From Krakow: Morskie Oko and Zakopane Day Trip

Setting out on a day trip from Krakow to Morskie Oko and Zakopane promises an unforgettable adventure. Nestled in the heart of Tatra National Park, Morskie Oko Lake beckons with its stunning natural beauty, while the charming town of Zakopane offers a glimpse into traditional Polish culture. From a scenic hike to a thrilling funicular ride, this excursion caters to adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas or enjoying local traditions, this day trip holds the key to an extraordinary experience.

Contents show

Key Points

Enjoy a scenic 4-hour hike to the picturesque Morskie Oko Lake within Tatra National Park.
Explore the charming ski town of Zakopane, including a funicular ride up Mount Gubalówka for panoramic views.
Browse the local bazaar on Krupówki Street and sample traditional Polish cuisine.
Hassle-free transportation provided from hotels and apartments in central Krakow.
The day trip is likely to sell out, so a reservation is recommended to secure your spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Krakow to Morskie Oko and Zakopane lasts 11 hours and is priced from $252.40 per person.

The tour is likely to sell out, so travelers should check availability and reserve their spot. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.

The itinerary includes a scenic 4-hour hike to Morskie Oko Lake and a visit to the ski town of Zakopane, with a funicular ride to Mount Gubalowka for panoramic views and time to explore the local bazaar on Krupowki Street.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zakopane

Highlights of the Itinerary

The day trip features a scenic 4-hour hike to Morskie Oko Lake, surrounded by the majestic mountains and lush forests of the Tatra National Park.

The leisurely hike covers approximately 9 km, with 2 hours each way.

Visitors then explore the charming ski town of Zakopane at the foot of the Tatra Mountains.

A funicular ride up Mount Gubalówka provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The itinerary also includes time to browse the local bazaar on Krupówki Street, where guests can find souvenirs and sample traditional Polish cuisine.

The Hike to Morskie Oko Lake

Although the hike to Morskie Oko Lake is leisurely, it offers a captivating journey through the heart of the Tatra National Park.

The 9 km (5.6 mi) trail winds through:

Lush, verdant forests teeming with wildlife, including chamois and brown bears.
Breathtaking vistas of towering, snow-capped peaks that rise majestically into the sky.
Serene alpine meadows carpeted with vibrant wildflowers, providing a tranquil respite along the way.

The gradual ascent allows hikers to fully enjoy the park’s natural splendor, building anticipation for the stunning Morskie Oko Lake that awaits at the end of the trail.

Exploring Zakopane

After the scenic hike to Morskie Oko Lake, the tour continues to the charming mountain town of Zakopane at the foot of the Tatra Mountains.

Visitors can ride a funicular up Mount Gubalówka for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Zakopane is known for its unique wooden architecture and lively Krupówki Street, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Polish cuisine.

Travelers can browse the local bazaar for souvenirs and handicrafts before returning to Krakow, completing a well-rounded day immersed in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of southern Poland.

More Great Tours Nearby

Funicular Ride to Mount Gubalowka

One highlight of the Zakopane portion of the tour is the funicular ride up Mount Gubalówka.

This scenic journey offers panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains and the surrounding valleys.

Riders will:

Glide up the mountainside on a comfortable, modern funicular train.
Enjoy sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and the charming town of Zakopane below.
Reach the summit and explore the observation deck, taking in 360-degree views of the breathtaking landscape.

The funicular ride is a must-do activity, providing a thrilling and scenic way to experience the natural beauty of the Tatra region.

There's plenty more to explore in Zakopane

Local Bazaar on Krupowki Street

Following the visit to Mount Gubalówka, the day trip continues with an exploration of the lively local bazaar on Krupowki Street in Zakopane.

Visitors can browse the stalls filled with traditional Polish handicrafts, including intricate wooden carvings, colorful embroidered textiles, and handmade pottery.

Stalls brimming with Polish handicrafts – intricate wooden carvings, vibrant embroidered textiles, and handmade pottery.

The street is lined with cozy cafes and restaurants, offering a chance to sample regional cuisine like oscypek, a smoked sheep’s cheese.

Wandering through the bustling market is a chance to take in the vibrant culture and atmosphere of this mountain town at the foot of the Tatra Mountains.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The day trip includes pickup from hotels and apartments located in central Krakow.

Travelers should allow the driver up to 15 minutes for arrival.

The tour includes:

Professional English-speaking driver provided for the journey.
Comfortable and clean vehicle to transport guests.
Hassle-free transportation, so guests can focus on enjoying the stunning sights along the way.

Essential Information and Customer Reviews

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, travelers should come prepared with recommended items such as comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, and warm layers.

The day trip isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Guests should inform the local partner if a child under 150 cm is joining, so a child seat can be provided.

The activity order may change based on weather and other conditions.

Based on 15 reviews, the overall rating for this day trip is an impressive 4.7 out of 5. Customers praised the stunning mountain landscapes, friendly drivers, and overall enjoyable experience.

One reviewer from the US stated, "100% recommended! 10/10!" while a guest from Spain noted the "great excursion with punctual and accommodating driver."

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on This Trip?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary accommodations. Customers should notify the local partner about any special dietary needs in advance to see if they can be catered for.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There’s no minimum group size for this day trip. It can be booked for solo travelers, couples, or larger groups. The tour operates with a professional driver regardless of the number of participants.

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the hike. The tour itinerary allows ample time for enjoying packed lunches or snacks at Morskie Oko Lake before continuing the journey to Zakopane.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to reschedule if needed. There’s also a reserve now & pay later option available for more flexibility.

Are Entry Fees to Any Sites Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes entry fees to Morskie Oko Lake and the funicular ride to Mount Gubalowka. However, it doesn’t cover any other optional activities or entrance fees in Zakopane. Travelers should budget for additional expenses like meals and souvenirs.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Krakow offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Hikers can marvel at the stunning Morskie Oko Lake, explore the charming town of Zakopane, and take in panoramic views from Mount Gubalówka. With comfortable transportation and a professional driver, it’s a hassle-free way to experience the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the Tatra Mountains. This thrilling excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive taste of Poland’s breathtaking mountain landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: