- Must visit
Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
One of Kraków’s most visited museums, presenting the city’s wartime history through immersive exhibits in Schindler’s former factory.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Kraków
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$87
Average price
$97
Fastest journey
14 h 13 m
Average duration
16 h 20 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
946 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Kraków is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Kraków will cost around $97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Kraków without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 74 · ICE 1134 · EC 558:46 AM15h00Basel SBB11:46 PMKraków Główny$871One-way2 transfers- ICE 72 · ICE 1130 · EC 43112:46 PM17h47Basel SBB6:33 AMKraków Główny$931One-way2 transfers
- ICE 200 · ICE 690 · EC 249 · TLK 531709:16 AM18h19Basel SBB3:35 AMKraków Główny$991One-way3 transfers
- ICE 374 · ICE 759 · EC 1338:16 AM14h13Basel SBB10:29 PMKraków Główny$1111One-way2 transfers
- ICE 374 · ICE 759 · EC 1338:16 AM14h13Basel SBB10:29 PMKraków Główny$1111One-way2 transfers
- ICE 74 · ICE 1134 · EC 558:46 AM15h00Basel SBB11:46 PMKraków Główny$871One-way2 transfers
- ICE 72 · ICE 1130 · EC 43112:46 PM17h47Basel SBB6:33 AMKraków Główny$931One-way2 transfers
- ICE 200 · ICE 690 · EC 249 · TLK 531709:16 AM18h19Basel SBB3:35 AMKraków Główny$991One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Kraków
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Basel to Kraków among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, and a train costs an average of $78.
Distance: 587 miles (946 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$190 Average price | $145 Average price | $96 Average price Cheapest | $341 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
16h 49m Average total duration 16h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 56m Average total duration 20h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basel to Kraków is a bus with an average price of $96 (€78).
This is compared to other travel options from Basel to Kraków:
A bus is $49 (€40) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Basel to Kraków costing on average $145 (€117).
A bus is $94 (€76) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basel to Kraków costing on average $190 (€154).
The fastest way to travel from Basel to Kraków is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Kraków take longer:
Train takes on average 16h 19m.
Bus takes on average 20h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Basel and Kraków including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Kraków among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $190 (€154) compared to roughly $341 (€275) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $150 (€121). The journey takes 16h 19m versus 11h 32m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Basel to Kraków train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Kraków trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 374 · ICE 759 · EC 133 | On time 8:16 AM Basel SBB | 14h13 | 10:29 PM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 74 · ICE 1134 · EC 55 | On time 8:46 AM Basel SBB | 15h00 | 11:46 PM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 200 · ICE 690 · EC 249 · TLK 53170 | On time 9:16 AM Basel SBB | 18h19 | 3:35 AM Kraków Główny | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 72 · ICE 1130 · EC 431 | On time 12:46 PM Basel SBB | 17h47 | 6:33 AM Kraków Główny | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel to Kraków by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Basel to Kraków trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Basel to Kraków.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Kraków.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Basel to Kraków.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Kraków.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Kraków.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Kraków
Switzerland
Poland
Trains from Basel to Kraków run on average 5 times per day, taking around 16h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€63) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 587 miles (946 km) distance in 14h 5m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $28 (€22)
Distance 587 miles (946 km) |
Average train duration 16h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 (€63) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 14h 5m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $28 (€22)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Basel to Kraków trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Basel and Kraków from $28 (€22). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 5m
Cheapest Price
$78 (€63)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
16h 23m
Cheapest Price
$315 (€255)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Kraków
Things to do in Kraków
Discover the best of Kraków — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kraków trip today.
- Must visit
The Princes Czartoryski Museum
A major art museum best known for Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine, plus important European paintings and decorative arts.
- Recommended
Rynek Underground Museum
An archaeological museum beneath the Main Market Square showcasing medieval Kraków through excavations, multimedia, and historic trade-route remains.
- Must visit
Main Market Square
Europe’s great medieval squares and the social heart of Kraków, surrounded by historic facades, churches, and constant street life.
- Must visit
Kazimierz
The former Jewish quarter, now one of Kraków’s most atmospheric districts for heritage walks, courtyards, and vibrant street scenes.
- Must visit
Wawel Hill
A scenic hilltop precinct around the royal castle and cathedral, combining history, river views, and one of the city’s most iconic panoramas.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Obwarzanek Krakowski
A ring-shaped, chewy bread with sesame, poppy, or salt, sold from street carts. It is one of Kraków’s most iconic traditional snacks and has protected regional status.
Maczanka Krakowska
A traditional Kraków sandwich of slow-roasted pork in a soft bread roll, often considered a historic local street food specialty.
- Vegetarian
Pierogi Ruskie
Classic Polish dumplings filled with potato, twaróg cheese, and onion. They are a staple in Kraków and widely loved as comforting everyday food.
Starka Restaurant
A well-known Kazimierz restaurant specializing in traditional Polish dishes, house infusions, and a warm, stylish atmosphere.
Pod Aniołami
An established Old Town restaurant famous for Polish cuisine and meats roasted in a historic cellar setting with rustic character.
Morskie Oko
A popular traditional Polish restaurant near the Old Town, appreciated for hearty regional dishes and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Polish Złoty
Affordable by European city standards. Food, transit, and coffee are good value; central hotels cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- PLN 20-35 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- PLN 50-90 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- PLN 150-300+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- PLN 12-18 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is not always included. Tip 10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and leave small change in cafes. Tip hotel staff only for extra help.
Jakdojade
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 6.00 PLN
- Day pass
- 24.00 PLN
To the city center
Kraków Główny, Kraków -> Rynek Główny, Kraków
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can use contactless card payment in ticket machines on many trams and buses, but not always directly onboard, so buy tickets in advance when possible.
- Validate paper tickets immediately after boarding. The Jakdojade app is widely used for route planning and mobile ticket purchases in Kraków.
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Kraków
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel to Kraków by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kraków, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Kraków can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $78 (€63), while the average price is around $190 (€154).
The train from Basel to Kraków takes 14h 5m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Basel to Kraków leaves at 12:10 AM.
The distance by train from Basel to Kraków is 587 miles (946 km).
The last train from Basel to Kraków leaves at 11:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Kraków.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Kraków.
The train station in Basel that goes to Kraków is Basel Bad Bhf, which connects to Kraków Główny.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Kraków is by flight, with a cost of around $28 (€22).
The train journey from Basel to Kraków is indeed scenic, offering views of the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss countryside, the rolling hills and forests of Germany, and the charming towns and rural scenery of southern Poland.
A day trip from Basel to Kraków is not feasible as the journey takes 14h 5m. There are 5 train connections per day covering a distance of 587 miles (946 km).
In Kraków, visitors can explore the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a poignant reminder of the Holocaust, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a fascinating underground maze with intricate salt sculptures. The city's vibrant street art scene is particularly lively in the Kazimierz district, which is also known for its rich Jewish history and nightlife. Stroll along the Vistula River for scenic views, or visit the historic Kraków Cloth Hall in the Main Market Square for local crafts. Key sights include the Wawel Castle, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Schindler's Factory museum, each offering a glimpse into Kraków's rich heritage and history.
Three to four days are generally sufficient to explore Kraków's main attractions, including the historic Old Town, Wawel Castle, and a trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Kraków.
Since both Basel and Kraków are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Kraków include Oswiecim, Katowice, Rzeszów, Kielce, Gliwice.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Basel to Kraków among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). For travelers, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, but using cards is often more convenient and secure, especially in cities. However, carrying some cash is recommended for small purchases or in rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Kraków, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Main Market Square and public transportation. Watch out for unofficial taxi drivers who may overcharge; always use licensed taxis or reputable ride apps. Be aware of scams involving fake ticket sellers for attractions and public transport. Travelers should also avoid unmarked currency exchange booths to prevent unfavorable rates or fraud.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Basel to Kraków
Basel
Kraków
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel Bad Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel Bad Bhf for your trip from Basel to Kraków.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 km
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 330 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Kraków is Kraków Główny. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kraków Główny for your journey to Kraków from Basel.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Pawia Street.
Dining
- Restauracja Browar Lubicz
- Bistro Bene by Tomasz Leśniak
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- PLN 2
Hotel
- Hotel Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto
- PURO Kraków Stare Miasto
- Vienna House Andel's Cracow
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for regional trains
- Hall 2: platforms 6-10 for long-distance and international trains
Public transit options for Kraków Główny
- Tram: Lines 3, 5, 19, 50
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Kraków
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kraków and Basel
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