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Budapest to Krakow from €15: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Budapest, Hungary
to
Krakow, Poland

How to Get from Budapest to Krakow: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$15 RideshareBest price
392 kmDistance
4h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Budapest to Krakow with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
€29-50
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
€15-15
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 392 km
Duration: 4h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
9h  41m
Estimated price
€32-44
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
€62-91
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
8h  39m
Estimated price
€63-112
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
€291-292
Company
Eurobusways
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
7h  13m
Estimated price
€295-296

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $21 $22 $27 $26 $29 $26 $25
Train $38 $33 $38 $59 $70 $55 $53
Fly $163 $163 $165 $168 $154 $169 $176
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Budapest to Krakow

Embarking on a journey from Budapest to Krakow reveals a fascinating contrast between Hungary's vibrant capital, known for its thermal baths and nightlife, and Poland's historical gem, where medieval architecture and rich culture abound.

Best Neighbourhoods in Krakow

Krakow offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and history.

Kazimierz
• Known for its rich Jewish heritage.
• Features trendy cafes and vibrant nightlife.
Stare Miasto (Old Town)
• Home to the stunning Main Market Square.
• Offers a mix of history and cultural attractions.
Podgorze
• Previously a separate town, now a cultural hotspot.
• Near the historic Oskar Schindler's Factory museum.

Best Times To Visit Krakow's Attractions

Visiting Krakow’s major attractions at the right time can greatly enhance your experience.

Wawel Castle
Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy peaceful grounds.
Main Market Square
Late afternoon offers fewer tourists and beautiful sunset views over the square.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial
Try visiting on weekdays, especially in the off-peak months for quieter reflection.

Krakow Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Krakow experiences a temperate continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and early autumn ideal for comfortable exploration. Weather can impact your travel plans, with winter snow enhancing the city's charm and summer sun inviting outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Krakow

Try the iconic Polish dish of pierogi at Starka Restaurant, where the handmade dumplings stuffed with local ingredients offer a delightful contrast to the bold spices of Budapest's cuisine. The inviting atmosphere, complete with rustic decor and traditional music, creates a dining experience that immerses you in the heart of Polish culture.

Budapest - Krakow operators

Explore transport companies operating between Budapest and Krakow, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Budapest Mexikói út to Kraków, Dworzec Autobusowy MDA

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
€27-45
Train
Contact phone
+36 (1) 3 49 49 49
Website
https://www.mavcsoport.hu/en

Train from Budapest-Kelenfoeld to Kraków Glowny via Wien Hbf

Average Duration
8h 39m
Estimated price
€59-104

Train from Budapest-Nyugati to Kraków Glowny via Katowice

Average Duration
9h 41m
Estimated price
€30-40
Rideshare
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Rideshare from Budapest to Krakow

Average Duration
6h 39m
Estimated price
€14-14
Drive

Drive from Budapest to Kraków

Average Duration
5h 49m
Estimated price
€58-89
Plane

Plane from Budapest (BUD) to Krakow (KRK)

Average Duration
4h 2m
Estimated price
€270-275
Shuttle
Contact phone
+36 70 282 1827
Website
http://eurobusways.com

Shuttle from Budapest to Zakopane

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
€141-142

Shuttle from Zakopane ZDA to Kraków Jubilat

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
€147-148

Budapest to Krakow: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Budapest and Krakow offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Average price
€60 - €92
Departure Point
Budapest-Kelenfoeld station
Arrival Point
Krakow Glowny station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train service from Budapest to Krakow is operated primarily by Hungarian Railways (MÁV) and Polish State Railways (PKP Intercity). Onboard catering services typically include a bistro car where you can purchase hot meals, snacks, and beverages, along with the option for pre-ordered meals in First Class. Make sure to check the menu beforehand at MÁV and PKP Intercity.
• On this route, you'll find different seating options. First Class offers spacious seating with complimentary snacks and drinks, and a more quiet atmosphere. Business Class includes comfortable seats with additional legroom and access to power outlets. Economy Class is a cost-effective choice with standard seating but can get crowded, especially during peak travel times. To make the most of your trip, consider reserving your seat in advance, particularly for First or Business Class.
• Upon arriving at Krakow Główny Railway Station, you will find luggage storage services available (luggage lockers). The station also hosts restrooms but typically does not offer shower facilities. To get to the city center quickly, take bus number 192 or tram line 8. Both options have a direct route and convenient stops at major city attractions. You can check local transport schedules here.
Departure Point
Budapest Airport
Arrival Point
Krakow Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 20m and has one stopover
Departure Point
Budapest Mexikói út station
Arrival Point
Kraków, Dworzec Autobusowy MDA station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Budapest to Krakow.

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The distance between Budapest and Krakow is approximately 294.5 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 8 hours and 37 minutes. By taking a shuttle and then a bus, the travel time is about 7 hours and 14 minutes. By plane, it takes approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes. If traveling from Krakow to Budapest by car, it takes around 5 hours and 49 minutes, and by bus, it takes about 6 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Budapest to Krakow is to rideshare, which costs €15 and takes approximately 6 hours and 39 minutes. This option provides a good balance between cost and time. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving would be the quickest way to reach Krakow from Budapest, taking around 5 hours and 49 minutes.
The prices for traveling from Budapest to Krakow by train range from €71 to €96. Alternatively, taking a bus from Krakow to Budapest can cost between €27 and €41.
A convenient option to travel from Budapest to Krakow without using public transportation is to utilize BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This service connects drivers with empty seats to passengers looking for a ride. The driving distance between Budapest and Krakow is approximately 392.7 km, and it takes around 5 hours and 49 minutes to drive between the two cities. Prices for carpooling services can range from €60 to €92, depending on the specific arrangements made with the driver.
The easiest way to travel from Budapest to Krakow without a car is by taking a bus, which takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes and costs between €27 to €41. Alternatively, you could also consider taking a train via Vienna, which takes about 8 hours and 37 minutes and costs between €69 to €101. If time is a priority, flying is another option, taking around 6 hours and 34 minutes and costing between €46 to €229.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Budapest and Krakow. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes and operates twice daily. Additionally, while there is no direct train between the two cities, there is a train route with transfers that takes approximately 8 hours and 37 minutes.
The flight between Budapest and Krakow typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available. The cost of the flight can vary between €48 and €228 depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Krakow. With over 1314 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Krakow start at €42 per night, making it a relatively affordable destination for travelers.