Getting Around

Buses and trams are the easiest and cheapest way to get around in Krakow, though they can be crowded during rush hour. Tickets can be purchased at various kiosks, ticket machines and on the bus or tram itself. Taxis are readily available, though prices increase between 10pm and 8am. Radio taxis (identified by a taxi sign and the phone number of the company) usually offer the best rates and it is often cheaper to phone and order a taxi than to simply hail one down. As tourists are sometimes overcharged it is best to agree on a fare before getting into the taxi.

The Old Town is relatively compact and easy to negotiate, containing many of Krakow's tourist attractions: it is best explored on foot as most of it is designated a pedestrian-only area. Many of Krakow's attractions are within easy walking distance, and the public transport network is extensive so car hire is only really necessary if venturing outside the city. Car hire is easy in Krakow but Poland is not generally a country that provides a peaceful driving experience for foreigners as many of its highways are poorly maintained and the local drivers are somewhat unpredictable.

Airports

Krakow International Airport

The airport is situated 11 miles (17.6km) west of Krakow.

Krakow International Airport (KRK)

Location

The airport is situated 11 miles (17.6km) west of Krakow.

Getting to the city

City bus services 208 and 192 leave from the roundabout in front of the passenger terminal and leave regularly to the city centre. Taxis are also available outside the arrivals hall and take 20 minutes to get to the city centre.

A shuttle train operates between the airport and the city centre. The Kraków-Balice train station is located 200m from the passenger terminal and operated a daytime service every 30 minutes.

Time

Local time is GMT +1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

Car rental

Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Europcar and Hertz.

Facilities

There are banks, bureaux de change and ATMs at the airport. Other facilities include restaurants, bars, and shops, duty-free, child facilities, tourist information and hotel reservations desks, WiFi and a post office. A business lounge and VIP lounge is also available. Disabled facilities are good, but those with special needs should contact their airline in advance.

Parking

Parking at John Paul II International Airport starts at PLN 5 every 15 minutes for short-term parking, and PLN 7 per hour for long-term parking. Economy parking is also available at PLN 10 per day.

www.lotnisko-balice.pl