Kraków Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Kraków

Renting a car in Kraków offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. Whether you are looking for a city-themed experience, cultural immersion, or a family-friendly adventure, a rental car makes it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Main Market Square, the historic Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the romantic Wawel Castle, all located within a short drive from the city centre.

Additionally, a car allows for convenient exploration of popular neighbourhoods like Kraków Old Town, which features the iconic Main Market Square and St. Mary's Basilica, and the charming district of Kazimierz, known for its rich history and culture. The ease of driving to these destinations means you can enjoy a leisurely trip without the constraints of public transportation schedules. For families, having a rental car provides ample space for strollers and luggage, making your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in Kraków

• Compact: The Compact option is a popular choice for those looking to navigate Kraków with ease. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and 3 medium suitcases, this car type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families who want a practical yet efficient vehicle. Its size makes it perfect for city driving, allowing you to explore the narrow streets and find parking without hassle.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a versatile option that comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups who require extra space for luggage and comfort on longer journeys. With its sturdy build, this vehicle is well-suited for both urban exploration and scenic drives in the vicinity of Kraków.
• Economy: The Economy car type is a budget-friendly option that accommodates up to 5 travellers and 2 medium suitcases. Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families on a budget, this vehicle offers a cost-effective way to explore Kraków and its surroundings. Its compact nature ensures easy navigation through the city while still providing enough room for your essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in Kraków

• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations in Kraków, Enterprise is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility during their trip. The most booked vehicles from this supplier include Compact and Midsize SUVs, ideal for navigating the charming streets of Kraków and its surroundings. Enjoy the convenience of managing your itinerary and luggage with ease, making your exploration of Lesser Poland a delightful experience.
• Sixt: Sixt also boasts 2 rental locations in the Kraków area, providing a friendly and efficient service for visitors. Customers frequently opt for Compact and Midsize vehicles, perfect for both city driving and longer excursions. Sixt's commitment to customer satisfaction ensures a smooth rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beautiful sights and culture of Kraków.
• Budget: Budget offers 2 rental locations within Kraków, making it an excellent option for those looking for great value. Midsize SUVs and Compact cars are the most popular choices among renters, providing a balance of comfort and practicality for your travels. With Budget, you can easily access the attractions of Kraków and the surrounding region while keeping your rental costs manageable.

Where to stay in Kraków

• Kraków City Centre: The heart of Kraków, this vibrant neighbourhood attracts visitors seeking a city-themed, family-friendly, and cultural experience. With historic sites and landmarks such as the Royal Road and Planty Park nearby, it’s an ideal base for exploring. The Main Market Square is a bustling hotspot for shopping and dining, while cafes offer delightful local cuisine. This area is especially lively in summer, making it perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events.
• Kraków Old Town: Rich in history and charm, Kraków Old Town is perfect for culture enthusiasts and families. Key attractions, including Wawel Castle and St. Mary's Basilica, are easily accessible, allowing for an immersive cultural experience. The Main Market Square serves as a central gathering point with numerous shops and dining options. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting during the spring and summer months when outdoor cafes and events thrive, making it a popular choice for tourists.
• Zwierzyniec: Known for its cultural and romantic allure, Zwierzyniec offers a more tranquil experience away from the city bustle. Home to significant sites like the Kosciuszko Mound and Wawel Castle, this district is ideal for those interested in history and nature. Blonia Park provides a scenic setting for outdoor activities, making it suitable for families and couples alike. The area is particularly beautiful in autumn when the foliage enhances its picturesque landscapes.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Kraków

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for extra room, a convertible to enjoy the summer sun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and benefit from greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most advantageous choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure to return the vehicle empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning an extensive road trip, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Kraków

The best time to rent a car in and around Kraków is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. October also offers good value with similar demand characteristics. Following these months, prices and demand tend to rise in December and remain moderate. From June through August, however, prices are slightly high, coinciding with high demand as summer tourists flock to the city. This peak period in July is the most expensive time for car rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	29.5°F (-1.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	39.0°F (3.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.0°F (5.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average