- 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 Zurich to Kraków
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08
Cheapest price on Oct 08
$204
Average ticket price on Oct 08
$228
Fastest journey on Oct 08
15 h 44 m
Average journey duration on Oct 08
17 h 9 m
Trains on Oct 08
2
Distance
886 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Kraków is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Kraków will cost around $228 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $204.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Kraków without transferring at least 4 times.
IC 794 · ICE 372 · S15 · EC 2498:59 AM18h33Zurich HB3:32 AMKraków Główny$2041One-way4 transfers- ICE 200 · ICE 690 · S42 · 337757:59 AM15h44Zurich HB11:43 PMKraków Główny$2521One-way4 transfers
- ICE 200 · ICE 690 · S42 · 337757:59 AM15h44Zurich HB11:43 PMKraków Główny$2521One-way4 transfers
- IC 794 · ICE 372 · S15 · EC 2498:59 AM18h33Zurich HB3:32 AMKraków Główny$2041One-way4 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Kraków
Switzerland
Poland
Trains from Zurich to Kraków run on average 2 times per day, taking around 15h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€60) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 550 miles (886 km) distance in 12h 56m.
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 $24 (€20)
Distance 550 miles (886 km) |
Average train duration 15h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€60) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 12h 56m |
First train 12:07 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 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 $24 (€20)
Live departures
Zurich to Kraków train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Kraków trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 200 · ICE 690 · S42 · 33775 | On time 7:59 AM Zurich HB | 15h44 | 11:43 PM Kraków Główny | 4 transfers | |
| IC 794 · ICE 372 · S15 · EC 249 | 8:59 AM Zurich HB | 18h33 | 3:32 AM Kraków Główny | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Zurich to Kraków trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Zurich to Kraków.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich to Kraków.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Kraków.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Kraków trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Kraków from $24 (€20). 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
12h 56m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$72 (€60)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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 Zurich to Kraków
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Kraków can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€60), while the average price is around $173 (€145).
The train from Zurich to Kraków takes 12h 56m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Kraków leaves at 12:07 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Kraków is 550 miles (886 km).
The last train from Zurich to Kraków leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Kraków.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Kraków.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Kraków is Zurich HB, which connects to Kraków Główny.
The train journey from Zurich to Kraków offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland and the rolling hills and valleys of Austria, providing a visually appealing travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Kraków.
Popular day trips by train from Kraków include Oswiecim, Katowice, Rzeszów, Kielce, Gliwice.
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 Zurich to Kraków
Most Zurich to Kraków trains use the Zürich HB to Kraków Główny station pair. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Kraków train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Kraków
Which Zurich station do trains to Kraków leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Kraków leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Which Kraków station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich 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.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Kraków
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kraków and Zurich
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