From Krakow: Day Trip to Zakopane and Thermal Baths

Discover the Charm of Zakopane and Relax at Thermal Baths in a Day

Travelers looking for a scenic escape from Krakow often find themselves drawn to Zakopane, Poland’s mountain resort at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This day trip offers an excellent mix of sightseeing, authentic culture, and relaxation, all packed into around 11 hours. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on both natural beauty and local traditions, giving you a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Three things we love about this trip are the breathtaking views from Gubałówka, the opportunity to taste genuine highland cheese at a shepherd’s hut, and the relaxing thermal baths that provide a perfect unwind after a day of exploring. That said, it’s important to note that the tour involves a fair bit of time in transit—about 2 hours each way—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long bus rides.

This experience is ideal for visitors eager to see the highlights of Zakopane with minimal hassle, especially if you want a taste of local culture, stunning scenery, and thermal relaxation all in one go. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a full but manageable day trip.

Good To Know

Stunning mountain vistas: You’ll climb to Gubałówka for panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains, a highlight for photographers and nature lovers.
Authentic cultural stops: Visiting Chochoów allows you to see traditional wooden Highland buildings, offering insight into local architecture and history.
Unique local flavors: Cheese tasting at a shepherd’s hut provides a rare chance to sample regional highland delicacies directly from the source.
Relaxing thermal experience: The thermal baths at Termy Chochoowskie deliver a soothing soak with views of the mountains—ideal for winding down.
Comfortable transportation: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long travel periods more enjoyable.
Flexible, well-organized itinerary: With carefully scheduled stops, you get free time in Zakopane and options to explore at your own pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup & Travel to Zakopane

The day begins with a pickup from your Krakow accommodation, making it a seamless start. The two-hour drive offers a chance to settle in, with most travelers noting the comfort of the air-conditioned van. During this time, you’ll enjoy views of the rolling landscape and the first glimpses of the Tatra Mountains—an exciting prelude to what’s ahead. As one reviewer mentions, “The journey itself is comfortable, and the scenery makes the time fly by.”

Gubałówka – Panoramic Mountain Views

Your first stop is Gubałówka, accessible via a funicular railway included in the ticket. The 45-minute visit provides sweeping vistas of the Tatra peaks and Zakopane below. Expect to see mountain ranges stretching to the horizon, perfect for photos and simply soaking in the scenery. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to stand at the top and breathe in the crisp mountain air, with some noting that “the views are genuinely breathtaking, and the funicular adds a bit of fun to the ascent.”

Zakopane Town & Krupówki Promenade

Next, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore Zakopane itself. The town’s distinctive architecture, with its wooden cottages and intricate carvings, is a highlight for many. The bustling Krupówki promenade buzzes with local shops, cafes, and street performers. It’s a lively hub where you can enjoy a coffee, browse souvenirs, or take photos of the colorful buildings. Reviewers often mention how vibrant the atmosphere is, calling it “a lively, charming spot that feels authentic yet tourist-friendly.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Cheese Tasting at a Shepherd’s Hut

A truly special part of this tour is the cheese tasting at a Highlander shepherd’s hut. This gives you a rare chance to sample local cheese directly from the producers. The visit is brief—about 30 minutes—but highly valued by guests who enjoy tasting regional flavors fresh from the source. One reviewer noted, “The cheese was delicious, and the setting made it feel like a genuine slice of Highland life.”

Scenic Drive to Chochoów & Free Time

The journey then takes you to the village of Chochoów, a royal settlement founded in the 16th century. Here, almost all of the original wooden Highland architecture has been preserved, making it a photographer’s dream. The short stop allows for photos and a quick look around, with some visitors describing it as “a living museum of traditional wooden cottages.” It’s a peaceful spot to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Thermal Baths & Relaxation

The final major stop is the Termy Chochoowskie thermal baths, where you can indulge in three hours of relaxation. The baths are set against a backdrop of mountain views, making the experience even more tranquil. Guests often praise the thermal waters for their soothing effects—perfect after a day of sightseeing. Many say that “the warm waters and scenic surroundings made for the ideal way to end the trip,” and the facilities are noted for their cleanliness and comfort.

Return to Krakow

After unwinding, the comfortable ride back to Krakow takes about two hours. Most travelers find this a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights or nap after a busy, scenic day. The tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation, making the whole experience smooth and stress-free.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The price of $133 per person reflects good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, entrance tickets, and transportation. The tour includes helpful features such as an English-speaking driver, skip-the-line tickets for Gubałówka, and cheese tasting—adding convenience and local flavor.

However, it’s worth noting that meals are not included, so packing a snack or eating in Zakopane might be necessary. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to some walking on uneven terrain and traditional architecture. You should bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and swimwear for the thermal baths.

Why This Tour Offers Value

The combination of stunning mountain vistas, cultural insights, and relaxation makes this tour a well-rounded choice for travelers wanting a taste of highland life without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets. The inclusion of the funicular ride and the thermal baths enhances the experience, providing both adventure and leisure.

Most reviews highlight the quality of the scenery and the authentic feel of the Highlander cheese tasting. The tour’s pace, with enough free time to explore Zakopane, helps avoid feeling rushed, which is appreciated by many guests.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic day out that balances sightseeing with relaxation, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those interested in mountain views, local culture, and thermal waters. Families and solo travelers alike will find this a manageable yet enriching experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Zakopane’s highlights without stressing over logistics.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-crafted snapshot of Zakopane, blending natural beauty, authentic culture, and relaxation. With stunning views from Gubałówka, mouthwatering cheese at a Highlander hut, and a soothing thermal bath, it delivers a full day of memorable experiences. The comfortable transport and organized itinerary make it a practical choice for those wanting to maximize their time.

While it’s a long day—about 11 hours—it’s packed with highlights that justify the travel time. For travelers eager to explore Poland’s Tatra region with the convenience of a guided tour, this day trip provides excellent value.

FAQ

How long is the travel time from Krakow to Zakopane?
The journey takes about 2 hours each way, making it a manageable ride in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, the driver is English-speaking, which helps with navigation and local insights, though there isn’t a dedicated guide for sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Bring swimwear for the thermal baths.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food in Zakopane.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best suited for those able to walk on uneven ground and with no mobility impairments, as some parts involve walking and traditional architecture.

What is the highlight of this trip?
Many travelers mention the panoramic views from Gubałówka and the thermal baths as the most memorable parts.

Can I customize my experience?
This tour is a set itinerary, but free time in Zakopane allows for some personal exploration.

What is the price and is it worth it?
At $133 per person, considering the included tickets, transportation, and experiences, it offers good value—especially for those looking for a hassle-free day trip.

To sum it up, this full-day trip from Krakow to Zakopane combines the best of mountain scenery, local culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re after picture-perfect views, authentic Highland traditions, or a peaceful soak in thermal waters, it’s an experience worth considering. Just pack your camera, some comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure for a memorable getaway into Poland’s stunning Tatra region.

You can check if your dates are available here: