Ever wondered what happens when you land at Krakow Balice Airport? It’s a key spot for visitors to Poland. With nearly 7 million passengers each year, it’s close to the city centre. This makes it perfect for your trip to Krakow.
This guide covers everything you need to know. It talks about how to get around, the airport’s facilities, and finding cheap flights. With over 70 flights daily and hourly train shuttles, getting to your destination is easy. Let’s find out the best tips and secrets for your trip.
Introduction to Krakow’s Airports
Krakow’s airports are key to getting into Poland. John Paul II Balice Airport is the main one. It saw over 9.4 million passengers in 2023 and handled 71,258 flights. It’s Poland’s second busiest airport, after Warsaw Chopin Airport.
It has two terminals. T1 is for domestic flights, and T2 serves both domestic and international routes. The airport is easy to get to, thanks to the A4 freeway and other roads.
It works with 25 airlines, offering 161 flights to 123 airports in 35 countries. Airlines like Ryanair, LOT Polish Airlines, Buzz, and Wizz Air are big players. Ryanair has also made big investments here.
There are other airports near Krakow too. Katowice Airport is about 80 km away, and Rzeszów Airport is around 170 km. These airports offer more flight options for travellers.
Airports Near Krakow
Krakow has several airports for easy travel. The main one is John Paul II Balice Airport. But, Katowice Airport and Rzeszów Airport are valid alternatives if you happen to have a direct flight from where you live.
Katowice Airport is about 66 km from Krakow. It’s known for low-cost airlines. Travellers can easily get to Krakow by coach. Rzeszów Airport is a bit further away but also has many flights and transport links to Krakow Main Station.
Using Katowice or Rzeszów airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Krakow. This makes getting there smooth. It also makes visiting other parts of Poland easier.
Transfer Options from Balice Airport to Krakow
There are many ways to get from Balice Airport to Krakow. Everyone can find a good option for their trip. You can pick what suits you best for a smooth journey.
An airport train shuttle is a quick way to the city centre. It’s run by Lesser Poland Railways and takes about 17 minutes. Tickets start at 17 PLN. It’s a great choice for those who like using public transport.
For those watching their budget, bus line no. 902 is a good deal at 6 PLN. Private minibus services are also available for special needs and preferences.
Here is a summary of the transfer options:
| Service Type | Duration | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train Shuttle | 17 minutes | 17 PLN | Frequent service, connection to Krakow public transport |
| Taxis Krakow | Varies | Dependent on distance | Door-to-door service, vehicle options available |
| Bus No. 902 | Varies | 6 PLN | Budget-friendly, regular stops in the city |
| Private Minibus | Varies | Variable pricing | Customised options, tailored for groups or families |
Every way to get from Balice Airport to Krakow meets different traveller needs. They offer efficiency, comfort, and easy access. This makes the trip smooth for tourists and business travellers.
Krakow Balice Airport Infrastructure
The Krakow Balice airport has been made better for passengers. It’s now a key place for air travel in Poland. The airport has a big parking lot with 863 spots, built with over 2,700 tonnes of steel and 25,000m³ of concrete. This was built in 2010, making it easy for people to park at the airport for a short or long time.
Getting to the terminals is easy, with a “Kiss-and-Fly Zone” for quick pick-ups. The airport also helps disabled passengers a lot. There are shops, cafés, tourist info, and free Wi-Fi for everyone.
The airport is easy to use, with services like baggage handling and ATMs. A new terminal is being built for more passengers. It will cost PLN400 million, with EU help. This shows Krakow’s air travel is growing and changing.
FAQ
What is the distance from Krakow city centre to John Paul II Balice Airport?
John Paul II Balice Airport is about 11 kilometres from Krakow’s city centre. It’s easy to get to for visitors.
How many passengers does Krakow Balice Airport serve annually?
Krakow Balice Airport is Poland’s second busiest airport. It welcomes nearly 7 million passengers every year.
How much does the train fare from Balice Airport to Krakow city centre cost?
The train fare from the airport to Krakow starts at about 17 PLN. It’s with Lesser Poland Railways.
What public transport options are available at Balice Airport?
At the airport, you can take bus line no. 902. It’s a cheap option, costing 6 PLN.