- Must visit
Tatra Museum - Main Building
The main branch of Zakopane’s key regional museum, presenting Podhale history, highland culture, folk art, and the natural heritage of the Tatras.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kraków to Zakopane
Showing times and prices for Jun 01
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$40
Fastest journey
1 h 57 m
Average duration
2 h 5 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
85 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kraków to Zakopane is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kraków to Zakopane will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave Kraków for Zakopane on Mon, Jun 01, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 01 the direct trains cover the 85 km distance in an average of 2 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 57 m .
On Mon, Jun 01 the slowest trains will take 2 h 17 m 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.
EIC 535012:35 PM1h58Kraków Główny2:33 PMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers- EIC 135010:03 AM1h59Kraków Główny12:02 PMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- IC 13129:12 AM2h17Kraków Główny11:29 AMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- TLK 831061:28 PM3h03Kraków Główny4:31 PMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- TLK 531703:56 AM2h13Kraków Główny6:09 AMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- EIP 53525:35 PM1h57Kraków Główny7:32 PMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- EIC 535012:35 PM1h58Kraków Główny2:33 PMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- EIC 135010:03 AM1h59Kraków Główny12:02 PMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- TLK 531703:56 AM2h13Kraków Główny6:09 AMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
- IC 13129:12 AM2h17Kraków Główny11:29 AMZakopane$401One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Kraków to Zakopane
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Kraków to Zakopane among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $40.
Distance: 52 miles (85 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 44m Average total duration 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Kraków to Zakopane is a bus with an average price of $10 (€8).
This is compared to other travel options from Kraków to Zakopane:
A bus is $33 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kraków to Zakopane costing on average $42 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Kraków to Zakopane is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 6m.
Other travel options to Zakopane take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kraków and Zakopane including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Kraków to Zakopane 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 $42 (€34) compared to roughly $18 (€15) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-24.27 (€-19.54). The journey takes 2h 14m versus 2h 3m 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
Kraków to Zakopane train times
The table below shows live departures for Kraków to Zakopane trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 83172 | 6:00 AM Kraków Główny | 2h25 | 8:25 AM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| R 30505 | 7:24 AM Kraków Główny | 3h39 | 11:03 AM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 1312 | 9:12 AM Kraków Główny | 2h17 | 11:29 AM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| EIC 1350 | 10:03 AM Kraków Główny | 1h59 | 12:02 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| EIC 5350 | 12:35 PM Kraków Główny | 1h58 | 2:33 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TLK 83106 | 1:28 PM Kraków Główny | 3h03 | 4:31 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TLK 53105 | 1:44 PM Kraków Główny | 3h07 | 4:51 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| EIP 5352 | 5:35 PM Kraków Główny | 1h57 | 7:32 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| R 30513 | 5:47 PM Kraków Główny | 3h39 | 9:26 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 5360 | 7:04 PM Kraków Główny | 2h30 | 9:34 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| R 30515 | 7:34 PM Kraków Główny | 3h36 | 11:10 PM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, June 1 | |||||
| TLK 53170 | 3:56 AM Kraków Główny | 2h13 | 6:09 AM Zakopane | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kraków to Zakopane by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Kraków to Zakopane trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as PKP Intercity offer trains services from Kraków to Zakopane.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kraków to Zakopane.
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 PKP Intercity to find the best option for your trip from Kraków to Zakopane.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kraków to Zakopane.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Kraków to Zakopane.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Kraków to Zakopane
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
Extremely well maintainedPunctualCourteous staffNo changeoverDisadvantages
-I travelled on the Polish Intercity train EIC345 from Krakow to Zakopane. The train was very well maintained and clean and a lot nicer than in Germany. The train arrived on time to the minute and the journey time was 2 hours and 20 minutes without changing trains. I must emphasise the extremely friendly and polite staff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kraków to Zakopane
PolandPoland
Trains from Kraków to Zakopane run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€32) but you can travel from only $8 (€7) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:49, the last at 22:52. The fastest train covers the 52 miles (85 km) distance in 1h 59m.
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 $8 (€7)
Distance 52 miles (85 km) |
Average train duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€32) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 59m |
First train 3:49 AM |
Last train 10:52 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 77 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
Bus from $8 (€7)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, PKP Intercity from Kraków to Zakopane trainsDeutsche Bahn, PKP Intercity trains will get you between Kraków and Zakopane from $8 (€7). 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
1h 59m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
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
PKP Intercity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
PKP Intercity frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Zakopane
Things to do in Zakopane
Discover the best of Zakopane — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zakopane trip today.
- Recommended
Villa Koliba - Museum of the Zakopane Style
A landmark museum inside the first house built in the Zakopane architectural style, designed by Stanisław Witkiewicz. Essential for understanding local design and identity.
- Recommended
Karol Szymanowski Museum at Atma Villa
Historic villa museum dedicated to composer Karol Szymanowski, with period interiors and exhibitions on his life and work in Zakopane.
- Must visit
Krupówki
Zakopane’s famous pedestrian street, lined with historic facades, shops, and mountain-town atmosphere. It is the town’s classic social and strolling hub.
- Must visit
Gubałówka Summit Area
A lively panoramic area above Zakopane with wide views over the Tatras, boardwalk-style strolling, and many of the town’s most shared photo spots.
- Must visit
Kuźnice
Historic mountain gateway district and starting point for many Tatra routes, combining heritage character with easy access to alpine scenery.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Oscypek
A smoked sheep's milk cheese from the Tatra highlands, made by Highlander shepherds. It is the signature local product of Zakopane and often served grilled with cranberry.
- Gluten-free
Kwaśnica
A hearty Highlander soup made with sauerkraut and pork or mutton. It is one of the most traditional Podhale dishes and is especially popular in cold mountain weather.
- Vegetarian
Moskole
Traditional Podhale potato flatbreads, usually cooked on a hot plate and served with butter, garlic butter, or bryndza cheese. They are a classic regional comfort food.
Restauracja Góralska Tradycja
A more refined restaurant focused on modern presentations of Polish and Podhale ingredients, suitable for a higher-end meal in Zakopane.
Karczma Czarci Jar
A long-running Zakopane restaurant popular for Highlander specialties, grilled meats, soups, and a cozy chalet-style setting.
Restauracja Owczarnia
An established regional restaurant known for Polish and Podhale cuisine, with a warm mountain atmosphere and reliable traditional cooking.
Polish Zloty
Generally cheaper than Western European ski resorts, but peak winter and holiday periods raise hotel and dining prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- PLN 25-40 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- PLN 50-100 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- PLN 120-250+ per person at upscale places.
- Coffee
- PLN 12-18 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only in higher-end places. In restaurants, 10% is appreciated for good service. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes and bars.
Jakdojade
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 4.00 PLN
- Day pass
- 12.00 PLN
To the city center
Zakopane, Plac PKP, Przy Ul. Chramcówki -> Zakopane Centrum
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Card payment may not be available on all local buses, so carry some cash in PLN for tickets.
- Jakdojade is useful for route planning in Zakopane, but check local operator notices for seasonal timetable changes.
FAQs: Trains from Kraków to Zakopane
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kraków to Zakopane 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 Zakopane, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Kraków to Zakopane can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€32), while the average price is around $42 (€34).
The train from Kraków to Zakopane takes 1h 59m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Kraków to Zakopane leaves at 3:49 AM.
The distance by train from Kraków to Zakopane is 52 miles (85 km).
The last train from Kraków to Zakopane leaves at 10:52 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kraków to Zakopane. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, PKP Intercity.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kraków to Zakopane.
The cheapest way to get from Kraków to Zakopane is by bus, with a cost of around $8 (€7).
Yes, the train journey from Kraków to Zakopane is considered scenic, offering views of the picturesque Polish countryside, rolling hills, and the majestic Tatra Mountains as you approach Zakopane.
A day trip from Kraków to Zakopane is not feasible since the journey takes 1h 59m. The distance is 52 miles (85 km), and there are 5 train trips available per day.
In Zakopane, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at popular resorts like Kasprowy Wierch, explore the Zakopane Style Museum to learn about the region's unique architectural style, and take a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy landscapes. Relaxing at a thermal spa with mountain views and savoring traditional Polish dishes at local restaurants are also popular activities. Must-see sights include the hiking trails and stunning views in Tatra National Park, the panoramic vistas from Gubałówka Hill, the vibrant Krupówki Street, the impressive Wielka Krokiew ski jumping hill, and the picturesque Morskie Oko lake.
For a fulfilling experience in Zakopane, it's recommended to spend around 3 to 4 days. This allows visitors to enjoy the stunning Tatra Mountains, explore local attractions, and engage in outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
Yes, you can take the train from Kraków to Zakopane.
Since both Kraków and Zakopane 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 Zakopane include Košice, Nowy Targ, Sucha Beskidzka.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Kraków to Zakopane 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 Zakopane, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and popular hiking spots. It's important to use official taxi services to avoid overcharging. Some travelers have reported occasional scams involving inflated prices at souvenir shops and restaurants near major tourist attractions. Staying aware of weather conditions is also crucial, as mountain trails can become dangerous due to sudden changes.
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 Kraków to Zakopane
Kraków
Zakopane
The major train station for departures in Kraków is Kraków Główny. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kraków Główny for your trip from Kraków to Zakopane.
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
1 km
Number 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
The major train station for arrivals in Zakopane is Zakopane, Plac PKP, przy ul.Chramcówki. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zakopane, Plac PKP, przy ul.Chramcówki for your journey to Zakopane from Kraków.
Zakopane, Plac PKP, przy ul.Chramcówki
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMore options for your journey from Kraków to Zakopane
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Zakopane and Kraków
Most popular train connections to Zakopane
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