Poland Travel [#08] - 6 advantages of travelling by train in Poland

Train journeys across our country are often associated negatively by many people. They envision dirty, overcrowded trains where the heating doesn't work and which never arrive on time. This stereotype took root in the minds of Poles in the 1990s when the transformation of the political system also affected the ownership structure of the railways, and the state had other expenses than subsidising rail infrastructure. However, for several years now, Polish railways have been experiencing a renaissance and are regaining the favour of travellers. Year by year, operators boast about new records of passengers transported, which vividly illustrates how important an efficiently functioning railway is to the economy. Below are 6 reasons why it's worth choosing a train journey over an alternative mode of transport.

1. Comfort

A long car trip involves significant discomfort. The driver must constantly maintain focus on the road and cannot engage in other activities. When travelling by train, we have complete freedom to do whatever we wish at that moment. Some people solve crossword puzzles, others watch movies on their laptops, while some simply nap during the ride. You can freely walk through the train, allowing you to stretch out during a long journey. There are toilets on trains, eliminating the need for hygiene breaks. Most long-distance routes are equipped with dining cars where you can purchase a hot meal. Train stations are usually located in city centres, which means no need to sit in traffic and search for parking spaces.

2. Price

When embarking on a solo car journey, in most cases, the fuel and road charges will cost you significantly more than a train ticket for that route. Operators entice travellers with various promotions and lower ticket prices when purchased in advance. Children and school students can benefit from statutory discounts, making family travel cost-effective as well.

3. Time

The railway infrastructure in our country is improving year by year. The renovations of the most important routes are slowly coming to an end, significantly increasing the speed of trains on those lines. A speed of 160 km/h is no longer unusual in Poland, and there are places where trains reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. When counting travel time between the centres of large cities, it's hard to find a faster travel option without breaking traffic laws. Each year, more kilometres of renovated lines are put into use, and carriers announce further investments in new, faster rolling stock. All of this gives grounds for optimism regarding the continued reduction of travel times on specific routes.

4. Modern trains

As mentioned above, railway operators in our country are heavily investing in rolling stock. This means that travellers are increasingly able to ride on new trains equipped with air conditioning, power sockets, and Wi-Fi internet. Advanced technological suspension and well-maintained, smooth tracks guarantee a comfortable ride without jolting and shaking the entire carriage at track joints.

5. Architecture and nature

Train stations are often architectural gems and among the most beautiful buildings in their cities. Travellers and enthusiasts of history and beautiful buildings can enjoy their surroundings while passing through various intermediate stations along their journey. Railway lines often traverse picturesque areas that can be admired from the train window.

6. Opportunity to meet new people

You can shorten your train journey by chatting with fellow passengers. Sometimes, such acquaintances made during the trip can develop into friendships for life, or even something more. You never know from which direction Cupid's arrow will strike us. Train travel is regaining popularity in our country. The stereotypes of rusty trains on the tracks are being replaced by experiences of travelling on modern tracks at speeds unattainable by cars.

Author of the text: Łukasz Stachurski