Deutsche Bahn Polska | PolishTrains
Deutsche Bahn's extensive network in Poland ranges from modern passenger transport to advanced freight logistics. Joint projects with PKP Intercity and the activities of DB Cargo Poland make our country one of the most important railway hubs in Central and Eastern Europe. International connections, investments in infrastructure and sustainable transport technologies strengthen Deutsche Bahn's position as a key partner of the Polish railway industry - both on passenger and freight tracks.
At a glance
At a glance
- Deutsche Bahn activities in Poland cover both international passenger services and freight through DB Cargo Polska
- DB cooperates with PKP Intercity on international routes linking Warsaw, Poznan, Wroclaw, Krakow and Berlin
- DB Cargo Polska is one of Poland's largest rail freight operators, handling raw materials and industrial cargo
- Special transports including oversized, hazardous and heavy goods are carried under the RID Convention
- Intermodal services combine rail with road and sea transport, connecting Polish plants with European logistics hubs
- Tickets are available up to 120 days in advance via PolishTrains in Polish zloty — Polish student cards not accepted
Passenger and freight transport
Deutsche Bahn's activities in Poland cover two key areas: passenger transport and freight transport. In the passenger segment, the German carrier cooperates with PKP Intercity, operating international connections between major Polish and German cities, including Warsaw, Poznań, Wrocław, Cracow and Berlin. DB trains provide a high level of travel comfort - with air-conditioned carriages, free Wi-Fi and a dining car (availability dependent on rolling stock; regional trainsets may offer fewer amenities than trains on international routes).
Running parallel to the passenger services is DB Cargo Polska, part of the international Deutsche Bahn group. It is one of the largest rail operators in the country, specialising in the transport of raw materials or industrial products. The company carries out full-train, single-wagon and special transports, including oversized cargo or hazardous materials . Thanks to its access to the European railway network, DB Cargo connects Polish industrial plants with seaports, container terminals and logistics centres throughout Europe, supporting the development of trade and export.
Transport of individual wagons and wagon groups
Not every customer needs an entire train - which is why DB Cargo Polska also makes it possible to transport individual wagons or groups of wagons. This is a solution that ensures regular deliveries even for smaller volumes. The distributed transport system allows shipments from different shippers to be combined into a single train, guaranteeing timely and cost-effective transport. This also enables small and medium-sized companies to benefit from professional rail services at a European level.
Special and intermodal transport
DB Cargo Polska also carries out special transports, including oversized, dangerous (in accordance with the RID Convention) or heavy-weight cargo. The company has the appropriate rolling stock, equipment and a technical team to ensure the safe flow of transport. Of particular importance are intermodal transports - combining rail with road and sea transport. Thanks to its cooperation with European terminals , DB Cargo Poland enables the smooth flow of goods between land terminals and the ports of Gdańsk, Gdynia, Hamburg, Rotterdam and Antwerp.
Modern rolling stock and digital technology
The company consistently invests in modern electric locomotives and low-emission internal combustion vehicles, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. At the same time, digital cargo monitoring and tracking systems are being implemented, allowing customers to see the status of their transport in real time. Automated manoeuvres and modern logistics centres increase safety and operational efficiency. With these solutions, DB Cargo Polska is today the leader in the digitalisation of rail services in Poland.
DB Cargo Polska and sustainable development
As part of the Deutsche Bahn Group, the company participates in the 'Strong Rail' strategy, which aims to increase the share of rail in European freight transport and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. DB Cargo Poland promotes rail as the most environmentally friendly mode of transport, supporting economic development in an environmentally friendly way. The company plans further investments in the modernisation of track infrastructure, automation and innovative logistics technologies.
The importance of DB Cargo Polska for the Polish economy
Thanks to Poland's strategic location and access to the TEN-T rail corridors, DB Cargo Poland is a key link in the supply chain between east and west Europe. The company connects domestic industrial plants with the logistics network of the entire continent, supporting exports, international trade and the development of industrial regions. It is thanks to such investments that rail is becoming an increasingly important element of modern, green logistics in Poland and Europe.
Purchase of tickets and contact with the carrier
Tickets for Deutsche Bahn connections can be conveniently purchased online via the PolishTrains service, fully in Polish and without the need for foreign websites. The system allows you to quickly search for connections, compare prices and purchase a ticket in a few simple steps. Passengers also have access to their MyPodróże account, where they can make changes to their dates themselves, download an invoice or check their previous order history. If necessary, a Polish-speaking helpline is available to assist with purchasing, returning or changing a ticket.
Deutsche Bahn offers the possibility to purchase a ticket up to 120 days in advance. This option allows you to plan your journey carefully months in advance. As far as discounts are concerned, these are available to, among others, BahnCard holders - the card can be purchased online or at DB outlets, both by German and non-German travellers. Deutsche Bahn does not honour Polish student cards or other local documents entitling to discounts.
When it comes to transporting goods, however, you should contact DB Cargo Poland directly - the company responsible for the rail transport of raw materials, industrial products and special cargo. It operates independently of the passenger segment and offers dedicated logistics solutions for companies. In this way, both private travellers and companies can benefit from the comprehensive offer of the Deutsche Bahn Group in Poland - tailored to different needs and scale of operations.
