Venue and Location

Getting to and around Kraków

From the airport

Kraków John Paul II International Airport (also known as the Balice Airport) is a 20–30 minute drive from the city centre and conference venue, depending on traffic.

By train

The regional SKA1 train provides a convenient and reliable connection between Kraków Airport and the city centre. The journey to Kraków Główny (the Main Railway Station) takes approximately 20 minutes, with regular departures throughout the day.

From Kraków Główny, visitors can continue to Jagiellonian University on foot, by tram, or by bus. Ticket machines are available both at the airport station and on the platform. Visit the official website for schedules, fares, and travel details.

Important note: When using public transport in Kraków, you may board and exit through any door.

By taxi or rideshare

Taxis, Uber, and Bolt are all widely available at the airport. Travel time is typically around 25–30 minutes, although journeys take longer during peak hours.

Official airport taxis operate using fixed pricing zones. Uber and Bolt may offer lower fares, typically around 50 PLN.

Around the city

Kraków’s public transport network connects most parts of the city through an extensive system of trams and buses.

Tickets can be purchased at vending machines located at many bus and tram stops. Please note that tickets are no longer sold directly by bus or tram drivers and must be purchased before boarding. Once onboard, tickets must be validated immediately using the machines near the doors.

Ticket inspectors regularly check compliance, and failure to validate may result in a fine.

For routes, timetables, and journey planning, please refer to:

• MPK Kraków schedule
• e-Podróżnik journey planner
• MPK Kraków ticket information

Important note: Drinking alcohol in public places – including parks, streets, and bus stops – is prohibited in Kraków and actively enforced by the local authorities. Alcohol may only be consumed in licensed and designated premises, such as outdoor café or restaurant seating areas.

Currency and payments

The official currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). While some businesses may accept Euro, it is generally best to use złoty for most transactions.

Exchange offices, known as kantor in Polish, are common around the city center and often offer better rates than hotels. ATMs are widely available and accept most international debit and credit cards, usually providing favorable exchange rates.

Card payments are generally accepted across Kraków, however, carrying a small amount of cash can still be useful for smaller purchases.

Important contacts

Emergency services

• Emergency number (all services): 112
• Ambulance: 999
• Police: 997
• Fire department: 998

Pharmacies

Pharmacies in Poland are marked with a green cross and the word Apteka. You'll find several options, including a 24-hour pharmacy, near the Jagiellonian University Reymonta Building.

Apteka całodobowa Dr. Max (24-hour)
ul. Karmelicka 23, 31-131 Kraków
+48 12 633 47 31

Police

Police headquarters
Komenda Miejska Policji w Krakowie
ul. Siemiradzkiego 24, 31-137 Kraków
+48 47 83 52 000

The Tourist Police in Kraków provide assistance for visitors in multiple languages (English, German, French) and can be reached on +48 12 61 52 908.

Taxis

Official Kraków taxis can be booked via phone or app. Always ensure the taxi has a visible license number and meter.

Taxi iCar: +48 12 653 55 55
Radio Taxi Barbakan: +48 12 196 61
Mega Taxi: +48 12 400 00 00

Ride-hailing apps such as Bolt and Uber are also widely available in Kraków.