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Take the train from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central in 11 hours 35 minutes

If you want to travel from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central by train, you've come to the right place.

You can expect the journey from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central by train to take around 13 hours 27 minutes. If you want to get there as quickly as possible, it can take as little as 11 hours 35 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll usually find around 12 trains per day running on this route, which spans 572 miles (921 km). You’ll have to make 1 change along the way on your journey to Krakow Central.

You can save money on train tickets from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central if you book in Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to search for cheap ticket prices – we'll show you how much you can save on train tickets from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central if you book in advance.. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.

If you want to know more about the journey, keep reading for timetables, tips on finding cheap tickets and FAQs, including first and last train times. Want to go straight to booking? Start a search with us today!

Trains to Krakow Central from Essen Hbf

First train

00:03

Last train

23:52

Departure stationEssen Hbf
Arrival stationKrakow Central
Journey time

From 11h 35m

Distance

572 miles (921 km)

Frequency

12 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus, Sindbad

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

Want to know more about your journey from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I get from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

You can travel from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central by train in about 13 hours and 27 minutes. With around 12 trains running each day, taking the train is easy. If you’re looking for other options, you can also catch the bus from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central. Find out more in our Journey Planner.

How long is the train journey from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

On average, the train journey from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central takes around 13 hours and 27 minutes, with 12 trains per day. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific train and any potential delays. Use our Journey Planner to check out more information.

What is the fastest train from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

The fastest trains from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central can cover the distance of 572 miles (921 km) in as little as 11 hours and 35 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

No, you can’t travel from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central on a direct train, you’ll need to make at least 1 change during the journey.

What are the train times from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

Check out the next trains departing from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central for Tuesday 14th October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
04:1316:3412h 21m, 2 changes
06:1818:3612h 18m, 2 changes
07:1219:0411h 52m, 1 change
08:1820:4612h 28m, 2 changes
09:1121:2112h 10m, 2 changes
11:1022:4511h 35m, 1 change
12:1802:1713h 59m, 2 changes
12:5605:2116h 25m, 2 changes
13:1304:3015h 17m, 4 changes
19:1711:1115h 54m, 6 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Essen Hbf to Krakow Central starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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