Dreaming of a European adventure? Look no further than the captivating cities of Krakow, Poland, and Vienna, Austria. Both oozing with old-world charm and brimming with tourist attractions, these destinations offer an unforgettable experience.
Craving a Multi-Country Adventure?
Planning a European itinerary? Include Krakow and Vienna for a seamless transition between Poland and Austria. The comfortable distance between the two cities makes for an easy journey, opening doors to explore contrasting yet captivating cultures.
Ready to Discover the Best Travel Options?
Wondering how to get from Krakow to Vienna? We’ve got you covered! Dive into our guide to explore the 5 best ways to travel between these enchanting cities.
How to get from Krakow to Vienna
Krakow to Vienna: Your Travel Guide
Planning a trip from Krakow, Poland to Vienna, Austria? You’re in for a treat! This guide explores your travel options and must-see sights in Krakow before your Vienna adventure.
How to Get There:
- Train: A popular and budget-friendly choice, trains offer scenic journeys with frequent departures.
- Plane: Ideal for speed, online deals can make flights surprisingly affordable.
- Bus: Perfect for budget travelers, buses provide a comfortable and convenient option.
- Car: Explore Krakow and Vienna at your own pace with a rental car. Consider factoring in tolls on motorways.
Popular things to do in Kraków before you head to Vienna
- Visit Wawel Castle, which was the residence of Polish kings and a symbol of national identity
- Walk through the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many historical buildings, including St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall
- Take a tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, which is a sobering reminder of the Holocaust and the atrocities committed during World War II
- Explore Kazimierz, the former Jewish quarter, which is now a vibrant and trendy area with many restaurants, bars, and shops
- Visit the Main Market Square, which is the largest medieval town square in Europe and home to many landmarks, including the St. Mary’s Basilica and the Town Hall Tower
- Take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to an intricate network of underground mines and chapels carved out of salt
- Enjoy some traditional Polish cuisine and sample some local beers and vodkas
- Take a boat trip on the Vistula River
- Visit the Oskar Schindler’s factory and learn about the history of WWII and the Holocaust
- Visit the Czartoryski Museum, which is home to many priceless works of art and artefacts, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine.
- Find a boutique hotel and stay in Krakow.
Driving from Krakow to Vienna
Krakow to Vienna: Road Trip Adventure
Ready for a road trip adventure? Buckle up for the scenic drive from Krakow, Poland to Vienna, Austria! This guide explores the recommended route, must-have documents, and travel tips.
Your Route:
- E40 & E77 Highways: This efficient route takes you through the Czech Republic, with a distance of approximately 465 kilometers. Expect a travel time of 5-6 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Benefits of Driving:
- Flexibility: Explore at your own pace, stopping at hidden gems along the way.
- Cost-Effective: Avoid excess luggage fees and enjoy the freedom of spontaneous detours.
- Convenience: Skip online booking and pre-set schedules.
Essential Documents:
- Valid Driver’s License: Ensure your license is current and recognized in Poland, Czech Republic, and Austria.
- Vehicle Registration Papers: Have your car’s registration documents readily available.
- Proof of Insurance: Valid car insurance is mandatory for driving in all three countries.
Before You Go:
- Check Road Conditions: Get real-time updates on traffic and potential delays to ensure a smooth journey.
- Research Regulations: Familiarize yourself with speed limits and safety regulations in Poland, Czech Republic, and Austria.
- Consider Tolls: Factor in potential toll costs on motorways in each country.
By following these tips and preparing the necessary documents, you can embark on a memorable road trip adventure from Krakow to Vienna.
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Catching a train from Krakow to Vienna
Train Travel from Krakow to Vienna: A Comfortable Journey
Considering a train trip from Krakow, Poland to Vienna, Austria? You’ve chosen a convenient and relaxing way to travel between these charming European cities. This guide provides key information about the journey, train stations, and ticketing options.
Krakow’s Main Train Station:
- Kraków Główny: This centrally located station is easily accessible from the Main Market Square and offers various amenities like ticket offices, waiting rooms, and luggage storage.
Connecting to Major European Cities:
Kraków Główny allows departures to major Polish and European destinations, including Vienna, Berlin, Prague, and Budapest.
Train Operators and Ticket Options:
- Providers: Choose between PKP Intercity (Polish Railways) and Nightjet for your Krakow-Vienna train journey.
- Booking: Purchase tickets online for the best fares or buy them directly at the station. Prices depend on travel dates, times, and desired seating (couchette or sleeper cabins).
The Train Journey:
- Travel Time: Expect a comfortable 6-7 hour train ride between Krakow and Vienna.
- Route: While not direct, the train stops at interesting locations like Ostrava (Czech Republic) and Wien Meidling (Austria) before arriving at Vienna’s main station, Wien Hbf.
Vienna Train Station:
- Wien Hbf: Located in Vienna’s city center, this station offers connections back to Krakow.
Tips:
- Book tickets in advance for the most affordable fares.
- Consider the comfort level you desire when choosing between seating options.
- Research connecting stations for potential sightseeing opportunities.
Experience a scenic and relaxing journey between Krakow and Vienna by train!
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Catch a flight from Krakow to Vienna
Soaring from Krakow to Vienna: A Speedy Escape
Need a quick and convenient way to travel from Krakow, Poland to Vienna, Austria? Look no further than flying! This guide explores Krakow’s main airport, flight options, and arrival information for a smooth journey.
Fast and Efficient Travel:
- Flight Time: Enjoy a swift 1-hour flight, maximizing your time in charming European cities.
Finding the Perfect Flight:
- Airlines: Explore options with reputable carriers like Ryanair, Lufthansa, Wizz Air, LOT, and Austrian Airlines.
- Ticketing: Search for deals and book tickets directly on airline websites or through aggregators like Sky Scanner. One-way fares are often available.
Krakow Airport:
- John Paul II International Airport (KRK): This main Krakow airport is conveniently located 11 km west of the city center.
- Transfers: Easily arrange transfers between Krakow city and the airport for a stress-free journey.
Vienna Airport:
- Vienna International Airport (VIE): Your arrival point in Vienna is located 18 km southeast of the city center.
Airport Accessibility:
- Public Transportation: Reach both Krakow and Vienna airports by bus, train, or taxi.
Planning for Departure:
- Arrival Time: Ensure a smooth travel experience by arriving at Krakow Airport at least 2 hours before your flight for check-in, baggage drop, and security checks.
Vienna to Krakow Flights:
- Need to return? Finding flights back to Krakow from Vienna is just as simple!
Fly High and Explore!
Europe Trip Checklist: Conquer the Continent with Confidence!
Dreaming of a European adventure? Here’s a checklist to streamline your planning and ensure a smooth, unforgettable experience:
Accommodations:
- Krakow Comfort: From charming boutique hotels to historic palaces, choose your perfect Krakow haven.
- Viennese Dreams: Immerse yourself in Vienna’s elegance with a luxurious hotel or a cozy apartment.
Travel Essentials:
- Insurance: Safeguard your trip with comprehensive travel insurance. Unexpected events are a bummer, but they shouldn’t break the bank!
- Pocket Wifi: Stay connected and navigate with ease. Renting a pocket Wi-Fi ensures you’re never lost and always in touch.
- Visa Requirements: Research visa needs for each European country you plan to visit. Don’t let visa hiccups derail your dream vacation!
Additional Considerations:
- Power Adapters: Ensure you have the correct power adapters for European outlets to keep your devices charged.
- Currency Exchange: Plan your currency exchange strategy. Consider using travel cards such as Wise or Revolut or a combination of cash and credit cards with international transaction fees in mind.
- Comfortable Clothing: Pack versatile clothing suitable for various weather conditions and activities. Remember, comfort is key for exploring vibrant European cities!
- Essential Apps: Download essential apps for navigation, language translation, currency conversion, and local recommendations. These can be lifesavers during your trip.
Bonus Tip:
- Learn a Few Phrases: Learning basic greetings and essential phrases in the local languages goes a long way. It enhances your experience and fosters connections with friendly locals!
By checking off these items, you’ll be well on your way to confidently conquering Europe. Now, get out there and explore!
Bus from Krakow to Vienna
Travelling on a budget? Consider the comfortable and affordable option of taking a bus from Krakow, Poland to Vienna, Austria. This guide explores popular bus companies, ticketing options, and what to expect during your trip.
Your Bus Options:
- FlixBus: A popular choice known for its reliable service and network across Europe.
- Eurolines: Another established operator offering connections to major European cities.
- PolskiBus: A Polish company known for budget-friendly fares within the country.
Planning Your Trip:
- Travel Time: Expect a comfortable journey, typically lasting around 7 hours.
- Ticketing: Purchase tickets in advance for the best deals on company websites or bus stations.
- Stops: Be mindful that some buses make stops along the way, which may affect travel time.
Finding the Best Deals:
- Comparison Websites: Utilize services like Busbud to compare prices and find the cheapest tickets for your desired route.
Enjoy the Ride:
Traveling by bus offers a comfortable and budget-friendly way to experience the European landscape between Krakow and Vienna.
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Ridesharing from Krakow to Vienna
Ride-Sharing from Krakow to Vienna: A Convenient Option
Are you traveling from Krakow, Poland, to Vienna, Austria, and want to avoid the hassle of public transportation schedules? Consider ridesharing for a convenient and potentially budget-friendly option. This guide explores popular ridesharing companies and things to remember for your journey.
Ridesharing Explained:
- Shared Car Travel: Ridesharing allows you to connect with drivers offering rides on their journeys, typically through mobile apps or websites.
Potential Providers in Europe:
- BlaBlaCar: A popular European ridesharing platform connecting passengers with drivers.
- Uber: While not available in all European countries, Uber is a widely recognized ridesharing option (availability subject to Vienna regulations).
- Liftago: A ridesharing app commonly used in Central and Eastern Europe (availability subject to Vienna regulations).
Luggage Considerations:
- Limited Space: Ridesharing vehicles typically have less luggage space than taxis or private transfers.
- Plan Accordingly: Confirm luggage capacity with your chosen driver beforehand to avoid last-minute surprises.
Finding Your Ride:
Explore ridesharing apps and compare options to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Enjoy the Ride:
Ridesharing from Krakow to Vienna offers a convenient way to travel while potentially saving money. Be mindful of luggage limitations and plan accordingly for a smooth journey.
Popular things to do in Vienna
Now that you have found your way to Vienna from Krakow, you can start exploring the capital of Austria. Here are a few popular things to do in Vienna today to make your vacation memorable.
- Visit Schönbrunn Palace, a magnificent baroque palace and one of the most important architectural, cultural, and historical monuments in Austria.
- Take a stroll through the historic centre of Vienna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Opera House, and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.
- Visit the Belvedere Palace, which houses the largest collection of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present.
- Explore the Museum Quarter, which is home to many world-class museums such as the Leopold Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Visit the Vienna State Opera, one of the most famous opera houses in the world and home to the Vienna Opera Ball.
- Visit the Prater, a large public park and amusement park that features the iconic Ferris wheel, the Wiener Riesenrad.
- Visit the Stephansplatz, one of the most famous squares in Vienna, where you can find St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the city’s symbol and one of the most important Gothic buildings in the world
- Visit the Hundertwasserhaus, an extraordinary apartment building designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, a famous Austrian architect and artist.
It’s just so easy to travel around Europe, with a large number of transport options you will be able to easily get from Krakow to Vienna. See the best of Poland before moving on to the other amazing destinations on your European vacation.
Poland Travel Expert is your ultimate guide to all things Poland. Your next trip to Poland will not be complete without our detailed Poland guides, Poland itineraries and Poland travel tips.
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Author Bio: Mark Wyld
Mark Wyld is a Father, husband, traveller, and writer at Poland Travel Expert and other blogs. I have accumulated a wealth of experience over multiple visits to Poland. Thanks to our friends in Poland, we stay connected to the nation’s pulse, ensuring that our content is up to date with our first-hand experience. The information on this website is backed by genuine expertise.