Return of the Notorious Bus Route 666
After a three-year hiatus, bus route 666 connecting the Polish city of Krakow with the seaside town of Hel on the Baltic coast is back in operation. The service was originally discontinued following complaints from religious groups who objected to its number, which includes 666—often associated with the devil. Following protests from religious organizations in 2023, the route was temporarily renumbered to 669. However, FlixBus has now announced it will revive the line under its original, attention-grabbing designation.
Route Details and Unique Features
Operated by FlixBus, the journey takes 13 hours and passes through Warsaw and resorts on the Hel Peninsula, offering daily service throughout the summer season. Departures from Krakow are set for 6:00 AM, with an expected arrival in Warsaw around 10:30 AM and a final stop in Hel by 8:00 PM. The number 666, which sparked such controversy, was deliberately chosen as a marketing tactic to boost the route's visibility. As FlixBus representative Aleksandr Kalenik explained:
“The number 666 was intentionally selected as a marketing element designed to increase recognition of the route on this popular holiday line to Hel.”
Hel, located in the Pomeranian Voivodeship in northern Poland, sits at the tip of a 35-kilometer-long peninsula along the Baltic Sea coast. This small town, home to roughly 3,000 residents, is a favorite destination for tourists. Michał Leman, Managing Director of FlixBus for Eastern Europe, commented:
“It’s better when the route itself explains where it goes. In this case, there’s really nothing more to say. Everyone will understand.”
The revival of the route to Hel opens up fresh opportunities for travelers looking to visit one of Poland’s most popular seaside resorts.
The return of route 666 highlights an intriguing blend of marketing strategy and societal response to religious sensitivities. It may reflect a shifting perception of the number 666 in modern culture, where creative approaches can gain public approval. At the same time, by reinstating the original name, FlixBus reinforces its brand identity and draws visitors to this sought-after coastal getaway.