1st or 2nd class on an Intercity train? Comparison, differences and opinions | PolishTrains

At a glance

• EIP (Pendolino) 1st class is open-plan with a 2+1 seating layout - just 3 seats per row
• IC and EIC 1st class compartments have 6 seats; TLK 2nd class compartments can have up to 8
• Complimentary refreshments are included in the 1st class ticket price on EIP and EIC services
• 1st class fares start from around PLN 60 on Gdansk-Warsaw IC, versus PLN 46 for 2nd class
• On Szczecin-Warsaw EIP, 1st class starts from PLN 150 compared with PLN 80 for 2nd class
• Tickets for all classes on PKP Intercity trains can be booked conveniently at PolishTrains.eu

Intercity's first class means, above all, a high level of travel comfort influenced by more space for passengers, fewer people in compartment cars, as well as higher quality seats and additional amenities. However, the exact distribution depends on the PKP Intercity train category:

• Express Intercity Premium (EIP - Pendolino) - offers comfortable compartmentless carriages in first class,
• Express Intercity (EIC), InterCity (IC), Twoje Linie Kolejowe (TLK) - offer 1st class travel in compartment cars.

What's more, Intercity 1st class on EIP and EIC also means extra refreshments for each passenger available in the ticket price.

First class carriages are of a higher standard, which can be seen in the design and even the quality of the materials used for the seats - e.g. upholstered in more durable fabrics or ecological leather.

EIP (Pednolino) trains in this class of travel are compartmentless in a 2+1 arrangement, i.e. 3 seats in each row (2 on one side of the compartment and one on the other). On other trains, where 1st class cars are compartmented, there are usually 6 seats, 3 on one side and 3 on the other side of the compartment. On Intercity (IC) there are additionally managerial compartments, guaranteeing greater privacy.

In addition, Intercity 1st class trains are equipped with amenities such as individual lighting, adjustable seats and minibars (only available on selected services).

When answering the question of what is the difference between 1st class and 2nd class on an Intercity train, it is worth mentioning price as the first important fact. The amount you have to pay for a ticket in first class carriages is usually higher and often fewer discounts are available for such connections.

The cost of travel in both 1st and 2nd class depends on the route, time of day and demand for a particular connection and can change dynamically. Therefore, when planning your journey in advance, a 1st class journey may prove to be just as attractively priced!

Comparison of sample train fares for different routes for Intercity coaches, 1st and 2nd class (for tickets purchased in advance):

• Gdańsk Główny - Warszawa Zachodnia (IC): class 1 from 60 PLN, class 2 from 46 PLN
• Gdańsk Główny - Poznań Główny (IC): class 1 from 59 PLN, class 2 from 34 PLN
• Szczecin Main - Warszawa Zachodnia (EIP): class 1 from 150 PLN, class 2 from 80 PLN
• Wrocław Główny - Kraków Główny: class 1 from 96 PLN, class 2 from 32 PLN

How does 1st class intercity differ apart from the price? Less crowded, of course, and thus offering more peace and quiet during the journey! Second class carriages are both compartmentalised (from 6 to 8 seats, depending on the type of train) and uncompartmentalised. They are also usually more likely to be chosen by students, for example, so they can be more crowded during the academic year - especially at weekends. In this case, for those looking for comfort, e.g. to read a book or work quietly, this is definitely a better option.

Intercity class 1 vs. 2 differences - seating

Do you want adjustable headrests and armrests and individual lighting? Opt for Class 1 on Intercity trains.

Travelling alone and prefer large seats with more distance to other passengers and fully adjustable seats? Then be sure to opt for a Pendolino first class journey!

Are you facing a journey on TLK trains? If you want more freedom and fewer people in the compartment, don't hesitate and buy a First Class ticket! There are up to 8 seats in the second class compartment carriages. This layout is ideal for travelling with a larger group of friends, but can be cumbersome for passengers travelling alone or as a couple.

You already know the difference between Intercity Class 1 and Class 2, but when is it worth betting on first class? In the following situations it will certainly be the best choice!

Intercity 1st class is a sensible decision when:

• You have a long journey ahead of you - travelling across Poland, e.g. from Silesia to Pomerania, is a trip of several hours. Paying extra for 1st class provides you with better conditions on such a journey, such as the possibility of adjusting the seat - a great convenience that will significantly improve the comfort of the journey.
• You're travelling on business - if you're planning to work on your laptop or prepare for an important presentation while you're on the road, make sure you have peace and quiet. This will make it easier for you to concentrate and nothing will distract you from your duties.
• You have more luggage - in 1st class there is less crowding and more space, so you can easily find room for your belongings. This gives you comfort and peace of mind even before you leave - you don't have to worry about whether you'll be able to "stuff" everything in the compartment.
• You're planning to travel during busy periods - on holidays or weekends, 2nd class can get really crowded. In 1st class there are usually fewer passengers in the compartment and more space, which translates into comfort and peace and quiet.
• You 're looking for quiet and more comfort - first class is ideal for people who want to read a book, relax or just spend time in a quiet atmosphere.

Intercity class 1 vs 2 - convenient ticket purchasing

Whichever class of carriage you decide on, you can buy your ticket conveniently without leaving home. You will find the full offer for PKP Intercity trains - Express Intercity Premium (EIP - Pendolino), Express Intercity (EIC), InterCity (IC) and Twoje Linie Kolejowe (TLK) - as well as many regional connections, on the PolishTrains website.

PolishTrains is a ticket search and purchase service that offers long-distance connections - both domestic and international - as well as numerous discounts and promotions from PKP Intercity. What's more, you can buy tickets via both the website and the mobile app - in just a few clicks. In addition, once you have created an account, your details will be filled in automatically for subsequent bookings, allowing you to plan each journey even more quickly and conveniently.