Krakow: Slovak Heights and Thermal Relaxation Day Trip

Planning a day trip from Kraków that offers a mix of scenic views, cultural charm, and pure relaxation? This tour to Bachledka, Zakopane, and Chochoowskie Thermal Baths ticks all those boxes. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that packs in mountain vistas, local flavor, and soothing thermal waters—making for a well-rounded day out.

What we love about this trip is how it balances adventure with downtime: the panoramic views from the treetop walk, the vibrant buzz of Zakopane’s Krupówki Street, and the chance to unwind in thermal pools. The convenience of transportation and the variety of experiences make it especially appealing.

A possible consideration? The full-day schedule means you’ll be on the move for around 11 hours, so it’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a packed itinerary. This trip is ideal for those looking to soak in mountain scenery, enjoy authentic local spots, and indulge in some thermal relaxation—all in one seamless day.

Good To Know

• Stunning panoramic views from the treetop walk and Gubaówka
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Kraków
• Balanced mix of activities including sightseeing, walking, and relaxing
• Expert guidance enhances the experience with local insights
• All entrance fees and transportation included offer great value
• Suitable for active travelers; not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with back problems

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins with a pickup from Kraków, making it hassle-free right from the start. The van ride takes about an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and perhaps sneak a nap or enjoy the scenery. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from the guide and spontaneous chats about local sights or hidden gems.

Bachledka: The Treetop Walk and Scenic Cable Car

The highlight here is the treetop walk suspended above the forest, offering breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains and surrounding landscape. This experience is described as both fun and awe-inspiring, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way the path gently sways as you walk, making it feel like you’re part of the treetops.”

The 7-minute cable car ride to Bachledka Ski & Sun adds an extra layer of excitement and provides sweeping vistas from above. It’s a quick but worthwhile ascent to see the peaks from a new perspective. Visitors report the views are “absolutely stunning” and that the overall experience is worth the ticket price, especially considering the included entrance to the treetop walk.

Zakopane: The Mountain Charm and Local Flavors

After roughly an hour’s drive, you arrive in Zakopane, often called the winter capital of Poland but worth visiting year-round. Here, you’ll enjoy free time to explore Krupówki Street, a lively hub filled with shops, cafes, and vendors offering regional delicacies like oscypek cheese and smoked meats.

Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to take photos of the distinctive wooden architecture and soak in the mountain atmosphere. If you’re feeling energetic, you can opt for a funicular ride to Gubaówka, which offers panoramic views of the Tatra peaks—an experience described as “spectacular” by previous guests.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxation at Chochoowskie Thermal Baths

The thermal baths are a true highlight for those seeking relaxation. Situated within a natural setting, these pools are heated and set against the backdrop of the mountains, creating a soothing and scenic environment. Guides mention that the admission includes access to pools, saunas, and relaxation zones, making it a full spa experience.

Reviewers often note how relaxing it is to soak in warm waters after a day of walking and sightseeing. One guest said, “The thermal baths were perfect for unwinding, and the view of the mountains from the pools made it even better.”

End of the Day: Comfortable Return to Kraków

The journey back to Kraków takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights or unwind with a chat from your guide. The experience ends with you back at your original pickup point, ready to continue your Kraków adventure.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced at $194 per person, which covers all transportation, entrance fees, and guided assistance. The inclusion of tickets for the treetop walk, cable car rides, and thermal baths makes it cost-effective, especially considering the convenience of a single booking covering all these elements.

The tour’s 11-hour duration means it’s quite full, but the pacing allows enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. The guides—though not named—are praised for their helpful insights and smooth logistics, enhancing the overall flow of the day.

The comfort and convenience of transportation are notable, with a dedicated van that handles the transfers efficiently, allowing you to focus on the experiences rather than logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and relaxation. It suits those eager to see mountain vistas, stroll lively streets, and unwind in thermal waters—all packed into one day.

However, it might not be suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or anyone with back problems due to the physical aspects of walking and the nature of some activities.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Tatra region, combining stunning natural scenery with authentic local culture and leisure. The highlights—treetop walk, Zakopane’s vibrant streets, and thermal baths—are all highly enjoyable experiences that create a memorable day out from Kraków.

You’ll love the easy logistics and the variety of activities, making it ideal for travelers who want a full, active day with moments to relax. The included tickets and guided service add to the value, removing the hassle of planning each stop independently.

If you’re after a mix of breathtaking views, mountain charm, and a chance to unwind, this trip strikes a nice balance and provides a comprehensive glimpse of this beautiful corner of Poland and Slovakia.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Kraków is included, making the day stress-free and easy to navigate.

How long is the drive between stops?
The van ride from Kraków to Bachledka takes about an hour, from Bachledka to Zakopane around an hour, and from Zakopane to Chochoowskie Thermal Baths about 25 minutes. The return trip to Kraków is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Are entrance tickets to the treetop walk included?
Yes, your ticket for the treetop walk is included, allowing you to enjoy the walk without extra charges.

Can I enjoy the thermal baths if I don’t swim?
The thermal baths offer pools, saunas, and relaxation zones. Swimming is encouraged, but you can also relax in the saunas if preferred.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the physical nature of walking and the heights involved in the treetop walk might not suit very young children or those with certain health concerns.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours in Zakopane (including free time on Krupówki Street and optional Gubaówka ride) and 2 hours at the thermal baths, enough to explore and relax comfortably.

What should I bring for the thermal baths?
Bring swimwear, a towel, water, and suitable footwear. Note that swimwear is recommended, and some facilities may require it.

Is there any shopping included?
Yes, there’s free time on Krupówki Street for shopping or sampling local foods.

Are there any physical limitations to consider?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with back problems due to walking and some activities.

What language is the guide speaking?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides providing helpful insights into each stop.

This tour stands out as an engaging way to explore the mountainous region near Kraków, with enough variety to keep everyone interested. Whether you’re after stunning views, cultural charm, or simple relaxation, it offers a memorable day out filled with natural beauty and authentic experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here: