Krakow: Zakopane, Thermal Baths and Cable Car

Contents show

Discover the Beauty of Zakopane and Chocholow with This Full-Day Tour from Krakow

If you’re looking for a way to escape the city and see Poland’s breathtaking mountain scenery, this tour offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and pure relaxation. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-organized, value-packed experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see the iconic Tatra Mountains from multiple vantage points. Second, the chance to unwind in the thermal baths at Chocholow, which are known for their mineral-rich waters. Last, the funicular ride up Gubałówka Hill promises stunning panoramic views.

A possible drawback? The schedule packs in a lot, which means some might find the day a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger in Zakopane’s charming streets. Still, it’s perfect for those eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic views, cultural exploration, and relaxing baths—especially those eager to see the Tatra region without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Scenic Highlights: Enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas from the Gubałówka funicular and Zakopane’s streets.
Cultural Stops: Visit the picturesque village of Chochołow and learn about traditional wooden architecture.
Relaxation: Rejuvenate in Poland’s largest thermal pools with mineral-rich waters for skin benefits.
Convenience: Hotel pickup and skip-the-line tickets make the day flow smoothly.
Local Flavors: Tasting smoked cheese and Polish vodka adds a delicious local touch.
Flexible & Fun: Free time in Zakopane allows personal exploration, shopping, or relaxing.

Looking for more options in Zakopane? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Visiting Zakopane: The Heart of the Tatra Mountains

The journey begins in Krakow, with a pick-up from multiple central locations, making it easy to start your day without the stress of navigating. The drive to Zakopane takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a comfortable window to settle in and soak up the scenery.

Once you arrive at Chochołow Village, you’ll step into a postcard-perfect snapshot. Known for its ancient wooden houses, this village offers a glimpse into traditional Polish highland life. The guide provides insights into local history, making your quick 20-minute stop both picturesque and educational. Expect to take plenty of photos of the charming architecture and mountain backdrop.

Why Visit Chochołow?

Besides its aesthetic appeal, Chochołow is a chance to learn about the region’s history and enjoy some light shopping for local crafts. If you’re a fan of authentic, rustic Korea, this stop is a highlight. Plus, the fresh mountain air is a bonus.

The Vibrant Town of Zakopane

After a short drive, you arrive in Zakopane, renowned for its lively atmosphere nestled against the mountain backdrop. Here, you’ll find the famous Krupówki Street, bustling with shops, cafes, and street performers—a lively contrast to the peaceful village of Chochołow.

Your guide helps you navigate the town efficiently, providing tickets for the Gubałówka funicular so you can skip queues. The ride up Gubałówka Hill offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. The panoramic vistas are a definite crowd-pleaser, and reports indicate it’s a highlight for most.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Do in Zakopane?

You have approximately 2.5 hours of free time. Whether you want to browse local souvenir shops, snack on regional cheese, or simply enjoy the mountain vistas, there’s enough flexibility. The lively town’s atmosphere makes it ideal for a leisurely walk, some shopping, or a coffee break with a view.

There's plenty more to explore in Zakopane

The Highlight: Chocholow Thermal Baths

No trip to Zakopane would be complete without relaxing in the Chocholow Thermal Baths. This is the tour’s pièce de résistance for many travelers. The thermal pools are among Poland’s largest, offering mineral-rich waters reputed for skin and health benefits.

You’ll receive all-day access, allowing you to relax at your own pace. The pools include water slides, making it a hit for families or the young at heart. Plus, the pool bar serves drinks, so you can sip while soaking in the warm, mineral-infused water.

Why Are Thermal Baths Worth It?

Beyond the sheer joy of swimming, the mineral waters are believed to aid skin health and provide relaxation benefits. The pools are spacious, clean, and suitable for a range of ages. For many, this is the ultimate way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Reviews mention the large size of the baths and the variety of zones, though the sauna area is not included with each ticket. Still, the experience is described as “relaxing” and “refreshing,” making it a perfect way to wind down.

Returning to Krakow

After about 2.5 hours in the thermal pools, the tour head back to Krakow, with a comfortable 1.5-hour drive. Most trips conclude with drop-offs at the original pickup points, closing a well-rounded day filled with scenic views, cultural insights, and well-deserved relaxation.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation: A spacious, air-conditioned minibus ensures comfort during the journey.
Guides: An experienced live guide speaks English and Polish, providing informative commentary along the way.
Tickets & Skip-the-Line: The Gubałówka funicular and thermal baths are pre-paid, saving you from long queues.
Food & Drinks: You can bring your own or purchase snacks and drinks at the pools—food is permitted inside.
Weather: The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress comfortably and bring layers, especially for mountain views.
What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, comfortable shoes for walking, camera, and some cash for souvenirs or snacks.
Special Notes: The thermal baths are closed for cleaning from March 17-28, 2025, and October 20-30, 2025, with alternative thermal water options available. The Gubałówka cable car may be closed from April 1-4, 2025, but transportation by car will be arranged instead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with diverse highlights—mountain views, cultural stops, and relaxing thermal pools—without the hassle of planning each detail. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences and breathtaking scenery will find plenty to enjoy here.

If your time in Poland is limited but you crave a broad taste of Zakopane’s charm and natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value and convenience. However, if you’re seeking a slow, in-depth exploration or want to spend hours in Zakopane’s shops or cafes, you might prefer a more relaxed, flexible itinerary.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-rounded day of sightseeing, relaxation, and mountain vistas. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets and hotel pickup makes it hassle-free, while the stops at Chochołow, Zakopane, and the thermal baths ensure a mix of cultural, scenic, and wellness experiences.

The stunning views from Gubałówka and the thermal pools’ mineral waters are standout features that travelers consistently praise. The moderate pace and organized schedule mean you’ll leave feeling refreshed but not exhausted—perfect for making the most of a single day.

In short, this trip is a fantastic way to see the Tatra Mountains, enjoy Polish mountain culture, and unwind in thermal waters—all in one seamless package. It suits anyone eager to combine scenic beauty with relaxation, especially those short on time but hungry for authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Krakow hotels or apartments.

How long is the drive to Zakopane?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
All essential tickets—including the Gubałówka funicular and thermal baths—are included, and they are arranged in advance to skip queues.

What should I bring for the thermal baths?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a camera for photos. Food and drinks are permitted inside the pools.

Can I explore Zakopane on my own?
Yes, you’ll have about 2.5 hours of free time to walk around, shop, or relax at your own pace.

Are there any seasonal closures?
Yes, the thermal baths are closed for cleaning from March 17-28, 2025, and October 20-30, 2025. The Gubałówka cable car may be closed from April 1-4, 2025, but alternative transportation will be provided.

Choosing this tour means booking a seamless adventure filled with scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxation—all in one day. Perfect for travelers who want the highlights without the stress.

You can check availability for your dates here: