Prague to Kraków — How to Get Between Two Great Cities
Prague and Kraków sit 530 km apart across the Czech-Polish border, connected by trains, buses, and a driving route that passes through the Moravian countryside. The journey takes 6–8 hours by train or bus — long enough that you'll want to plan it properly but short enough to do in a single day. Both cities deserve at least three days each, and adding them to a Central European itinerary creates one of the strongest two-city combinations on the continent.
By Train
Direct trains between Prague and Kraków are limited. The most common rail route involves one change, typically in Ostrava (Czech Republic) or Katowice (Poland).
Route 1 — via Ostrava/Katowice: take a Czech Railways (ČD) train from Praha hlavní nádraží to Ostrava (3.5 hours), then change to a Polish PKP train to Kraków Główny (2.5–3 hours). Total journey: about 6.5–7 hours.
Route 2 — via Bratislava/Žilina: a longer but scenic alternative through Slovakia. Total: 8–10 hours with changes. Only recommended if you're stopping in Slovakia.
Ticket prices: advance purchase on cd.cz or en.ecrail.com from about €20–35 one way. Same-day tickets €40–60+.
RegioJet occasionally runs direct or limited-change services on this route — check regiojet.com for current schedules.
We recommend buying separate tickets for the Czech and Polish legs if the through-fare is expensive. Ostrava to Kraków via PKP Intercity often has reasonable same-day prices (around 50–80 PLN).
By Bus
FlixBus is the most popular option for Prague–Kraków. Direct buses run 4–6 times daily, taking approximately 6.5–7.5 hours. Prices range from €12–25 one way, depending on booking time.
RegioJet buses also operate this route with competitive pricing and onboard service (drinks, entertainment system).
Buses depart from Prague's Florenc bus station (metro lines B and C) and arrive at Kraków's main bus station (MDA) next to the train station. The bus route uses the D1/A1 motorways and is reliable in terms of timing.
For budget travelers, the bus is the clear winner — cheaper than trains, similar journey time, and direct service without changes.
By Car
The driving distance from Prague to Kraków is about 530 km, taking approximately 5.5–6 hours via the D1 motorway through Brno and Ostrava, then the A1 into Poland.
Requirements: Czech motorway vignette (e-vignette, purchased online at edalnice.cz), Polish motorway tolls (pay at booths or via the e-TOLL system), valid driving licence, and registration documents.
The route passes through Brno (Czech Republic's second city, 2 hours from Prague) and Ostrava (3.5 hours) — both are worth a coffee stop. The Polish stretch from the border to Kraków takes about 2 hours.
What to Do in Kraków
Kraków competes with Prague as Central Europe's most beautiful city — and the comparison is legitimate. The Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is Europe's largest medieval square. Wawel Castle sits on a hill above the Vistula River with a cathedral, royal chambers, and a fire-breathing dragon sculpture. The Kazimierz Jewish Quarter — setting for much of "Schindler's List" — holds centuries of layered history.
Top sights: Rynek Główny and Cloth Hall, Wawel Castle and Cathedral, Kazimierz Jewish Quarter, Wieliczka Salt Mine (30 minutes from the center — a 327-metre-deep underground world of salt chambers and chapels), and the Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory museum.
A private guide makes all the difference when exploring this part of Prague.
Kraków is also significantly cheaper than Prague — meals, accommodation, and transport cost 15–25% less.
Which Direction to Travel
Either direction works, but many travelers prefer Prague first, Kraków second. Prague has a denser concentration of sights in a more compact area, making it a good warm-up. Kraków spreads its attractions more widely and benefits from extra days.
If you're continuing east (Budapest, Vienna), start in Kraków and end in Prague — it positions you for onward train connections west and south.
Start Your Trip in Prague
Before heading to Kraków, explore Prague with a licensed local guide. Our All Prague in One Day private tour covers Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town, and the Jewish Quarter. Just your group, no strangers.
For your last evening in Prague, the Medieval Dinner Show at U Pavouka — fire dancers and a Gothic cellar feast — sends you off in style.
Browse all our private tours of Prague and Czech Republic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get from Prague to Kraków?
By bus: 6.5-7.5 hours direct. By train: 6.5-8 hours with one change. By car: 5.5-6 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Prague to Kraków?
FlixBus, with advance tickets from about 12 EUR. RegioJet buses are similarly priced. Trains are more expensive unless booked well ahead.
Is there a direct train from Prague to Kraków?
Direct services are limited. Most journeys require one change in Ostrava or Katowice. Check regiojet.com for any direct services.
Is it worth visiting both Prague and Kraków?
Absolutely. The two cities complement each other perfectly — Prague for Baroque and Gothic architecture, Kraków for its medieval square and WWII history. Budget 3-4 days for each.
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