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Travel from Essen to Krakow Central by train in 11 hours 35 minutes

If you want to know more about the journey from Essen to Krakow Central by train, look no further!

The average journey time from Essen to Krakow Central by train is 13 hours 27 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 11 hours 35 minutes. Around 12 trains per day travel the 572 miles (921 km) between these two destinations. You'll need to make 1 change along the way to Krakow Central.

Book train tickets from Essen to Krakow Central in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. You can check prices from Essen to Krakow Central in our Journey Planner.

Ready to book? Start your search for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information, including our timetable where you can view first and last train times, as well as tips on how to find cheap train tickets.

Trains to Krakow Central from Essen

First train

00:03

Last train

23:52

Departure stationEssen
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 to Krakow Central?

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

How do you travel to Krakow Central from Essen?

To get to Krakow Central from Essen, why not take the train? With 12 trains per day and an average journey time of 13 hours and 27 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. You can also catch the bus from Essen to Krakow Central. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Essen to Krakow Central by train?

On average, it takes around 13 hours and 27 minutes to travel from Essen to Krakow Central by train, although you can get there in 11 hours and 35 minutes on the fastest services. With 12 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Essen to Krakow Central?

The fastest time a train can travel the 572 miles (921 km) from Essen to Krakow Central is 11 hours and 35 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Essen to Krakow Central?

There are no direct trains that run between Essen and Krakow Central. You’ll need to make at least 1 change along the way.

What are the train times from Essen to Krakow Central?

Check out the next trains departing from Essen 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 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 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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