From Krakow: Zakopane, Cable Car, and Thermal Baths Day Trip
Description
Discover Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains on a flexible day trip from Krakow. Travel comfortably with a local guide who will introduce you to the history, traditions, and culture of southern Poland throughout the journey. Visit a traditional shepherd’s hut (bacówka), where you will taste authentic smoked oscypek cheese paired with regional Polish vodka while learning about local customs and centuries-old traditions of the Podhale region. Upon arrival in Zakopane, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Stroll along the lively Krupówki Street, browse local shops, sample regional cuisine, admire the mountain scenery, or simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere. For even more spectacular views, you can choose to take the Gubałówka Cable Car, which offers breathtaking panoramas of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane from above. You may also decide to spend part of your day at the Chocholow Thermal Baths.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Begin your adventure with a comfortable pickup and scenic drive from Krakow toward the majestic Tatra Mountains. Along the way, admire charming villages, rolling hills, and traditional wooden houses that reveal the authentic spirit of southern Poland.
Experience local mountain traditions during a stop at a traditional shepherd’s hut (“bacówka”). Taste the famous smoked oscypek cheese — a true regional specialty — paired with a shot of traditional Polish vodka. It’s the perfect introduction to the unique culture of the Polish highlands.
Ride the iconic Gubałówka funicular and reach one of the most famous viewpoints in Zakopane. From the top, admire breathtaking panoramas of the Tatra Mountains and capture unforgettable photos surrounded by alpine scenery. Gubałówka is considered one of the easiest and most rewarding mountain experiences in Zakopane.
Enjoy free time in the vibrant heart of Zakopane. Walk along Krupówki Street filled with traditional restaurants, local shops, mountain-style cafés, and lively atmosphere. Try authentic Polish food, shop for handmade souvenirs, or simply soak in the unique energy of Poland’s winter capital.
End your day with pure relaxation at the famous Chochołów Thermal Baths. Immerse yourself in warm geothermal waters surrounded by mountain landscapes and enjoy pools, jacuzzis, saunas, hydro-massage zones, and water attractions. After a day of exploring, this is the ultimate way to recharge both body and mind. Thermal baths are considered one of the top experiences in the Zakopane region by travelers and locals alike.
Breathtaking peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and charming Zakopane at the foothills make this region a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers all year round.
Relax on the comfortable drive back to Krakow with unforgettable memories of mountain views, local traditions, and a truly magical day in Zakopane.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The tour start time may change depending on traffic conditions and weather (between 7:30 and 9:00). You will be informed of any changes the day before the tour.
- The travel time between Krakow and Zakopane is approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, or unforeseen circumstances. During weekends, public holidays, and high season, travel times may be significantly longer.
- Zakopane is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland. During peak seasons, especially on weekends, holidays, and school breaks, large crowds are to be expected in the city center and at major attractions.
- Waiting times for cable cars and popular attractions (such as Gubałówka) may be long, particularly during high season. The tour operator has no control over queues or waiting times.
- Participants are advised to wear comfortable footwear and clothing suitable for changing weather conditions.
- Mountain views and panoramic scenery are dependent on weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
- If you plan to visit the Thermal Baths, bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip flops. Locker hire is available on site.
- Bring cash (Polish złoty) for any optional extras you wish to purchase on site. Some vendors may accept cards, but cash is recommended.
- This tour operates year-round in all weather conditions. In the event of extreme weather affecting safety, the itinerary may be adjusted. Waterproof clothing is recommended in autumn and winter.
- Optional attractions such as the Gubałówka Cable Car and Chocholow Thermal Baths can be purchased directly on-site on the day of the tour.
Reviews(1,882)
Very happy with our guide Kuba, who speaks Spanish. His explanations were very good, and he was very attentive to what we needed. The cheese and vodka were delicious, and the sheep were very cute. Zakopane is too touristy in my opinion, but the views from the top of the funicular are very beautiful. I recommend visiting the small wooden church with its cemetery. The thermal baths were a very pleasant experience; it is worth enjoying the three hours of the excursion there. It is a very large facility, although it was a bit difficult for me to find my way around at first. I recommend watching a video on YouTube or TikTok to get an idea of what they are like before going.
Thank you so much for sharing your detailed review and for your excellent recommendations! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that you were so happy with Kuba, your Spanish-speaking guide. We take great pride in having attentive and dedicated professionals who provide clear explanations and ensure our guests have everything they need throughout the trip. It is wonderful to know you enjoyed the local cheese and vodka tastings, and found the sheep so cute! Thank you for your candid feedback about Zakopane. As it is a very popular destination, it can indeed feel quite touristy, but as you rightly pointed out, the views from the top of the funicular and the visit to the historic wooden church and cemetery are beautiful, must-see highlights. Lastly, we love your practical tip about the thermal baths! It is a fantastic, large facility perfect for those three hours of pure relaxation, and your suggestion to watch a quick video on YouTube or TikTok beforehand to get oriented is a brilliant piece of advice for future travelers. Thank you for choosing us to explore this beautiful region. We hope to welcome you back again soon! Kind Regards, Discover Cracow Team
Very good experience. Kuba, our guide, was very attentive and explained everything very well; we would repeat it a thousand times!!
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback with us! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that you had such a fantastic experience on your tour. It is great to know that Kuba was so attentive, explained everything perfectly, and made the visit memorable enough that you would repeat it a thousand times! We will gladly pass your kind words along to him, as he will be delighted to know he made such a positive impact on your stay. Thank you for choosing to explore with us, and we hope to welcome you back on another adventure in the future! Kind Regards, Discover Cracow Team #DiscoverCracow #KubaTheGuide #MuyBuenaExperiencia #GreatGuide #KrakowTours #TravelPoland
Kuba has been an extraordinary guide, kind, and very friendly.
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a fantastic review with us! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that Kuba was the best guide you’ve had in Kraków! We take great pride in our guiding team, and it is wonderful to know that his kindness, friendliness, and extraordinary work made your experience so special. We will be delighted to pass your warm words along to him immediately—we know it will mean a lot to him to hear such wonderful feedback. Thank you for choosing to explore the city with us, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on another tour in the future! Kind Regards, Discover Cracow Team #DiscoverCracow #KubaTheGuide #BestGuideKrakow #ExceptionalExperience #KrakowTours #TravelPoland
Kuba has been a spectacular guide. He was attentive to us at every moment. Everything was perfect with him.
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback with us! We are absolutely delighted to hear that you had a "10 out of 10" experience on your tour. Kuba is indeed a spectacular guide, and it is wonderful to know that he was so attentive and looked after you every step of the way. We always strive for perfection, and we are thrilled that everything went so smoothly with him. We will be sure to pass your kind words along to Kuba! Thank you for choosing to explore with us, and we hope to welcome you back on another perfect adventure in the future. Kind Regards, Discover Cracow Team #DiscoverCracow #KubaTheGuide #TourDe10 #SpectacularGuide #ExcellentService #KrakowTours
Guide lovely and helpful call to booker regarding meeting point very good and got me there when lost
Thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us. We are absolutely delighted to hear that our Zakopane and Thermal Baths tour was a great end to your few days away! It is wonderful to know that your guide was lovely and helpful, and we are especially glad that our team was able to assist you swiftly when you were having trouble finding the meeting point. We always aim to ensure a stress-free experience for our guests, from the moment of booking to the end of the trip. Thank you for choosing to explore the beautiful Tatra Mountains and relax in the thermal baths with us. We hope to welcome you back on another adventure in the future! Kind Regards, Discover Cracow Team
Antoni and Kuba have been fantastic guides, super pleasant; I would recommend them and would do it a thousand times more.
¡Muchísimas gracias por tu excelente comentario! Nos alegra enormemente saber que **Antoni** y **Kuba** te parecieron unos guías geniales y súper agradables. Saber que recomendarías la experiencia y que repetirías con nosotros mil veces más es el mejor cumplido que podemos recibir. Le transmitiremos de inmediato tus amables palabras a ambos; se sentirán muy felices de saber que su gran trabajo y simpatía dejaron una huella tan positiva en tu visita. ¡Muchas gracias por elegir Discover Cracow y aquí te esperamos para cuando quieras repetir! Atentamente, **El equipo de Discover Cracow** --- #DiscoverCracow #GuiasGeniales #Antoni #Kuba #ParaRepetir #ExperienciaTop #TurismoCracovia
100% recommendable experience. The guides Antoni and Kuba are super friendly. I would return without hesitation a thousand times.
¡Muchísimas gracias por un comentario tan bonito! Saber que volverías "una y mil veces" es el mayor cumplido que podemos recibir. Nos alegra enormemente que la experiencia haya sido de 100% recomendable y que disfrutaras tanto con **Antoni** y **Kuba**. Sin duda, les haremos llegar tus palabras; su gran simpatía y dedicación son exactamente lo que hace que nuestros tours sean inolvidables. ¡Aquí te esperaremos con los brazos abiertos para cuando decidas repetir! Muchas gracias por elegir Discover Cracow. Atentamente, **El equipo de Discover Cracow** --- #DiscoverCracow #ParaRepetir #Antoni #Kuba #GuiasSimpaticos #ExperienciaInolvidable #TurismoCracovia
Both Antoni and Kuba are outstanding as guides and for their friendliness. Super enjoyable, well organized, and very professional.
¡Muchísimas gracias por tu excelente recomendación! Nos alegra enormemente saber que tuviste una gran experiencia y que el tour te resultara súper ameno, bien organizado y muy profesional. Es un verdadero placer contar con un equipo como Antoni y Kuba, y no dudaremos en compartir con ellos tus felicitaciones por su gran trabajo y simpatía. Saber que su cercanía y profesionalidad hicieron que disfrutaras al máximo de la visita es la mejor recompensa para nosotros. Muchas gracias por recomendarnos al 100% y por elegir Discover Cracow. ¡Esperamos tener el placer de volver a darte la bienvenida muy pronto! Atentamente, El equipo de Discover Cracow #DiscoverCracow #GrandesGuias #Antoni #Kuba #TourAmeno #GranOrganizacion #TurismoCracovia
Magnificent experience with Antonio and Kuba Great knowledge of the excursion, kindness, and willingness. Very good professionals who attend to tourists and are attentive to please and resolve any doubts and requests. Excellent service received. Thank you both very much and good luck.
¡Muchísimas gracias por compartir tu magnífica experiencia! Nos alegra enormemente saber que disfrutaste tanto de la excursión y del excelente trato recibido por parte de Antoni (Antonio) y Kuba. Es un verdadero orgullo para nosotros contar con profesionales tan dedicados, amables y con un conocimiento tan profundo de la materia. Transmitiremos de inmediato tus palabras de agradecimiento y tus buenos deseos a ambos. Se sentirán muy felices de saber que su constante disposición para resolver dudas, atender vuestras peticiones y haceros sentir cómodos marcó la diferencia en tu visita. Muchas gracias por elegir Discover Cracow. ¡Te deseamos a ti también la mejor de las suertes y esperamos volver a recibirte en el futuro! Atentamente, El equipo de Discover Cracow #DiscoverCracow #ExcelentesGuias #Antoni #Kuba #GrandesProfesionales #TurismoCracovia #ExperienciaExcelente
Antoni and Kuba were wonderful guides and are exceptional people. I recommend the experience 100%, especially with them, and the great organization of time and control of the place.
¡Muchísimas gracias por un comentario tan espectacular! Nos llena de orgullo y alegría leer que consideras a **Antoni** y **Kuba** los mejores. Transmitiremos de inmediato tus palabras a ambos; se sentirán muy felices de saber que su profesionalidad, su excepcional calidad humana y su gran control del lugar hicieron que tu experiencia fuera perfecta. Nos alegra también que hayas apreciado la excelente organización del tiempo, ya que nos esforzamos al máximo para que cada minuto del tour sea fluido y agradable. Tu recomendación al 100% es el mejor reconocimiento a nuestro trabajo. ¡Muchas gracias por elegir Discover Cracow y esperamos tener el honor de recibirte de nuevo en el futuro! Atentamente, **El equipo de Discover Cracow** --- #DiscoverCracow #LosMejoresGuias #Antoni #Kuba #GranOrganizacion #ExperienciaTop #TurismoCracovia
