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Trains from London to Cracovia

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Cracovia, Poland

Why Choose Bus from London to Cracovia

Traveling from London to Cracovia is a journey filled with possibilities, and selecting the right transportation option is crucial for a comfortable and efficient experience. With various modes available, it's essential to weigh the benefits of train travel against other alternatives like buses and flights.

💰 Enjoy Scenic Views and Comfort


pros
  • The train route from London to Cracovia offers stunning views of the countryside, particularly through Belgium and Germany.
  • Trains provide more room to move around, allowing for a more comfortable journey with options to walk and relax at leisure.
cons
  • Long travel time of approximately 19h 39m might be tiring for some passengers.

🛎️ Convenient City Center Locations


pros
  • Both London St Pancras Intl and Krakow Glowny are located in the city center, making them easily accessible compared to distant airports.
  • Traveling by train often includes shorter transfer times compared to airport commutes, saving you time and hassle.
cons
  • Trains require multiple transfers, which could be overwhelming for travelers with heavy luggage.

⭐ Flexibility and Amenities


pros
  • Trains typically have more flexible boarding times and ticket options allowing for last-minute adjustments.
  • Onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and dining services make the long journey more enjoyable and productive.
cons
  • Limited direct routes mean more planning is needed to coordinate transfers between trains.

highlights:

Traveling by train may take longer than flying directly; plan your schedule accordingly.

Experience a journey that combines comfort with the opportunity to enjoy ever-changing landscapes.

Save time by arriving directly in city centers instead of needing additional travel from the airport.

Benefit from onboard amenities that enhance the travel experience.

Train Options from London to Cracovia

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingEurostar / PKP IntercityLondon St Pancras Intl, LondonKrakow Glowny, Kraków07:30, 09:15, 12:45, 14:3011:09, 13:09, 16:39, 18:24Several times daily19h 39m
£
230-503
Bruxelles-Midi,Köln Hbf,Berlin Ostkreuz,Frankfurt,Rzepin

Comparison of Train Operators from London to Cracovia

Comparing train operators on the route from London to Krakow is essential for travelers to determine the best options based on price, amenities, and overall experience. This comprehensive comparison will help passengers make informed decisions for their journey.

CriteriaEurostarPKP Intercity
Price Range£ 230 - £ 503£ 230 - £ 503
pricing policies
refund policyTicket refunds are permitted up to 14 days before departure with a fee of £20.Refunds allowed within 30 days of purchase with a deduction of 10% of ticket price.
Ticket ChangesChanges can be made up to 24 hours before departure with a fee of £30.Changes are allowed with a fee of £15 if made 48 hours prior to departure.
discountsDiscounts available for youth and senior travelers, as well as group bookings.Available discounts for students and seniors are provided upon request.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Onboard dining options, Comfortable seating, Power outletsDining car, Power outlets, Air conditioning, Restroom facilities
baggage allowance
Additional FeesFees apply for excess baggage beyond the allowance.Charges apply for any excess weight or additional checked baggage.
accessibilityDedicated assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including accessible restrooms and boarding assistance.Facilities include accessible carriages, priority boarding, and assistance for visually impaired passengers.

Both Eurostar and PKP Intercity offer comparable price ranges for the London to Krakow route, with variations in baggage policies, refund options, and amenities. Eurostar may appeal to travelers seeking more premium onboard services, while PKP Intercity might be preferable for those looking for slightly lower costs and straightforward refund policies. Ultimately, travelers should assess their individual needs in terms of budget, comfort, and travel flexibility when making their choice.

Train Stops and Stations from London to Cracovia

Knowing about the train stations is crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey from London to Cracovia.

Main Train Stations in London

London St Pancras International

Located in the King's Cross area, St Pancras is easily accessible from central London and near major landmarks like the British Library.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Comfortable waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants, and vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: London Underground (Piccadilly, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines)
  • Bus services with various routes stopping nearby
  • Taxi and rideshare services available right outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles located adjacent to the station
  • Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your departure time to pass through security and find your platform.
  • Be aware of security procedures, as bags may be screened before entering the station.
  • Avoid peak hours (typically 7 AM - 9 AM and 5 PM - 7 PM) for a less crowded experience.
  • Check out nearby amenities, including shops and restaurants, if time allows before departure.

Main Train Stations in Cracovia

Kraków Główny

Situated just a short walk from Kraków's Old Town, the main station is conveniently located near major attractions and hotels.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and automated ticket machines
  • Luggage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (kiosks, cafés)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps and elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Tram services connecting to various parts of the city
  • Public bus routes available right outside the station
  • Taxi ranks with services readily available
  • Parking facilities for those arriving by private vehicles
  • Try to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your intended outside journey to accommodate luggage and tickets.
  • Familiarize yourself with the local currency exchange if necessary, as arriving from abroad may require it.
  • Be aware that the station can get crowded during peak travel times, generally in the late afternoons.
  • Explore local amenities like bakeries and coffee shops in the vicinity if you have time before heading out.

En Route Stops

Berlin Hauptbahnhof

Duration: 1h 30m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas
  • Dining options including restaurants and cafes
  • Shopping outlets

Wrocław Główny

Duration: 45m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Food vendors
  • Ticket services
  • Luggage storage

Understanding the main train stations in both departure and arrival cities, along with important stops along the route, can significantly improve your travel experience. Familiarize yourself with these details for a smooth journey from London to Cracovia.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Enjoy Scenic Views

    As you travel from London to Cracovia, make sure to sit on the right side of the train for stunning views of the picturesque countryside, especially as you approach the Polish border.

  • 📍 Try Local Snacks

    Every country has its own culinary delights. Purchase traditional British snacks at the station before departure, and don’t miss out on Polish pierogi or oscypek cheese when you arrive!

  • 🚍 Use Online Booking and Apps

    Use train booking websites or mobile apps to secure your tickets in advance. Many services offer discounts for early bookings and allow you to choose your preferred seating.

  • 🎭 Explore Key Stopovers

    If time allows, consider a brief exploration of towns like Berlin or Wrocław along the route, both rich in history and culture, offering unique dining and sightseeing opportunities.

  • 🏛 Understand Local Customs

    Familiarize yourself with basic Polish phrases and customs, like greeting with a handshake and not discussing politics or religion in casual conversations, which will enhance your interactions upon arrival.

FAQ

The most common way is to take the Eurostar from London to Brussels, then connect with a high-speed train, like the ICE or Thalys, before transferring to a Polish rail service toward Cracovia.
Yes, most trains on this route offer dining cars or snack services. You can enjoy a meal or buy drinks, but it’s a good idea to also bring your own snacks for the journey.
Yes, Cracovia is in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is 1 hour ahead of London’s GMT during standard time, and 2 hours ahead during daylight saving time.
Train services typically offer various classes, including standard and first class, with first-class offering more spacious seating, complimentary meals, and quieter environments.
Yes, in Poland, it’s customary to greet people with a handshake and to be polite and punctual. Learning a few Polish phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the culture.