Getting Around Krakow – Public Transport and Tickets Made Easy
Krakow is compact, and you can easily explore much of the historic center on foot. However, once you move beyond the Old Town or plan to cover several districts in one day, public transport becomes essential. Trams form the backbone of the network, supported by an extensive bus system that reaches every part of the city. The entire system is unified and straightforward, so you can move around efficiently without needing a car.
Tickets & Prices
Public transport in Krakow operates under one unified fare system. The same tickets are valid on both trams and buses, so you do not need to worry about different operators. Most tickets are time-based, which means you choose how long you want to travel rather than how far.
Single-Ride Tickets
If you only need a short trip, time-limited single tickets give you flexibility. As long as the ticket remains valid, you can transfer between trams and buses.
Single Ticket – 20 Minutes
- Price: 4.00 PLN / 1.00 € / 1.20 $*
- Valid for travel within 20 minutes from validation
- Transfers allowed within validity period
- Ideal if you are covering a short distance within the center
Single Ticket – 60 Minutes / Single Trip
- Price: 6.00 PLN / 1.50 € / 1.70 $
- Valid for one journey or unlimited transfers within 60 minutes
- Suitable for most standard trips
- For most of your standard trips across the city, this option works well
Single Ticket – 90 Minutes
- Price: 8.00 PLN / 2.00 € / 2.30 $*
- Valid for longer cross-city journeys
- Ideal when multiple transfers are needed
- If you expect multiple transfers or a longer ride, this gives you enough time without pressure
Time-Based Tickets
If you plan to use public transport frequently, time-based tickets are usually your most convenient option. Once activated, you can travel unlimited on all trams and buses during the selected period.
24-Hour Ticket
- Price: 22.00 PLN / 5.50 € / 6.50 $*
- Unlimited travel for 24 hours from first validation
48-Hour Ticket
- Price: 35.00 PLN / 8.50 € / 10.00 $*
- Unlimited travel for 48 hours
72-Hour Ticket
- Price: 50.00 PLN / 12.00 € / 14.00 $*
- Unlimited travel for 72 hours
- Best choice for a full city break
Longer-Duration Tickets
If you are staying longer, you can simplify your travel even further.
7-Day Ticket
- Price: 68.00 PLN / 16.50 € / 19.00 $*
- Unlimited travel for seven consecutive days
- This option makes sense if you plan to explore different neighborhoods at a relaxed pace
Special Tickets
Certain tickets are designed for specific travel situations and may suit your travel plans.
Weekend Family Ticket
- Price: 25.00 PLN / 6.00 € / 7.00 $*
- Valid on weekends and public holidays
- If you are traveling as a family, this can reduce costs when you move around together
Single Trip Group Ticket (up to 20 people)
- Price: 60.00 PLN / 14.50 € / 17.00 $*
- One shared ticket for groups traveling together
- Valid on trams and buses for a single journey
- Useful if you are exploring Krakow with a larger group
* Prices as of January 2026
Please note: Reduced fares are generally available at half the regular price for eligible groups such as children and seniors. If this applies to you or someone traveling with you, you simply need to carry valid identification confirming age eligibility, and you can benefit from the lower fare during your stay.
Airport Transport
If you are arriving at Krakow Airport, selected city buses connect you directly with the public transport network. For a detailed comparison of all options, including travel times, ticket types, night arrivals, and the most practical choice depending on your arrival time, please refer to our dedicated guide Krakow Airport – Getting into the City.
Where to Buy Tickets
Buying tickets in Krakow is straightforward, and you have several options depending on what feels most convenient.
- You find ticket machines at major tram stops and throughout the city. They accept cashless payment and allow you to select and purchase your ticket before boarding.
- If you prefer paper tickets, you can buy them at kiosks and newsstands, especially in central areas and near busy stops.
- You can also use a smartphone app to purchase and activate digital tickets directly on your phone before boarding.
- On trams and buses, ticket purchase is not available. Make sure you obtain and activate a valid ticket in advance.
Smartphone App – The Most Convenient Option
- Purchase single and time-based tickets directly on your smartphone
- Activate your ticket before boarding in seconds
- Store active and past tickets digitally
- Plan routes with real-time departure information
- Check connections and compare travel options instantly
- Pay securely via card or mobile payment methods
Ticket Validation and Use
Paper Tickets
Mobile Tickets
Purchase and activate your ticket in the app before boarding. Activation starts the validity period. During inspections, simply display the active ticket on your screen. No additional validation on board is required.
Public Transport Overview
Public transport in Krakow follows a clear daily rhythm. During the day, trams and buses operate from approximately 5:00 am until 11:00 pm. On main routes, you can expect departures every 5 to 10 minutes, while less busy lines run every 10 to 20 minutes. On weekends, the pattern remains similar, although frequencies may be slightly reduced on certain routes. Between 11:00 pm and 5:00 am, night buses replace most daytime routes and operate every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the line.
Trams
- Primary mode of transport within the city
- Fast and reliable for longer distances
Buses
- Extensive coverage across all districts
- Essential for areas without tram access
Night Services
- Separate night network
- Reduced frequency compared to daytime services
Getting Around Krakow at a Glance
Krakow’s public transport system is easy to navigate. You can explore the Old Town on foot, while trams and buses efficiently connect you to more distant districts. With unified tickets, clear validation rules, and flexible time-based options, getting around the city remains simple and stress-free throughout your stay.
