walk up to the Cathedral of St. Barbara, one of the buildings that was funded by the wealth the town accommodated at the time.
After Kutna Horá, continue to Olomouc, another UNESCO heritage town that is known as a thriving student hub since there is the Palacký University of Olomouc.
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About Krakow
Traveling from Prague to Krakow is definitely worth it for countless reasons. Krakow is the intellectual capital of Poland, where you can find historical buildings, a castle, numerous galleries and permanent exhibitions, pretty restaurants of traditional as well as international cuisines. The city’s roots go back to the 7th century, so walking through the city is like being in an open museum showcasing Krakow’s history.
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You pass the Baroque buildings and are met by a medieval stone church in the corner; you gaze at the Gothic Polish architecture of St. Mary’s Basilica while the historical Cloth Hall behind you dates back to the Renaissance. This revel of history is especially felt where you’ll see the basilica and the hall; The Main Market Square. We can easily say that this is the heart of Krakow since it is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe.
And then there is the Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral standing on Wawel Hill. Walking from the main square towards the river, your way will naturally lead you to climb up the hill—following the crowds always helps. The combination of these buildings joined together with different architectural styles, the red bricks making up most of the castle and ramparts, and the Cathedral are a feast to eyes.
From here when you walk down to the pedestrian lanes by the river, you’ll be greeted by the famous dragon statue Smok Wawelski - the explanation for why every individual stand is selling dragon plushies. Legend has it that there used to be a dragon whose den was by the Wawel Hill overlooking the Vistula River, growing stronger and more dangerous every day.
So King Krakus helplessly decided to announce a competition to defeat the dragon, with his daughter as the prize. A sharp shoemaker beat the dragon by stuffing a sheepskin with sulfur, which made the dragon drink water until it exploded. So, that’s the dragon you’ll watch breath fire every five minutes - or if you send an SMS commanding it. It’s especially nice to watch it at night.
While continuing your walk by the river towards the ferris wheel you’ll see on the other side, consider passing the bridge and having a balloon ride - don’t worry about where to find it, it’ll be right in front of you. If you are not into being high above the city, then your next destination will be the historic Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz.
It’s the cultural and young center of Krakow. It buzzes with hipster cafes, galleries, clubs, and vintage shops of all kinds. You can also stop by the Old Synagogue and Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery. This district recently has become even more famous for its annual Jewish Culture Festival.
So, just by this brief introduction, you might have already gotten the feeling that Krakow is not just a city, but an experience on its own. Come and explore the well-preserved past and the lively present!
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From Prague to Krakow: travel tips
Your trip from Prague to Krakow will be a smooth one for sure if you take into consideration some of our travel tips. Take a look!
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Have the right documents and currency with you
Make sure your travel documents are up to date. While both the Czech Republic and Poland are part of the European Union, it's good to carry a valid ID or passport. The Czech Republic uses the Czech koruna (CZK), and Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). Although some places might accept euros, have local currencies for small purchases and more rural areas.
If you are driving…
Choose a car that's comfortable for long drives and check the rental agreement for cross-border policies. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a vignette for Czech highways and that you're familiar with both countries' driving laws. Arrange the parking in Krakow before you set off or book your accommodation with a parking option.
Stay connected and navigated
Have a reliable GPS system or offline maps downloaded, as some areas between Prague and Krakow might have spotty mobile data coverage. Consider buying a local SIM card or make sure your mobile plan covers roaming in both countries.
Learn a few local phrases
English is widely spoken in the bigger cities of the Czech Republic and Poland, but learning a few basic phrases in Czech and Polish can make the locals happy and feel appreciated. It also shows that you respect their cultures as a foreigner.
Pack the essentials
Weather can be unpredictable; pack layers and be prepared for rain or sunshine. Also, carry a first-aid kit, water bottles, snacks, and any medications you might need.
Plan your stops beforehand
If you are driving, research your route before the trip. While the most direct route via the D1 and A1 motorways is efficient, exploring detours through small Czech and Polish towns and villages means a richer travel experience. Plan rest stops and fuel breaks, especially in more remote areas where it is harder to find resting places.
Stay safe and informed
Be up-to-date about the road conditions and any travel advisories. Keep an emergency number list handy. In the Czech Republic and Poland, the general emergency number is 112.
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How to get from Prague to Krakow
The travel time can be long when you are getting from Prague to Krakow, but there are indeed many ways you can do it. See the option to get to Krakow from Prague and choose the one that is the best for you!
Prague to Krakow by car
Driving from Prague to Krakow is quite a popular option. Your trip stretches a distance of approximately 332 miles (535 km) and driving takes around five and a half hours, without the resting and exploring stops. You would mainly follow D1, the highway connecting Prague to Krakow, going towards Brno, Olomouc, Ostrava, and Katowice before arriving in Krakow. Keep in mind that with this option, you’ll need to take care of fuel costs, vignettes, parking as well as driving in different countries with different signs and rules.
Prague to Krakow by train
There are many different ways to get to Krakow by train. RegioJet and Deutschebahn operate direct train services to Krakow. Most of these connections are sleeper trains, meaning they start the journey in the evening, travel overnight and arrive in Krakow in the very early morning hours. Czech Railways also offer connections with overnight options but these trains often require a change in Ostrava. Train rides, with and without change, last around five to seven hours.
Prague to Krakow by bus
It is possible to travel to Krakow by bus with several different operators offering connection. Most of the options Flixbus has require change in Katowice or Brno, although there is usually one direct option a day. With changes, the bus ride takes somewhere between eight to ten and a half hours. There are also overnight bus rides you can choose from.
Prague to Krakow by plane
Taking a plane from Prague to Krakow is one of the most direct options if we don’t count the ground transportation to and from airports, and extra waiting times before and after check-ins. The flight itself only lasts one hour and ten minutes typically.
Prague to Krakow by private car service
Booking your seat with a door-to-door private car service like Daytrip not only means ultimate comfort and luxury but also a pretty direct trip full of interesting stops along the way. Plan the places you’d like to stop by beforehand, add them to your itinerary when booking your trip, type in the exact addresses you’d like to be picked up and taken to, and then you are good to go!
Your knowledgeable local driver who’d be happy to give you tips and insights about the region, will take care of all the other details around your trip. The only thing left for you to do will be to enjoy the journey!
Things to do when you get to Krakow
After you finally get from Prague to Krakow, and settle in your accommodation, there wait for you the days full of exploring this amazing city! When it comes to Krakow and the richness it offers, we are confident that you won’t run out of things to do. Here are a few recommendations from us that might interest you:
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Eat pierogi under the Starry Night
In the heart of the historical Jewish Quarter, there is a tiny restaurant that specializes in all kinds of pierogi, a traditional Polish dish that is basically filled dumplings, called Mr. Vincent. The restaurant is decorated as a tribute to the famous painter Van Gogh, his paintings and his favorite colors. One of the two rooms of the restaurant has a ceiling painted as his most renowned work, Starry Night.
The other room’s bright yellow walls are dotted with the remakes of his sunflower and field paintings. After you get used to this magical atmosphere, there comes the time to dive into the wide selection of pierogies. You can order a mix option to try most of the flavors and fillings. Don’t forget to have a mug of Borscht, a traditional Polish soup, next to your dish.
Embark on a dark journey with a Polish painter
Reachable shortly through a tram ride from the center, there is Nowohuckie Culture Center where the permanent exhibition of a private collection of Zdzisław Beksiński’s unmatched works. This unusual painter, sculptor, and photographer created some of the gloomiest, darkest, and most mysterious examples of dystopian surrealism.
In this exhibition, going through a small hall, you’ll be welcomed by black walls with only paintings hung on them lit. A deep and enigmatic music in the background will accompany you while you take a long stroll through the halls. When you leave the gallery, you will feel still in awe, almost misplaced. So don’t miss the works of this amazing artist!
Sip a cocktail and have a bite at Hevre
Simply another gem in the Jewish Quarter, and it is definitely not hidden! This lovely bar/restaurant is set in what used to be a synagogue and this fact only creates a beautiful and vintage atmosphere with the big round chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
Hevre stands out as a fantastic spot for enjoying a coffee, sharing a meal with friends, or simply soaking in the unique vibes and decor of the venue. It's a great destination for both afternoon hangouts and evening outings. The place supports local artists, often hosting live performances, particularly on weekend evenings.
Discover Zakrzówek Lagoon
Just a short distance from Krakow's city center lies the Zakrzówek Lagoon, outside of the touristic areas and interests. This artificial lagoon was formed from a flooded limestone quarry and is known for its clear turquoise waters surrounded by cliffs and greenery.
It’s a popular spot for locals during the summer, offering a nice spot for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving, with underwater attractions including submerged trees and artificial reefs. The area around the lagoon is great for walking and biking and also for picnics! Do check the local regulations regarding swimming and diving, as they can change.
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When is the best time to visit Krakow
Krakow is a city that welcomes visitors throughout the year, with each season offering its own charm and activities. The optimal period for planning your trip from Prague to Krakow is between May and September, when the weather is perfectly warm—not too hot, not too cold—which is ideal for exploring the old town, historical sites, and relaxing in parks.
During this time there are also numerous cultural and artistic events, including music and theater festivals, so the spring and summer months are a vibrant time for cultural immersion. Autumn and winter bring colder, rainier weather, but the city remains beautiful, especially with the Christmas markets and cultural events like theater and film festivals. These cooler months offer a different appeal, with winter sports, cozy cafes, and the opportunity to experience Krakow's festive atmosphere.
沿途参观这些景点
Kutna Hora
Marvel at some of the most beautiful and unique architecture in the Czech Republic at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mint Condition
Cesky Sternberk
Currently owned by a descendent of the castle’s original founder, Český Šternberk is a classic example of a gothic bohemian castle. A Castle Kept in the Family
Olomouc
Yet to reach the dizzying tourist heights of Prague and Cesky Krumlov, Olomouc nevertheless has much to offer visitors. The Historical Capital of Moravia
Zbrasov
No need to wrap up too warm when visiting the beautiful caves at Zbrašov as regardless of the weather outside, they maintain a comfortable all-year-round temperature of 57°F. The warmest caves in the country
Stramberk
The town and municipal reserve of Štramberk earned its nickname through its location and its unique collection of eightieth and nineteenth-century timber houses. The town nicknamed ‘Moravian Bethlehem’
Auschwitz-Birkenau
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, there can be few people not aware of the horrors of Auschwitz, the infamous Nazi concentration camp. The Symbol of the Holocaust
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