Krakow: Zakopane Tour with Funicular Ride and Cheese Tasting

Exploring Zakopane: A Tour of Mountain Charm and Cultural Delights

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow and want to venture into the Polish mountains, a guided tour to Zakopane might just be your best day out. This particular experience has garnered a perfect 5-star rating from two travelers, and from what we can see, it offers a well-rounded mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and authentic local flavors.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the thrill of riding the Gubaówka funicular to panoramic mountain vistas. Second, the chance to sample Oscypek, traditional smoked sheep’s cheese, right at its source. Lastly, the variety of spots you visit – from the picturesque Chochoów village to the iconic Jaszczurówka wooden church – ensures you’ll leave with plenty of memorable sights and stories.

One potential drawback? The tour is quite full, with a packed itinerary, so if you’re looking for a quiet, leisurely day, this might feel a bit brisk. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want a taste of Zakopane’s highlights in a single day.

This experience suits travelers who want a convenient, guided way to see Zakopane, enjoy local cuisine, and capture some stunning mountain scenery without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after an immersive, well-organized adventure that balances outdoor fun and cultural insight, this tour could be perfect.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow
• Visit to Chochoów village offers authentic local charm
• Scenic funicular ride to Gubaówka Mountain with panoramic views
• Traditional cheese tasting featuring Oscypek and local spirits
• Cultural stops like the Jaszczurówka wooden church and Wielka Krokiew ski hill
• Flexible itinerary with plenty of opportunities for photos and free time
• Expert guides providing insider tips and friendly service
• All-day experience lasting around 9 hours, balancing sightseeing and relaxation

An In-Depth Look at the Zakopane Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transport

Starting your journey with a hotel pickup in Krakow, this tour takes the headache out of transportation. The exact pickup time is communicated the day before, usually between 8:50 AM and 9:20 AM, making it easy to plan your morning. A comfortable air-conditioned van whisks you away to the mountains, ensuring a smooth ride that’s as much a part of the experience as the sights you’ll see later.

Traveling in a small group means you’ll avoid the chaos of large buses, and the friendly guides, like Mido and Mito—both mentioned positively in reviews—make the journey feel personal and welcoming. They also provide valuable tips to enhance your trip, whether it’s snapping the perfect photo or understanding local customs.

Scenic Drive to Chochoów and Beyond

After about 1.5 hours of scenic driving, you’ll reach the charming village of Chochoów. Here, a quick photo stop allows you to soak in the lush landscapes, with some free time to wander and appreciate the traditional wooden architecture. This village is less commercialized than central Zakopane, giving you a glimpse of authentic rural life amidst the mountains.

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Cheese Tasting at Its Best

One of the tour’s highlights is the 20-minute cheese tasting at a local spot where you can indulge in Oscypek, a smoked sheep’s cheese with a distinctive flavor. Reviewers mention that the cheese is delicious, often paired with local spirits, which adds to the authentic experience. This tasting isn’t just about food—it’s a window into local craftsmanship and tradition.

Exploring Zakopane’s Cultural Gems

The two and a half hours allocated for free time in Zakopane grants you ample opportunity to stroll around, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak up the mountain atmosphere. You might find the bustling market stalls or enjoy a coffee overlooking the Tatra Mountains.

Next, a 10-minute cable car ride offers a quick ascent to Gubaówka Hill, where the funicular ride (or by car during maintenance) provides sweeping views of the peaks. You’ll love the panoramic vistas, especially if the weather cooperates. One reviewer appreciated the scenic drive, calling it a highlight of the trip that offers a different perspective of the mountains.

Iconic Sports and Architecture

A visit to the Wielka Krokiew ski jumping hill allows you to see where athletes soar during winter competitions. The 10-minute walk from the viewing point is manageable, and the site offers fantastic photo opportunities. The Jaszczurówka wooden church is another highlight—its intricate wooden architecture set against green scenery makes it a picture-perfect stop. Visitors often mention how peaceful and photogenic this church is, adding a cultural layer to your mountain adventure.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

After another two hours of sightseeing and optional shopping, the day winds down with relaxed transport back to Krakow. The tour concludes with drop-offs at multiple locations, making it easy to continue your city explorations or head straight to your accommodation.

The Value of a Guided Day Trip

For the price, which covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, scenic rides, and cheese tasting, this tour offers substantial value. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer curated experiences that deliver a lot in a short period. The inclusion of the funicular ride and cultural stops ensures you get a well-rounded experience without the stress of organizing logistics yourself.

Of course, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll find plenty of options in Zakopane, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to choose how much time to spend shopping or sightseeing, making it adaptable to different interests.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Views

Reviewers lauded guides like Mido and Mito for their friendliness and insider knowledge. Their attentiveness made the trip more enjoyable and relaxed, especially since they shared tips beyond the scheduled stops. The stunning mountain views, paired with the chance to enjoy local cheese and spirits, create a memorable cultural taste of Poland.

If you’re someone who loves picture-perfect scenery, local food, and outdoor adventures, this tour hits all those marks. It’s a way to experience Zakopane’s essence without the hassle of planning, perfect for first-timers or anyone short on time.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Zakopane in one day. It’s especially suited for those eager to enjoy mountain vistas, taste traditional Polish cheese, and see key sights like the wooden church and ski jump hill.

While it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and natural terrain, most other travelers will find it accessible and rewarding. The small group size ensures a personal touch, and the inclusion of local guides makes for an engaging experience.

If you’re after a well-organized day trip that balances adventure, culture, and scenery, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor beauty and cultural insight, all wrapped into a memorable 9-hour journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time in Zakopane.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow, transport by air-conditioned van, a visit to Chochoów village, cheese tasting, a funicular ticket to Gubałówka Hill, and free time in Zakopane.

Is lunch included?
No, the tour does not include lunch. You’ll have plenty of options available in Zakopane to suit different tastes.

Can I join the tour without hotel pickup?
Yes, you can select the “reserve now & pay later” option and opt for the meeting point instead. You’ll receive details the day before.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking and exploring various sites.

Is the cable car ride available during maintenance?
From April 1st to 4th, the cable car is under maintenance. During this period, the driver will take you to the top of Gubaówka Hill by car instead.

Are guides available in languages other than English and Polish?
Guides speak English and Polish. For other languages, written booklets are available.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most likely yes, but due to walking and outdoor activities, it’s best suited for those who can handle some physical activity. Not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How many people typically join the tour?
The reviews mention small group experiences, which tend to foster a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Zakopane tour provides a wonderful combination of breathtaking scenery, cultural richness, and local flavors. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail. The inclusion of authentic cheese tasting, a scenic funicular ride, and visits to iconic sites makes it a rich, enjoyable experience.

The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the picturesque views and cultural stops, deliver great value for a full-day adventure. While it’s not a quiet, contemplative experience—it’s full of activity and movement—it’s perfect for those eager to pack a lot into one day.

Overall, if you’re after a memorable taste of Zakopane that combines outdoor beauty, interesting sights, and tasty local specialties, this tour is a sound choice. It offers a solid, organized way to experience the Polish mountains and their charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: