2-Week Journey Through Central & Eastern Europe: History

Experience life in Communist East Germany in this interactive museum.

This brilliantly evocative and interactive museum helps visitors imagine what life under the Communist East German regime was like. A homage to Ostalgie (nostalgia for East Germany), it offers up memories of the school system, pioneer camps (something like Communist scouts), and the wonderfully clumsy attempts to rival Western clothing and food fashions. It'd all be adorable, if it weren't so oppressive.

Visit the beautifully restored medieval Gothic church which gave the surrounding neighborhood its name.

Dating all the way back to the earliest days of Berlin, this church was probably built just after Berlin was granted town privileges. An unusual feature of its interior is the bright colouring of the vault ribbings: the orange, purple, green and other vivid lines look like a 1960s Pop Art addition, but actually follow a medieval pattern discovered by a 1980s restorer.

Escape to Berlin's medieval past in this reconstructed historic district.

The Nikolaiviertel or St. Nicholas Quarter is Berlin's oldest residential area. With its medieval lanes and numerous restaurants and bars, it was a favorite haunt of the artistically-minded in the years before WWII, but that war left it a devastated wasteland. In the 1980's the East German regime attempted a renovation of the neighborhood based on historical models, but the “old Berlin” illusion is not all entirely convincing. The use of East German construction techniques is glaringly obvious in some places, such as prefabricated gables and corrugated concrete panels. As a result, it was scornfully nicknamed “Honecker's Disneyland” after the former East German leader, but today it is a historic curiousity in its own right.

TV Tower & Old Berlin

The Television Tower and its surroundings in Alexanderplatz are Berlin's main architectural monument to the former East Germany. Despite the high-rent stores and offices that now fill the buildings, you can still detect quite a bit of that old communist character. Somewhat ironically, you'll find the medieval Nikolaiviertel, the oldest residential area of Berlin, just a few steps away. You'll also find nearby the Marienkirche (Berlin's oldest parish church), the displaced Neptune Fountain, the Red Town Hall, statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, and the massive Loxx model railway that even non-model train enthusiasts will gasp at.

Soar to the top of this iconic symbol of Berlin in just 40 seconds, and enjoy amazing views from its observation deck.

The 1960s TV Tower (Fernsehturm) is possibly the best surviving example of East Germany’s architectural legacy. In total, it is 1,197 feet tall (368 meters), but you can only go 666 ft to the observation deck, or a bit higher if you have a ticket to the revolving Sphere Restaurant. You ascend in one of two 10-person elevators that take a mere 40 seconds to reach the observation deck.

Experience life in Communist East Germany in this interactive museum.

This brilliantly evocative and interactive museum helps visitors imagine what life under the Communist East German regime was like. A homage to Ostalgie (nostalgia for East Germany), it offers up memories of the school system, pioneer camps (something like Communist scouts), and the wonderfully clumsy attempts to rival Western clothing and food fashions. It'd all be adorable, if it weren't so oppressive.

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was built as a symbol of peace, perverted into a symbol of power by the Nazis, and became a symbol of division during the Cold War. Now, however, it is a symbol of reunification. Completed in 1791, it was topped by the quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses driven by the goddess of peace. Napoleon seized the quadriga as a spoil of war, but after his defeat, it was returned to the city and met by cheering crowds along the way, transforming the goddess of peace into a goddess of victory, holding a  Germanic cross.

Make your way to the top of the dome enjoying amazing views and looking down at debating members of the German Parliament below.

Officially, the Reichstag is actually the Bundestag, which means the federal parliament. The Reichstag was reduced to a ruined shell by arson in 1933 and by World War II fighting, but it was rebuilt with a striking egg-shaped glass dome. Visitors are given a free audio guide that discusses the building’s history and architecture, while also orientating you to the sites of Berlin. It is an excellent introduction to the city. Note that it is usually necessary to book well in advance!

Guided Walking Tour of Berlin

On this 3 hour tour, your guide will show you the highlights of Berlin and help you understand what makes this city so unique. Sites visited will include the boulevard Unter den Linden, the Gendarmenmarkt, Check Point Charlie, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz, the Holocaust Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag.

Quadriga. Hey, There's a Word to Know When Learning About this Historic Gate

The Brandenburg Gate was built as a symbol of peace, perverted into a symbol of power by the Nazis, and became a symbol of division during the Cold War. Now, however, it is a symbol of reunification. Completed in 1791, it was topped by the quadriga, a chariot drawn by four horses driven by the goddess of peace. Napoleon seized the quadriga as a spoil of war, but after his defeat, it was returned to the city and met by cheering crowds along the way, transforming the goddess of peace into a goddess of victory, holding a  Germanic cross.

Take an interactive crash course in Berlin history. (Re-opening Autumn 2021)

This museum uses reconstructed street scapes, homes, and other interactive exibits to give you good feeling for the atmosphere of Berlin during it's long and often times turbulent history, including during the Nazi and Communist era. You can also tour an underground nuclear shelter.

Visit Germany's Oldest and Best Known Zoo.

Founded in 1844, the Zoologischer Garten Berlin was the first zoo in Germany and features some wonderful animal-inspired architecture as well. The original animals were donated by King Frederick William IV of Prussia, and it now has a collection of around 20,500 animals representing 1,500 different species. The zoo’s aquarium opened in 1913 and now contains one of the largest collections of aquatic life in Europe.

Shop in the iconic department store of capitalist West Berlin

Opened in 1907, the Kaufhaus des Westens, or KaDeWe, quickly became a temple of luxury in a rapidly modernising city. It took off again following the German post-war economic miracle and gained new impetus again following German reunification. During Communism, due to it's proximity to East Germany, it became a symbol of the material wealth of the West in comparison to that of countries stuck behind the Iron Curtain.

City West

In the 1920's the elegant, tree-line boulevard known as the Kurfürstendamm was the center of Berlin's nightlife and leisure scene, attracting writers, film stars, and artists. WWII left it in ruins, and today at the end of the boulevard you'll discover a chilling reminder of that destruction: the purposefully unrecontructed remains of the Memorial Church. During the Cold War, the Kurfürstendamm and its surroundings were central to West Berlin's revitalized identity. This was perhaps best symbolized by the famous KaDeWe, the gigantic department store which served as a symbol of market capitalism lodged in the heart of the Iron Curtain.

Remind yourself of war's destructiveness by visiting the ruins of this church destroyed during WWII.

After its destruction in WWII, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church was partially rebuilt in modernist style, and partially left in ruins as a powerful reminder of the war. Built-in the 1890s, Kaiser Wilhelm II hoped to inspire the secular proletariat to return to traditional religious values. The neo-Gothic design became ever more colorful as Wilhelm insisted on more bling. The small exhibition inside shows the wartime destruction and a “before and after” model of the city center.

Take an interactive crash course in Berlin history. (Re-opening Autumn 2021)

This museum uses reconstructed street scapes, homes, and other interactive exibits to give you good feeling for the atmosphere of Berlin during it's long and often times turbulent history, including during the Nazi and Communist era. You can also tour an underground nuclear shelter.

Cross the river dividing Prague's most historic neighborhoods, and experience one of Europe's most iconic landmarks.

Bridge construction began in 1357 under King Charles IV (hence the name), and it was the only bridge across the Vltava River until 1841. 30 baroque statues of saints line the bridge, and it is filled with street artists and entertainers. Not to be missed.

See a historic wall that has been covered in John Lennon-inspired graffiti since Communist days.

The wall has been covered in graffiti since the 1960s, and during Communism anti-regime sentiment was common. John Lennon's assassination inspired grafitti reflecting his song, Imagine, which earned the wall its current moniker. It is now a favorite gathering place for tourists, and musicians sometimes congregate there as well. Just around the corner is the Maltese Square, which is one of Prague's more quaint and relaxed public spaces, despite being just off the main tourist route.

Royal Route Guided Tour

On this charming guided walk, you will explore the Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in all of Europe. To reach the castle you will trace the Royal Coronation Route and cross the Charles Bridge, whose “speaking stones” reveal the amazing and often cruel history that occurred there. Your tour guide will then take you either through the castle courtyards and into the dramatic St. Vitus Cathedral in the center of the castle complex, or through the upper part of the castle district around the oversized palaces of the old Catholic nobility and the top of the Castle Steps for incomparable views over the red rooftops of the Little Quarter.

Prague Castle is one of the main attractions in Prague and is also the largest castle complex in the world.

The Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world with structures dating back to the 9th century. The St Vitus Cathedral and Basilica of St George can be found within the castle walls. The Prague Castle also includes several gardens, palaces, and a monastery. This castle was the seat of power for the Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of former Czechoslovakia. Prague Castle is a UNESCO world heritage site and is one of the most visited places in the country.

Stroll down the river to find this curvaceous office block designed by Frank Gehry, and whi msically nicknamed Fred & Ginger.

There is no tour of the interior, so most visitors just snap a photo and head out. However, there is a restaurant and bar at the top called Ginger&Fred. For a spectacular view of the city check out the terrace on the top floor (only for paying customers).

Experience nationally-sponsored ballet & opera in a magnificent venue.

This concert hall is Prague's most prestigious, and it is not only a symbol of the 19th century Czech national revival but also arguably one of the most beautiful concert venues in Europe. Unfortunately, tours are not regularly offered, but you may attend an opera or ballet if you purchase tickets in advance. The riverfront near the concert hall is one of the most photographed spots in Prague.

Explore an interesting museum collection in a grand building completed in 1891.

The recently renovated and improved National Museum is fronted by the iconic equestrian statue of "good king Wenceslas". Beyond it's dramatic exterior you'll find a grand staircase which is a highlight of any visit. Founded in 1818, the museum played a major role in bringing natural science and history to the common man, and also played an important part in the Czech national revival occurring in the 19th century.

New Town

Despite being 700 years old, the New Town (Nové Město) is the youngest of the original five independent towns that made up Medieval Prague. The heart of New Town is one of the three original markets around which the town was planned, Wenceslas Square. Not fully given over to tourism like the Old Town, the New Town combines a historic atmosphere with the daily commercial and social life of locals, making it a great place to get a taste of the real Prague.

Experience a mishmash of interesting architecture on Wenceslas Square, Prague's main commercial center.

The square, which could also be described as a wide boulevard, is named after the Patron Saint of Bohemia, whose statue can be seen at the top of the square. Many historical events have taken place here, including the demonstrations of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, which resulted in the collapse of the Communist regime. Today the square is lined by department stores, hotels, and office buildings, many of them notable architectural highlights of the 19th, 20th, and 21st century.

Tour a breathtaking art nouveau venue and stay for a concert, opera, or ballet.

The stunning concert hall is open for tours and hosts performances on most evenings. The main hall is painted by famous Czech artists including Alfons Mucha. A beautiful cafe and restaurant are also housed in the building, and you can find one of Prague's most ornate pubs in the cellar (the "American Bar").

Wander in a graveyard where many prominent Czechs are buried, such as famed composers Dvořák & Smětana.

The cemetery is filled with many tombs which are works of art in themselves, including several arcades with beautiful art-nouveau frescoes. The monumental Slavin tomb is a sort of pantheon of the Czech people, with over 55 prominent persons buried within it. Dvořák and Smětana have their own more modest graves.

Enjoy stunning city views from atop the fortress walls.

Prague Castle and most of the city can be seen from above the cavernous Gorlice Hall. A walk along the fortress walls is a delightful experience, as you will enjoy numerous excellent vantage points on all sides of the fortress, enjoying Prague from a different perspective without all the crowds.

Vyšehrad Fortress

The castle of Vyšehrad was the seat of Bohemia's kings from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Due to its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Vltava River and Prague, it became an important army garrison in the 17th century, and it was transformed into a fortress with huge walls, gates, and ramparts. Walking along these ramparts will offer you wonderful views of the city and river. The interior of the fortress is now given over to a pleasant and quiet park which is a favorite of locals.

Venture within the fortress's massive 17th-century walls and gates.

A tour through the Brick Gate on the fortress's north side will take you through the narrow underground passageways and casemates of the fortress. You will see a historical exhibit on Vyšehrad as well as the underground Gorlice Hall, where the original statues from the Charles Bridge are stored for safe-keeping (many of the statues on the bridge are copies).

Guided Walk of the Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Guided Walk of the Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Guided Walk of the Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Guided Walk of the Inner City

This tour takes you back in history to explore the Vienna that stood within the old city walls. You will learn about the humble beginnings of Vienna before it became the capital of a great empire and one of the most important cities in Europe. You will discover how Vienna's early inhabitants lived and how they left their mark on the city and its beautiful Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.

With an entrance directly connected to the Schönbrunn palace gardens, visiting the zoo can be a great addition to any trip to the palace. Founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752, it is the oldest continually operated zoo in the world, and today is home to many rare species such as giant pandas.

Get lost in the huge imperial gardens.

The beautiful park is a mix of formal gardens and woodlands, and is dotted with enchanting statues & fountains, including a massive fountain of Neptune. The Gloriette pavilion sits on a rise opposite the palace and commands a wonderful view. Kids will love the labyrinth, racing to find the tower at the center of the maze.

Schönbrunn Palace

The magnificent Baroque palace of Schönbrunn is most famously associated with Empress Maria Theresa, who lived here surrounded by 16 little archdukes and duchesses who also happened to be her children. On your tour of the palace, you will see how Maria Theresa and other past imperial residents lived. No visit is complete without a stroll in the vast gardens surrounding the palace.

Join local families enjoying one of Europe's best zoos.

With an entrance directly connected to the Schönbrunn palace gardens, visiting the zoo can be a great addition to any trip to the palace. Founded as an imperial menagerie in 1752, it is the oldest continually operated zoo in the world, and today is home to many rare species such as giant pandas.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Guided Walk in Budapest

During your tour you will take in a gorgeous vista of the city from the Fisherman's Bastion, explore the winding streets of the Castle District, gaze in awe at the striking interior of St. Stephen's Basilica, travel along the city's most elegant avenue and more. Along the way you will experience the city as a local does, stopping to check out intimate courtyards, enjoying a pastry and soaking in the ambiance of Budapest's most elegant cafes.

Experience an unforgettable visit to the incredibly lavish neo-Renaissance Hungarian State Opera House.

The Opera House is a symbol of the Hungarian nation and is one of it's most beautiful buildings. It is among the world's finest venues in terms of beauty and acoustics. When completed in 1886, the Austro-Hungarian Emperor was said to be upset because it outshone the opera house of Vienna. You can experience a performance here, or take an entertaining guided tour.

Experience a chilling museum documenting the terrors of Fascism & Communism in Hungary .

This somber and foreboding interactive museum tells the tragic story of Hungary's totalitarian experiences under Fascism and Communism. It is located in the headquarters building of the Arrow Cross Party (Hungarian fascists), and later the Communist secret police after WWII. Hear stories of those who suffered as well as their oppressors, and wander the dank cells where victims were tortured and interrogated.

Andrássy Avenue

The wide, tree-lined Andrássy Avenue is Budapest's most prominent street, and is lined by imposing neo-Renaissance palaces and buildings. It is home to the breathtakingly beautiful State Opera House, making it the musical heart of Hungary. You will also find the superb House of Terror museum, which focuses on the horrors inflicted by 20th century totalitarian regimes.

Experience an unforgettable visit to the incredibly lavish neo-Renaissance Hungarian State Opera House.

The Opera House is a symbol of the Hungarian nation and is one of it's most beautiful buildings. It is among the world's finest venues in terms of beauty and acoustics. When completed in 1886, the Austro-Hungarian Emperor was said to be upset because it outshone the opera house of Vienna. You can experience a performance here, or take an entertaining guided tour.

Shuttle to Krakow

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. Unfortunately, there are no good train or bus connections between the cities, so while private transfers are expensive and not-so-carbon-friendly, they are the best option in this case. The 7-8 hour journey to Krakow takes you through the breathtaking landscape of mountainous Slovakia. While some of the route is along major highways, much of it will be along winding mountain roads, allowing you to experience the dramatic landscape, and see off the beaten path sights such as the dramatic Orava Castle.

Shuttle to Krakow

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. Unfortunately, there are no good train or bus connections between the cities, so while private transfers are expensive and not-so-carbon-friendly, they are the best option in this case. The 7-8 hour journey to Krakow takes you through the breathtaking landscape of mountainous Slovakia. While some of the route is along major highways, much of it will be along winding mountain roads, allowing you to experience the dramatic landscape, and see off the beaten path sights such as the dramatic Orava Castle.

Shuttle to Krakow

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. Unfortunately, there are no good train or bus connections between the cities, so while private transfers are expensive and not-so-carbon-friendly, they are the best option in this case. The 7-8 hour journey to Krakow takes you through the breathtaking landscape of mountainous Slovakia. While some of the route is along major highways, much of it will be along winding mountain roads, allowing you to experience the dramatic landscape, and see off the beaten path sights such as the dramatic Orava Castle.

Shuttle to Krakow

A private transfer with door-to-door service is certainly the most convenient way to travel. Unfortunately, there are no good train or bus connections between the cities, so while private transfers are expensive and not-so-carbon-friendly, they are the best option in this case. The 7-8 hour journey to Krakow takes you through the breathtaking landscape of mountainous Slovakia. While some of the route is along major highways, much of it will be along winding mountain roads, allowing you to experience the dramatic landscape, and see off the beaten path sights such as the dramatic Orava Castle.

Take home something special from a vast market hall built in the 14th century, which is surrounded by arcaded passageways and topped with rows of gargoyles.

The covered market continues a centuries-old tradition with an eclectic range of goods of sale – you might be most interested in the amber jewelry or the handicraft items from the Podhale region. On the upper floor, you will find the 19th Century Polish Art Museum which features truly beautiful and under-appreciated artwork that packs a mighty patriotic punch.

Krakow Guided Walk

On this three-hour guided walking tour, you will discover the history and legends of old Krakow and gain an excellent overview of the city. The many layers of the city will be revealed to you as your guide points out medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. You will learn about not only Krakow's glory days many centuries past but also about its more recent struggles during Nazism and Communism oppression.

Schindler's Factory Museum

During World War II Oscar Schindler saved the lives of more than 1,100 Jews by employing them in his enamelware factory in Krakow. Until recently still used as a factory, the building now houses one of Europe's most impressive new museums. It tells not only the story of Schindler and the Jews he protected, but of the wider experience of Krakow during World War II.

Wander the streets of the former Jewish Ghetto.

Podgórze is the neighborhood where the Krakow Jewish Ghetto was located. At the beginning of the war, only about 3,000 people lived in the district, but over 15,000 Jews were forcibly moved there and surrounded by tall walls and guarded gates. In 1942-3 the ghetto was "liquidated", with residents sent to either labor camps or extermination camps, or simply murdered in the streets. A couple small sections of the wall and a memorial of empty chairs (each chair representing a 1,000 victims) on the ghetto square are among the very few remaining physical reminders of the ghetto. On the corner of the square, you can also visit the small museum of the Apteka pod Orlem (Pharmacy under the Eagle), which was the only pharmacy allowed to operate in the ghetto. The Polish Catholic owner requested permission to operate within the ghetto and provided medical supplies to residents, often for free. Both he and Oscar Schindler were honored by Israel as "Righteous Among the Nations".

Schindler's Factory Museum

During World War II Oscar Schindler saved the lives of more than 1,100 Jews by employing them in his enamelware factory in Krakow. Until recently still used as a factory, the building now houses one of Europe's most impressive new museums. It tells not only the story of Schindler and the Jews he protected, but of the wider experience of Krakow during World War II.

Wander the streets of the former Jewish Ghetto.

Podgórze is the neighborhood where the Krakow Jewish Ghetto was located. At the beginning of the war, only about 3,000 people lived in the district, but over 15,000 Jews were forcibly moved there and surrounded by tall walls and guarded gates. In 1942-3 the ghetto was "liquidated", with residents sent to either labor camps or extermination camps, or simply murdered in the streets. A couple small sections of the wall and a memorial of empty chairs (each chair representing a 1,000 victims) on the ghetto square are among the very few remaining physical reminders of the ghetto. On the corner of the square, you can also visit the small museum of the Apteka pod Orlem (Pharmacy under the Eagle), which was the only pharmacy allowed to operate in the ghetto. The Polish Catholic owner requested permission to operate within the ghetto and provided medical supplies to residents, often for free. Both he and Oscar Schindler were honored by Israel as "Righteous Among the Nations".

Transfer to Airport

Krakow has one main airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. The most affordable and fast way to reach the airport is by train. The regional train takes less than 20 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Krakow. Your hotel can also arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and 45 minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with over 2 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Transfer to Airport

Krakow has one main airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. The most affordable and fast way to reach the airport is by train. The regional train takes less than 20 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Krakow. Your hotel can also arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and 45 minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with over 2 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Transfer to Airport

Krakow has one main airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. The most affordable and fast way to reach the airport is by train. The regional train takes less than 20 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Krakow. Your hotel can also arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and 45 minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with over 2 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Transfer to Airport

Krakow has one main airport, Kraków John Paul II International Airport, where almost all visitors depart. The most affordable and fast way to reach the airport is by train. The regional train takes less than 20 minutes and leaves directly from the main station in central Krakow. Your hotel can also arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about two hours and 45 minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with over 2 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.