Embark on a leisurely voyage through Poland by train, unraveling layers of history as you glide from atmospheric cities to heritage landmarks. Journey from castles along the Vistula River to hiking trails in the Tatra Mountains, stopping in bohemian neighborhoods and towns brimming with medieval character.
With premium hotels and seamless connections arranged by our specialist team, you can relax and experience more of the traditions and cultural variety that make Poland a compelling destination for a rail vacation.
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Poland’s long, winding history at the center of European history shaped and reshaped the country since Duke Mieszko I founded the nation. That fascinating heritage is reflected in culturally layered cities. The atmospheric old town and bohemian neighborhoods of Krakow, the energetic and charismatic capital, Warsaw, and the maritime charms of Gdansk are just some of the compelling destinations to visit on an unforgettable tour of Poland by rail.
Explore Poland by train to step off the tourist trail and explore unspoiled Central European landscapes. Hop on trains to go European bison spotting in Białowieża Forest, skiing high in the Tatra Mountains, or hike along rivers or through the Jurassic landscape in Ojców National Park. If you like to balance city fun with moments in nature, Poland is the complete package.
Travel in different directions to discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites and landmarks that reveal something about Poland’s and Europe’s past. Hike past some of the 25 castles on the Trail of the Eagle’s Nests, learn more about Europe’s darkest period at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, marvel at the world’s largest castle, Malbork, or head underground in the jaw-dropping Wieliczka Salt Mine. On a well-planned rail tour, you can experience more of Poland’s fascinating heritage.
The Polish capital blends old-time character with a contemporary, forward-looking energy. Carefully rebuilt, with every brick in the evocative old town restored to its former glory, it more than lives up to its epithet, “Phoenix City.” The contrasts reveal themselves across the city, from the Baroque Royal Castle to the striking modernist Palace of Culture and Science, and in a compelling array of modern museums, monuments to the past, and tranquil parks for living in the moment. With excellent rail connections to all parts of the country, Warsaw is an essential destination when touring Poland by train.
Krakow encapsulates everything visitors love about Poland. The star turn is an atmospheric old town, home to Europe’s largest medieval market square city landmarks. The nightlife bubbles in the hip, bohemian Kazimierz neighborhood, while there are notable points of interest to fill the days, including Auschwitz-Birkenau, the UNESCO-recognized Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the magnificent Wawel Castle. Krakow is enriched by a flourishing foodie scene, intriguing museums, and scenic outdoor escapes along the Vistula River or the castles and caves of Ojcow National Park.
A warren of bridges and islands on the Oder River earned Wroclaw the nickname the “Venice of Poland.” With its colorful, Gothic-style architecture, timeless Market Square, and lively cultural scene, Wroclaw is like stepping into a storybook. A fairytale populated by enigmatic dwarves; quirky bronze statues of the mythical creatures pop all over the city. Wroclaw’s central station offers seamless connections to major cities, making it a memorable stop for travelers discovering different sides of Polish culture and traditions.
Perched on the Baltic coast, the former Hanseatic city, Gdansk, mixes maritime charm with historic sights. Pastel-colored merchant houses, the soaring Gothic St. Mary’s Church, and its cobbled Long Market lined with quirky shops contribute to the appeal. A standout landmark is the European Solidarity Centre, which chronicles the role of the local Solidarity Movement in the fall of communism. Slow travelers who relish offbeat cultural escapades and crave sea air will find Gdansk a rewarding stop on a Polish rail vacation.
High-speed trains zip between Poland’s two most exciting cities in around 2 ½ hours. Glide in comfort on sleek Pendolino trains from the vibrant capital through the heartlands of Poland, before disembarking at Krakow Glowny, minutes away from Krakow’s UNESCO World Heritage old town. With Rail Escape, we find superior hotels nearby, saving you time and making it possible to see the Royal Castle in Warsaw and Krakow’s Wawel Castle in one memorable day.
Less than three hours by regional train takes travelers on a scenery-filled ride from Krakow to Zakopane, at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. Zakopane is an outdoor sports haven and portal to panoramic views via cable cars and funicular railways. It’s a magnetic destination for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts traveling around Poland by train. With its wooden chalets and laidback mountain vibes, Zakopane is particularly picturesque and an enticing destination on a winter rail vacation in Poland.
If you love rail travel for the journey itself, the Gdansk to Hel train ride is for you. The name raises eyebrows, but the journey is far from hellish. Trains leave maritime Gdansk before passing through the charming seaside town of Sopot and the modernist city, Gydnia. The fun begins when the train snakes along the Hel Peninsula, a 22-mile (35 km) finger of sand jutting into the Baltic Sea. One of the most scenic train journeys in Poland terminates in Hel, the so-called “Beginning of Poland,” an idyllic resort town of long sandy beaches and laidback seaside charm.
A new star on Polish rail is the IC 107 Porta Moravica, which boasts panoramic viewing windows. The tourist train skips from the Austrian city of Graz through Vienna, stopping in Czechia before heading into Poland. You can join this service in several Polish cities, including must-see Krakow, around three hours from Przemyśl. Savor unbroken views of the Polish countryside before arriving in historic Przemyśl, a small city bursting with landmarks, including an old town on Poland’s List of Historic Monuments.
National services are operated by Polish State Railways (PKP). The rail network has been extensively modernized in recent years, including the introduction of high-speed Pendolino trains on the busiest routes.
You can reach just about anywhere by train. However, the number of different services can be confusing, which is where our Polish rail travel specialists shine. There are several types of trains in Poland:
The most comfortable option using high-speed Pendolino trains to connect major cities. These trains make fewer stops for the fastest journeys.
These trains have first and second-class carriages (we always book first-class) and are air-conditioned, have a catering car, and offer free Wi-Fi and charging points.
Seat reservations are required. Passengers can enjoy some old-time hospitality with a complimentary drink, with first-class passengers also served food.
Slightly slower than EIC but still convenient for long-distance travel., with more options to stop in smaller cities and head off the beaten path.
InterCity trains are modern and many have Wi-Fi and power charging points. Some have catering cars.
Older express intercity trains that connect big and small cities. TLK trains have first-class carriages, but no catering. Many are being upgraded to match other InterCity rolling stock.
These services operate as Polregio trains under the PKP banner, making many stops and connecting smaller towns with cities. These can be a mixed bag of old and slightly more modern trains, and it’s often unclear which you will be catching until they pull up at the platform.
Although onboard amenities vary on Polish trains, all have toilet facilities and luggage storage.
Sleeper trains operate on some longer routes and when crossing international borders, with four or six person couchettes and smaller sleeping compartments for up to three passengers. Our team of travel experts can arrange a sleeper train experience and help find the most comfortable accommodation for your travel group.
International rail connections between Poland and other European countries include direct services to neighboring countries and EuroCity night trains to Western European countries.
See the best of Poland with exclusive travel packages that showcase different sides of the country. Our trips feature carefully chosen destinations, scenic routes, and superior accommodations. Packages include airport transfers for complete convenience.
We choose high-quality hotels in welcoming neighborhoods, close to major train stations. We prioritize premium lodgings and boutique hotels that will enrich your experience, with breakfast included so you are refreshed and refueled for more Polish rail adventures.
We book first-class seats wherever possible and sort through the timetables to find the fastest trains and smoothest connections, so you can kick back on a leisurely journey through Poland by train.
We provide everything you need for a seamless journey, including train schedules, hotel reservations, and electronic train tickets. And our travel specialists are ready to help anytime you need assistance.
Our team has traveled extensively across Europe and stays up-to-date with train services in Poland and beyond. We love sharing insights and conjuring ideas for stylish and relaxing ways to explore Poland by rail.
We love creating absorbing rail escapes, and our rail travel experts can tailor an itinerary around Poland by train that reaches the sights you have always wanted to see.
As European rail travel experts, we can transform a Polish vacation into one that crosses international borders, finding the rail connections you need to enjoy a multi-stop European rail adventure in a singular getaway.
Our rail tour packages suit travelers of all ages, including families with young and older kids, couples, and senior citizens.
A Rail Escape vacation allows you to travel like locals and enjoy a more immersive experience, seeing the country through the same lens as citizens.
Trains produce less carbon than road or air travel, for a cleaner and greener way to explore more of Poland.
Poland’s rail system has developed immensely in recent years and is a stress-free way to explore the country. Modern stations are found in the heart of major cities and never far from the hotels we book, so you can board minutes before departure and maximize your time seeing the sights.
Many absorbing cities are a few hours apart, and when you travel around Poland by train you can see more at your own pace. Thread together several cities for an unhurried yet immersive experience, catching trains like a local and spotting landmarks as you pull into the station.
Exploring Poland by rail is both convenient and relaxing. Simply roll up to the station, stow your luggage, drop into your reserved seat, forget your worries as you take in the views and plan your next escapade, arriving refreshed and raring to go.
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for the peak summer season (June-August) and the colorful Christmas markets in Poland. Talk with our experts to tailor a tour of Poland by train and we’ll find the best hotels and reserve the train tickets you need when they are available, which is at least 30 days before travel in Poland.
Absolutely! Polish rail trips are family-friendly and offer amenities that make traveling with children more convenient and enjoyable, including dedicated family compartments on some services and discounts. Our specialists can make sure you get the tickets for a smooth journey with your children, comfortably transporting you to Poland’s many stellar attractions for all the family.
Polish InterCity trains are equipped with free Wi-Fi, power sockets, first-class seating, and catering is available on many services. On all Polish trains, including regional services, you will find toilets and luggage racks. Some trains in Poland also offer family compartments and quiet zones for a more restful journey.
An increasing number of COMBO carriages suitable for disabled passengers, seniors, and families are now available on InterCity trains in Poland. They include reserved spaces for wheelchairs. However, regional trains are less accessible and, at present, only major stations in city centers are considered fully accessible.
With at least 24 hours notice, assistance can be provided at stations and with getting on trains. Get in touch to discuss the support you need for a smoother journey around Poland by rail.
As a member of the Schengen Area, passports are not routinely checked when traveling from other Schengen countries to Poland. Spot checks may take place, so keep your passport or identity documents handy.
Seat reservations are required for Express InterCity Premium (EIP) and other InterCity trains in Poland. Reservations are not offered on regional services, where you can take any available seat.
Catering cars are available on most InterCity trains in Poland. On all services, you can bring your own food. What better time to sample a few Polish goodies, like smoked kielbasa and moreish pączki donuts.
High-speed Pendolino trains reaching 125 mph (200 km/h) operate on four busy lines from Warsaw, primarily linking Gdynia, Kraków, Katowice, and Wrocław.
Yes, most long-distance and high-speed trains in Poland offer free Wi-Fi for passengers.
Travel Poland by train any time of the year! Here’s a snapshot of what makes each season unique.
The cold may bite but snowy scenes enrich the seasonal vibes at some of Europe’s most vibrant Christmas markets. A time for skiing in Zakopane, sampling the famous gingerbread in Toruń, and enjoying snow-blanketed landscapes from the comfort of your train seat.
As Poland shakes off the winter blues, wildflowers bloom and city parks stir into life. Rove around Poland’s national parks like Białowieża and Tatra without the high-season crowds, with the slowly rising temperatures and increasingly green landscapes making journeys through Poland by train a scenic delight.
Agreeable temperatures and longer days bring out the best of Poland and bring tourists to its most popular destinations. Café terraces are alive, hiking trails in national parks and bike rides along the Vistula and Oder Rivers especially appealing, and there is no better to visit Poland’s coastal and lake regions.
The cool, crisp air and quieter tourist attractions make it a perfect time to visit cultural hubs like Wrocław and Gdańsk. Local markets and restaurants embrace the harvest season, making it a golden time to revel in Krakow’s flourishing foodie scene.
Explore vibrant cities laden with history, discover diverse natural landscapes, and reach hidden gems on our luxurious rail journeys through Poland. Relax and enjoy stylish travel to compelling destinations, with premium accommodations carefully selected for comfort and convenience.
Rail Escape specializes in creating seamless rail and hotel packages, allowing you to focus on planning unique experiences and making memories at every stop. Our team of travel experts handles all the booking details so your trip is smooth and stress-free. Select your ideal Polish rail route or speak with our experienced rail specialists to build your dream journey around Poland by train.
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