- Must visit
Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
Flagship museum in Oskar Schindler’s former factory, presenting Kraków under Nazi occupation through immersive historical displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Giessen to Kraków
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$185
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$198
Fastest journey on Sep 19
12 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
13 h 18 m
Trains on Sep 19
2
Distance
803 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Giessen to Kraków is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Giessen to Kraków will cost around $198 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $185.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Giessen to Kraków, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 803 km distance in an average of 13 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 36 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 14 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
10:08 AM12h36Giessen10:44 PMKraków$1851One-way0 transfers- 7:04 AM14h00Giessen9:04 PMKraków$2111One-way0 transfers
- 10:08 AM12h36Giessen10:44 PMKraków$1851One-way0 transfers
- 7:04 AM14h00Giessen9:04 PMKraków$2111One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Giessen to Kraków
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Giessen to Kraków among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $92 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 40m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $92, while a flight costs an average of $427.
Distance: 498 miles (803 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$111 Average price | $92 Average price Cheapest | $427 Average price | $181 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 57m Average total duration 12h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 8m Average total duration 14h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Giessen to Kraków is a bus with an average price of $92.
This is compared to other travel options from Giessen to Kraków:
A bus is $19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Giessen to Kraków costing on average $111.
A bus is $335 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Giessen to Kraków costing on average $427.
The fastest way to travel from Giessen to Kraków is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 40m.
Other travel options to Kraków take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 27m.
Bus takes on average 14h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Giessen and Kraków including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Giessen 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 $111 compared to roughly $181 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $70. The journey takes 12h 27m versus 8h 24m 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
Giessen to Kraków train times
The table below shows live departures for Giessen to Kraków trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:04 AM Giessen | 14h00 | 9:04 PM Kraków | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:04 AM Giessen | 12h17 | 9:21 PM Kraków | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:02 PM Giessen | 17h01 | 3:03 PM Kraków | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Giessen 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.
Sat
Sep 19
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Why should you book Giessen to Kraków trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Giessen to Kraków.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Giessen 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Giessen 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 Giessen 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 Giessen to Kraków.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Giessen to Kraków
Germany
Poland
Trains from Giessen to Kraków run on average 4 times per day, taking around 12h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 but you can travel from only $78 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:44. The fastest train covers the 498 miles (803 km) distance in 11h 30m.
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
Bus from $78
Distance 498 miles (803 km) |
Average train duration 12h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 11h 30m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 10:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Bus from $78
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Giessen to Kraków trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Giessen and Kraków from $78. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
11h 30m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$86
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
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 Czartoryski Museum
Branch of the Czartoryski Museum famed for Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine and important European decorative arts.
- Recommended
Rynek Underground Museum
Underground archaeological museum beneath the Main Square, revealing medieval streets, artifacts, and the city’s early trade history.
- Must visit
Kazimierz
Historic district south of the Old Town, known for synagogues, courtyards, layered history, and one of Kraków’s best walking atmospheres.
- Must visit
Old Town
Medieval core of Kraków packed with churches, squares, lanes, and landmarks; the city’s essential area for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Planty Park
Leafy park ring replacing the old city walls, ideal for a relaxed walk around the Old Town between major sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Obwarzanek Krakowski
Obwarzanek Krakowski is Kraków’s iconic ring-shaped bread, chewy and topped with salt, poppy or sesame. It has protected status and is sold from blue street stalls.
Maczanka Krakowska
Maczanka Krakowska is a traditional Kraków sandwich of slow-cooked pork in a soft roll, often called a local ancestor of pulled pork sandwiches.
- Vegetarian
Pierogi
Pierogi are dumplings common in Kraków, often filled with meat, potato and cheese, or seasonal fruit. They are a staple of Polish home cooking and milk bars.
Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa
Popular traditional venue near the center serving hearty Polish specialties in a rustic cellar atmosphere with strong local character.
Milkbar Tomasza
Well-known milk bar for budget-friendly Polish comfort food such as pierogi, soups, and pancakes in a simple local canteen setting.
Wierzynek
Historic restaurant on the Main Square known for classic Polish dishes, elegant interiors, and traditional service in a landmark setting.
Polish złoty (zł)
More affordable than many Western European city breaks. Dining and transit are low-cost, while central hotels can rise in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 25-40 zł for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- 50-90 zł per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 150 zł+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 12-18 zł for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated, not mandatory. In restaurants, round up or leave 10%. Tip taxis by rounding up. In cafes, small change or rounding up is common.
iMKA
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 6,00 zł
- Day pass
- 17,00 zł
To the city center
Kraków Główny -> Rynek Główny, Kraków
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Use contactless card payment in many MPK Kraków ticket machines on trams and buses, but not every vehicle has one. Validate or buy your ticket before inspection.
- A 24-hour ticket is usually better value than single rides if you make several trips. Keep your ticket until the end of the journey.
FAQs: Trains from Giessen to Kraków
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Giessen 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 Giessen to Kraków can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86, while the average price is around $111.
The train from Giessen to Kraków takes 11h 30m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Giessen to Kraków leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Giessen to Kraków is 498 miles (803 km).
The last train from Giessen to Kraków leaves at 10:44 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Giessen to Kraków.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Giessen to Kraków.
The train station in Giessen that goes to Kraków is Giessen station, which connects to Kraków Główny.
The cheapest way to get from Giessen to Kraków is by bus, with a cost of around $78.
The train journey from Giessen to Kraków offers varied scenery, with picturesque views of the German countryside, quaint villages, and rolling hills, transitioning to the diverse landscapes of Poland, including dense forests and charming rural areas.
A day trip from Giessen to Kraków is not feasible, as the journey takes 11h 30m and covers 498 miles (803 km). The frequency of this trip is 6 times per day for trains.
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 Giessen to Kraków.
Since both Giessen 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Giessen 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 Giessen to Kraków
Most Giessen to Kraków trains use the Gießen to Kraków Główny station pair. Use this guide to compare Giessen and Kraków train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Giessen
Arrival train stations in Kraków
Which Giessen station do trains to Kraków leave from?
Trains from Giessen to Kraków leave from Gießen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Giessen city centre at Gießen, Bahnhofstr. 102, 35390 Gießen.
GießenGießen, Bahnhofstr. 102, 35390 Gießen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gießen from Giessen city centre
Bus2 · 6m · every ~7 min
371 · 8m · every ~2 min
Gießen train station facilities and services
Gießen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Aydin Grill, Südwinde, Subway, Alt Giessen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gießen. ATMs are available at Gießen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gießen. Information desks are available at Gießen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gießen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gießen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gießen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gießen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Liebig-Hotel, Hotel Flamingo, Hotel Köhler, Hotel Adler.
Which Kraków station do trains from Giessen arrive at?
Trains from Giessen to Kraków arrive at Kraków Główny. Kraków Główny is 0 miles (1 km) from Kraków city centre.
Kraków GłównyPawia 5a, 31-154 Kraków, Poland+48 12 393 22 22
City-centre transport
Getting to Kraków Główny from Kraków city centre
Kraków Główny is 1 km from Kraków city centre. Public transport options include:
BusA1, A14, A40, A44, A56, A64 · 7m · $1 · every ~14 min
Tram3, 69 · 4m · every ~13 min
Kraków Główny train station facilities and services
Kraków Główny has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restauracja Browar Lubicz, Bistro Bene by Tomasz Leśniak
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kraków Główny. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kraków Główny. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kraków Główny: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kraków Główny: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kraków Główny: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto, PURO Kraków Stare Miasto, Vienna House Andel's Cracow.
Most popular train connections from Giessen
More options for your journey from Giessen to Kraków
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kraków and Giessen
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