John Paul II - Balice Airport (KRK) is the sole airport near Krakow.

If you’re basing yourself in the center of Krakow, you’ll be there within moments after flying into John Paul II - Balice Airport (KRK). This terminal is just 10 kilometers from the downtown area.

If you’re jumping on a plane to Krakow, you’ll most likely land at John Paul II - Balice Airport (KRK) (10 kilometers from downtown). Katowice Airport (80 kilometers from downtown) is the other main airport here.

Krakow is serviced by 22 air carriers from 104 airports across the globe.

Flights into Krakow are typically run by LOT - Polish Airlines. The highest number of these flights jet off from Warsaw, with LOT - Polish Airlines servicing this route the most often.

Flying to somewhere new is much more fun when there aren’t any annoying stopovers. If you’re making your way to Krakow, the good news is that there are 665 direct flights operating every week.

The most popular flights to Kraków leave from Warsaw, Frankfurt and London airports.

If you’re going to Krakow from Warsaw, you’re looking at a flight time of 53 minutes. Those departing from London can expect to be in the air for 2 hours and 18 minutes. From Frankfurt it’s around 1 hour and 27 minutes away.

If you want to have some extra spending money on your Krakow vacation, then listen up! As every seasoned jet-setter will tell you, don’t book at the very last minute. Airfares are usually more expensive close to the departure date. Another easy way to pick up a bargain is to research all options. If your destination has multiple airports, research the cost of flying into a less busy terminal. Finally, be ready to lock in your seat quickly if you find a great price. It might not be available for long! With a bit of knowledge and a little good fortune, the perfect airfare will be yours.

Depending on where you’re coming from, your flight to Krakow could be as easy as pie or it could drag on forever. We’ve compiled some useful hints that will help you start your unforgettable escape on a positive note.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a great flight experience is to plan ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel docs, bank cards and medications. Next, take on board items that’ll help while away those hours, like some electronic gadgets or a thrilling novel. It’s also smart to bring your chargers, a comfy neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. And of course, don’t forget to toss in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a fresh set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and strong acids, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• The main aim is to feel as comfortable as possible. Dress in loose, natural fibers and pack a pullover in case it gets cool. Always go with flat, well-fitting shoes as it’s possible that your feet and ankles will swell a little during the flight. Leave the stilettos and heavy boots in your checked luggage.
• Unfortunately, one risk of long-haul flights is developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity. To prevent this, take every opportunity to walk around the cabin and stretch your legs. Compression tights and socks are another easy way to help minimize this risk.

As seasoned travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Krakow in no time at all. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a flying start:

• First things first. Your travel documents and passport will need to be shown to airport security personnel. Have them close by so you don’t hold up the queue.
• The X-ray machine is up next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as bulky coats or jackets. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like laptops and phones will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don’t worry, you’ll be back online before you know it.
• Any gels or liquids, such as toothpaste or perfume, that you want to bring on board must be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Also, everything must fit inside a quart-size (one liter), zip-lock bag.
• There’s a chance you’ll be required to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines won’t allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.