Zakopane is a favorite for travelers craving authentic mountain scenery, unique Highlander culture, and outdoor adventures just a short hop from Krakow. Its compact size and spectacular landscapes make it ideal for a variety of tours—whether you’re after relaxing thermal baths, thrilling mountain activities, or cultural insights. We particularly like the Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour, which combines scenic cable car rides, tasty local cheese, and relaxing thermal pools in one day. The ability to taste regional spirits and soak in thermal baths makes this a well-rounded experience that captures Zakopane’s essence.
If you want a deeper dive into the Tatra Mountains, the From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour offers stunning panoramic views from the Sky Walk and a soothing thermal bath session—all in just six hours. For those who prefer a personalized adventure, consider the Krakow: Tatra Zakopane Private Tour, which allows you to tailor your day to your specific interests and pace.
1. Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour, Cable Car, Hotel Pickup
At the top of our list is this highly-rated full-day tour from Krakow, boasting a 4.9/5 rating based on nearly 2,880 reviews. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a comprehensive experience that blends scenic views, cultural stops, and relaxation. The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, followed by a 1.5-hour van ride into the mountains. Once in Zakopane, you’ll take a funicular to Gubałówka Hill, where panoramic views of the High Tatras are breathtaking. The tour includes a visit to Krupówki Street for free time—ideal for shopping or sampling local cheese and vodka. The highlight is the Chocholowskie Thermal Baths, where you can unwind in thermal pools, steam rooms, or water slides. The guide shares insights into Goral architecture and local traditions, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. This tour offers excellent value, especially for first-timers wanting a well-rounded day without the hassle of planning. Bottom line: a fun, detail-rich experience that hits all the highlights with great reviews backing it up.
2. From Zakopane: Tatra Mountains, Sky walk & Hot Springs Tour
Rating: 5/5 from 13 reviews, this 6-hour tour is a standout for shorter day trips that pack in a lot. Starting directly from Zakopane, the trip visits Jaszczurówka chapel, an example of traditional wooden architecture, and then heads to Witów for cheese tasting—famous for its smoked Oscypek cheese and regional vodka. The real star is the Sky Walk in Poronin, where a glass platform offers a sweeping view of the Tatras, perfect for photos. Afterward, you’ll relax in the Terma Bania thermal baths, which include jacuzzis and saline pools. What makes this tour special is its balanced itinerary—combining cultural stops, scenic views, and hot springs—plus the convenience of round-trip transportation. It’s best suited for travelers short on time but craving authentic mountain scenery and relaxation. Bottom line: a compact, high-value trip with excellent reviews and memorable moments.
3. From Kraków: Witów Skiing and Zakopane Tour
Rating: 4.5/5 from 6 reviews, this 11-hour tour is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts or anyone wanting a combination of mountain sightseeing and skiing. The day begins with a transfer from Krakow to Zakopane, where you can explore Krupówki Street and ride the funicular up Gubałówka Mountain for impressive views. The highlight is three hours of skiing in Witów, perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers. The trip caters to those eager to enjoy mountain activities without sacrificing cultural exposure. The guides ensure you have enough time for both sightseeing and snow fun, making this a practical choice for active travelers. The focus on skiing sets it apart from other tours that mainly emphasize sightseeing and thermal baths. Bottom line: a good pick if your group loves winter sports and mountain scenery in one trip.
4. Zakopane Tour with Thermal Baths – Day Trip from Krakow
Rating: 3.8/5 from 5 reviews, this tour is a solid choice for those seeking a classic Zakopane experience with some flexibility. It includes a stop at a traditional mountain hut, cheese tasting, and a ride to Gubałówka for spectacular views. After exploring Zakopane’s main street, you’ll have the optional chance to relax in the Chochołowskie thermal baths—a highlight for many travelers. The itinerary covers cultural sights and natural beauty, with plenty of free time to wander or shop. This tour is best for travelers who value a relaxed pace and want to combine sightseeing with thermal waters. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and scenic stops, though the ratings suggest it’s a more basic option compared to others. Bottom line: a good, flexible introduction to Zakopane, especially if thermal baths are a priority.
5. Krakow: Zakopane & Tatra Mountains E-Bike Tour & Spa
Rating: 4.6/5, this 12-hour adventure is perfect for active travelers. It combines electric bike riding through the mountains, a hike to the glacier-fed Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, and a relaxing visit to Termy Chochołowskie spa. The guided e-bike ride offers a manageable way to cover more ground while enjoying the mountain scenery, making it accessible even for less experienced cyclists. The tour includes tasting Oscypek cheese at a traditional shepherd’s hut, adding a cultural touch. Reviewers note the tour’s excellent organization and the high-quality spa experience. If you’re craving a combination of outdoor activity, cultural flavor, and relaxation, this is a top pick. Bottom line: a sporty, well-rounded day suited for active, curious travelers.
6. Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Quad Adventure & Thermal Baths
Rating: 4.9/5, this 12-hour tour is a great choice for adventure seekers. Starting with a quad bike ride in the mountains, it also includes a visit to Zakopane and a ride on the Gubałówek funicular. The tour’s highlight is the adrenaline rush of riding through snow or mountain trails, combined with cultural stops like cheese tasting. The day ends with a visit to the largest thermal baths complex in Podhale, where you can relax in pools heated with mineral-rich waters. The reviews mention how fun and well-organized the adventure is, making it perfect for groups wanting both action and relaxation. Bottom line: excellent for thrill-seekers wanting a full-day mountain experience with a splash of culture.
7. Zakopane: Jewish History Private Walking Tour
Rating: 4.9/5, this 4-hour private tour offers an in-depth look at Zakopane’s Jewish community before WWII. The guide shares stories about resilience and the town’s Jewish landmarks, providing a meaningful cultural perspective. It’s an intimate experience that appeals to history enthusiasts or those interested in cultural diversity. The tour visits key landmarks and neighborhood sites, with a focus on storytelling and remembrance. The personalized nature makes it ideal for travelers who want a more reflective exploration. Reviewers mention the guide’s professionalism and engaging storytelling. Bottom line: a focused, insightful walk through Zakopane’s Jewish past, perfect for history buffs or those seeking a deeper cultural understanding.
8. Zakopane Old Town Exclusive Walking Tour with Private Guide
Rating: 4.7/5, this 2-3 hour tour is tailored for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible exploration of Zakopane’s Old Town. Led by a private guide, you hear the legend of Janosik and learn about the architecture of highlander villas and mountain trails. The visit to the Church of Our Lady of Czestochowa adds a spiritual element. This tour is great for those interested in local folklore, architecture, and traditions, who prefer a customized experience. Reviewers highlight the guide’s knowledge and the personalized approach. Bottom line: perfect for a short, meaningful introduction to Zakopane’s cultural and architectural highlights.
9. Zakopane: Treetop Walk & Niedzica Castle Private Tour
Rating: 4.9/5, this 8-hour private tour takes you into Slovakia, combining the treetop walkway at BACHLEDKA with a visit to Niedzica Castle. The suspended walkway offers stunning views of the forest, while the castle’s history adds a fascinating cultural element. You also sample regional cheeses, making it a mix of outdoor adventure and local flavor. The optimal length and private setup make it suited for those wanting a flexible, immersive day trip. The reviews praise the spectacular scenery and the guide’s expertise. Bottom line: excellent for travelers interested in outdoor scenery and historical sites with a comfortable pace.
10. Zakopane: Tatra Mountains Balloon Flight Tour with Champagne
Price: $555 per person, this is a bucket-list experience for those eager to view Zakopane and the Tatras from above. The hot air balloon flight offers spectacular aerial views of the mountains, Pieniny, and Babia Góra, lasting about an hour with total time around 4 hours. The flight is led by a licensed pilot, and champagne toast is included. It’s best suited for travelers celebrating a special occasion or seeking a unique, memorable view. The limited reviews indicate it’s a premium, high-end experience. Bottom line: for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective, this balloon flight is hard to beat, though it requires booking well in advance.
11. Krakow: Tatra Zakopane Private Tour – Fully Customizable
Rating: No reviews yet, but the $222 price for a full-day private trip makes it an attractive option. This tour offers full customization, with a personal driver-guide ready to tailor your itinerary—whether that’s more hiking, cultural sites, or relaxing in thermal baths. It’s ideal for travelers who want control over their experience or have specific interests. The flexible schedule and door-to-door pickup make it convenient, especially for groups or families. This is perfect if you’re looking for a bespoke day and don’t want to be bound by a fixed itinerary. Bottom line: your best bet for a personalized, hassle-free adventure in the Tatra Mountains.
How to Choose Your Perfect Zakopane Tour
Choosing among these options depends heavily on your interests, budget, and time. If you want a full-day exploration with thermal baths, scenic rides, and cultural stops, the Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour hits all the marks at a great value. For active travelers, the E-Bike & Spa tour offers a sporty experience with outdoor hiking and relaxing in mineral-rich waters.
If your focus is on cultural insight and history, the Jewish History Walking Tour provides a thoughtful, private look at Zakopane’s past. For those seeking adventure and adrenaline, the quad biking tour or snow sports in Witów deliver excitement along with cultural touches.
For special occasions or those craving a unique view, the balloon flight offers an unforgettable aerial perspective, albeit at a higher price point. Meanwhile, the fully customizable private tour caters to travelers with specific interests or time constraints.
Practical tips: book early for the balloon ride and private tours, especially in peak season. Consider your fitness level—skiing, biking, or hiking require a bit more stamina. If you’re tight on time, the shorter tours with thermal baths or cultural walks are perfect. Always check availability and start times to match your travel schedule.
Zakopane offers a rich menu of options—whether you’re after mountain adventures, cultural insights, or relaxing thermal baths. For a classic experience, the Krakow: Zakopane & Hot Springs Tour is hard to beat, but if you prefer a tailored day, the private tours give you flexibility. Adventurers and thrill-seekers should consider quad rides or the balloon flight for a memorable splurge. Whatever your style, early booking ensures you’ll secure the experience that best matches your interests.