Pendolino inside - differences between 1st and 2nd class | PolishTrains
** Wondering what a Pendolino looks like on the inside? These are not only fast, but also modern trains for a comfortable journey on longer routes. In each train you'll find both compartmentless Class 1 and Class 2 carriages, which vary in interior and amenities. Read about the details below!
At a glance
At a glance
- Pendolino (EIP) is Poland's premium express train, offering the fastest journeys on key routes
- First class features a 2+1 seating layout with wider seats and a complimentary drink and snack
- Second class offers a 2+2 layout, complimentary water, a Quiet Zone and bicycle spaces
- Wi-Fi and electrical sockets are available at every seat in both classes
- Four bicycle spaces are available in 2nd class in carriages 5 and 6
- Key Pendolino routes include Warsaw-Krakow in around 2.5 hours and Warsaw-Gdynia in under 3 hours
From this article you will learn:
What is the difference between class 1 and class 2 on a Pendolino train.
What amenities does the Pendolino have in class 1. versus class 2.
On which routes do EIP trains run and how are they equipped.
What does the Pendolino look like inside? Overview of the train interior
Pendolino is a premium class train that has been available in Poland for many years. It is labelled EIP (Express InterCity Premium) in timetables and usually offers the fastest travel on a given route. However, these are not all its advantages! The interior of each Pendolino trainset is designed in a modern yet minimalist way - bright colours prevail and ergonomic solutions are a real convenience during the journey.
Inside, Pendolino trains are distinguished above all by:
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comfortable seats that can be adjusted so that everyone travels in the most comfortable way,
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wide corridors - more freedom of movement,
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well-marked seats that make it easy to find your seat, and all EIP trains have a virtually identical layout. What's more, there are Braille markings on the seats,
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Wi-Fi access for every passenger - allows you to browse the internet and work freely during the journey,
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electrical sockets - at every seat,
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access to toilets from every carriage - these are spacious rooms with closed circulation (they can also be used during stops), some of them are adapted for the disabled and have baby changing facilities
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plenty of space for luggage - spaces at the entrances to the carriages and shelves above the seats,
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WARS restaurant carriage - in each train you can have a hot meal or buy coffee and snacks. Read more about the WARS offer in the article: How to check if there is WARS on the train?A practical guide for travellers.
On which routes do the EIP trains run comfortably?
Pendolino allows comfortable travel between major cities in Poland. The most popular routes include:
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Warsaw - Cracow: journey time approx. 2 h 30 min
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Warsaw - Katowice: journey time of approx. 2 h 30 min
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Warsaw - Wrocław: journey time of approx. 3 hours 37 minutes
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Warsaw - Gdynia: journey time approx. 2 hrs. 59 mins
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Warsaw - Bielsko-Biała: journey time approx. 3 hrs. 30 mins
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Warsaw - Szczecin: journey time approx. 4 hrs**.** 12 mins
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Warsaw - Gliwice: journey time approx. 3 hrs. 2 mins.
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Cracow - Gdynia: journey time approx. 5 hrs 30 mins
The full timetable for Pendolino is available at:/schedule-pendolino/.
Most importantly, EIP (Pendolino) trains have the fewest stops. The trains stop mainly in large cities and at selected intermediate stations, which also shortens the journey time.
Pendolino - 2nd class interior. What does the standard compartment offer?
Second class on EIP is by far the more common choice. There are usually 6 carriages of this type per train , and they are numbered from No. 2 to No. 7. In this class, you will encounter the standard seating arrangement already familiar from PKP Intercity's compartmentless carriages, i.e. 2+2 (two seats in a row on each side of the aisle) including 16 seats at tables.
Pendolino train inside 2nd class - amenities:
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Adjustable seats, access to WiFi and sockets - standard regardless of carriage class.
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Seats for people with children up to the age of 6 (in carriage 2) - read more about the family compartment in Pendolino in the article: Family compartment in Pendolino - how to travel with a small child?
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Seats for people with disabilities (carriages no. 2, 4, 5 and 6).
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Seats for disabled persons in wheelchairs (carriage 3).
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Places for people with bicycles (carriages 5 and 6).
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Quiet Zone - carriage no. 7, where you can count on peace and quiet throughout the journey. Noisy conversations or answering the telephone, for example, are prohibited. You can read more in our article: Quiet zone on the train.
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Free drink for each passenger - choice of sparkling or still water.
What does 1st class look like inside a Pendolino and what sets it apart?
You will recognise first class on the Pendolino straight away! The space has been designed in a slightly different way, as the seating arrangement is 1+2, meaning there are 3 seats in each row , 2 on one side and one on the other. A single seat is by far the most comfortable option for anyone travelling alone who wants to work or relax in peace without a passenger next to them.
Pendolino train inside 1st class - amenities:
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Wide seats - with more legroom.
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Single seats - providing more privacy.
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Free refreshments during the journey - usually a drink (e.g. water, coffee, tea, juice) and a sweet or salty snack.
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Fewer passengers - 1st class carriages have fewer seats and are therefore usually less crowded, allowing for a more comfortable journey.
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5 seats for people with disabilities who do not use a wheelchair - right next to the adapted toilets.
Who should choose to travel in 1st class?
First class travel is the most common choice for business trips when comfort, convenience and peace of mind are essential. It is also great for longer journeys when you want more space and less crowding in the carriage.
Pendolino 1st class versus 2nd class - key differences
When comparing Pendolino 1st class vs 2nd class it is important to consider first of all:
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Seating arrangement - 1st class a 2+1 scheme, while 2nd class slightly more seats, 2+2 seat arrangement.
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Space and comfort - in 1st class slightly more legroom and wider seats. Seat adjustment option in both classes, but additional headrest adjustment in 1st class.
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Number of passengers - less crowded in 1st class, fewer seats available.
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Peace and quiet - in 1st class due to fewer passengers, while in 2nd class there is a special car 7 "Quiet Zone".
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Additional services - in the ticket price in 2nd class a drink (water), in 1st class a larger selection of drinks and refreshments.
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Price - 1st class tickets are definitely more expensive, although special offers do occur. In 2nd class, lower prices, greater availability of seats and more frequent promotions.
In which class of Pendolino can a bicycle be carried?
You can carry bicycles on EIP trains, however, this option is only available in 2nd class. What ' s more, there are only 4 seats for travellers with bicycles on the entire train (usually carriages 5 and 6 with 2 seats each). For this reason, it is advisable to buy your tickets as early as possible - especially in the summer season, seats for those travelling with bicycles sell out quickly.
For more information on how to carry your bike on the train, see the article: Bicycles on trains - rules and costs of carriage.
In which class of Pendolino can you travel with your dog?
You can travel with your dogin any Pendolino class. For a comfortable journey, please note that:
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small dogs can travel in a carrier - so they travel free of charge,
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larger dogs must wear a muzzle and leash during the journey - in this case, you must purchase a ticket for your dog,
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on the train, the animal may be next to your seat or in the gangway, but in such a way that it does not disturb other passengers, importantly it must not be on the seat and it must be under the constant supervision of its owner,
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a dog is not allowed in the dining car - except for assistance and guide dogs.
Travelling by train with your pet? Be sure to also read the other entry: Dog on the train - how to transport your dog by train?
What does the 1st class Pendolino ticket price include?
Pendolino 1st class what's included in the ticket price? A higher ticket price means more amenities such as:
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refreshments included in the price,
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fewer passengers and wider seats,
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the possibility of booking a single seat, thanks to the 2+1 arrangement,
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greater possibility of seat adjustment - adjustable headrests and cushions.
Summary
Pendolino trains offer premium rides, comfortable seats, internet access and definitely more compartment space - it definitely makes a difference! Class 1 is above all ideal for business trips and long journeys. Class 2 also offers a high standard, but also many amenities such as the option of carrying bicycles, seats for the disabled, family compartments and the Quiet Zone.
FAQ
What does a Pendolino look like on the inside?
Pendolino trains are modern and comfortable. In each carriage, passengers can enjoy comfortable, adjustable seats, free WiFi, power sockets and spacious luggage spaces.
How does 1st class differ from 2nd class on the Pendolino?
Class 1 from 2 is most distinguished by the seating arrangement - a 2+2 arrangement in 2nd class and a 2+1 arrangement in 1st class.
In which class is refreshment included in the ticket price?
You will receive refreshments included in the ticket price in class 1, with a choice of a sweet or salty snack as well as a drink. In class 2, you receive water free of charge.
Is it possible to use the internet on the Pendolino?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the train. However, it is worth knowing that the quality of the connection may vary and be different depending on the route.
Is there a dining car on the Pendolino?
Yes, a WARS dining car is available on every Pendolino train.
Is it possible to carry bicycles on Pendolino?
Yes, the carriage of bicycles is allowed in 2nd class if you book a seat in the bicycle car in advance.
Can I travel with my dog on Pendolino?
Yes, you can carry your dog in every Pendolino carriage, provided you follow the rules: large dog muzzled and on a leash (for an additional charge), small dog on similar terms as large dog or in a carrier (in the case of a carrier, carriage free of charge).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the price of a 1st class Pendolino ticket always include refreshments and drinks, or does it depend on the length of the route?
The price of a 1st Class Pendolino ticket regardless of the length of the route includes refreshments and two drinks - hot and cold. A refreshment is a meal that is selected from a dedicated menu and served to the seat indicated on the ticket. Until 12 noon, the menu includes breakfast. After that, it is lunch dishes.
Are there any additional amenities in Pendolino 2nd class included in the ticket price, or are the differences mainly about seat comfort and space?
The differences between classes are mainly about comfort, but not exclusively. In 2nd class, the passenger receives a free bottle of water in the ticket price. There is no dedicated service as in 1st class, no free hot drink or refreshments.
Does choosing 1st class on a Pendolino give you priority when exchanging or returning a ticket compared to 2nd class?
No, the ticket refund policy for both 1st and 2nd class is the same.
Which class in Pendolino will be better for a family with children, and which class for business travellers who want to work in peace and quiet?
Which class is better, 1st or 2nd, depends on how you travel. Class 2 has dedicated family compartments. For those who want to travel in peace and quiet, Class 1 is more recommended, or the quiet zone, where you can also buy a ticket in Class 2.