Zakopane Travel Guide: Plan the Perfect Trip
“The mountains are calling and I must go”
When most people think of Poland, cities like Kraków and Warsaw usually come to mind. But if you ask anyone in Poland where to go for mountain views, hiking, skiing, or just a few days away, chances are they'll tell you to head to Zakopane.
While Zakopane has long been one of Poland's favorite vacation destinations, it's now becoming increasingly popular with travelers from all over the world as well. And I can see why. Every season offers something different, whether you're looking to hike in the Tatra Mountains, spend a day skiing, relax in a thermal bath, or simply enjoy the mountain scenery and local food.
I've lost count of how many times I've visited Zakopane over the years. That might sound a little exaggerated, but for me, there just isn't another place in the world quite like it. It's not because of one specific attraction — it's the combination of everything. No two trips ever feel exactly the same, and somehow I always end up planning the next one before I've even left.
In this guide, I'll cover everything you need to know before planning your trip, from where to stay and the best time to visit to my favorite things to do and a few practical tips I've picked up over the years.
Let’s go - Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to Zakopane:
What makes Zakopane worth visiting?
Zakopane feels very different from the rest of Poland, and a lot of that comes down to its Góral heritage. The Góral people have lived in the Tatra Mountains for centuries, and their traditions are still a big part of everyday life. You don't have to visit a museum to experience it. You'll see locals wearing traditional clothing during festivals and celebrations, hear Góral music in restaurants, and find regional dishes like oscypek, kwaśnica, grilled meats, and hearty stews on menus throughout town. If you're visiting one of the local markets, you'll also come across stalls selling homemade cheeses, jams, honey, and handmade souvenirs.
The architecture is just as distinctive. Many of the older buildings were built in the Zakopane Style, a type of architecture inspired by the traditions of the Tatra region. Wooden villas, mountain cabins, and beautifully carved churches can be found all over town. Even many of the newer hotels and apartments have been designed in the same style, which gives Zakopane a look that's instantly recognizable.
Part of my family lives in Zakopane, so it's a place I've been visiting since I was a child. I've watched the town change over the years. It's definitely become more popular with international travelers, and you'll now find English menus, more international restaurants, and many people working in tourism who speak English. I actually think that's made Zakopane much easier to visit if you're traveling from abroad. At the same time, it hasn't lost the things that made me fall in love with it in the first place.
It's this combination of traditions, mountain scenery, and outdoor activities that keeps people—including me—coming back.
How many days do you need in Zakopane?
How many days you should spend in Zakopane really depends on how much time you have and what you'd like to do. Between the hiking trails, thermal baths, mountain viewpoints, and nearby villages, you could easily spend a full week here without running out of things to do.
That said, Zakopane also works well as a day trip from Kraków if you're short on time. Here's what I'd recommend depending on how many days you have.
If You Have 1 Day
A day trip is enough to see some of Zakopane's highlights. Spend a few hours exploring Krupówki Street, take the funicular up Gubałówka for the views, and have lunch at one of the traditional Góral restaurants (I'll share some of my favorites later in this guide). If you're driving, I'd also recommend ending the day at Chochołów Thermal Baths before heading back to Kraków.
Don't have a car? I'd recommend booking an organized day trip from Kraków instead. Most tours include transportation and stop at several of Zakopane's highlights, so you won't have to worry about figuring out public transport or parking.
If You Have 2–3 Days
If you're visiting Zakopane for the first time, I'd try to stay at least two or three days. That way, you won't have to choose between the mountains and the thermal baths. I'd spend one day exploring Zakopane itself. Walk along Krupówki Street, take the funicular up Gubałówka, and have dinner at one of the traditional Góral restaurants.
On your second day, I'd either visit Morskie Oko or Kasprowy Wierch. Morskie Oko is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Poland and an easy hike that's suitable for most visitors. Kasprowy Wierch is one of the highest peaks you can reach by cable car and offers some of the best views in the Tatras. End the day at one of the thermal baths.
If you're visiting in winter, you could swap one of those for a day on the slopes instead. Białka Tatrzańska is one of my favorite ski areas near Zakopane, and it's easy to combine with a visit to Terma Bania afterwards.
If You Have 4 Days or More
With four days or more, you don't really have to choose anymore. You can visit Morskie Oko, take the cable car up Kasprowy Wierch, spend an afternoon in one of the thermal baths, and still have time to explore beyond Zakopane.
If you still have another day left, I'd definitely recommend Spływ Dunajcem. It's one of my favorite day trips in the area and completely different from everything else you'll do around Zakopane.
Best Time to Visit Zakopane
Summer
Summer is the busiest time of year, especially during school vacations, but it's also when you'll have access to all of the hiking trails. The days are long, most attractions are open, and it's the perfect time to explore the mountains. That said, summer can get surprisingly hot. If hiking is your main reason for visiting Zakopane, I'd actually consider coming in late spring or early fall instead. The temperatures are usually more comfortable, and the trails tend to be a little quieter.
Already know you’re visiting in summer? Read my Zakopane Summer Guide for everything you need to know and the activities I recommend.
Fall
Fall is actually one of my favorite times to visit Zakopane. If you enjoy hiking, I'd choose September or October over the middle of summer any day. The temperatures are more comfortable, the forests turn beautiful shades of orange and yellow, and the hiking trails are usually a little quieter.
Winter
If you've always wanted to experience a real winter wonderland, this is the time to visit. Zakopane completely transforms once the snow arrives, and it's the best season for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile tours, and Christmas markets. Just keep in mind that winter is also one of the busiest times of the year, especially around Christmas, New Year's, and the school holidays. Hotels book up quickly, so it's worth planning ahead.
Already know you’re visiting in winter? Read my Zakopane Winter Guide for everything you need to know and the activities I recommend.
Spring
Spring is a great option if you'd rather avoid the busiest months. The weather can be a little unpredictable, but you'll usually find fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. Just keep in mind that some of the higher hiking trails may still have snow well into spring.
How to get to Zakopane from Kraków
Getting from Kraków to Zakopane is pretty straightforward. You can drive, take the bus or train, or book one of the many organized day trips that leave from Kraków every day. The drive usually takes around two hours, although traffic can add quite a bit of extra time, especially during weekends, holidays, and the winter season.
If you're only visiting Zakopane for the day, I'd actually recommend booking an organized tour. Most include transportation, the main highlights, and a stop at one of the thermal baths, so you don't have to worry about driving or parking.
If you're staying for two or more days, though, I'd definitely rent a car. It gives you much more flexibility to visit places like Morskie Oko, Chochołów Thermal Baths, Białka Tatrzańska, and some of the smaller villages around Zakopane without having to rely on public transport.
One last tip: if you're driving, avoid arriving on a Friday evening or Saturday morning if you can. Traffic heading into Zakopane can get pretty bad, and parking fills up quickly during busy weekends and holidays.
Where to Stay in Zakopane
@duchessofneverland Morning views in Zakopane ⛰️☀️ #zakopane #tatramountains #polandtravel #sundaymood ♬ original sound - Jess Noonan
Where you stay in Zakopane really depends on the kind of trip you're planning. Whenever I book a trip, I always ask myself the same question: do I want to be able to walk everywhere, or do I want to wake up to mountain views? Both are great options, but they offer completely different experiences
Staying Near Krupówki
If it's your first time visiting Zakopane, I'd usually recommend staying near Krupówki. Having the restaurants, cafés, shops, and Gubałówka within walking distance just makes everything easier, especially if you're only staying for a few days.
Whenever I stay in the center, I usually book Mountain Shelter Apartments. I've stayed in several of their apartments over the years, and I always end up coming back because the location is just so convenient. They offer everything from studios to larger family apartments, all with fully equipped kitchens, and they also have underground parking if you're driving.
Staying In Kościelisko
If mountain views are at the top of your wishlist, I'd look at Kościelisko instead. During my last trip, I stayed in one of Mountain Shelter's cabins just above Gubałówka, and waking up there every morning was honestly one of the highlights of the trip. It's much quieter than staying in the center, and you're surrounded by the mountains. The cabins are fully equipped, have multiple bedrooms, and are a great option if you're traveling as a family or with a group of friends.
The only time I'd think twice about staying here is during winter. The views are even better once everything is covered in snow, but getting to some of the accommodations can be a little more challenging. I've stayed at Osada Gubałówka na Polanie Pająkówka during winter, and while the experience was absolutely worth it, I was very happy we had a 4x4.
Some of the roads and driveways leading to accommodations outside Zakopane can be incredibly steep, and after heavy snowfall, it can be difficult — or even impossible — to reach them without four-wheel drive. If you're not comfortable driving in those conditions, I'd personally stay in Zakopane town instead and drive out during the day.
Why I Keep Booking Mountain Shelter Apartments
I've stayed in quite a few different apartments around Zakopane over the years, but I somehow always end up booking Mountain Shelter again. Having properties both in the center of Zakopane and in Kościelisko means I can simply choose whichever location fits that particular trip best.
Another reason I keep coming back is that many of the apartments and cabins are pet-friendly, which means my cat gets to come along as well. Most also have balconies, and after a full day exploring the mountains, it's the perfect place to sit outside and unwind for a while.
One little tip if you're booking through Booking.com: every apartment and cabin is listed separately rather than under one hotel listing. That means you're booking the exact apartment you see in the photos, which I personally love because I know exactly what to expect before I arrive. I'd still recommend having a quick look through the photos and description before booking, as every apartment is a little different.
Best things to do in Zakopane
If it's your first time visiting Zakopane, I'd start with the region's biggest highlights. They're popular for a reason, and I genuinely think they're all worth doing at least once. Whether you're visiting during the warmer months or in winter, here are the activities I'd prioritize.
Things to Do During the Warmer Months
Hike to Morskie Oko
If you're only planning one hike, I'd make it Morskie Oko. It's one of the most famous lakes in Poland and, despite being popular, it's absolutely worth seeing at least once. The walk takes around two hours each way on a paved road, making it one of the more accessible hikes in Tatra National Park. If you're visiting during the summer, I'd recommend arriving as early as possible, as both the parking lots and the trail get busy very quickly.
One thing I would avoid, though, is taking one of the horse-drawn carriages to the lake. There have been ongoing animal welfare concerns about this for years, and plans are in place to gradually replace the horse-drawn carriages with electric buses. If you're able to, I'd strongly recommend walking instead. The scenery along the way is beautiful, and in my opinion, it's an important part of the experience.
Take the Cable Car to Kasprowy Wierch
Kasprowy Wierch is one of the highest peaks you can reach by cable car in Poland and easily one of the best viewpoints in the Tatras. From the top, you can simply enjoy the scenery or continue hiking if you're feeling more adventurous. Tickets often sell out during the busiest months, so I'd book them in advance.
Take a Traditional Dunajec River Raft Trip
Spływ Dunajcem is one of the region's most famous attractions and a completely different way to experience the mountains. Instead of hiking, you'll float through the stunning Dunajec Gorge on a traditional wooden raft while local guides steer the boat down the river. It's a relaxing experience with beautiful views and, in my opinion, one of the best activities outside Zakopane.
Make sure to book your tickets in advance during the busiest summer months, as tours can sell out quickly.
Ride the Funicular to Gubałówka
Gubałówka is one of the easiest viewpoints to reach from Zakopane. The funicular takes just a few minutes, and once you're at the top, you'll find walking paths, restaurants, panoramic views over Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains, plus a few fun attractions like a bobsleigh ride.
Rather than taking the funicular back down, continue walking along the ridge towards Polana Szymoszkowa and take the chairlift back into town instead. It's a much quieter route, the views are beautiful the entire way, and in my opinion, it's a much nicer experience than simply taking the funicular back down the same way.
You can just get tickets for the funicular and the chairlift when you get there — there’s no need to purchase these in advance.
Explore One of the Tatra Valleys
If you're looking for an easier walk, I'd recommend exploring one of the valleys in Tatra National Park instead. Dolina Kościeliska and Dolina Chochołowska are two of the most popular options and a great choice if you'd rather enjoy the scenery without tackling a full mountain hike.
I'd especially recommend Dolina Chochołowska if you're visiting during the fall. The colors there are absolutely beautiful, making it one of my favorite walks that time of year.
Things to Do During the Colder Months
Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Zakopane is one of the best places in Poland for skiing and snowboarding, with slopes for every level. It's also one of the most affordable places to ski in Europe, making it a great choice if you're looking for a winter sports trip without the price tag of the Alps.
If you don't have a car, I'd recommend Nosal. It's just outside the center of Zakopane, making it one of the easiest ski resorts to reach, especially if you're relying on taxis or public transport.
If you're a more experienced skier, Gubałówka is another great option with more challenging runs. If you're happy to drive a little further, I'd also recommend Białka Tatrzańska or Witów-Ski. Białka is my personal favorite thanks to its variety of slopes, modern lift system, and the fact that Terma Bania is located right next to the ski resort, making it the perfect place to relax after a day on the mountain.
Go Snowmobiling
If skiing isn't really your thing, snowmobiling is one of the most popular winter activities around Zakopane. There are several guided tours that take you through the snowy mountain landscape.
Visit the Zakopane Christmas Market
If you're visiting in December, don't miss the Christmas market on Krupówki. It's not the biggest Christmas market you'll ever visit, especially compared to Strasbourg, Colmar, or even Kraków. But if you're already spending a few days in Zakopane, I definitely think it's worth a visit. The mountain backdrop gives it a completely different atmosphere, and it feels much cozier than many of the bigger Christmas markets in Europe.
Things to Do All Year Round
No matter when you visit Zakopane, there's one activity I'd always recommend: spending a few hours at one of the nearby thermal baths. Whether you're looking to relax after a long hike, warm up after a day on the ski slopes, or simply enjoy a slower day during your trip, they're worth adding to your itinerary.
There are several thermal baths around Zakopane, though, and they all offer a slightly different experience. Some are better for families, others focus more on wellness, while a few have incredible mountain views. So, which one should you choose? Excellent question, which brings me to my next point…
The Best Thermal Baths Near Zakopane
One thing you'll quickly notice is that most of the larger thermal baths aren't actually located in Zakopane itself. While there are a few smaller options in town, the three most popular thermal baths are Chochołów Thermal Baths, Terma Bania, and Termy Bukovina, all located within a short drive of Zakopane.
Before you book, it's worth knowing that thermal baths around Zakopane aren't quite the same as traditional spas. While they all have quieter wellness areas with saunas and relaxation pools, they're also designed for families and groups. That means you'll find water slides, swim-up bars, outdoor pools, and on certain evenings, some even host DJs and pool parties.
If it's your first time visiting Zakopane, I'd recommend Chochołów Thermal Baths. It's the largest and most popular thermal bath in the region, and it's where most visitors end up going. If you're looking for the classic thermal bath experience, it's hard to go wrong here.
Terma Bania is my personal favorite if you're planning to go skiing. It's located right next to the ski slopes in Białka Tatrzańska, so you can literally walk from the slopes straight into the warm thermal pools.
If relaxation is your main priority, I'd choose Termy Bukovina instead. In my experience, it has a quieter atmosphere than the other two and feels a little more focused on wellness.
Where to eat in Zakopane
One thing you'll never have to worry about in Zakopane is finding somewhere to eat. From traditional Góral taverns to cozy cafés and more modern restaurants, there's no shortage of good places to choose from. And compared to many other tourist destinations in Europe, I still think eating out here offers great value for money.
If it's your first time visiting, there are a few local specialties I'd definitely recommend trying. You'll see oscypek everywhere, usually grilled and served with cranberry jam, alongside dishes like kwaśnica, żurek, pierogi, grilled meats, and other hearty Polish comfort food.
And one last recommendation before we get to the restaurants: if you see piwo z sokiem (beer with raspberry syrup) on the menu, don't be afraid to give it a try. It might sound a little unusual if you've never had it before, but it's incredibly popular in Poland, especially during the warmer months.
One of the things I love most about eating in Zakopane is that even many of the restaurants in the busiest tourist areas still serve genuinely good food. Of course, you'll find a few tourist traps like anywhere else, but overall, I've always eaten really well here.
These are the restaurants I keep coming back to:
Karczma Bąkowa Zohylina
I've been eating here for as long as I can remember. My family started bringing me here when I was a kid, and more than twenty years later, it's still one of the first restaurants I recommend to anyone visiting Zakopane.
Yes, it's become one of the town's best-known restaurants, but I genuinely think it's stayed true to what made it so popular in the first place. The food is consistently good, the portions are generous, and while prices have gone up over the years, I still think it offers good value. If you visit on a weekend, there's also a good chance you'll be treated to live Góral music.
Restauracja Po Widoki
If you're already spending some time on Gubałówka, this is where I'd stop for lunch. The views are fantastic, the menu is full of traditional Polish dishes, and I was pleasantly surprised by how reasonable the prices were considering the location.
Ziębówka
If I could only recommend one restaurant around Zakopane, this would be it.
My aunt, who lives in Zakopane, introduced me to Ziębówka years ago, and now I make a point of eating here every single time I visit. It's located in Witów rather than Zakopane itself, but if you're heading towards Chochołów Thermal Baths or Dolina Chochołowska anyway, it's an easy detour that's absolutely worth making.
Sushi Yama
Okay... this recommendation comes with a story. Sometimes you just end up craving sushi in the mountains, so we ordered from Sushi Yama in Kościelisko—and it turned out to be really good.
Small warning though, because this turned into absolute chaos for me... They don’t have online ordering, so you actually need to call and pick the order up yourself. The problem is that there are multiple Sushi Yama locations across Poland, and they all look VERY similar online.
So naturally, I thought I had found some clever online loophole somewhere… except I accidentally ordered from a completely different Sushi Yama on the other side of Poland. By the time I realized, they had already started making the food, so I felt so bad that I still ended up paying for part of the order. In my defense, their logos, websites, and Instagram pages all look almost identical, and nowhere does it very clearly say which city you’re ordering from until it’s too late…
Anyway… funny story now, stressful at the time. But the sushi itself was genuinely really good and also not ridiculously expensive.
Practical tips for your trip to Zakopane
A few last tips that will hopefully make your trip a little easier:
Bring some cash. Most restaurants, cafés, and shops accept card payments, but many parking lots around Zakopane still only accept cash.
Pack layers, no matter the season. Mountain weather changes quickly, and even after a warm summer day, evenings can get surprisingly chilly.
If you're visiting in winter, remember it gets dark early. Around December and January, the sun sets at around 4:00 PM, so if you're planning to go skiing or hike to one of the viewpoints, it's worth starting your day a little earlier.
Dress in layers if you're eating out during winter. Even when it's -10°C outside, restaurants and cafés are usually heated really well. I almost always end up taking off my sweater as soon as I sit down.
Wear comfortable shoes. Even if you're not planning any serious hikes, you'll probably end up doing more walking than you expect. Many viewpoints, trails, and streets around Zakopane can be uneven or steep, and in winter they can also be icy.
Having a car makes exploring much easier. While there are buses and minibuses connecting Zakopane with nearby villages and hiking trails, having your own car gives you much more flexibility, especially if you're planning to visit places like the thermal baths, Morskie Oko, or Witów.
Expect traffic during weekends and holidays. Zakopane is one of Poland's most popular holiday destinations, so roads leading into and out of town can get very busy. If you can, try to avoid arriving on Friday evening or leaving on Sunday afternoon.
Bring flip-flops and a towel if you're visiting the thermal baths. You can rent both, but bringing your own is much cheaper.
Don't worry if you don't speak Polish. Zakopane is very tourist-friendly, and you'll find that many people working in restaurants, hotels, and attractions speak English. That said, a simple dzień dobry or dziękuję is always appreciated.
There you have it - a list of everything you need to know for your next trip to Zakopane. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Happy Travels!
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