MPK tickets: zones, prices and how not to validate them wrong
MPK Kraków runs every tram and city bus. The ticket system is simple, but it has a few traps that catch most tourists. This guide covers them all.
Updated: 2026-04-14
Zones
MPK has two zones: Zone I is the city of Kraków within its administrative boundaries. Zone II covers the surrounding municipalities (Wieliczka, Skawina, Zielonki...) plus Balice Airport. Every ticket is sold either as 'Zone I' or 'Zone I+II'.
Ticket types
| Ticket | Zone I | Zone I+II |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 4 zł | — |
| 60 minutes | 6 zł | 8 zł |
| 90 minutes | 8 zł | 10 zł |
| 24 hours | 17 zł | 22 zł |
| 48 hours | 30 zł | 38 zł |
| 72 hours | 42 zł | 52 zł |
| Weekend (Sat+Sun) | 26 zł | — |
How to buy a ticket
- jakdojade.pl — English app, buy with a card, automatic validation. The simplest option.
- mobiMPK — the official MPK app, same ticket catalogue.
- Vending machines at stops — accept contactless cards.
- On-board vending machines — only in newer trams and buses. Cards only.
How to validate a ticket
A paper ticket from a vending machine must be punched in the yellow on-board validator immediately after boarding (insert the arrow end first). A ticket bought in an app activates automatically at the time of purchase — you don't need to validate anything, but don't buy it minutes early because the clock starts ticking from the purchase time.
Inspectors and fines
Inspectors in plain clothes board at random points, most often between Rynek and the train station, on the Płaszów line, and on routes to Nowa Huta. They show their ID and ask for your ticket. No ticket = 280 zł fine (240 zł if you pay by card on the spot). Inspectors have no negotiation margin — don't waste their time arguing.
If you bought your ticket in the app, just show the active ticket screen. That is enough.
FAQ
Does a ticket validated in a tram also work on a bus?
Yes — time-based tickets (20-, 60-, 90-minute, 24-, 48-, 72-hour) work on every MPK vehicle within the chosen zone. You can change as many times as you want within the validity window.
Zone I or Zone I+II for tourists?
If you stick to the centre, Kazimierz, Podgórze and Wawel — Zone I is enough. Zone II covers Balice Airport, Wieliczka and the outskirts. Bus 300 from the airport is Zone I+II.
Can I buy from the driver?
Not from the driver. Some newer vehicles have a ticket vending machine inside (cards accepted). The safer option is to buy in the jakdojade or mobiMPK app before boarding.
An inspector caught me without a ticket — what now?
The fine is 280 zł on the spot (or 240 zł if you pay immediately by card). No ticket equals fine, even if you explain you are a tourist. There is no negotiation margin.