From Krakow: Day Trip to Zakopane and Thermal Baths

Discover the enchanting mountain town of Zakopane, just a short journey from Krakow. This day trip immerses you in the breathtaking Tatra landscape, from the panoramic views atop Gubałówka Hill to the lively Krupówki Promenade. Indulge in traditional Polish delicacies and unwind at the serene Chochołowskie Thermal Baths. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this captivating excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be swept away by the natural beauty and cultural charm of this remarkable destination.

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Key Points

Set out on a scenic 2-hour journey from Krakow to the Tatra Mountains town of Zakopane for a day of culture and thermal relaxation.
Ascend Gubałówka Hill via funicular for panoramic mountain views, then explore the lively Krupówki Promenade with its shops, restaurants, and traditional cheese tasting.
Visit the village of Chochołów to experience the cultural heritage of the Podhale region before indulging in the therapeutic thermal waters of Chochołowskie Thermal Baths.
Spend up to 11 hours on the tour, including transportation and entrance fees, for a comprehensive day trip from Krakow to Zakopane and the thermal baths.
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the thermal baths and recharge after a day of exploration in the Tatra Mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip from Krakow takes visitors to the picturesque town of Zakopane and the relaxing Chochołowskie Thermal Baths.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Krakow, a journey of about 2 hours each way. In Zakopane, travelers will ascend Gubałówka hill for panoramic mountain views, explore the lively Krupówki Promenade, and visit a local shepherds hut for a cheese tasting.

The journey from Krakow to Zakopane takes about 2 hours each way. Travelers will ascend Gubałówka hill, explore Krupówki Promenade, and enjoy a cheese tasting.

After Zakopane, the group will visit the charming village of Chochołów before heading to the thermal baths for 3 hours of leisure time.

The tour is 11 hours long and includes all transportation, entrance fees, and a driver guide.

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Discovering Zakopane

The day trip from Krakow to Zakopane takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Tatra Mountains. First, guests ascend Gubałówka Hill by funicular for panoramic vistas of the peaks. Then, they explore the lively Krupówki Promenade, Zakopane’s main street lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. No visit is complete without a stop at a traditional shepherds’ hut for a taste of regional cheeses.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Gubałówka Hill | 45 minutes |

| Krupówki Promenade | 1.5 hours |

| Cheese Tasting | 30 minutes |

The charming wooden architecture and folklore of Zakopane offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Podhale region.

Exploring Gubałówka

After being picked up from Krakow, guests make their way to the base of Gubałówka Hill.

The 45-minute stop offers panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains:

Visitors can take the funicular railway to the summit, offering stunning vistas across the valley.
At the top, they can explore walking trails and observe the alpine flora and fauna.
The viewing platform provides the perfect spot to snap photos and soak in the mountain atmosphere.

This scenic interlude sets the stage for the day’s adventure in the charming town of Zakopane.

Krupówki Promenade

After the scenic views at Gubałówka, guests are free to explore the lively Krupówki Promenade in the heart of Zakopane. This bustling pedestrian street is the center of activity, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants offering a taste of local culture. Visitors can browse unique handicrafts, sample traditional cuisine, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

| What to Do | What to Buy | Where to Eat |

| — | — | — |

| Browse shops | Local highlander crafts | Try oscypek (smoked cheese) |

| People watch | Regional folk art | Indulge in hearty pierogi |

| Admire architecture | Wooden trinkets | Savor hot mulled wine |

The Krupówki Promenade provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to enjoy the charming ambiance of Zakopane.

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Shepherds Hut Cheese Tasting

From the lively Krupówki Promenade, the tour heads to a shepherds hut to sample some local cheese.

The experience offers a glimpse into the traditional cheese-making practices of the Tatra Mountains region:

Visitors are greeted by a local shepherd who demonstrates the art of handcrafting regional cheeses.
They’ve the opportunity to taste a variety of artisanal cheeses, including the famous oscypek, a smoked sheep’s milk cheese.
The tasting is accompanied by insights into the history, techniques, and unique flavors that define the local cheese-making heritage.

This stop provides a delightful break from sightseeing and a chance to immerse in the pastoral traditions of Zakopane.

There's plenty more to explore in Zakopane

Chochołów Village

The tour makes a brief photo stop in the charming village of Chochołów, known for its well-preserved wooden cottages and traditional architecture.

Guests can spend about 20 minutes exploring the quaint streets and taking photos of the picturesque houses.

Chochołów’s historical significance lies in its distinctive "Zakopane style" of wooden construction, which has been meticulously maintained over the years.

This brief stop provides an opportunity to appreciate the region’s cultural heritage and rural charm before heading to the relaxing thermal baths.

Relaxing at Chochołowskie Thermal Baths

After exploring the charming Chochołów Village, guests look forward to the highlight of the day – relaxing at the renowned Chochołowskie Thermal Baths.

The baths offer:

A soothing soak in thermal spring waters, which are rich in minerals and known for their therapeutic properties.
An array of pools, including outdoor, indoor, and children’s areas, catering to everyone’s preferences.
Ample leisure time to unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy the picturesque mountain views surrounding the complex.

Immersed in the tranquil atmosphere, visitors can truly indulge in a well-deserved pause and recharge before the journey back to Krakow.

Return to Krakow

Visitors now make their way back to Krakow, the journey taking approximately 2 hours.

The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle provides a relaxing ride after a day of exploration. Along the way, travelers can reflect on the highlights of their day – the stunning vistas of the Tatra Mountains, the charming village of Chochołów, and the rejuvenating thermal baths.

The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle offers a relaxing ride as travelers reflect on the day’s highlights – stunning mountain vistas, a charming village, and rejuvenating thermal baths.

Upon arrival in Krakow, the driver will drop off guests at their accommodations, ensuring a convenient end to the day trip.

With memories of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness, visitors can look forward to exploring more of Poland on a future visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not specify any discounts for children or seniors. Prices are listed as a flat rate per person, without mention of reduced rates for certain age groups.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the trip. There is no restriction on bringing outside food and beverages, though the tour operator recommends enjoying the local cuisine and products during the cheese tasting experience.

Is the Tour Available on Weekends or Only on Weekdays?

The tour is available on both weekdays and weekends. The itinerary and inclusions remain the same regardless of the day of the week you choose to take the trip.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location During the Tour?

The tour spends around 45 minutes at Gubałówka, 1.5 hours at Krupówki Promenade, 30 minutes at a shepherd’s hut, 20 minutes in Chochołów Village, and 3 hours at the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Transportation During the Tour?

The tour does not provide Wi-Fi on the transportation. Travelers should plan accordingly, as they’ll be without internet access during the 2-hour drive each way between Krakow and the tour destinations.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Krakow to Zakopane offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation. From the stunning Tatra Mountains to the lively Krupówki Promenade and the soothing Chochołowskie Thermal Baths, it’s a well-rounded adventure that showcases the best of this picturesque region. Travelers can expect a memorable experience filled with breathtaking vistas, traditional Polish delicacies, and a chance to unwind in the serene thermal waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: