Getting Around in Krakow

When moving to the city, you may find that the options for getting around in Kraków are a little limited compared to Warsaw’s extensive metro system. That said, Kraków’s transport infrastructure is extensive and well-maintained, so you won’t struggle to get around, even without a car.

In fact, while it may be nice to have a car to explore Poland on the weekends, driving isn’t advisable or necessary, especially if you’re commuting around Kraków on a daily basis. Between traffic congestion and the city’s focus on public transport, many expats find other options more practical.

Public transport in Kraków

Public transport in Kraków consists of a wide-reaching integrated bus and tram network, which runs frequently between 5am and 11pm and also operates a night service with less frequent schedules. This efficient system is popular with locals and expats alike.

Tickets can be purchased at machines at major stops and aboard most services. Tickets work for both tram and bus networks, allowing you to transfer between them within the allotted time frame. You can buy time-restricted tickets which offer unlimited rides for 20 minutes, 50 minutes and 90 minutes, as well as 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, or 7 days.

It is important to ensure that your tickets are stamped upon boarding, as inspectors regularly patrol the lines, handing out costly fines to anyone who does not have a valid ticket. Don’t risk it – the inspection system is taken very seriously.

Various discounts are offered to children, students, pensioners, and those who purchase weekly, monthly or yearly passes. If you’re planning to use public transport regularly, investigating these options could save you money.

Timetables and online network maps are regularly updated and available in English on the official MPK Kraków website. Consider downloading the Jakdojade and Kraków City Card (mKKM) apps to purchase tickets digitally.

Buses

Buses in Kraków provide extensive coverage throughout the city and its suburbs. Day city bus lines start with number 1, and suburban day buses start with number 2. These services complement the tram network, reaching areas not covered by rail lines.

For late-night travel, night buses (starting with number 6 for city routes and 9 for suburban routes) operate after 11pm when regular services end.

Suburban buses integrate well with the city network, with transfer points where you can switch to trams to reach central Kraków. The main bus station is conveniently connected to the main railway station, making multimodal journeys straightforward.

Trams

Trams in Kraków form the backbone of the city’s public transport system, with services running every 5 to 20 minutes depending on the time of day. The network currently has 27 tram lines (24 daytime and 3 night lines) with a total route length of 215 miles (347km).

Thanks to their fixed rail systems, trams generally handle snowy conditions better than buses, although occasional delays may occur during heavy snowfall.

Useful links

• MPK Kraków (Public Transport Operator)
• Kraków Public Transport Maps
• Kraków Public Transport Timetables
• Jakdojade (Route Planner)

Taxis in Kraków

Taxis in Kraków are reasonably priced, reliable and plentiful. While there are still occasional taxi drivers overcharging foreigners, these are few and far between, and official taxis marked as such should work on a meter. Always insist on having the driver use the meter to ensure accurate fares.

It is possible to get taxis at ranks or hail them on the street, but where possible, it’s best to book online or call ahead of time to ensure the best fares.

You’ll find services like Uber, Bolt, and Free Now readily available in Kraków. These mobile apps offer cashless taxi services with regulated fares. Uber even has its ‘Centre for Excellence’ based in the city.

The only significant drawback of these ride-hailing services is that drivers are restricted from certain areas, particularly the historic centre and at transport hubs like the airport, while the city’s official taxi services have broader access.

Useful links

• Uber in Kraków
• Bolt
• Free Now
• Kraków Taxi Fare Calculator

Driving in Kraków

Driving in Kraków isn’t advisable for daily commutes. Most residents find it frustrating as there is often a lot of traffic, petrol in Poland is relatively steep, and parking is expensive and difficult to find. The city centre is covered with paid parking zones operating Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm, with limited availability.

There are also rules around local traffic zones, including a limited traffic zone since 1988 and plans for a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) that would restrict vehicles based on emission standards. Taxis are relatively cheap and are, therefore, a good alternative to a private car.

While road conditions are generally fairly adequate, local driving behaviour takes a while to get used to. If you decide to get behind the wheel, you should do your best to drive defensively, and during winter months, ensure your car is equipped with winter tyres for better grip in snow or ice.

Driver’s licences

If you’re planning to drive in Poland, you’ll need to determine whether your existing driver’s licence is valid or if you need to exchange it. EU driving licences are accepted throughout Poland. Non-EU licence holders can typically drive using their home country’s licence for six months, after which they may need to exchange it or obtain a Polish licence, depending on reciprocal agreements between Poland and their home country. One exception is Americans, who must have an international driving permit to drive in Poland and may use it for up to six months from entry.

Read more: Driving And Driver’s Licences In Poland

Useful links

• Kraków Limited Traffic Zone Information
• Parking Information in Kraków
• Park and Ride Car Parks in Kraków

Walking in Kraków

Walking in Kraków is a delight, and the city is widely recognised for its exceptional walkability, especially in the historic centre. Poking around Kraków’s UNESCO-listed Old Town on foot is a safe and pleasant experience. Accessibility has been improved in some areas, with attractions like the Wieliczka Salt Mines and the Celestat Museum offering wheelchair-accessible facilities.

Kraków offers a number of highly rated walking tours, including award-winning options from City Walks Kraków, Walkative!, and self-guided routes through apps like GPSmyCity.

Snowfall during the winter months can make walking around a little tricky. Invest in sturdy, waterproof shoes to manage the occasional slippery conditions from December through February, as snow is common throughout winter in Kraków.

Cycling in Kraków

Cycling in Kraków has gained popularity despite the city ranking among Europe’s less bike-friendly cities according. Unfortunately, due to financial challenges, Kraków’s municipal bike-sharing scheme, Wavelo, was terminated in December 2019.

Many people living in Kraków find that cycling is the most efficient way to get around, as the city boasts a host of bike lanes and scenic cycle paths for more recreational riders. In addition, there are safe cycling storage facilities throughout Kraków to make cycling more convenient.

For safety and legal compliance, remember that bicycles are considered vehicles in Poland and are subject to similar regulations.