Krakow John Paul II International Airport
Krakow, Poland · Since 1964
Last updated:
About KRK
Krakow John Paul II International Airport is the second-busiest airport in Poland, serving the historic city of Krakow and the Lesser Poland region. Located in Balice, 11 km west of the city center, it handles over 9 million passengers annually. The airport is a major base for Ryanair and LOT Polish Airlines, offering connections to over 100 destinations. A direct rail link connects the airport to Krakow Glowny (main railway station) in just 18 minutes, making it exceptionally convenient for visitors.
Terminals
Main Terminal
Single terminal handling all domestic and international flights. The terminal was expanded in 2016 with new gate areas and improved shopping/dining. Connected to Krakow Balice train station on the lower level.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at KRK
LOT Polish Airlines
Main Terminal
Ryanair
Main Terminal
Wizz Air
Main Terminal
Aegean Airlines
Air Arabia
Air Dolomiti
Air France
Air Serbia
Showing 8 of 30 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Train to Krakow Glowny, bus 208/252/902, taxi, ride-hailing
Taxi
$12-18
20-30 min to city center
Public Transport
$4
18 min to city center
Parking at KRK
Multi-story covered parking (P1) and open-air long-term parking (P2) available near the terminal....
P1 Multi-Story
P2 Long-Term
P3 Economy
Airport Lounges
Schengen Business Lounge
Main Terminal
Located in the Schengen departures area, this lounge offers hot and cold buffet, premium drinks, newspapers, and a quiet atmosphere. Recently renovated with modern furnishings.
LOT Business Lounge
Main Terminal
LOT's lounge offering Polish cuisine including pierogi, soups, and pastries alongside international options. Comfortable seating with runway views.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
ibis Budget Krakow Airport
Short walk from the terminal building
Modern budget hotel within walking distance of the terminal. Simple but clean rooms with everything needed for an overnight airport stay.
Hotel Galaxy Krakow Airport
10-minute drive, free airport shuttle available
Comfortable hotel near the airport with restaurant, bar, free parking, and complimentary airport transfers. Good option for early morning flights.
Food & Dining
Subway
Sandwiches/Fast Food
Main Terminal (Landside)
Made-to-order sandwiches and wraps. Quick and affordable option for a meal before or after your flight.
5:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Cafe Szafe
Cafe/Bakery
Main Terminal (Landside)
Cozy cafe serving excellent Polish coffee, fresh pastries, and light meals. Great place to wait for arriving passengers.
5:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Bon Appetit
Polish/International
Main Terminal (Airside)
Restaurant serving Polish and international dishes. Try the pierogi or zurek (traditional sour rye soup). Good portions at reasonable airport prices.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Arrivals hall, ground floor
Book in advance for summer visits. Polish highways require pre-paid tolls (e-TOLL system).
Avis
Arrivals hall, ground floor
Good selection of vehicles. Consider GPS rental for navigating outside Krakow.
Panek
Arrivals hall, ground floor
Leading Polish car rental company with very competitive prices and modern fleet. Good customer service in English.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Explore Krakow Old Town
Take the train to Krakow Glowny (18 min) and walk to the stunning Main Market Square (Rynek Glowny), the largest medieval town square in Europe. Visit St. Mary's Basilica, the Cloth Hall, and enjoy a traditional Polish meal.
Visit Wawel Castle
The magnificent Wawel Royal Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits on a hill overlooking the Vistula River. Explore the state rooms, royal chambers, and the beautiful cathedral where Polish kings were crowned.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located 30 minutes from Krakow. Descend 135 meters underground to explore chambers, chapels, and lakes carved entirely from salt. Book tickets in advance.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type C, Type E (Polish)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: From $4/day
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: Polish Zloty (PLN)
- Exchange: Exchange offices (kantor) in arrivals hall
- Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tipping: Tipping 10-15% in restaurants is expected. Round up taxi fares.
Airport kantors have decent rates but ATMs are usually better. Avoid accepting conversion to your home currency (DCC) at ATMs.
Smoking Areas
Outdoor smoking areas only, outside the terminal building.
Insider Tips
The train to Krakow Glowny station takes only 18 minutes and costs about $4. The station is directly below the terminal. Arrive early during summer months as the single terminal can get crowded.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, luggage storage, ATMs, pharmacy, currency exchange, kids play area
Official Website
Phone
+48 12 295 5800
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
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