Mikołajki is most easily reached by car from Warsaw — about 230 kilometres northeast via the S7 and then local roads through Olsztyn or Mrągowo, taking around three hours depending on traffic. There is no direct rail connection. The nearest train stations with useful services are Mrągowo (30 km west) and Olsztyn (90 km northwest); from either you need a bus or taxi to reach Mikołajki.
PKS buses connect Mikołajki with Mrągowo, Olsztyn, and Warsaw, though services are infrequent and the journey from Warsaw takes four to five hours. In summer, additional coach services run from Warsaw and other major cities direct to the Masurian lake towns; these sell out quickly, so book in advance.